(Denver, March 26, 2026) – Global integrated design firm DLR Group announces Evolution of Campus 6.0, the next chapter in its ongoing research initiative dedicated to informing the future of higher education. Building on a legacy of listening and partnership, this phase explores how artificial intelligence is transforming the relationship between academic curricula, learning environments, and workforce readiness to better prepare future graduates for the demands of AI-enabled workplaces.

Across all phases, Evolution of Campus research participants span 240 institutions and represent over 6.5 million students nationwide. From pandemic impacts to student wellbeing to integrating AI in campus operations, each EOC phase has addressed a critical issue facing colleges and universities. EOC 6.0 furthers the initiative’s previous AI focus in EOC 5.0, shifting the lens from operational effects of AI to its influence on students, educators, and the future workforce.

Designing For Career Readiness in the Age Of AI

Evolution of Campus 6.0 examines how physical campus environments contribute to AI fluency, aiming to inform the design of more inclusive, effective, and future-ready learning ecosystems. The study investigates a range of institution types and approaches to formal education, informal learning, and self-directed exploration – and considers the role of physical learning environments in this process. It also explores the alignment, or misalignment, between higher education and workforce demands by mapping the transitions graduates go through as they launch into an AI-enabled workforce.

Research Process

The firm works alongside institutional leaders to identify challenges, opportunities, and emerging trends, with the goal of developing actionable design recommendations. Using a range of methods, the EOC 6.0 research process is collaborative. An interdisciplinary team of designers, researchers, and experts in stakeholder engagement worked with external partners and peer institutions for in-depth insight on the topic. The team conducted literature reviews, advisory panels, and in-depth interviews with students, recent graduates, employers, educators, and administrators. These conversations captured a wide range of perspectives on how AI is being integrated into teaching, learning, and campus life.

Transforming Insight into Design Action

DLR Group will share research insights, case studies, and design recommendations through small group roundtables and additional content on a dedicated firm website landing page. The firm invites higher education leaders, faculty, and industry partners to engage with the research and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the future of learning in the age of AI.

For a personalized conversation surrounding DLR Group’s EOC 6.0 research findings, please contact DLR Group Principal and Higher Education Leader Jackie Eckhardt, AIA, Assoc. DBIA.