Last updated on April 30, 2026
By default, Canvas shells for MSU Denver classes are programmed to open on the Saturday before classes begin. Starting from this date, students can view and interact with published content.
As the instructor, you can view and change this date in the Settings menu of each course.
Change the Start Date for a Canvas Course
- Log in to your Canvas Account.
- Select the Course you’d like to work in.
- Click settings in the left-hand course navigation menu
- Scroll down to the Participation section.
- Click the calendar icon under Start.
- Select the desired Start Date for the course.
- This is the day that students will be able to open and view the course.
- Optionally: Uncheck the box next to Restrict students from viewing course before course start date if you would like students to be able to view course content before the start date.
- Students will only be able to view published content before the start date. They will not be able to interact with any of the content until the start date.
- This can be useful if you would like students to be able to view things like Announcements or the Syllabus early.
- Click Update Course Details at the bottom of the screen to save your new start date.
Have Questions?
Need additional support on this or other teaching and learning topics? Please visit us for drop-in support (10am-3pm, M-F) or try one of our self-help tutorials.
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