Information Technology

Thomas J. Nicholson Virtual Reality Lab

Offering a unique learning environment

The Office of Information Technology has established the Thomas J. Nicholson Virtual Reality Lab. This latest IT initiative will enhance the traditional classroom learning experience. The classroom/lab consists of state-of-the-art computers, headsets, and two networked projection screens. The use of this lab is open to all programs of study.

VR Software & Resources

Breaking Boundaries in Science*
The Body VR
Jurassic World: Blue
YouTube VR
& other misc. apps
Access to many other free apps available through the Oculus store
*a museum-style, interactive showing of three famous women's lives in the field of science

VR Computers & Headsets

31 total units (28 student stations) are available in the classroom
AMD RYZEN 7 2700X Processor YD270XBGAFBOX
Asus ROG Strix B350-F Gaming System Board
EVGA 600 B1 Power Supply 100-B1-0600-KR 80+ BRONZE 600W
Corsair Vengeance LPX Memory CMK16GX4M2B3000C15 2 x 8 gigs
Samsung EVO 250 GB NVMe SSD Drive
1TB Western Digital Caviar Blue 3.5” Sata3 Drive
Antec VSK4000E-U3 USB 3.0 Tower Case
Asus VP249H – LED Monitor
Oculus Go 64GB VR Headset
Koss QZPRO – Headphones

University Library
Room #259

Usage Awareness: Sanitary routines and provisions are available such as: cleansing wipes, facial masks, and emesis bags (for motion sickness). Please be aware that some individuals may develop motion sickness, thereby becoming ill feeling while using the VR headsets due to the unfamiliar motion experience. Please immediately take a break by removing your headset if you begin to feel uneasy; if necessary, let your instructor know that you may not be able to participate in that class exercise.

Scheduling the VR Lab

From health sciences, construction, art or any other program of study, the VR environment is an exciting opportunity for students. Faculty can reserve the classroom, see contact information below. Please note, we need two weeks advanced notice if software will need to be installed. Please indicate any special software or access needed. Our IT specialists can assist you if you are new to the VR Classroom.

Schedule the VR Lab

photo of students in classroom wearing headsets

3D Maker's Studio

Virtual design comes to life. Just inside the doors of the Virtual Reality Lab is the Maker’s Studio. As part of the Virtual Reality Lab initiative, the studio offers a concept-to-production workspace. The space consists of 5 networked workstations and a MakerBot Replicator+ 3D printer. Each workstation hosts software for developing virtual object files for printing.

< Office of Information Technology