Watch: Get ready for Canvas - our new Central Learning Environment

In just four months, we’ll be saying goodbye to Blackboard as we complete our transition to Canvas – a new, modern learning platform that will become the University’s central learning environment from September 2025.

Canvas is designed to improve the experience of both students and colleagues with a more intuitive, flexible and user-friendly interface. This change follows extensive consultation with colleagues and students who shared their feedback on our current platforms and helped shape the decision to adopt Canvas. 

Now’s the time to get ready. Whether you're designing or delivering teaching, or supporting the student experience, engaging with Canvas early will help ensure a smooth start to the next academic year. 

Watch: Why Canvas, Why Now? 

Hear from Professor April McMahon, Vice-President for Teaching, Learning and Students, and Katie Jackson, Faculty of Humanities Executive Officer, as they explain what Canvas offers, why we’re moving away from Blackboard, and what colleagues need to do to prepare. 

In this short video, they highlight the importance of building and testing your courses ahead of September, and where to find the support you might need. 

Get started now 

Canvas is already live and accessible at canvas.manchester.ac.uk. Simply log in with your University email address and password. 

Students can also download the Canvas Student app from mobile app stores to access learning on the go. 

Sign up to our June open meeting 

We are once again inviting you to join the all-staff online open meeting on Monday 23 June (12:00-1:00pm) to hear key update updates as we get ready to go-live using Canvas, and welcome your questions and participation on the day. 

• More details will follow. Register your interest here. 

Help and support 

Our Canvas microsite provides guidance, training, key dates and answers to your FAQs. Visit the site to explore everything you need to support a successful transition.