Migrating to Blackboard Ultra

What is Blackboard Ultra?

Currently, all courses use the familiar 'Blackboard Original' course format. 'Blackboard Ultra' is the updated version of the platform, offering a modern, intuitive interface. While many core functions remain familiar, Ultra provides enhanced usability, streamlined navigation, and additional features that simplify course design and management for both faculty and students.

Key Dates and Updates

Official Deadline: The retirement of Blackboard Original is scheduled for December 31st, 2026. From January 1st 2027, all courses in the Original environment will be read-only, though you will still be able to copy materials into the Ultra environment as needed.

Migration Plan: Hamilton College is moving towards full adoption of Blackboard Ultra for all courses by the start of Fall 2026.

Trying Out Ultra

Following the May 2023 upgrade to the Ultra Base Navigation, faculty now have the option to adopt the Ultra Course View. This page provides useful information on how to get started with Ultra, links to other institutions' overviews of the differences between the two formats and how processes work in Ultra.

If you are interested in trying out Ultra, please send a request (including the course you'd like to convert) to blackboard@hamilton.edu. You will be able to check out the new format before deciding to commit to the Ultra view; once committed, the course cannot be reverted to the Original format.

Alternatively, you may request a dedicated 'Ultra Test Course' - a private sandbox where you can explore the Ultra format without affecting your live courses. This is a great way to get familiar with the layout and features at your own pace.

Migration Support and Training:

BB Academy Training Course

This is a highly recommended course for anyone transitioning from the Original to the Ultra course experience. It is a self-paced free online course designed to help faculty, instructors, and course builders navigate Blackboard Ultra. Learn how to build content, create assessments, and manage content/discussions efficiently in the Ultra course view.
Since the course itself is built in Ultra, it also offers valuable insight into course design and provides a student’s perspective on navigating an Ultra course.

Blackboard Teaching Essentials

In-Person Workshops

We are offering regular in-person workshops to support the migration to Blackboard Ultra. Please scroll down to view the full schedule and available materials in the 'Blackboard Ultra Workshop' section.

Webinars by Anthology

Anthology, the provider of Blackboard, hosts a series of webinars covering key topics related to the Blackboard Ultra migration. These webinars are designed to benefit all users, and we encourage everyone to join. Registration links and additional details will be posted here soon.

Ultra Bites

As part of our ongoing support, 'Ultra Bites' is a series of brief, focused tips highlighting key features of Blackboard Ultra. These will be sent via email and also published on this page for you to refer back to anytime.

Guides for Blackboard Ultra

• Switch your course from Original to Ultra Version

Blackboard Help Useful Resources

• Copy Content from BB Original to BB Ultra
• Navigate Gradebook – BB Ultra

External Resources

• Boston University comparison of differences between Original and Ultra
• Northern Illinois University major new features of Ultra
• Western Kentucky University scroll down to see highlights of Ultra
• Lesley University faculty quick start guide to Ultra
• University of Maryland faculty quick start guides
• William Paterson University faculty guides to using Ultra features