Sufficient for the whole program
These specifications are sufficient for the entire duration of the program.
American National UniversityTechnical Requirements
eLearning
Technology requirements.
Online learning requires some technology and basic skill to operate the computer. Here's what you'll need.
Technology requirements
Following are the recommended general technical hardware and software specifications for students enrolled in all academic programs at American National University.
Course-specific software
The need for specific applications or software is determined by the course(s) you register for and the availability of the applications.
Mac is not supported
Although Mac users can access any application through remote access tools, the Mac platform is not recommended or supported.
Minimum recommended specifications
A laptop or desktop is mandatory
Tablets and smartphones cannot be used for running any applications. These recommendations are universal across all academic programs; as you move further into a degree program, requirements may increase slightly based on program expectations and application availability.
Use a mobile device for
- Accessing Canvas courses
- Checking messages, grades, and due dates
- Reading course slides
Don’t use a mobile device for
- Taking tests
- Uploading assignments
- Participating in discussion forums
- Running any applications
Platform: Intel-based systems
Hardware specifications
Component
Minimum
Better
Best
CPU
4 core 3.0 GHz
6 core 3.0 GHz
8 core 3.0 GHz
RAM
16GB
32GB
—
Storage
500GB SSD
1TB SSD
—
Graphics
Integrated, 2GB, or 1GB DirectX 11
Integrated, 4GB, 2GB DirectX 11, NVIDIA 4GB, or NVIDIA 4GB DirectX 11
4GB, NVIDIA 4GB, 4GB DirectX 11, or NVIDIA 6GB DirectX 11
All tiers
Operating system
Windows 10 or 11, 64-bit
Professional Edition only — no Home Edition.
All tiers
Extras
- 2–3 USB 2.0 or 2–3 USB 3.0 ports
- Microphone
- Camera
- External USB drive for backup (minimum 1 TB)
Software
Recommended standard productivity applications
Keep your system up to date with Windows Updates, .NET Framework, and similar. Some courses may require additional software — check your course syllabus. Some courses have software access codes or keys purchased with the textbook.
Microsoft Office apps
AccessExcelOneNoteOutlookPowerPointPower BIProjectPublisherVisioSwayWordFormsDelve
Browsers, documents & meetings
- Internet browsers like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox — using multiple browsers is recommended
- Document management: Adobe Acrobat Professional
- Zoom Desktop Client — zoom.us/download
Free video & photo editing — select one or two
PowerDirector
Best overall
Promeo
Best app for social media
iMovie
Video editor app for beginners
Splice
Free editor for trimming and cropping
Quik
Best video editor for montages
KineMaster
For experienced editors
Filmmaker Pro
Best for vertical editing
InShot
For aspiring social media content creators
Mojo
For any kind of social media post
VivaVideo
Best for beginners
Take your first step
Interested in our online programs?
Request more information or call 888.980.9156 to speak with a representative.