What Technology Do Students Need?
All Capital University students are expected to have regular access to a personal computing device, such as a laptop, to complete coursework, access learning platforms, and stay connected with campus resources.
Because technology plays an important role in the classroom, certain academic programs may require specific hardware or software to support specialized coursework. Students are encouraged to review program-specific requirements before enrolling to ensure their device meets the necessary specifications.
General Technology Requirements for Students
Students should have a laptop, either a Mac or PC, that can run commonly used academic tools such as Microsoft Office, the University’s learning management system, Zoom, and other course-related software. Mobile phones and tablets are helpful for quick access, but they are not a substitute for a primary computing device and will not support all coursework requirements.
Cell Phone
We recommend that all students have a cell phone capable of receiving voice calls, text messages and accessing the internet. We recommend the cell phone so that you can receive campus alerts through our campus emergency notification system, and if necessary, professors and College staff can contact you. Cell phones, iPads or Android tablets will be needed to accomplish multi-factor authentication.
Recommended Device Specifications
| Feature | Recommended Configuration | Minimum Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 macOS Sonoma |
Windows 10 (version 22H2 or newer) macOS Monterey |
| Processor | Windows: Intel i5 or higher Mac: M2 processor |
|
| Memory (RAM) | 16GB or higher | 8GB |
Program Specific Technology Requirements
Required: iPad (10th generation or newer) and Apple Pencil
Reason: Used for digital sheet music via forScore and other music applications. Students will use an iPad throughout the duration of their degree for all sheet music.
Required: Mac (preferred) or PC laptop
Reason: Needed for programming, running local development environments, and possible virtualization tools.
Suggested specs: at least 16GB of memory and at least 256GB or preferably 512GB of SSD storage
Some academic departments may have course-specific needs and students should check their program’s technology guidelines.
Course Specific Requirements
Required: iPad (10th generation or newer) and Apple Pencil
Reason: Used for anatomy applications, digital lab tools, and course-specific software.
Loaner Program: Students in A&P can borrow an iPad through the university loaner program during the semesters in which they are enrolled in A&P I and A&P II
iPad Loaner Program for Students Taking Anatomy & Physiology
Because Anatomy and Physiology I and II require an iPad and pencil, Capital University offers a loaner program for students registered for those courses.
Who qualifies:
Students taking A&P I and II. Students can only borrow an iPad during the semesters in which they are enrolled in A&P
A user agreement must be signed prior to receiving the loaner iPad.
What devices are available:
- iPad
- Apple Pencil
- iPad case
When can I borrow an iPad?
Students enrolled in A&P who need an iPad should visit the Blackmore Library Circulation Desk during Welcome Week. If you are unable to pick it up at that time, please do so before the start of class.
Length of Loan and Costs
Students may borrow an iPad, Apple Pencil, and iPad case for their first semester of A&P. The iPad must be returned to the Blackmore Library Circulation Desk during finals weeks; failure to do so will result in the student being charged the full replacement cost of the device. Please refer to the User Agreement for full terms and conditions.
Students who continue into A&P II the following semester may borrow an iPad, Apple Pencil, and iPad case again, with pickup available at the Blackmore Library Circulation Desk upon returning to campus after the holiday break.
Where do I get the iPad?
Blackmore Library Circulation Desk
Need Financial Assistance for Technology?
If purchasing a required laptop presents a challenge, students are encouraged to contact Student Success for assistance and guidance.
Student Success
Email: success@capital.edu
Phone: 614-236-6388
Recommended Software and Applications
Many courses require or recommend specific software. Below are commonly used tools across programs:
Office 365
Available at no cost to all Capital University students.
ForScore (Conservatory of Music Students)
A one-time purchase of $24.99.
Optional ForScore Pro subscription: $14.99 annually.
Pearson Study Prep (Students enrolled in Anatomy & Physiology)
Included with the required textbook.
Notability (Students enrolled in Anatomy & Physiology)
Recommended note-taking app.
Plus plan available for $20 per year. Students may also use another note-taking app of their choice.
Technology Support and Resources
If you need technical assistance, device troubleshooting, or general support, the Blackmore Library Circulation Desk can help.
Technology Support
Email: circdesk@capital.edu
Phone: 614-236-6508
Blackmore Library Circulation Desk Hours
Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Students may prefer the use of a keyboard for writing papers Signature Learning classes and classes in their major or minor. Students may also use computers at a variety of computer labs on campus.
Students can purchase devices using financial aid refunds, as laptops and iPads are included in the Cost of Attendance. However, students cannot purchase devices directly through the Gear Shop using their student accounts.
Please confirm device requirements above or with Information Technology. Students in the Conservatory of Music can contact the Conservatory Dean.
Students registered for Anatomy and Physiology I or II will go to the IT Help Desk in the Blackmore Library to pick up their iPad for the semester. Students must sign a Student User Agreement before receiving their iPad and should adhere to the university’s Acceptable Use Policy.
Capital University does not recommend or require students to purchase iPads or other devices from a specific retailer. Students may choose to purchase required or recommended technology through Capital’s Gear Shop, the Apple Education Store, or any other retailer where they find the best pricing and options that meet their needs.