What to Expect
Technology Requirements
Access to Canvas requires a personal computer with the following capabilities:
Supported Browsers
Because it's built using web standards, Canvas runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, or any other device with a modern web browser.
Canvas supports the last two versions of every browser release. We highly recommend updating to the newest version of whatever browser you are using, as well as the most up-to-date Flash plug-in.
Some supported browsers may still produce a banner stating: Your browser does not meet the minimum requirements for Canvas. If you have upgraded your browser but you are still seeing the warning banner, try logging out of Canvas and deleting your browser cookies. Click here for help with clearing your cache.
If you are using an unsupported browser, you can update your browser, or you can dismiss the warning banner during the duration of your browser session.
Required Components
Flash is required in a few places in Canvas, including media recording/streaming and viewing, as well as uploading files to a course or an assignment. Other than these features, Flash is not required to use most areas of Canvas.
The Java plug-in is required for screen sharing in conferences. Please note that some browsers do not support Java. There are no other browser plug-ins used by Canvas.
Canvas Mobile
Canvas is built on open web standards and uses minimal instances of Flash, so most features are supported on mobile devices. Click here for more specific information regarding Canvas Mobile.
Logging into your Course
1. Once you are logged into Canvas, you will see your classes on the right hand side under My Courses on your User Dashboard (Canvas).
* If you don't see a course for which you are enrolled, the instructor may not have made the course available. Some instructors will not make their courses available until the first day of the quarter while others will make them available earlier.
* It is a good idea to begin logging in a week before the quarter begins and always be sure to access your courses on the first day of the semester.
2. Once you are in your course, be sure to read any information posted, including announcements and the syllabus. Be sure to follow any instructions for "checking in" or completing first day/week assignments to avoid being dropped from the course as a "no show."