The online post-bac program at UC Berkeley extension says this under requirements: You should have convenient root user or administrator access to a robust computer and the ability to install software. You are expected to acquire and install or have access to the software as required for course assignments related to this certificate. What the heck does this mean? Certificate Program in Information Systems and Management — UC Berkeley Extension
Modern operating systems, like Windows 7 or MacOS X, allow multiple "accounts" to be established on the same computer, so it can be shared by multiple people. Each person can log into the same computer with their own name and password, and have access to their own personal files and settings. But in this case, there is a distinction between "administrator accounts" and "user accounts". An "administrator" can install new software and make other significant changes to the computer, while a "user" typically isn't allowed to do this. So for example, an adult might set up a home computer as an "administrator", with the kids as "users". The kids can log into the computer and use it, but they can't install any new software or make any other changes (which might mess things up). The point is that this particular online program requires you to install some special software on your computer. In order to do this, you have to be an "administrator" for your computer. For example, you apparently can't complete this online program using public computers, like at the library or at your school, because you probably only have "user" access to those machines, and this implies that you won't be able to install the necessary software.
They did actually just say that. Here's the original: You should have convenient root user or administrator access to a robust computer and the ability to install software. You are expected to acquire and install or have access to the software as required for course assignments related to this certificate. Remove the bolded text and you get: You should have the ability to install software. You are expected to acquire and install or have access to the software as required for course assignments related to this certificate. Best wishes as you pursue your program.
