Software & Device Readiness
Complete these checks before starting CI2000
Why this matters: CI2000 requires specific software and hardware. Completing these checks now prevents technical problems later and ensures you can focus on learning from Day 1.
Warning: Windows Computer Required
CI2000 requires a Windows desktop or laptop computer. iPads, Chromebooks, and Mac computers cannot run the required desktop versions of Microsoft Office applications used in this course.
Device Checklist
Confirm each item below. Every box must be checked before proceeding.
Windows 10 or Windows 11 — Your computer runs a current version of Windows. (Right-click the Start button > System to check.)
Reliable internet connection — Broadband or strong Wi-Fi for D2L, Microsoft 365, and video content.
D2L Brightspace access — You can log into UMA’s learning management system at uma.brightspace.com.
Keyboard and mouse (or trackpad) — Required for keyboard shortcuts, right-click menus, and precise editing.
What if I don’t have a Windows computer?
UMA offers resources to help:
- UMA Laptop Program — Eligible students may receive a loaner laptop. Contact your Student Services Advisor for details.
- IT Help Desk — Call 1-888-895-3965 or email ITSupport@uma.edu to discuss your options.
As a UMA student, you have free access to the full Microsoft Office 365 desktop suite. Follow these four steps to activate it:
1
Open any Office application
Click the Start menu and open
Word,
Excel, or
PowerPoint. If Office is not installed, download it from
portal.office.com.
2
Sign in with your UMA email
Use your full UMA student email address (e.g., jsmith@students.uma.edu). This is the same email you use for D2L.
3
Activate if prompted
If you see an “Activate Product” or “Sign in to set up Office” prompt, enter your UMA credentials. Activation may take 1–2 minutes.
4
Verify activation
Open any Office app, click File > Account. You should see your UMA email and “Product Activated” (or “Subscription Product”).
Activation Checklist
Microsoft Word opens and shows “Product Activated”
Microsoft Excel opens and shows “Product Activated”
Microsoft PowerPoint opens and shows “Product Activated”
Microsoft Outlook opens and shows “Product Activated”
Trouble activating? Contact the UMA IT Help Desk at 1-888-895-3965 or ITSupport@uma.edu. Do not wait until Week 1 — resolve activation issues now.
CI2000 assumes you can perform these basic computer tasks. Check off each skill you can do right now:
Take a screenshot using Win+Shift+S (Snip & Sketch)
Find your downloaded files in File Explorer’s Downloads folder
Create a new folder and give it a descriptive name
Copy and paste text using Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V
Save a file to a specific location on your computer
Tip: If 3 or more items above are unchecked, we strongly recommend reviewing the Foundations Quick Start guide before beginning Week 1. It covers all of these skills with step-by-step instructions.
All Set!
Your device is verified, Office is activated, and your skills are confirmed. You are ready to begin CI2000.
Not sure if you’re ready? The Readiness Self-Check Quiz is ungraded and takes about 5 minutes. It will tell you exactly where you stand.
Need Help?
UMA IT Support
- 1-888-895-3965
- ITSupport@uma.edu
- Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM ET
- Saturday–Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET
Student Services
- Contact your Student Services Advisor for laptop program eligibility, enrollment questions, or academic support.
- Access the Student Portal at my.uma.edu for account and registration information.