At $18,497/yr net price, Advanced Technology Institute graduates earn $46,342/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $12,342/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,497 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $73,988 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $46,342/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$12,342/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 73.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,873 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $15,870/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $15,119/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,814/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $23,435/yr |
| $110,001+ | $24,004/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $37,306 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Associate | $32,925 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $31,236 | $12,000 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $30,554 | $12,000 |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Certificate | $29,250 | $15,806 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $28,236 |
The Risk Factor
73.0% of students at Advanced Technology Institute graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 27% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Advanced Technology Institute delivers solid financial returns for a technical school, with graduates earning $46,342 annually within ten years of starting their programs. The school's 73% graduation rate suggests most students complete their training, though you'll face significant debt relative to typical two-year programs.
Your program choice matters enormously at ATI. Vehicle maintenance programs lead earnings potential, with some graduates reaching $37,306 annually. HVAC programs offer more mixed results, with earnings ranging from $29,250 to $32,925 depending on your specific track. Precision metal working graduates earn around $30,554, making it a middle-tier option financially.
The debt picture varies dramatically by program. Some vehicle maintenance tracks require only $12,000 in loans, while HVAC programs can push debt to $15,806. This creates a clear financial hierarchy where automotive programs offer better debt-to-income ratios than HVAC specializations.
You face two key financial risks at ATI. First, the 27% of students who don't graduate often carry debt without credentials. Second, technical skills can become outdated quickly, potentially limiting long-term earning growth compared to broader educational foundations.
ATI works best financially if you're certain about working in skilled trades and can complete your program efficiently. The school makes less sense if you're exploring career options or might transfer to a four-year program later. With only 35% of students receiving aid, you'll likely pay most costs out of pocket or through loans.
Focus on automotive programs for the strongest ROI, avoid extended completion timelines, and ensure you have reliable transportation to Virginia Beach's job market where these skills command decent wages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Advanced Technology Institute worth the cost?
Advanced Technology Institute graduates earn $46,342 ten years after graduation with median debt of $14,873, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio. The 73% graduation rate is solid for a technical school, though earnings vary significantly by program.
Which programs at Advanced Technology Institute have the best ROI?
Vehicle maintenance programs lead with $37,306 average earnings, while HVAC programs range from $29,250 to $32,925. Precision metal working graduates earn around $30,554, making these trades the strongest financial options at ATI.
How much debt do Advanced Technology Institute students typically graduate with?
ATI graduates have median debt of $14,873, which is relatively low for career training. With a net price of $18,497 per year, students can expect reasonable debt loads if they complete their programs.
Are Advanced Technology Institute graduates able to find good-paying jobs?
ATI graduates earn $46,342 on average ten years out, but this varies widely by field. Vehicle maintenance graduates can expect higher earnings around $37,000, while some HVAC graduates may start closer to $29,000.