What Is It Known For?
University of Advancing Technology started as the CAD Institute back in 1983 when Dr. Dominic Pistillo and his wife Ann founded the school in Tempe, Arizona. The institution began with just ten students in a small classroom, focusing on computer-aided design and engineering training. Over the decades, the school evolved into an intimate technology university that prepares students in advancing technology fields for future innovation.
The Tempe campus now serves between 800 to 1,000 students each academic year. The university holds the distinction of being among a select group of 100 percent STEM-based institutions nationwide. Students can pursue programs across six main areas: business & innovation, creation & simulation, cyber security, digital arts, game studies, and software engineering.
Degrees & Certifications
The university offers various degree programs including:
- Business Technology
- Digital Maker & Fabrication
- Cyber Security (MS)
- Digital Marketing
- Game Design
- Artificial Intelligence
- Software Engineering (MS)
- And Many More!
Class Schedules
Students can attend classes both online and on campus, with the school utilizing specialized tools and practices for online learning success. Most majors are available through online delivery unless otherwise specified. Evening classes accommodate working professionals who need flexible scheduling options. The programs do not include externship requirements as part of their curriculum structure.
Is It a Good School?
Yes, the University of Advancing Technology is a legitimate institution. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Acceptance Rate
The school operates with an acceptance rate estimated between 91-95 percent. This relatively open admission approach means most students who meet minimum enrollment requirements can gain acceptance.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition rates at the University of Advancing Technology vary based on program format and level:
- Undergraduate On-Campus Tuition: $13,200
- Graduate (Master’s) Tuition: $9,500
- UAT-Online/Hybrid Tuition: $9,500 per 12-credit semester
Students planning to switch from online to on-campus study should be aware that tuition rates will adjust to the current published rates at the time of transfer. However, the school’s net price calculator should help prospective students estimate their actual costs and identify available financial aid options.
Programs & Courses
Technology
- Cyber Security
- Networking
- Digital Marketing
- Video Game Design
- Game Programming
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Software Engineering
- Network Engineering
- Network Security
Campus Locations
Tempe 2625 W Baseline Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, the University of Advancing Technology (UAT) presents a sharply divided experience. It is highly praised for its dedicated community, passionate faculty, and specialized focus on “nerd culture” and STEM. However, it faces intense, recurring criticism regarding its extremely high cost, poor administrative communication, and a perceived lack of value delivered in terms of real-world career preparation and transferable credits.
Overall Score: 3.9/5 Stars
Common Praises
Strong Community and Culture: The school is frequently described as a “haven and community for students” interested in STEM. Reviewers love that it caters to the “nerd culture” and provides a supportive atmosphere where people are “always willing to lend a hand.”
Passionate and Knowledgeable Faculty: Many students praise the “incredibly dedicated” and “knowledgeable” professors who are passionate about their fields (like Game Art and Robotics) and genuinely want students to succeed.
Specialized Focus and Facilities: Students appreciate the university’s focus on STEM careers and technology, with some praising the facilities, including “one of the coolest computer rooms” and specialized programs like Game Programming.
Flexible Learning Options: The “sync flex” model and the ability to tailor individual experiences are noted as positive features.
Common Criticisms
Extremely High Cost and Poor Value: This is the most damaging and recurring complaint. Multiple students warn that the school is a “scam” and “not worth the investment,” stating they “Payed almost $26000 for 1 semester” and got “basically nothing out of it.” Reviewers often compare the cost to MIT prices while questioning the quality and value.
Poor Job Placement and Career Preparation: Graduates report being unemployed or “work[ing] at a grocery store 2 years later” despite earning a degree. Concerns are raised that the curriculum “doesn’t even teach industry standard information.”
Lack of Transferable Credits: A significant financial complaint is that after paying high tuition, students found that “only 2 classes out of 6 were transferrable” when moving to another school.
Administrative and Housing Issues: Students describe “overpriced mold infested dorms” and poor communication from Student Services, calling them “mostly a joke.” There are also claims that the school revoked alumni benefits after negative reviews.
Not for Beginners: One student noted a major teaching flaw: classes “aren’t for pure beginners.” Professors teach “based on the assumption that you already have an idea of what you’re doing,” making it difficult for novices to learn the basics.
Momentum
The momentum for the University of Advancing Technology is highly conflicted and financially risky. The institution successfully fosters a unique and supportive niche community, which drives positive reviews. However, the consistent, severe, and recent financial and career-related complaints suggest a structural issue where the high tuition does not translate into proportional career outcomes or educational quality for many. The recurring pattern of students calling the school a “scam” due to poor value and non-transferable credits is a major red flag that has not been resolved over the years.