Technical Requirements for AC Online Courses

As an online learner, your computer and internet access are vital to your success. While some programs or courses may have specific technical requirements, there are standard minimum requirements that apply for all students.

Minimum Requirements for Online Learning

All learners will require regular access to a personal computer with a strong internet connection to successfully complete online courses. High speed broadband access (LAN, Cable or DSL) is highly recommended for the optimal learning experience.

Windows PC and Mac*
  • Compatible Operating System: Windows 8 or 10, OS X
  • Web Browser: Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer 11, Microsoft Edge, or Safari
  • Good hardware specifications:
    • Intel i5 or equivalent processor
    • Minimum 8 GB of RAM
    • 250 GB solid state hard drive (SSD)
    • Wireless 802.11ac
    • USB 3.0
    • Webcam and microphone

*For Mac users, some courses may require a Windows emulator or partition. Please visit our Online and Educational Resources Centre for further information regarding free applications which can assist if you have a Mac and your program requires a Windows PC.

Mobile Devices

Depending on the learning management system being used to deliver your course, you may access and interact with most course elements, readings, multimedia, email and discussions through tablets and smartphones. While tablets, smartphones and other mobile devices may allow for some completion of coursework, they are not guaranteed to work in all areas.

We recommend that students do not attempt quizzes when using a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, due to compatibility issues.

Please do not expect to rely only on a mobile device for success in our online learning courses, you should ensure you have a PC or Mac based computer available to complete your coursework.

Additional Program and Course Specific Requirements

Individual programs and courses may have additional technical and/or software requirements. These requirements will be listed on the course page under the Required Software heading.

Algonquin College makes certain software applications available to students for free or a discounted rate. Please visit the Available Software and Resources page for further information.

Computer Programming and Computer Programming and Analysis

These programs require specific minimum hardware and software for successful completion. Please visit this page for more details.

Your program has determined that a Windows-based PC is required.
If you intend to use a Mac, you will be required to have your Mac laptop configured to run Windows-based software.

Office Administration – General & Executive

PLEASE NOTE that in the Office Administration programs there are certain courses where it is mandatory for the students to have a Windows-based computer as some of the software application functions used in the program do not run effectively on other platforms (even when running via Parallels on MAC). MAC laptops and Chromebooks will not be supported in the Office Administration programs.

Please visit this page for more details regarding the recommended computer requirements for the Office Administration programs.