Course Retention Policy
Objective
Information Technology Services (ITS) adheres to the approved course retention policy with the following objectives:
- Define how long course materials contained within the Moodle Learning Management System will be retained.
- Describe best practices on how to back up and import Moodle course materials.
- Optimize performance of Moodle.
Overview
Why
Many faculty find it valuable to refer back to prior iterations of course materials in Moodle. At the same time, Moodle is not designed for unlimited course storage, and carrying materials over indefinitely can diminish the performance of the application and divert resources better used on current support and enhancements.
Who
All Brandeis University faculty/instructors who deliver courses in Moodle.
When
The Course Retention Policy originally went into effect on January 1, 2019. An updated policy went into effect on February 19, 2026.
Policy Highlights
The retention policy is twelve academic terms (four calendar years). Courses older than twelve terms are archived, after which they are recoverable for one additional year.
Resources
Support
For technical support with Moodle, contact the Technology Help Desk by emailing help@brandeis.edu or calling 781-736-4357.