Atatürk University is committed to lifelong learning and the democratization of knowledge, providing a wide range of free and/or low-cost educational resources accessible to individuals who are not formally enrolled at the university. Through its ATADemix digital learning platform, ATASEM Continuing Education Center, extensive library and reading room facilities, and open educational materials, the university enables the broader community—residents of Erzurum, alumni, professionals, and lifelong learners—to benefit from its educational infrastructure.
1) ATADemix – Free Online Courses and Certificates
The ATADemix platform offers free, open-access courses and certificate programs to everyone, regardless of affiliation. Examples include:
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Her Yönüyle Moodle LMS Training (Free)
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NVivo for Qualitative Data Analysis (Free)
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Basic PHP Training (Free)
Each course includes lectures, exercises, projects, and assessments. Successful participants receive digital certificates, supporting professional and personal development. ATADemix also hosts paid programs, but its free modules and certification options highlight the university’s effort to extend learning opportunities to the wider public.
2) ATASEM – Lifelong Learning and Certification Programs
The ATASEM Continuing Education Application and Research Center delivers training programs open to the public, both online and on campus. Its portfolio includes:
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Professional certifications (e.g., Public Procurement Legislation, UAV-1 Pilot Training).
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Health and social programs (e.g., Laboratory Safety, Foreign Language Teaching Certificates).
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Cultural and personal development programs (e.g., art workshops, language courses).
While many ATASEM programs are fee-based, certain public-interest workshops and community-focused trainings are free of charge. Together, they offer inclusive educational pathways to enhance employability and lifelong skills.
3) Libraries and Reading Rooms – Extended Access for All
Atatürk University’s Central Library and affiliated reading halls provide extended opening hours and access for external users.
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Central Library: weekdays 09:00–21:00, weekends 09:00–17:00.
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Extended Reading Rooms (e.g., Prof. Dr. Fuat Sezgin Hall): weekdays & weekends 09:00–23:00, sometimes 24-hour access during exam periods.
In addition, the library hosts the Institutional Open Access Repository and Erzurum Digital Archive, where academic publications, theses, and cultural collections are made freely available online.
4) Open Educational Materials and Digital Access
The university shares Open Courseware and educational videos via its Teaching & Learning Development Center and ATAUZEM Distance Education Center. Lectures, seminars, and technical trainings are often uploaded to the official YouTube channel, providing free access to educational content for the general public.
5) Community-Oriented Events and Workshops
Public lectures, cultural seminars, and workshops are frequently organized by faculties and research centers, with recordings and teaching materials made available online. These events are advertised on the Atatürk University website and shared on social media, ensuring that external learners can participate.
