As technology rapidly transforms industries, higher education institutions are adapting to meet the needs of modern learners.

Georgia Institute of Technology is leading this shift with the establishment of its College of Lifetime Learning, which will focus on advancing research and developing programs aimed at helping students—particularly nontraditional learners—succeed in an evolving job market.

The initiative was born out of the growing demand for continuous skill updates, especially as technological advancements push workers to keep up with new developments. Studies show that nearly 37% of skills required for specific jobs change within five years. To address this, Georgia Tech aims to offer tailored programs that support learners throughout their careers, with a goal of enrolling 114,000 non-degree students in its College of Lifetime Learning by 2030.

Nelson Baker, the interim dean, emphasized that the college will focus on the methods of acquiring new career skills. Researchers and faculty members will explore how people learn and identify ways to make lifelong education accessible for all, while partnering with business, technology, and education leaders to craft innovative solutions.

With a growing number of adults returning to education, Georgia Tech's new college will fill a vital gap in the U.S. higher education system. The university plans to leverage its strengths in online education and professional programs to build new learning models for students of all ages.