Course Building 101: Setting Up a Manual Course

Overview #

The Course Builder is the engine of your academy. Unlike other platforms, VarsityScape differentiates between Self-Paced (on-demand) and Cohort-Based (live intake) courses. Here is how to build your first one.

1. Initialize the Course #

1. Click on the Course Builder tab in the main navigation.
2. Select Create New Course.
3. Course Name: Enter the title (e.g., “Product Design 101”).
4. Format Selection:
   • Cohort-based: Choose this for live classes, distinct batches of students (e.g., “May Entry”), and scheduled release of content.
   • Self-paced: Choose this for “evergreen” content that students watch on their own time.

2. Setting Up Your First Cohort #

If you selected Cohort-based, you must define the intake parameters:

1. Cohort Name: Give this specific batch a name (e.g., “Spring 2026” or “Cohort 13”).
2. Cohort Size: Set a maximum limit (e.g., 50 students) to maintain quality, or leave it open.
3. Duration: Set the Start Date and End Date.

Note: Students cannot access the material before the Start Date unless you specifically toggle “Early Access” in the settings.

3. Adding Content Modules #

Once the structure is set, you will enter the Course Dashboard:

1. Click the Content tab.
2. Select Create Module to build a section (e.g., “Week 1: Introduction”).
3. Inside the module, add Lessons (Video, Text, or Assignments).

Note: You can save your course as a Draft at any time. It will not be visible to students until you click Publish.

Troubleshooting & FAQ #

• My students say the course is empty.
  Check if your Course Status is set to Draft. You must switch it to Published for enrolled students to see the content.
  
• Can I add a student to a Cohort after the start date?
  Yes. Go to the Students tab inside the course and manually invite them. They will gain access immediately.
  
• What is the difference between a Module and a Lesson?
  Think of a Module as a folder (e.g., “Chapter 1”) and a Lesson as the file inside it (e.g., “The Video”). You need at least one Module to hold your Lessons.

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Related: Cohort-based vs. Self-paced Courses