Blackboard Ultra Upgrade | Southern Connecticut State University

Preparing for the Next Generation of Teaching and Learning

Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) currently uses Blackboard Learn 9 as its learning management system (LMS). Anthology, the parent company of Blackboard, has announced that Blackboard Learn 9 will reach end-of-life at the end of 2026. In preparation, the university will begin the transition to Anthology’s next-generation LMS, Blackboard Ultra.

Blackboard Ultra provides a more modern, intuitive, and mobile-responsive experience for both faculty and students. It streamlines course design, enhances navigation, and integrates key teaching and assessment tools into a single, simplified interface.

Transition Timeline

To ensure a smooth transition, the university will conduct two full-semester pilot programs:

Spring 2026: First Blackboard Ultra Pilot
Fall 2026: Second Blackboard Ultra Pilot
Spring 2027: Blackboard Ultra replaces Blackboard Learn 9

These pilots will allow selected faculty to teach full courses in Blackboard Ultra, providing valuable feedback and insights to inform campus-wide implementation.

Opportunities for Exploration

Faculty, staff, and deans who are not directly participating in the pilots will still have opportunities to explore Blackboard Ultra through sandbox courses. Sandboxes provide a dedicated space to learn, experiment, and begin developing courses in the new environment at your own pace.

Request a Sandbox

If you are interested in receiving a Blackboard Ultra Sandbox Course, please submit a Blackboard Ultra Sandbox Request.

Support and Resources

As we move toward full adoption of Blackboard Ultra, additional resources, training opportunities, and support materials will be made available. The Office of Online Learning will provide regular updates, including training sessions, best-practice guides, and opportunities for feedback throughout the transition process.