GT Atrium harnesses the power and possibilities of quality education, seeking to leverage best practices in emerging technology to provide knowledge to people far and wide.

Proposed GT Atrium, Smith Tower, Seattle.

The Georgia Tech Atrium, developed and overseen by the Center for 21st Century Universities (C21U), the research arm of the College of Lifetime Learning, is a cornerstone for institutional development as delineated in the Institute’s Strategic Plan for 2020-2030.

The GT Atrium is based on a multi-year analysis of the factors influencing higher education and how a modern university should adapt. These and additional findings from other studies conducted since the project’s inception have shaped the vision of a space designed to extend the Georgia Tech experience beyond traditional physical or digital classrooms, catering to learners at all stages of life.

Each Atrium location will be designed to reflect the surrounding culture and community, creating a vibrant environment for exploring new opportunities. GT Atrium promotes partnerships with local and international communities, strengthening collaborative relationships with individuals, government entities, neighborhoods, and school systems.

While GT Atrium is best considered a platform for innovation, six core areas currently comprise it. These are:

Co-Learning Spaces: Dedicated spaces to bring together Georgia Tech online learners with the broader Institute network and expand the services we offer them. 

Advising: Customized services designed to guide our stakeholders in the need for upskilling and reskilling as they navigate their evolving professional futures.

Networking: Facilitate the online connection of our students, alumni, and professional education students with the broader professional network of the Georgia Tech family.

Lifetime Learning: Targeted programs designed to enhance workforce development and positively impact local economies.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs: International and some domestic GT Atriums will feature a program run by the Georgia Tech Language Institute, designed to enhance the communication skills of our non-native English speakers.

Georgia Tech Connection: A dedicated space for the Institute’s faculty, staff, and students to participate in events featuring Tech speakers and engage with alumni, local business leaders, and other key stakeholders.