You cannot change the course picture yourself — only instructors can

Canvas does not give students permission to upload or change the course picture. That image — the one that appears next to your course name in your dashboard and at the top of the course page — is controlled by your instructor only. If you want a different picture, you need to ask your instructor to change it.

This restriction exists because the course picture is part of the course branding and identity. Your instructor sets it up when they create the course, and they keep control over it to maintain consistency across all sections or semesters of the same course.

Key Takeaways

  • Only your instructor has the ability to upload or change the course picture in Canvas.
  • You can view the course picture settings by going to Settings in your course, but you will not see an upload option.
  • To request a picture change, contact your instructor directly through Canvas Inbox or email.
  • Your instructor can upload a new image by going to Settings, selecting the course picture area, and choosing a file from their computer.

Where the course picture appears in Canvas

The course picture shows up in two main places. First, it appears as a small thumbnail next to your course name on your Canvas dashboard — the page you see when you log in. Second, it displays as a larger banner at the top of the course page itself, above the course name and navigation menu.

Some instructors use the course picture to reinforce the subject matter — a biology course might show a microscope or plant, for example. Others use it as a straightforward colored background or their institution's logo. The picture helps you identify the course at a glance, especially if you are enrolled in multiple sections of the same subject.

How to ask your instructor to change the course picture

The most direct way is to send a message through Canvas Inbox. Click the Inbox icon (usually a speech bubble or envelope) in the left navigation menu, then select "Compose a New Message." Choose your instructor's name from the list, and explain that you would like the course picture changed. You can suggest a specific image or just ask if they would be willing to update it.

Keep your message brief and polite. Instructors are more likely to consider the request if you explain why the change would be helpful — for instance, if the current image is unclear or if a different image would better represent the course content. You can also ask during office hours or after class if you prefer to discuss it in person.

If your instructor agrees, they will handle the upload themselves. You do not need to send them a file unless they ask for one. Most instructors have access to free image libraries or can use images from their institution's resources.

What your instructor sees when they change the course picture

Your instructor navigates to Settings in the course menu, then looks for the course picture section. They click on the current image or an upload area, select a file from their computer, and save the change. Canvas accepts common image formats like JPG, PNG, and GIF. The new picture typically appears across the course within a few minutes, though sometimes a page refresh is needed to see the update.

Instructors can also remove the course picture entirely if they prefer a plain background. Some institutions have guidelines about what images are appropriate for course pictures, so your instructor may need to follow those rules when selecting a new one.

Why you might want the course picture changed

Students sometimes request a picture change if the current image is blurry, outdated, or misleading about the course content. If your course is about modern web design but the picture shows a typewriter, that mismatch can be confusing. Or if the image is so small or dark that you cannot see it clearly on your phone, a clearer alternative would help.

In some cases, a group of students in the same course might want to suggest a change together. If you coordinate with classmates and send a joint request to your instructor, they may be more inclined to listen. Just make sure the request comes across as a helpful suggestion, not a demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upload a picture to my own student profile instead?

Yes. Your student profile picture is separate from the course picture and is entirely under your control. You can upload a profile photo by clicking your name or avatar in the top right corner of Canvas, selecting Account, then Profile. This picture appears next to your name when you post in discussions or submit assignments, but it does not affect the course picture.

What if my instructor will not change the course picture?

Your instructor has the final say on course design choices, including the picture. If they decline your request, there is no way to override that decision as a student. You can still use Canvas normally — the picture is visual only and does not affect your ability to access course materials or submit work.

Does the course picture change if I switch to a different section of the same course?

It depends on how your instructor set up the course. If both sections share the same course shell, they will have the same picture. If each section is a separate course, each instructor can set their own picture. Check the course code or ask your instructor if you are unsure whether you are in a shared or separate course.

Can I see the course picture on the Canvas mobile app?

Yes, the course picture appears on the mobile app in the same places it does on the web version — next to the course name on your dashboard and at the top of the course page. The image may appear smaller on a phone screen, but it is still visible.