Blackboard- Original vs. Ultra- What is the difference?
Blackboard has two different course views. The layout of an Original course is visually different from an Ultra course and it has some unique features.
To quickly determine what course view your instructor is using, look at the landing page when you open the course.
Original Course landing page
Blackboard Original courses have a layout with a left-hand navigation menu. They typically open up to the Announcements page.
Ultra Course landing page
Blackboard Ultra courses open to the Content tab. They display the Navigation Bar at the top of the page with a right-hand Details & Actions menu.
Still not sure which Course View is in use?
You can also see if your course is an Original or Ultra course by viewing your Courses in list view.
- Select Courses.
- Choose the three horizontal lines (next to “Search your courses”) and Blackboard will arrange your courses in a list.
In the list view, you will notice that some courses have a colored bar on the left of the module box, and others are grey.
- Ultra courses have a colorful bar.
- Original courses have a grey bar and are labeled with Original Course View” next to the title.
Want to learn more?
Click on a question below to gain additional details or access related resources:
Why is Columbus State using two different Course Views in Blackboard?
Columbus State is phasing out Original courses and moving to Blackboard Ultra!
All courses will be in the Ultra Course View by the Autumn 2026 semester. Ultra has a streamlined, modern, and responsive design that students and instructors will love.
Learn more about this transition in this article: Move to Ultra Courses
Is training available if I need help with Blackboard Original or Ultra Course View?
Columbus State has a variety of training options available to students for Blackboard: live training sessions (in-person and online) & on-demand resources. Check out our Crash Course to view a series of training videos or take the interactive student Blackboard orientation to gain some hands-on experience in the system.
Learn more about student Blackboard training in this article: Available Blackboard Training