Engage Technical Requirements

Online learning courses at Brandeis University Graduate Professional Studies use Engage. Engage is an open-source learning management software.

Component Windows Computer Apple Mac OS Computer
Operating System Windows 10 or Windows 11 Mac OS X 11.4 or later
RAM 4 GB or more 4 GB or more
Hardware peripherals
  • Microphone headset and webcam
  • Printer
  • Microphone headset and webcam
  • Printer
Internet connection High-speed/broadband connection High-speed/broadband connection
Web browser

Latest version of:

  • Chrome
  • Firefox
  • Edge

Latest version of:

  • Chrome
  • Firefox
  • Edge
  • Safari
Media players/plugins
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader
  • VLC
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader
  • QuickTime Player
Microsoft Office
  • Word
  • Powerpoint
  • Excel
  • Word
  • Powerpoint
  • Excel

It is highly recommended that students and instructors use the most current version of one of the web browsers listed. These browsers are free, and the determination of which to use is a matter of personal preference. Note that cookies must be enabled in the browser. Most browsers have cookies enabled by default. It is also recommended that browser ad-blocker extensions be disabled, as they may unintentionally block content or functionality on the site. If you are unsure of whether your browser is configured properly, contact Technical Support for assistance.

Most courses feature content created using Microsoft Office programs like Word, PowerPoint and Excel, so it is highly recommended that students purchase these programs. Some programs are web-based and offered as a subscription. Make sure you know exactly what you are buying and whether the purchase price represents a one-time expense or an annual service fee. Some Microsoft Office configurations offer student discounts.

Additional Requirements

Other tools/software may be required depending on your course's subject matter. These requirements would be the same as those of an equivalent classroom course. Your instructor will provide these details at the start of your class. In general, you should be familiar with:

  • Using a Web browser
  • Using a standard Word processor
  • Rules of discussion etiquette (commonly called netiquette)
  • Managing, uploading, and downloading files