University of Advancing Technology: A Deep Dive into Tech-Forward Education

Introduction

Located in Tempe, Arizona, the University of Advancing Technology (UAT) stands out as a unique institution dedicated to providing students passionate about technology with an ideal environment for growth and innovation. With a 100% STEM-based curriculum and a focus on emerging technologies, UAT has positioned itself as a leader in higher education, reimagining the future of learning and tech-entrepreneurship.

A History of Innovation

UAT's history is rooted in innovation, beginning in 1983 as the CAD Institute, which trained students in computer-aided design and engineering. As demand for education in emerging technologies grew, the institute evolved into an accredited university, now known as the University of Advancing Technology (UAT).

Academic Programs and Degrees

UAT delivers collegiate education and real-world training in various technology areas. Empowering innovators and game-changers, University of Advancing Technology (UAT) offers a comprehensive range of 23 undergraduate and graduate technology majors, designed to fuel students' passions and drive innovation. UAT academic programs result in associate, bachelor's, or master's degrees.

Students can achieve these degrees in the Arts for Advertising Art, Digital Video, Game Art and Animation, and Game Design. Or, in the Sciences for Advancing Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Business Technology, Data Science, Digital Maker and Fabrication, Digital Marketing, Game Programming, Human Computer Interaction, Network Engineering, Network Security, Robotics and Embedded Systems, Technology Forensics, Technology Studies, and Virtual Reality.

UAT offers a tailored graduate technology education, providing working professionals with advanced knowledge and credentials in fields like Cyber Security, Game Production, Technology Leadership, Technology Innovation, and Software Engineering. With focus on innovation and collaboration, UAT's Master of Science degrees offer an intellectual atmosphere for students to thrive and extend knowledge.

Synchronic Learning Model and UAT-Online

UAT's Synchronic Learning model combines the benefits of online and on-campus education, allowing students to attend classes remotely in real-time. UAT-Online offers the same rigorous academic content as on-campus programs, with the added convenience of flexibility.

Campus Environment and Facilities

At the heart of UAT's curricula is our technology-infused, urban campus, located in Tempe, Arizona. While attending and living on our private campus, students are surrounded in a true living-learning technology environment that incubates their ideas into innovations that students can patent and take to market, with 24/7 access to campus technology labs for all students, no matter their major. Central facilities like the UAT Large Commons are outfitted with an abundance of computer workstations and extensive technology infrastructure. All classrooms are outfitted to be able to stream live, record, and deliver UAT's innovative curriculum and education to students.

UAT's private on-campus student housing, Founder's Hall, offers full wireless coverage as well as innovation spaces such as Think Tanks, soundproof rooms equipped with whiteboards, monitors, and workspace to help students collaboratively or individually plan out their next big innovations. UAT offers a variety of state-of-the-art technology labs where students can access 24/7, regardless of their major. The Maker Lab is filled with the latest 3D printers, maker bots, CNC cutters, software, and knowledge guidance that students need to bring innovative ideas to life. The Engineering Lab is designed for tinkering with IoT devices and building robotics and embedded systems. The New Technologies (NT) Lab provides an innovation sandbox where students can explore and shape new ideas in Game Development or Virtual Reality and collaborate in a shared learning environment.

National Recognition and Security Operations Center

University of Advancing Technology (UAT) is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and has its own onsite Security Operations Center (SOC). Students can work alongside faculty, mentors, and industry groups to learn how to manage SOCs for virtually any organization.

Location Advantages in Tempe, Arizona

Overall, the University of Advancing Technology's location in Tempe, Arizona, provides students with a wide range of off-campus opportunities for growth, networking, and exploration. Tempe, Arizona, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor recreation, making it an attractive location for students. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including South Mountain Park and Tempe Town Lake, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and paddleboarding. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Tempe's climate is characterized by hot summers and mild winters.

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Tempe offers a vibrant cultural scene, with shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The Research & Recreation Center, The Bindery, The Portal, UAT Community Theater, the Competition Cave (the arena for Esports, Cyber, and Robotics competitive teams), the Quad, and more. Arizona is a playground for tech-savvy college students looking for adventure, innovation, and inspiration. Just a few hours away, the Grand Canyon isn’t just a scenic wonder-it’s an epic spot for drone photography, hiking with AR trail maps, or capturing the ultimate panoramic shot. Back in the city, tech lovers can explore the Arizona Science Center, packed with hands-on exhibits in AI, robotics, and space science, or dive into cutting-edge sound engineering at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM). Need a challenge? Test your skills at an escape room in Inferno Escape Room or go full VR at Velocity VR in Scottsdale. If esports, hacking, or robotics are your thing, you can network at Game On Expo or check out innovation labs at HeatSync Labs, a local makerspace with 3D printers, laser cutters, and circuit-building workshops. Whether you're into gaming, coding, or exploring the latest in tech, Phoenix has the perfect mix of adventure and innovation.

UAT is accessible from Sky Harbor International Airport (approx. 7 miles from UAT)and local hotels via public transportation, ride share, taxis, shuttle buses and other forms of transport.

Admission and Enrollment

UAT utilizes a rolling acceptance process that determines eligibility and accepts students year-round. This means you will receive a decision within a few weeks of submitting your application to our Office of Admissions. Applicants are also evaluated for aptitude, passion for technology, the desire to lead, self-expression, support of family/peers, and tech savviness.

Tuition and Fees

The Resource Fee for all students is $450 per semester. This includes all textbooks and electronic textbooks for your courses. Our campus also offers commuter and resident on-campus café and meal plans ranging from $350-$2,700 per semester. There is a one-time $100 transfer credit fee for transfer students.

University of Advancing Technology offers on-campus student housing at Founder's Hall ranging in cost from $9,804 to $12,120 for the year, with payment and discounted rate options. Unlike typical student housing agreements, UAT students sign a 12-month lease and are welcome to stay in their room in Founder's Hall over University breaks and all three (3) academic terms. The Residence Life housing deposit is $550 (with a guarantor) or $750 (without a guarantor).

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Financial Aid and Accessibility

Our University is dedicated to making technology education accessible and affordable, and ensuring all qualified students can attend with the help of financial aid, scholarships and grants. Our Financial Aid office is committed to providing personalized support to students and their families, offering a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. To learn more about the types of financial aid and scholarships available and their requirements, please visit uat.edu/tuition.

Key Statistics and Rankings

University of Advancing Technology is a for-profit institution. In the 2026 edition of Best Colleges, University of Advancing Technology is ranked No. #22 in Regional Colleges West. It's also ranked No. #12 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. The student-faculty ratio at University of Advancing Technology is 14:1. The school's tuition and fees are $19,365. The average net price for federal loan recipients is $19,784. The four-year graduation rate is 31%. Six years after graduation, the median salary for graduates is $39,016.

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