High Point University (HPU) Information Technology Services (ITS) is dedicated to providing comprehensive support for students to ensure a smooth and effective learning experience. A key aspect of this support is facilitating access to essential HPU systems, including Blackboard Learn, the university’s learning management system. This guide will walk you through accessing Blackboard Learn and other important IT services at HPU, ensuring you have the resources you need for academic success.
Understanding HPU System Access
To fully utilize the academic resources at HPU, understanding how to access university systems is crucial. Your HPU credentials provide entry to a range of platforms, all designed to support your education. Here’s a breakdown of the essential access points:
Claiming Your HPU Network Account
For new students, the first step is to claim your HPU network account. This is a one-time process that grants you access to a suite of vital HPU resources, including:
- HPU Gateway: Your central portal for student resources.
- University Email: Your official HPU communication channel.
- Microsoft Office 365 for Education: Essential software for academic work.
- Campus Computers and Wireless Access: For on-campus connectivity.
- Blackboard Learn System: Your online learning platform.
- Atomic Learning: A resource for software and technology tutorials.
Upon admission, new students receive an email at their personal email address detailing the account claim process. This email contains instructions and contact information for IT Services should you require assistance. Once you set your secure password, you’ll have access to all the systems listed above, including Blackboard Learn Hpu.
Navigating myGateway
myGateway (https://gateway.hputx.edu) serves as your single, virtual gateway to all student resources and systems at HPU. After logging in with your HPU credentials, you can access:
- Current course schedules
- Grades and unofficial transcripts
- Degree audit information
- Billing and financial aid details
- Payment plan setup
Within the myGateway dashboard, you’ll find widgets providing quick links to essential services, including Blackboard Learn and your HPU email. myGateway simplifies access to everything you need to manage your academic and administrative tasks at HPU.
HPU Email Communication
HPU provides every student with an official university email account (@hputx.edu). This account is active from your enrollment date until graduation. It’s imperative to regularly check your HPU email, as it is the official channel for university communications, including important updates from IT Services, academic departments, and administrative offices.
Important Security Note: IT Services will never request sensitive personal information such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or bank account details via email. Be cautious of any emails requesting such information and always verify the sender’s authenticity.
Blackboard Learn: Your Learning Management System at HPU
Blackboard Learn is the online learning management system (LMS) utilized by many HPU instructors to enhance the classroom experience. Depending on your courses, Blackboard Learn may provide access to a variety of resources, such as:
- Lecture notes and course syllabi
- Course schedules and handouts
- Class discussion boards
- Online quizzes and assignments
Blackboard Learn HPU serves as a central hub for online learning, allowing you to engage with course materials, interact with instructors and classmates, and stay organized throughout your academic journey. Your instructors will guide you on how Blackboard Learn is used in each specific course.
Using Your Computer On Campus Effectively
For students living on campus, IT Services recommends naming your computer with your first and last name (e.g., johndoe). If there are duplicate names, add a numeric suffix to ensure uniqueness. This helps IT Services identify your system quickly if needed, as per University policy. Instructions for renaming your computer can be found on the IT Services Helpdesk website.
Ensuring your computer is secure is also vital. You are required to have antivirus software with updated virus definitions. Windows Defender (built into Windows) or any reputable third-party antivirus software is acceptable.
HPU offers wireless network access across campus, including residence halls and apartments. When choosing a laptop or tablet, ensure it supports WPA2‐Enterprise for compatibility with the campus wireless network. Authentication using your HPU credentials is required to access the wireless network. Setup instructions for various operating systems are available on the IT Services site within myGateway (Resources -> IT Services -> Student Resources). Alternatively, you can visit the IT Services offices for in-person configuration assistance.
Important Wireless Network Guidelines: To maintain network stability and security, students are asked not to bring personal wireless access points or routers to campus. Similarly, disable the wireless feature on wireless printers while on campus.
Peer-to-Peer Software Restrictions: File-sharing software like BitTorrent, Limewire, and similar applications are blocked on the HPU network due to significant security risks.
Hardware and Software Discounts
HPU students can benefit from discounts on hardware and software. Dell offers hardware discounts specifically for HPU students (Dell Hardware Discounts for HPU Students). It’s also worth checking other retailers for student discounts on computer equipment. More details can be found on the IT Services Help Desk website.
Furthermore, Microsoft Office is available to all enrolled HPU students at no cost through the Microsoft Student Advantage program. Information on accessing this free software and other discounted software options can be found on myGateway. Scholarbuys (Scholarbuys Discounted Software) is another resource for discounted software.
By utilizing the resources and support provided by HPU IT Services, including access to Blackboard Learn and other essential systems, you can enhance your learning experience and make the most of your time at High Point University. For any further assistance or questions, do not hesitate to contact the IT Services Helpdesk.
