What is the easiest way to learn about the technology requirements at Northwestern as a new student?

We offer a useful Getting Started Guide for New Students to help you learn about the technology requirements at UNWSP and what you should be prepared for to be a successful student.

What are the computer requirements at UNWSP?

Computer requirements are intended to ensure that the laptop you purchase will meet the requirements for success in your academic program. Visit the UNW Computer Requirements page for complete information.

Can I use a Netbook or Chromebook for my Northwestern courses?

Netbooks or Chromebooks will not meet your needs as a student or course-work requirements for your area of study. Some aspects of your courses are not compatible with the capabilities of a Netbook or Chromebook. Please arrange for an alternative device before starting your first semester of UNWSP classes.

What is myUNW?

As a UNWSP student, myUNW is the portal you will use to access your course resources and student services. It's important to familiarize yourself with myUNW early and download the myUNW app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

You are assigned a username and password when first admitted to a UNWSP program. Both are viewable in your Application Portal upon admittance. While your username will remain the same during your time at UNWSP, you do have the option to change your password. Visit the Change Student Password page for more information.

Please take some time before starting your first classes to explore myUNW. There is a messaging feature, news feed, notifications portal, and widgets for you to use too. It is your responsibility to check myUNW regularly once your classes begin to receive important information and updates (we recommend 4-5 times per week).

What is Moodle?

Moodle is Northwestern's Learning Management System (LMS). Moodle enables instructors and students to work collaboratively online. 

How do I access Moodle?

Moodle can be accessed either by logging into myUNW and clicking "Moodle" in the "Shortcuts" navigation menu or by going directly to Northwestern's Moodle site.

How do I know when I will be able to access my course(s) in Moodle?

After you register, your courses will be available to view in Moodle on the first scheduled day of class. Please refer to the Dual Enrollment Academic Calendar for information about course start and end dates (dates for on-site courses will depend on the calendar at your high school). After your course concludes, it will remain visible to you in Moodle for six additional months.

Is it important for me to regularly access Moodle?

Yes. Once your course starts it is your responsibility to regularly check your course page in Moodle for assignments and updates from your course instructor. Failure to log into Moodle multiple times weekly can result in missed assignments and a low grade in your course(s).

Is there an expectation for student etiquette on Moodle?

Yes. As a college student, you are expected to show proper etiquette and professionalism when interacting with your course instructors and classmates. More information can be found on our Online Etiquette for Remote Participation document.

How can I learn more about Moodle?

• Moodle Orientation
• IT Student Knowledge Base

What is Office 365?

We are pleased to provide Microsoft Office to every student free of charge. This means the latest version of the full Office productivity suite (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and more) are available for your use. You also have access to Office 365, which allows you online access to all Microsoft applications. These tools will be available to you during the duration of your time as a student at UNWSP.

How do I download Office 365?

You can install Office 365 on up to 5 devices. Visit the How to install Office 365 page for more information.

Am I required to download additional software to take courses at Northwestern?

Occasionally, you will be tasked with installing additional basic software to assist you in your course. Visit the Essential Software for DE and CGOAL courses page for more information.

How do I access my UNWSP student email account?

As a UNWSP student, it is critical that you regularly access your student email account to review important communication from your advisor, instructors, and campus departments. Your Email can be accessed either by logging into myUNW and clicking "Email" in the "Shortcuts" navigation menu, or by logging directly into Outlook using your student email address and password (both provided in your Application Portal upon admittance). Visit the Email page for more information about accessing your student email account.

Is it important for me to regularly access my UNWSP student email account?

Yes. As a college student it is your responsibility to regularly check your student email account for messages from your advisor, instructors, and campus departments. We recommend that you check your email account at least 4-5 times per week. Failure to regularly check your account can result in missed information that can affect your success at UNWSP.

Is there an expectation for student etiquette when using my UNWSP student email account?

Yes. As a college student, you are expected to show proper etiquette and professionalism when interacting sending emails to your instructors, advisor, or others on campus. More information can be found on our Online Etiquette for Remote Participation document.

How do I connect to the Northwestern Wireless Network?

If you are visiting our St. Paul campus and need to connect to the Northwestern Wireless Network, please visit the Connecting to UNW Network page for instructions.

Where do I go for help with technology?

You have a number of avenues for help with technology at UNWSP. If you have a question, we recommend that you first check out the IT Student Knowledge Base. If you still have questions, you can contact IT in a number of ways.

• 24/7 Phone Support: 651-631-5699
• Email: servicedesk@unwsp.edu

You can also visit the IT Service Desk in person in R0106 (Riley Hall, see campus map).

IT Service Desk hours:

Monday - Thursday: 7:45am to 8:30pm

Fridays: 7:45am to 5:00pm