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Specifying Prerequisite Courses

Overview

Prerequisite courses require learners to pass one specific course before they can access advanced course content. This enforces a sequential learning path on your Open edX platform.

When a prerequisite is assigned, the platform enforces data restrictions seamlessly. Unauthorized learners can still sign up for the advanced track, but the learning environment locks down its unit pages until a passing configuration event is recorded from the required course.

Tip: Ensure you are logged into Open edX Studio before proceeding.

Staff and administrator accounts bypass prerequisite restrictions and can access advanced course content regardless of completion status.

Step-by-Step Configuration

Procedures:

  1. Open your advanced course run in Studio.
  2. From the Settings menu in the top navigation bar, select Schedule & Details. (If you do not see this option, ensure your Open edX instance is up to date.)
  3. Scroll down the settings page to find the Requirements configuration block.
  4. Under the Prerequisite Course field, click the dropdown menu to display all available active course runs on your platform instance.
  5. Select the specific course that must be completed first.
  6. Click Save Changes at the bottom of the page.

Note: The system supports assigning one prerequisite course run per advanced course. To change or remove a prerequisite, return to Schedule & Details and select a different course or clear the field, then click Save Changes.

Learner Perspective and Experience in the LMS

The system dynamically adapts visibility to guide users through the specified learning progression:

  • Course Introduction (About Page): The public-facing registration screen clearly lists the prerequisite rule so that prospects understand expectations before hitting the enrollment toggle.
  • The Learner Dashboard: If a learner who has not completed the prerequisite enrolls in the advanced course, the course card appears on their dashboard. However, the link to enter the course is disabled.
  • Redirection Flows: Instead of opening the advanced units, the card presents a banner link pointing directly back to the introduction screen of the mandatory prerequisite course run, prompting them to clear that track first.