Technology for New & Current Nursing Students

Laptop Requirements

By the first class meeting of the semester, students must have a laptop that meets or exceeds the SoN minimum laptop requirements.

Minimum Requirements

Device Size and TypeMinimum: 13" Laptop
Recommended: 14" (or larger) Laptop
Operating System

Windows 11

macOS: 14.7.5 minimum; 15.4.1 recommended

ProcessorMinimum: Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3; Intel-based Mac (until 2026)
Recommended: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5; Apple Silicon
Memory (RAM)Minimum: 8 GB
Recommended: 16 GB
Storage DriveMinimum: 128 GB Solid State Drive
Recommended: 256 GB Solid State Drive
Productivity SoftwareUofL provides Microsoft Office 365 to all students
Basic Assumptions

Laptop computer with built-in webcam and microphone

Reliable access to Wi-Fi and internet

Things to Avoid

Chromebooks or anything that runs ChromeOS; devices running Windows RT, 10 Home S Mode (or any mobile operating system)

iPads and Android tablets may be acceptable for most classwork (depending on the program) but will not be compatible with all online testing software.


Disk Encryption
Whole disk encryption ensures that information on the computer is secure and not accessible by anyone without the proper credentials. To encrypt your laptop, Nursing IT recommends BitLocker for your Windows machines and setting up FileVault on your Mac.

Web Browsers
Current compatible browsers are Chrome, Edge, Safari and Firefox. Nursing IT recommends that all installed browsers receive regular updates.

Learning Management Support
For support and compatibility information related to university learning applications, such as Blackboard, Respondus LockDown Browser, and Ultra Collaborate, visit the Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning Student Help page.

Visit Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning

Microsoft 365 for Students
Enrolled students receive access to cloud-connected apps and services through Microsoft 365. Each Microsoft account allows students to download the Microsoft 365 suite which includes applications such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, OneNote, and Teams, on five devices for free. Access and install Microsoft Office with your ULink credentials.

Microsoft Office

Internet Connection
A reliable and fast Internet connection is necessary to support quality learning experiences when using online technology platforms (such as Panopto, Blackboard, and Teams). High-speed Internet with minimum speeds of 10-20 Mbps, is recommended.

Additional Technology Support Services
Whether you’re a first-time user of the UofL Wi-Fi network, having trouble accessing your account, or issues with a device, ITS can help you navigate the technology at UofL. 

Visit ITS Student Support