In spring 2023, UMass Amherst announced Canvas will become the official learning management system (LMS) for on-campus and online courses.
Why Canvas
- Canvas provides an accessible and inclusive experience, centered on ease of use for students and instructors.
- A mobile-first platform with customizable options, Canvas offers students true flexibility in how and where they learn.
- Canvas is a robust and reliable system that integrates easily with other technologies at UMass Amherst.
- A single, university-wide LMS reduces complexity and simplifies the learning and teaching experience for students and faculty.
From Moodle & Blackboard to Canvas
- For Fall 2024, Moodle courses can only be requested through this exception form requiring Dean-level approval. For additional information, please refer to the Moodle Transition FAQ.
- Blackboard is no longer available for teaching starting Summer 2024.
- Canvas transition support and training opportunities are be available in person and virtual, one-on-one and in groups.
Canvas is the leading LMS among public research universities and stands out for its flexibility, ease of use, and mobile capabilities.
Transition Timeline
Winter 2022 -
Summer 2023
Summer 2023
Canvas Announced, Outreach, Training & Rollout Begin
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- Multi-year transition strategy announced
- Requests opened for Fall 2023 courses
- Requests opened for moving Fall 2023 course content to Canvas
- Training opportunities available
Fall 2023 -
Summer 2024
Summer 2024
Majority of Courses Transitioned to Canvas
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- Courses continue to move to Canvas
- Course migration support available
- Training opportunities available
Fall 2024 -
Fall 2025
Fall 2025
All Courses Move to Canvas
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- Blackboard retired. Limited support for Moodle.
- Moodle courses can be requested through dean-level exception process.
- Access to archived courses available through Spring 2025.
View the Canvas Transition Detailed Timeline
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