Computing and Technology Requirements

Laptops are required for taking exams and other coursework and must meet the minimum requirements listed below. Students who do not have a laptop that meet the minimum requirements and need financial assistance purchasing a device may contact the Financial Aid Office to discuss options. 

The PNWU Help Desk is able to provide minimal assistance with personally-owned devices; a warranty and online backup service is highly recommended for students. 

Networking
Min: 802.11g wireless card, USB Ethernet adapter (like this one)
Recommended: 802.11ac wireless card

Screen Size
13″ or higher

Operating Systems
Windows-based devices: Windows 10 or 11
Apple Mac devices:  MacOS 11 (Big Sur) or above

Accessories
HD webcam (typically built-in)
microphone (typically built-in)

Processor
Min: Core i5
Recommended: Core  i5 or i7

Memory
Min: 8gb RAM
Recommended: 16gb RAM

Hard Drive
Min: 250gb
Recommended: 500gb, Solid State Drive (SSD)

Required software that will be provided or discussed during student orientation

• Microsoft Office 365
• Anti-Virus Software – Mac or Windows
• PaperCut printing client
• Examplify secure testing client
• Adobe Acrobat Reader & Adobe Flash (latest versions)

Recommended accessories

• Warranty: 3 year parts and labor, on-site
• Laptop Privacy Screen (example)
• Online backup service for data backup in case your laptop fails. 
• A password manager to store your passwords in an encrypted vault.
• Personal printer for ease of printing from home. There are student printers available on campus, but a quota is assigned.

Training for instructional technology

Students admitted to the MSOT program will receive training on how to use PNWU-licensed instructional technologies (e.g., Moodle, Panopto) during new student orientation.

**The PNWU MSOT program retains the right to update admission criteria and procedures as needed. The PNWU School of Occupational Therapy website will be updated as needed to reflect any changes to admission criteria or procedures.