Course Demands

Digital and technological resources and requirements

For general computer hardware, students are recommended to have access to a computer capable of running the latest browsers (see below). This will enable access to wider institutional software and tools, including Microsoft Office 365, Blackboard Anthology virtual learning environment, Collaborate Class virtual webinar system, Panopto multimedia player and the Library Systems. The computer (laptop or desktop) should be multimedia enabled with a webcam, and students are also recommended to have a headset with built-in microphone.

You can access many of our learning systems and tools using mobile phones or tablets, and some platforms offer dedicated apps. However, we strongly advise that these are only used as secondary devices. For full functionality, reliability, and access to all assessment features, we strongly recommend using a laptop, PC or Mac as your primary device.

Illustrated (Minimum) specification

Operating System

Windows 11 (64-but recommended), macOS Sonoma (14) or later

Processor

Intel Core i5 (or equivalent) with at least 2 cores, 2.0 GHz, or higher minimum; Intel Core i5/i7 (or equivalent) with 4 or more cores for optimal performance recommended

RAM

8GB minimum; 16GB or higher recommended

Storage

128GB capacity minimum; 256GB or higher recommended with 10GB minimum of free space.

Camera

Built-in or external webcam (mandatory for assessments that are proctored) of 720p or higher.

Microphone

Built-in or external microphone and speakers/headset. (a headset is strongly recommended for clearer audio).

Internet enabled

Wi-Fi 2.4GHz or 5GHz or wired ethernet connection

Browsers

Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari (macOS only), Microsoft Edge (preferred and available on Windows, macOS and Android)

Internet access
The learning model will require you to collaborate and interact online. Therefore, if you are using a laptop, we would recommend that you are able to connect this to your internet router and use an ethernet cable.

What software will I likely use at The University of Law?

At the University of Law, we use several core learning technologies and systems for our learning, teaching, and assessments. The following lists key systems with links to their required technologies:

Can I use a Chromebook and Tablets (iPad etc.) for assessment activities?

Currently, we do not recommend a Chromebook or Tablet as these are not fully supported by all our Digital Assessment platform

Typing

To be able to effectively sit online assessments, it is expected that students have a typing speed of 30-40 words per minute, the average typing speed for adults. This will enable them to successfully complete the assessments within the given timeframe. If students are unsure as to the speed of their typing, they may wish to self-assess their typing speed by using the 10 fast fingers online tool.

It is recommended that an external Bluetooth or wired keyboard should be utilised, as this provides a better typing position. Students may also wish to investigate the use of ergonomic keyboards, if required.

Support for Students

University of Law Inclusion Plans (ULIPs)

The University has a dedicated Disability and Inclusion Service to assist students in accessing the programme. We encourage students to share information about disabilities and health conditions with the University as early as possible and preferably prior to starting the course so that adjustments can be put in place as early as possible. Medical and / or diagnostic evidence should be provided along with confirmation of any Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) funding. Upon receipt of this information the Disability and Inclusion Service will create a University of Law Inclusion Plan which will detail any course and exam / assessment adjustments. These are then communicated to campus-based Disability Liaison Officers, lecturers and assessment offices to implement the adjustments.

The University is able to provide diagnostic assessments with an Educational Psychologist for students suspecting a Specific Learning Difference (SpLD) for example: Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and Dyscalculia. The student will incur a small contribution fee of £75. Once completed the Disability and Inclusion Service can put in place a University of Law Inclusion Plan detailing the relevant adjustments to the course and assessments.

The Disability and Inclusion Service can advise you on how to obtain DSA, we recommend you apply as soon as possible. If you are eligible you can apply for Disabled Student’s Allowance. For more information please visit our disability micro-site or contact [email protected]

Library & Learning Skills Support

As a student you can get support from a range of experts within Library & Learning Skills. They can help you to study smarter by helping you with:

Study skills - such as managing your time, revision and exam technique, and effective learning strategies
Research skills - such as locating relevant articles and cases for your subject area, and how to reference
Digital skills - such as assessing your digital capabilities, and identifying next steps

You can work through a range of self-directed online resources any time via the Skills Academy or attend a programme of webinars, an online drop-in or an individual 1-2-1 appointment (all bookable online).

These resources and booking for live events are accessed via the Library and Learning Skills web page which also has our contact details.

Some of our courses have additional digital and technological resources and requirements, please refer to your course’s Course Demands document for more information.