The Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative program is a partnership between the FAA and certain colleges designed to prepare students for a position with the FAA as an air traffic controller. Applicants must attend one of the FAA-approved schools and complete a two- or four-year non-engineering aviation degree program.
AT-CTI schools must teach students the subjects included in the FAA's Air Traffic Basics course as well as classes that provide a broad knowledge of the aviation industry and the skills needed to succeed during the FAA's training academy. Additionally some schools offer simulation training as part of the coursework.
As of February 2011, there are 36 FAA approved AT-CTI schools in the United States. The approved schools are Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, Tulsa Community College, Hampton University, The Community College of Baltimore County, Texas State Technical College - Waco, Sacramento City College, Mount San Antonio College, Hesston College, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Western Michigan University College of Aviation, Florida State College at Jacksonville, University of North Dakota, University of Oklahoma, University of Alaska - Anchorage, St. Cloud State University, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach, Purdue University, Middle Tennessee State University, Middle Georgia College, Miami Dade College, Metropolitan State College of Denver, Lewis University, LeTourneau University, Kent State University, Jacksonville University, InterAmerican University of Puerto Rico, Green River Community College, Florida Institute of Technology, Eastern New Mexico - Roswell, Dowling College, Daniel Webster College, Community College of Beaver County, Broward College, Arizona State University and Aims Community College.
Upon graduation from an AT-CTI program, the graduate is not guaranteed placement with the FAA. However, meeting certain requirements will improve the graduate's chance of gaining employment with the federal agency. Graduates should receive a school recommendation, attain a score of 70 or more on the AT-SAT test, apply to a CTI vacancy announcement, be a U.S. citizen, speak English clearly, not be over the age of 31, pass medical and security checks and complete an interview process.