The first page that loads in a course is its homepage. Modules is the default home page but you should create a course homepage using the Pages tool, then set that as the Front Page. On the right side of the home page, teachers also have buttons to change the course's published status, access course analytics, and take an announcement shortcut.
How do I set a Front Page in a course?
What layout options are available in the Course Home Page?
Save yourself some time and use the SJR State course template! You'll get a customizable homepage as well as a complete Course Orientation module ready for customizing!
Contact InstructionalSupport@sjrstate.edu or call x4077 to have a template-based sandbox course created for you!