Topics Map > Services > Teaching, Learning and Classrooms > Learning Managment System
Blackboard for Students and Staff
Below is an overview of Blackboard for students and staff.
Overview
Blackboard is the Learning Management System (LMS) for NDSU that connects students, faculty, and staff both inside and outside of the classroom. Starting in Spring 2026, all of NDSU's Blackboard courses will be created in Blackboard Learn - Ultra Course View. Some courses and organizations may still be using Blackboard Learn - Original Course View for the summer and fall semesters of 2025.
For assistance with any Original Course View functions, please review the appropriate Blackboard Help support pages below in Related Resources.
Getting Started
- Set up the Duo Mobile app authentication before logging in to Blackboard.
- Students will be prompted for Duo Authentication each time they sign in to Blackboard.
- Visit the page - Setting up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) or watch the video - Setting Up your Duo Mobile Account (1.29) to set up your Duo Mobile app authentication
- Set up your Blackboard Ultra profile and notifications to best meet your needs.
- Log in and check to make sure all of your courses are listed.
- Review the course syllabus and textbook requirements before or on the first day of class.
Best Practices
- Check your courses frequently to stay on top of things.
- Talk with your instructor(s) with any questions.
- Organize your work and create timelines.
Learn More/How To's
- Finding Your Blackboard Ultra and Original Courses
- A Quick Start Guide - scroll down to Ultra Course View.
- About You - Personal Settings and Profile.
- Stay in the Loop - Notification, Activity Stream, Announcements, and more.
- Content in Your Courses - Learning Modules, Progress Tracking, and more.
- Assignments - Submissions, Group Work, Peer Assessments, Grades, and more.
- All Interacting Links- Discussions, Groups, and more.
- Tests - Accessing Tests, Test Taking Tips, and more.
- Grades - View attempts and feedback, Submissions, and more.
- SafeAssign - Checks submitted assignment originality by comparing it with online sources.
- Browser Support
FAQs
Use Cases
- Distribute course materials in various formats
- Provide information on and access to activities, assessments, and interactions
- Instructors communicate with students by posting announcements, creating discussion forums, and providing timely feedback on progress
- Students can communicate with their classmates and instructors
Universal Design/Accessibility
- Using strategies and guidelines from Universal Design for Learning and ensuring all of the course content is accessible creates a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment.