Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to apply to Georgia Tech and be admitted as a student?

No, traditional college applications and entrance exams are not required. You will participate as a non-degree-seeking student of Georgia Tech Professional Education.

How long does it take to complete the Georgia Tech Certificate?

Most students finish within a year or two, but you may take up to six years to complete the requirements. The certificate is awarded after you have successfully completed the core course(s) and the required number of electives.

Do these courses count toward a Georgia Tech degree?

No, these courses do not count toward a degree from Georgia Tech. However, all students of Georgia Tech Professional Education earn continuing education units (CEUs) for successfully completing a course. CEUs may count toward a certificate from Georgia Tech Professional Education.

Who teaches short courses?

Georgia Tech Professional Education courses are taught by Georgia Tech Research Institute research scientists and engineers. These instructors are individuals who are actively leading, teaching, and conducting research in their specific domains for military units, federal agencies, and Fortune 500 global organizations.

How long are short courses?

Most short courses are taught across two or three contiguous days. However, some courses may be as long as five days.

Where are the courses taught?

Many of the short courses are available as public offerings and are taught in midtown Atlanta at the GT Global Learning Center. Courses can also be arranged as private offerings for a group of colleagues, where instructors will travel to your workplace or another training location near you to teach a private group.

Do courses have to be taken in a particular order?

While it is generally recommended that your first course in a Certificate Program is the core course, if a course does not have a required prerequisite, students may choose to complete the courses in any order that best suits their schedules, immediate learning goals, and prior experience.

What are the prerequisites?

Any prerequisites for a course are listed on the course description page, but most courses contain recommendations rather than prerequisites. For example, some courses recommend that attendees have prior programming experience. Students with no programming experience may still enroll, but they may have difficulty completing the lab assignments and may find some of the material outside of their comfort areas.

Can I take the courses online?

Yes, many of the courses may be delivered virtually via WebEx. These are instructor-led classes, and students are expected to actively participate and engage in online discussions.

Is there a test or final exam?

All certificate programs under the oversight of the Georgia Board of Regents require an assessment component. Each course includes an assessment, which is commonly either project-based or short multiple-choice quizzes that verify that you understand and can apply the key concepts.

 

FAQ for Private Offerings

How much do private courses cost?

The cost of a private course depends on various factors such as the course type, duration, number of students, and location. Typically, private offerings range from $25,000 to $50,000.

How can I request an estimate?

To request an estimate, you can directly contact the course contact person listed on the GTPE website or reach out to the GTRI Professional Education Office.

How much advance notice is required to schedule a course?

Please allow a minimum of 60 days in advance to schedule your course.

How do payments for the course work?

All course payments are managed by Georgia Tech Professional Education. Once your course is invoiced, you can make a payment through our online portals using SponsorPoint or Marketplace.

What should I expect from the course?

The course will provide you with comprehensive instruction and valuable knowledge in your chosen field. You can expect engaging lectures, practical exercises, and opportunities for hands-on learning.

Where are the classes held?

GTRI has field offices located throughout the country. Many of our field offices have dedicated classroom spaces where classes can be conducted. We are happy to host your class in a field office near your location.

Whom can I contact if I still have questions?

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our team at gtri-pe@gtri.gatech.edu. We will be glad to assist you.