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
Below is a summary of what Google reviewers had to say.
Positive Student Experiences
Supportive Environment for Automotive Students
Jerrica Buckley shared her journey as a Navy wife and mother who enrolled in ATI’s automotive program. She praised the supportive instructors who motivated her through night classes and helped her land her first dealership job with no prior experience.
Improvements and Feedback Integration
Sabrina Scanlan noted initial challenges but appreciated that the staff listened to feedback and made improvements during her time in the program.
Professional and Courteous Admissions Process
Clv Mel described a professional first impression, especially highlighting the thorough guidance provided by senior advisor Keith Jackson.
Skilled CDL Instructors
Olmedo Gonzalez praised the CDL program instructors for offering real-world techniques and praised the quick and professional enrollment experience.
Career Preparation and Instruction
Charles Lawrence, a veteran, credited ATI with refining his welding skills and preparing him for a successful career. Allen Boyce echoed the hands-on training approach and recommended ATI to career seekers.
Mixed or Cautionary Reviews
Mixed Feedback on Staff and Equipment
Jonathan Jordan shared a more balanced view, noting that ATI was accountable and instructors were helpful, but left room to update his review based on future experiences.
Concerns About Instruction and Housing
ZxFallenAngelxZ and Arianna Chadil both raised concerns about inadequate instruction, equipment issues, and problems in student housing, particularly in the welding program.
Tuition Value and Teaching Quality
Erock A and K Deez criticized the high cost relative to the education received, stating that some programs function more as job referrals than true educational training.
Negative Student Experiences
Accusations of Discrimination and Mismanagement
Tyreese Duckworth reported being racially profiled in student housing and receiving inadequate support from administration. Omega Bobbitt and Matthew Hagedorn noted poor communication, unhelpful staff, and administrative failures.
Poor Facility Conditions and Broken Equipment
Brian Dvorak, a CDL student, highlighted repeated truck breakdowns and lack of working simulators. Lisa Orego shared that her son experienced little learning due to lack of communication and poor facilities.
False Promises and Hidden Costs
Alex Clark criticized ATI for misleading advertising about their performance program and failing to deliver on educational promises. Zion Eskridge noted that most learning was note-taking with limited hands-on practice.
Credential Barriers for Felons
Multiple reviewers, including Albreto Wilson and Mitchell Dunlow, expressed frustration with ATI’s policies against admitting students with prior felony records, even when willing to pay in full or already employed.
Alumni Reflections and External Observations
Career Success Despite Challenges
Elmer Javier (Class of 2002–2003) spoke positively about learning opportunities and his lasting career success, while acknowledging outdated equipment and occasional poor instruction.
Industry-Endorsed Tour Experience
Repair shop owner Bryan Jewett praised the professionalism and passion of the ATI team after attending a campus tour.
Parent Perspectives
Edward Hicks and Bob Bowman shared contrasting views: one looking forward to his son’s enrollment and another criticizing the welding program and switching his son to Tidewater Tech.