Technology Services at SBU
As today’s global society becomes even more connected through technology, Southwest Baptist University provides information technology resources to enhance academic learning.
Technical Recommendations
The following minimum specifications are recommended for SBU students. For better performance, we strongly suggest exceeding these specifications and your specific program of study may have its own requirements (ie: computer science, graphic design etc).
- Internet access: high-speed (at least 10 Mbps) connection like cable or fiber optic. Wireless capabilities are recommend.
- Technology: Personal computer (Windows 10, 11 or latest Mac OS, 16+GB memory, Intel
core i5, 256 GB hard drive, anti-virus software), headset or headphones with microphone
and webcam
- iPads (Mac iPad OS) and many Chromebooks cannot accommodate the online test-taking browser requirements. If you elect to utilize this device type and need to take proctored exams online, you may need to utilize a campus computer lab or other Windows or MacOS based device to take the exam.
- Software and applications: Microsoft Office 365 (provided by SBU), Google Chrome, Adobe Reader
- Security requirements: Virus scanning software (Windows Defender, Crowdstrike, Bitdefender, etc), malware scanning tool, latest security patches
MyBearcat Portal
Through the MyBearcat Portal you have a single entry point to all SBU technology resources, including:
- Canvas Learning Management App – Timely access to grades, assignments, collaborative working spaces, and assessment.
- Self-Service — Online, real-time access to academic, account, financial aid, course, and transcript information
- Microsoft Office 365 — A feature-rich suite of Microsoft tools including personal email, calendar, contacts, tasks, and OneDrive. Enjoy Microsoft Office for FREE (install Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook on up to five devices for free). To access the free Office suite products, log into the MyBearcat portal and access your SBU Email, or visit www.office.com. Once your inbox is open, click the Office 365 link at the top of the page. The resulting page will explain the options and provide you installation information.
- Wireless Printing — With wireless printing technology, you can print directly from your laptop to printers in our computer labs. The technology fee students pay each semester includes a $20 credit to your printing account. Printing costs 5 cents per black laser print and 15 cents per color print. Once your account is depleted, you can add to your account by calling the ITS Help Desk at (417) 328-1702.
- More — Many other resources including official announcements, student groups, calendar and new events, and access to systems such as SBU Alert, and the Student Health Record are all available to you through the MyBearcat portal.
Other Resources
- Campus-wide WiFi network — Whether you are in an academic building or residence hall, SBU_Wireless has you covered. Additionally, each room in the residence halls has at least two Ethernet network connections for high-speed internet access.