Computer Access and Technical Requirements
The School expects students to have the use of a computer with online access (other than those located in the University computer labs). Typically a student will own a computer at their home or residence, with broadband or modem access. It is possible to have satisfactory access through computers in public libraries or halls of residence, etc.. Students do need access, though, to a computer that will run a web browser like Firefox, or Netscape, or Internet Explorer.
Students are expected to have an understanding of and be competent with the following basic software: a word processor, a spreadsheet, a database, and a web browser. Familiarity with webpage creation software is helpful.
Please note that email is the department's official means of communication with all students. SIRLS requires that you provide an email address at the time of admission. The University and School policy require that students obtain a netID (see Step 2) and a University email account. The University and the School communicate with students through this email account, and failure to use it regularly or forward it to an often-used account will result in missing communication essential to the progress of the degree. In addition, students are signed on to the school's official communication listserv, IRLSadmin. It is the student's responsibility to receive messages sent to IRLSadmin and to the student's university email account.
