Southern is moving to a new version of Blackboard. Starting December 31, 2026, Blackboard is ending its support for our current version of Blackboard and all colleges and universities who use Blackboard will have to be on the new version, Blackboard Ultra.
Blackboard Ultra represents a major step forward in the design of the platform, bringing it in line with modern learning management systems. As such, there will be significant changes in both how Blackboard looks to faculty and students as well as in how courses will need to be organized.
Our move to Blackboard Ultra is scheduled to take place in three steps:
- Spring 2026 semester: A limited pilot program that includes a broad sectional representation of the university's course offerings (on-going).
- Fall 2026 semester: An additional pilot with faculty representing each academic department on campus.
- Spring 2027 semester: The entire university moves to Blackboard Ultra.
Starting in Spring 2026 all faculty will have a sandbox course available where they can copy a current course and/or experiment with creating and editing their course in the new environment. Those needing additional sandboxes can request them by filling out the Blackboard Ultra Sandbox Request Form. Courses created in the sandbox course can be copied to the course shell for any course. The Ultra sandbox is available at the bottom of your Courses list in Blackboard. You may also find it easier by searching for "sandbox" at the top of your Courses list. If you search for your Sandbox, remember to remove your filter once you are done to see your current courses again.
Courses can be copied from Blackboard Original to Blackboard Ultra but in most cases they will require further adjustments to fit the new environment. Faculty are encouraged to use the sandbox to experience the new environment prior to starting to teach in Ultra.
The Office of Online Learning will provide trainings for all faculty during the fall semester. Below are a variety of training opportunities and resources that faculty can use to learn more about the new environment.
Is this optional?
No. Anthology has announced retirement of Blackboard Original courses on December 31, 2026, so we must transition to Ultra.
When do I need to act?
If you’re in a pilot cohort, you’ll be contacted with training and course preparation steps. Otherwise, follow the timeline above and watch for department-level updates.
How do I find my sandbox course?
The Ultra sandbox course is available at the bottom of your Courses list in Blackboard. You may also find it easier by searching for “sandbox” at the top of your Courses list. If you search for your Sandbox, remember to remove your filter once you are done to see your current courses again.
Will my course pack integrations work?
If you are using any course pack integrations from publishers (e.g., Pearson, McGraw Hill) you will have to re-establish the links upon course copy.
Will my course copy over automatically?
Some content can be copied or converted, but approaches vary by course design and tools used. We’ll guide you to the best path for your situation.
Where do I learn Ultra fast?
Use the Blackboard Learn Help for Instructors – Ultra Course View or attend a live session if you prefer hands-on support.
Who do I contact for help?
Please contact the Office of Online Learning with any questions.