With countless technology schools to choose from, finding the right one can be daunting. However, the Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) stands out among its peers. Located in Virginia Beach, VA, ATI offers a distinct blend of vocational programs to kickstart your technical career.
When you enroll at the Advanced Technology Institute (ATI), you’re not just picking a school; you’re selecting a future.
What is Advanced Technology Institute Known For?
Advanced Technology Institute is a private for-profit institution known for delivering top-tier vocational education. With a focus on in-demand technical fields, students at ATI can earn degrees and certificates in four main areas. The highest level of education offered at Advanced Technology Institute is an associate degree.
Popular programs at ATI include:
- Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician
- Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician
- Medium/Heavy Vehicle and Truck Technology/Technician
With expertise in fields such as automotive technology, welding, and HVAC/refrigeration, ATI has built a reputation as a prime institution for students ready to excel in their technical careers.
Is Advanced Technology Institute Legitimate?
Yes, the Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) is a legitimate institution duly recognized by several accrediting bodies. ATI is:
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
- Licensed by the Department of Motor Vehicles of the Commonwealth of Virginia
- Approved for the training of veterans and active duty military personnel
- An eligible institution to train students under the sponsorship of the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation
- Home to the Automotive Technology program that is Master Certified by the National Automotive Training Education Foundation
- An ESCO Institute Testing Site
- A NATE Testing Site
- An EPA Testing Site
ATI’s commitment to academic excellence and adherence to rigorous education standards is reflected in its affiliations with these respected accrediting institutions, ensuring that students receive a top-notch technical education.
How Much Does Advanced Technology Institute Cost?
Pursuing your dream career at the Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) is accessible and affordable. For the 2020-2021 academic year, tuition and fees amounted to $13,200, while a $50 application fee and a reasonable $480 cover books and supplies.
Impressively, 53% of ATI undergraduates receive financial support through grants or scholarships, with average awards tallying up to $4,820. To get a better picture of what you need to pay for your specific course, contact ATI for more information.
Programs & Courses
Automotive & Transportation
- CDL
- Diesel Technology
- Automotive Technology
HVAC & Building Services
- Electrical
- HVAC/Refrigeration
- Welding
Campus Locations
Virginia Beach, VA 5700 Southern Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Norfolk, VA 994 Scott St., Norfolk, VA 23502
Financial Aid Services
Those who fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can qualify for various forms of financial assistance. ATI provides access to the Parent Plus Loan for eligible parents. Entrance and exit counseling helps students understand what is expected of them in terms of payments.
Student Services
For people who are not from the Virginia Beach area, Advanced Technology Institute offers housing options. There are several services available through the internet as well. Those who are doing research can use the digital library at any time. Students get an ATI email address to keep up with grades and scheduling. Attendees can also pay bills through a simple online process.
Veteran and Military Services
Advanced Technology Institute has robust benefits for veterans and their families. It is a Yellow Ribbon school, and has received awards for being a top military-friendly institution. The programs available generally provide tuition assistance by way of grants, loans, and scholarships. ATI has the resources to help students decide what works best for them.
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) is a highly polarizing for-profit trade school that offers Associate degrees and certificates in high-demand fields like Automotive, Diesel, and Welding. While some students find the training to be a solid investment leading to successful careers, a significant volume of complaints center on extremely high cost, poor administrative support, outdated equipment, and serious allegations of discrimination and harassment.
Overall Score: 3.2/5 Stars
Common Praises
Career Success and Support (For Some): Many graduates of the Automotive and newer Industrial Maintenance programs describe the education as a “solid investment” that provided a strong foundation and led to immediate career growth.
Dedicated Instructors (Select Programs): Some instructors, particularly in the Automotive and CDL programs, are praised for being “awesome,” “very knowledgeable,” and genuinely supportive, helping students who previously struggled at other institutions.
Military/VA Benefits Focus: As a school in a high-military area, it is noted for accepting VA benefits, though a complaint points to administrative issues with this process.
Positive Facilities/Cleanliness: Some students report being impressed with the initial professional courtesy and the overall atmosphere.
Common Criticisms
High Cost and Financial Pressure: The most common theme is the feeling of being overcharged. The average net price after aid is approximately $19,127 per year, with total estimated two-year costs around $27,840 (not including all living expenses). Many students feel the high price does not align with the educational value, and reviewers strongly recommend checking less expensive alternatives like Tidewater Tech or joining a union.
Outdated and Non-Functional Equipment: Numerous complaints state that the tools, lifts, and trucks used for hands-on training are “extremely out of date,” “dusty,” or “broken.” Specifically, CDL students reported trucks breaking down on the road, and automotive students claimed they never got to pull or replace engines.
Sexual Harassment and Discrimination Allegations: There are highly serious, visible complaints alleging sexual harassment by staff and racial profiling in student housing. Furthermore, reviewers note that when these issues were brought to administration, the response was reportedly dismissive, asking if the student had “initiate[d] what was said.” The school states they take such issues seriously and will investigate.
Lack of Hands-on Training: Despite being a trade school, many students complain that the program is heavily weighted toward sitting in a classroom and taking notes with very little actual “hands on” shop time.
Lack of Job Placement for Felons: Multiple reviewers state that the school, specifically for its CDL program, denies enrollment to felons based on the belief they cannot find them a job, even if the student does not require placement assistance.
Momentum
The momentum for Advanced Technology Institute is mixed but faces serious administrative and retention challenges. While the school reports a relatively high retention rate (83%) and a high graduation rate (up to 73%), the consistent, serious complaints regarding high cost, equipment failure, and alleged misconduct are substantial red flags that threaten student satisfaction and long-term reputation.