Student Technology Requirements and Recommendations

Purpose

The following information outlines the technology requirements for occupational therapy students at the University of New Mexico Occupational Therapy Graduate Program.

Required Devices

• A laptop computer meeting the specifications below.
• A smartphone or mobile device capable of running current iOS or Android applications and Microsoft multi-factor authentication.
• Students should bring devices to class when requested and keep them charged.

Recommended Laptop Specifications

• Windows 11 or newer or macOS 14 or newer.
• Intel Core i5/Core Ultra 5, AMD Ryzen 5, or Apple M-series (or better).
• Minimum 16 GB RAM.
• Minimum 256 GB SSD storage; 512 GB recommended.
• 14-inch display or larger with 1920 x 1080 resolution or higher.
• Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or newer, Wi-Fi 6 recommended. Warranty covering the length of the program recommended; accidental damage coverage strongly encouraged."
• UNM IT has a limited number of laptops available for semester checkouts to enrolled students. For more information: https://it.unm.edu/get-a-computer/index.html

Internet and Connectivity

• Reliable broadband internet access.
• Minimum 25 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload recommended.
• Hotspots should be treated as backup connectivity only.

Audio and Video Requirements

• Built-in or external webcam (min 720p resolution).
• Microphone and speakers or headset suitable for videoconferencing.
• Ability to record and upload video assignments using a peripheral camera on a computer, an integrated camera on a computer, or the students’ mobile device.

Required Software

Devices are required to be able to run the following software

• UNM Free Student Software: https://it.unm.edu/get-software/download.html
• Including:
• Microsoft 365 suite
• Adobe Creative Cloud - https://creativecampus.unm.edu/
• Zoom - https://hsc.unm.edu/about/cio/technology-support/zoom.html
• Current/updated web browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari)
• Respondus LockDown Browser or other approved testing software when required
• Recommended:
• Current antivirus and malware protection built into Windows 11 or macOS 14+

Academic Uses of Technology

• Writing papers and scholarly assignments
• Creating presentations and multimedia projects
• Accessing course materials and learning platforms
• Participating in distance education seminars during fieldwork or capstone experiences (for OTD students)
• Completing online testing and assessments
• Professional communication with faculty, peers, and fieldwork educators
• Maintaining compliance with required professional documentation and completing learning activities in the online Exxat platform

Best Practices for Academic Success

• Maintain regular software updates
• Back up academic files using OneDrive or another method
• Test webcam, microphone, and internet access before online classes or examinations
• Complete routine device maintenance and security updates
• Contact university technology support promptly when technical issues arise
• UNM Main Campus and Canvas Learning Management System: https://it.unm.edu/get-support/index.html
• UNM Health Sciences Campus and .salud Log-In: https://hsc.unm.edu/about/cio/technology-support/

Summary

Students who meet or exceed these recommendations will be well prepared to engage in coursework, complete assessments, participate in fieldwork and capstone activities, and demonstrate professional readiness throughout the occupational therapy curriculum.