Online Learning and Technology
As an online student, you play a momentous role in the Calvin University story. Online or on-campus, we offer rigorous coursework and unwavering commitment to our students. After completing our online degree programs, graduates will enter the world ready to think deeply, act justly, and live wholeheartedly as Christ’s agents of renewal.
How Does Online Compare to On Campus?
| Online | On campus | |
|---|---|---|
| Deep thinking | x | x |
| One-on-one support | x | x |
| Learning through rigorous coursework | x | x |
| Small class size | x | x |
| Access to career resources | x | x |
Ways to Succeed as an Online Learner
- Have a dedicated study space. Create an environment that allows you to focus on your studies.
- Communicate with your support team. Reach out to your advisor and professors, as well as your peers, regularly.
- Schedule study time. Even though your class schedule is flexible with online learning, it pays to set aside time to dedicate solely to your studies.
- Manage your personal life. Manage all aspects of your schedule from work to family life to ensure that all of your commitments are aligned to help you meet your goals.
Technology and Support Services
Many students wonder what technology they need to be able to participate in online degree programs.
At Calvin University Online, you’ll need the following:
Computer and Accessories
We recommend a desktop or laptop computer to complete most online coursework. Laptops offer the greatest flexibility to students. Not all mobile devices are compatible. We don’t recommend a smartphone or tablet as your primary device to complete coursework. Students should have also rights to install software on their laptops or desktops.
In addition, headphones and a webcam may help you communicate with other students and instructors through video meetings.
We also offer 24-hour technical support via chat, email and phone.
Online Learning Hardware Requirements
| Mac | Windows-based PC | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Minimum Specification: Mac OS 10.14 (Mojave) Recommended Specification: Mac OS 10.15 (Catalina) | Minimum Specification: Windows 10 Recommended Specification: Windows 10 |
| RAM | Minimum Specifications: 4GB Recommended Specifications: 8GB | Minimum Specifications: 4GB Recommended Specifications: 8GB |
| Hard Drive | Minimum Specifications: 256GB or larger SATA Drive Recommended Specifications: 256GB or larger solid-state drive (SSD) | Minimum Specifications: 256GB or larger SATA Drive Recommended Specifications: 256GB or larger solid-state drive (SSD) |
| Networking | Minimum Specifications: 10/100 Ethernet 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless Recommended Specifications: 10/100/1000 Ethernet 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless | Minimum Specifications: 10/100 Ethernet 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless Recommended Specifications: 10/100/1000 Ethernet 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless |