Course Syllabus

CTDL1010 Fundamentals of Commercial Driving

Course Description

Fundamentals of Commercial Driving introduces students to the transportation industry, federal and state regulations, records and forms, industrial relations, and other non-driving activities. This course provides an emphasis on safety that will continue throughout the program.

Credit Hours

3

Prerequisites

None

Terms Offered

Every Semester

Outcomes

Advanced Operating Procedures
Estimate how to recognize potential hazards in the driving environment and techniques to neutralize possible emergency situations
Understand the characteristics of other road users (drivers or pedestrians) that make them potentially dangerous, including obstructed vision, distractions, confusion, impatience, impairment and low speed
Understand the importance of planning ahead
Describe how to respond appropriately to emergency vehicles
Trace that proper driving skills, hazard perception and preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid emergencies
Trace the principles of evasive steering and off-road recovery
Explain the principles of emergency braking, including the importance of maintaining directional control while stopping a CMV
Explain the characteristics of a trailer jackknife, front wheel skid, and all wheel skid and the recovery methods for each
Estimate the procedures for handling brake failure
Describe procedures for extinguishing cargo, engine, electrical and tire fires
Understand the various Federal and State regulations related to railroad grade crossings and their environments, including FMCSRs §392.10 (Stop required); §392.11 (Slowing required); and §392.12 (Safe Clearance)
Explain the various Federal and State regulations related to railroad grade crossings and their environments, including FMCSRs §392.10 (Stop required); §392.11 (Slowing required); and §392.12 (Safe Clearance)
Explain the procedures for crossing tracks safely, including undercarriage clearance requirements
Describe how to respond to an emergency at a railroad-highway crossing, including utilizing the railroad's "Emergency Notification System"
Introduce Fundamentals of Commercial Driving
Understand the importance of the transportation industry
Identify the federal and state agencies which regulate the transportation industry and its drivers
Understand the importance of compliance with applicable state and local laws relating to the safe operation of a CMV
Identify the federal and state requirements for driver qualifications
Use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Pocketbook
Identify and explain driver disqualification provisions and fines for non-compliance of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
Understand and explain driver responsibilities, to include driving and non-driving duties
Explain the Hazardous Materials Regulations that all drivers should know
Understand port (TWIC) and border crossing entry and exit procedures
Understand inspection station procedures
Understand basic vehicle definitions and their components, including special rig configurations
Understand the key systems of a combination vehicle and how they function
Understand how the key systems of a combination vehicle function together in vehicle operations
Identify and describe engine controls
Identify locate and state the function of each of the primary vehicle controls, including those required for steering, accelerating, shifting, braking and parking
Identify locate and state the function of each of the secondary vehicle controls including those required for control of lights, signals, windshield wipers and washers, interior climate, engine starting and shut down, and suspension and coupling
Identify locate and state the function of each of the vehicle gauges and instruments, including the acceptable operating range of each to monitor vehicle and engine speed as well as the status of the fuel, oil, air, cooling, exhaust, and electrical systems
Understand the importance of Federal, Sate and local regulations governing inspections, including special regulations for hazardous materials
Describe procedures for performing accurate and efficient pre-trip inspections
Identify the location, function, operation and common failures of critical components ion a combination vehicle
Understand en route inspection requirements
Describe procedures for performing accurate and efficient post-trip inspections, including completion of a driver vehicle inspection report (DVIR)
Understand the procedures for starting, warming up, and shutting down the engine of a commercial vehicle
Understand how to put a commercial vehicle into motion and how to stop it properly, including proper sue of the clutch and key factors affecting barking distance
Understand the concept of negotiating a turn in a combination vehicle, including path adjustments for off tracking, proper mirror usage, and monitoring traffic
Understand the concept of reverse steering a combination vehicle while backing up
Understand the basic shifting patterns and procedures for shifting different transmissions
Trace the key elements required to properly shift a non-synchronous transmission
Understand the importance of synchronizing RPM with MPH for successful shifting and vehicle control
Estimate outcomes of proper shifting in terms of improved fuel mileage, reduced operating costs and other benefits
Understand the basics of automatic and semiautomatic transmissions
Recognize common shifting errors and their consequences
Explain the steering principles of backing a commercial vehicle
Understand the rules for safely backing a commercial vehicle, including proper set up position, path and clearance recognition, idle speed, mirror usage and "Get Out and Look" (GOAL) principles
Understand the principles of basic backing maneuvers in a commercial vehicle, including sight-side and blind-side backing
Explain the importance of assessing dock areas for obstructions, position and path
Understand the rules and procedures for backing in and across traffic
Estimate why the "best" backing is finding a way not to back
Describe the basic steps for coupling and uncoupling a combination vehicle (applicable to class A only)
Explain the importance of tractor trailer securement during coupling and uncoupling procedures (applicable to class A only)
Estimate the importance of tractor alignment andspeed during coupling procedures (applicable to class A only)
Estimate how to test the coupling connection (applicable to class A only)
Explain the importance of verifying landing gear retraction and trailer clearance prior to driving (applicable to class A only)
Explain the importance of confirming trailer number and trailer inspection prior to driving (applicable to class A only)
Understand that improper coupling and its consequences are preventable (applicable to class A only)
Non-driving Activities
Understand the importance of hauling cargo properly
Describe the principles and methods of cargo securement and covering
Explain the principles of weight distribution
Explain the proper procedures for completing cargo documentation
Understand the various types of load seals and how to document them
Explain safe loading/unloading responsibilities of the driver
Identify common tools used to load/unload a vehicle
Understand the basics of cargo security and theft prevention procedures
Understand the basics of proper handling and documentation of HM cargo
Recognize environmental hazards and issues related to a commercial vehicle and its load
Understand how to use the Emergency Response Guide (E.R.G.)
Explain Federal, State and local regulations may apply to circumstances involving environmental hazards
Describe the consequences of excessive idling
Understand the hours of service (HOS) requirements for different industries, and its exceptions
Prepare a driver's record of duty state (daily log) and monthly recap
Understand the consequences of violating the HOS regulations, to yourself, your safety and legally, including the fines and penalties
Understand all the requirements and rules of Part 395 of the FMCSR covering hours of service
Recognize the signs and consequences of chronic and acute driver fatigue and the importance of staying alert
Identify basic health maintenance issues that a driver faces
Identify a good exercise program for life on the road
Understand the elements of a good diet
Understand how to assess your physical condition immediately after a crash
Understand how to protect the scene, notify authorities, and care for the injured after a crash
Understand how to gather information at the scene of an accident
Understand how to take pictures of an accident scene
Understand the Federal and State regulations regarding post-accident testing for controlled substances and alcohol
Demonstrate the value of effective interpersonal communication techniques to interact with law enforcement officials
Understand and recognize the potential pressures in the industry to exceed HOS rules and know strategies for coping with them
Understand your right to question the safety practices of an employer
Describe the procedures for reporting to FMCSA incidents of coercion
Locate and understand the whistleblower protection regulations in 29 CFR Part 1978
Understand the importance of having up-to-date paperwork
Explain how to use the Motor Carrier Atlas and interpret maps
Estimate how to use log books in planning a trip and meeting schedules
Understand the importance of knowing the Federal and State requirements for permits on your route
Understand route restrictions based on cargo
Understand the importance of selecting a fuel-efficient route, how to estimate fuel use and plan fuel stops
Understand the pros and cons of GPS and trip routing software
Plan the safest route from point to point, planning for rest stops, heavy traffic areas, vehicle clearance issues, the need for permits, and vehicle size and weight limitations
Understand the effects of drugs and alcohol
Understand the regulations regarding the use and testing of drugs and alcohol, including Part 382 (Controlled Substances and Alcohol Use and Testing), §392.4 (Drugs and other substances) and §392.5 (Alcohol Prohibition)
Understand the physical qualifications and examinations required of the professional driver
Understand the Federal rules on driver medical disqualifications and loss of driving privileges
Understand the general qualifications and responsibilities of drivers, including 49 CFR Part 392, subparts B and E
Explain the importance of a professional image to the trucking industry
Describe the aspects of appropriate contact with the public
Explain the importance of good customer relations
Explain the benefits that "working smarter, not harder" has on a company's expenses and revenue
Understand the impact that violating Federal and State regulations has on your driving record and your employing motor carrier's record
Understand the seven BASICs categories of safety behavior that is measured in the Safety Measurement System (SMS)
Understand how CSA points are calculated
Understand the safety evaluation and intervention components of the CSA system
Understand that your actions play a huge part in both yours and your motor carrier's CSA score
Understand how to recognize and report human trafficking
Safe Operating Procedures
Understand the importance of continually scanning your entire sight area to monitor the space around your vehicle, including the space to the sides and rear for potential hazards
Understand how to recognize distracted pedestrians and motorists
Explain the importance of making all visual checks quickly in order to limit the amount of time a drivers' eyes are off the road ahead
Explain how to adjust and use your vehicle's mirrors
State the regulations concerning combination vehicle following distances, lane use, changing lanes and passing other vehicles
Trace the concept of communicating intent
Understand the concept of communicating presence
Understand the proper utilization of eye contact with other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians
Explain what is considered misuse of communications
Understand the communication from others
Explain the FMCSRs related to distracted driving, including §392.80 (Prohibition against texting) and §392.82 (Using a hand-held mobile telephone)
Explain the aspects of manual control (both hands on the wheel) for handling a tire blowout, etc.
Explain the aspects of cognitive awareness (mind on driving)
Describe the relationship between speed and stopping distance, maneuverability, and fuel economy
Explain the relationship between speed and visibility and crash severity
Explain the impact road conditions have on speed management
Understand the importance of adjusting speed for curves and grades
Understand the influence of speed on traffic management
Understand the impact that disobeying the speed limit has on safety, maintenance costs, fuel economy, and your CDL
Explain the importance of proper space management, including the space ahead and behind, to the sides, and above/below your vehicle
Understand the concept of maintaining an appropriate cushion of space around your vehicle
Understand the management of space that is required to maneuver a commercial vehicle, including turns, merges, crossing traffic, and intersections
Trace and identify the factors that affect night driving, including the driver, roadway, and vehicle
Describe the procedures for driving at night, including driver and vehicle preparedness, visibility, speed and space management
Understand the unique challenges affecting the operation of a CMV during steep grades, sharp curves, cold, hot, and inclement weather
Explain proper tire chaining procedures
Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
Describe a driver's responsibility in identification and diagnosis of malfunctions and the impact it has on highway safety and operational efficiency
Identify and explain the function of key systems of a commercial vehicle, including the engine, engine exhaust auxiliary systems, brakes, drive train, coupling system, and suspension
Explain the tolerances for vehicle components and systems to ensure safe and efficient operation and what is required to keep each system in good operating condition
Explain how to report malfunctions and problems
Write a Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR)
Explain the effect of undiscovered malfunctions upon safety, effectiveness and fuel economy
Understand the six levels of roadside inspections and the specifics of the roadside inspection process
Understand the various out-of-service (OOS) criteria for drivers and components of a CMV and how to locate them in the FMCSR Pocketbook
Explain the purpose of the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) and why roadside inspections are conducted
Explain the differences in routine servicing, preventative maintenance, and unscheduled maintenance
Understand the vital role a driver plays in the maintenance of a CMV
Locate and identify the maintenance requirements under Part 396 of the FMCSRs
Understand that a driver must have good observation skills to detect worn, failed, or incorrectly adjusted components to prevent a breakdown on the road
Identify emergency repairs that a driver is qualified to complete in accordance with employer's policy

Required Textbooks/Materials

Fundamentals of Commercial Driving

Modern Carpentry 13th Edition Willis Wagner- Goodheart-Willcox Company

ISBN: 978-1-64564-660-0

Willis Wagner

Institutional Mission

Atlanta Technical College, a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, provides lifelong educational opportunities and experiences through academic and innovative career preparation, service learning, and multiple program delivery modalities that lead to technical certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees and make student development and success possible in a competitive global economy

Required Technology

Participation in online courses requires reliable technology that meets current Blackboard Ultra and Respondus LockDown Browser standards.

A desktop or laptop computer running a supported operating system is required: Windows 10 or 11, macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, or Chrome OS. Tablets and smartphones may be used to check announcements or view content; however, these devices are not reliable for completing assignments, quizzes, or exams, and some tools may not function as expected. Chromebooks may allow basic access but do not support all features or proctored testing tools.

The latest version of Google Chrome is the recommended browser for Blackboard Ultra. Browsers should be kept up to date, with cookies and pop-ups enabled for full functionality.

A stable broadband internet connection (DSL or cable recommended) is required. A wired connection is strongly advised during tests or video conferencing sessions to prevent interruptions.

Recommended software includes Microsoft 365 (available to ATC students at no cost), Adobe Acrobat Reader for viewing PDF files, and up-to-date audio and video drivers for multimedia use. Systems should maintain current antivirus protection and regular updates to ensure compatibility and security.

For best performance, browsers should be cleared of cached data regularly, and Blackboard’s Browser Checker (available on the Blackboard login page) should be used to verify system compatibility.

Blackboard

Once you have access to Blackboard you will be enrolled in the Student Learning Community Organization (SLC).  The SLC offers Blackboard training and other valuable college resources. 

Select this link to review the Bb Technical Support Guide

Attendance

The educational programs at Atlanta Technical College reflect those requirements and standards that are necessary for future successful employment in business and industry. Employers expect their employees to be present and to be on time for work each and every day. Likewise, Atlanta Technical College expects each student to be present and to be on time each and every day for all classes. Absences prevent students from receiving full course benefits, disrupt orderly course progress, and diminish the quality of group interaction in class. The college considers both tardiness and early departure from class as forms of absenteeism. 

Instructors have both the right and the responsibility to develop reasonable attendance expectations appropriate to the type, level, delivery method, and frequency of class meetings for their courses; communicate the expectations to students clearly via their syllabi addenda; and apply the consequences of failing to meet the expectations fairly and consistently to all enrolled students.

Instructors are responsible for determining whether work missed may be made up, and any make-up work allowed is scheduled at the discretion of instructors. Procedures for make-up work are detailed in syllabi addenda. 

Documented absences for military duty, observed religious holidays, judicial proceedings in response to a subpoena, summons for jury duty, or other court-ordered process which requires the attendance of the student at the judicial proceeding are excused. Students absent from class for any reason are still responsible for all work missed. Students should enroll only in those classes that they can reasonably expect to attend on a regular basis. 

Students who stop attending classes without officially withdrawing from class risk earning a final grade of F.  If a student does not officially withdraw the instructor may issue a final grade of F and the last date of attendance, which will be last day that the student attended class or participated in an academically related activity.

In the event of severe weather or other emergencies, students are expected to continue participating in learning activities via Blackboard, @student.atlantatech.edu email account, or other modality.

Failure to attend class the first week may result in students being turned in as no-shows. See No-Show Policy for further information.

Course Withdrawal

WITHDRAWAL POLICY

The sole responsibility to officially withdraw from any class(es) or the College lies with the student. The effective date of withdrawal is the date the student notifies the college of the withdrawal.
Students have the privilege of dropping a course during the first three instructional days of each semester, through their BANNERWEB account, without the drop becoming a part of your permanent academic record and without it affecting your financial aid.

Please remember, any amount charged against student financial aid (PELL/Scholarships...etc.) in the bookstore will be owed back to the College.

The following criteria has been established for students who elect to withdraw after the third day of classes:

  • Beginning the fourth day of the term and through 60% of the term, students can withdraw from classes via their BANNERWEB account. Students who elect to withdraw during this period will receive a grade of “W” on the official academic record and will not receive a refund of applicable tuition and fees.
  • After the “W” (or 60%) through the end of the term (last day of class), students can withdraw from classes via their BANNERWEB account. Students who elect to withdraw during this period will receive a grade of “F” on the official academic record and will not receive a refund of applicable tuition and fees.
  • Students are prohibited from withdrawing from any class(es) during final exam week.

Students who choose to not withdraw from classes will be classified as abandoning the course. Abandoning a course instead of following official withdrawal procedures may result in a failing grade assigned by the instructor and financial aid adjustments to the student’s account, if applicable.

HARDSHIP WITHDRAWAL

The intent of a “Hardship Withdrawal” is to remove the negative effect of absences that are beyond the control of the student - if those absences affected the student’s ability to withdraw by the deadline or occurred after the posted withdrawal deadline.
The hardship withdrawal submission period opens after the W (or 60%) posted date. A hardship withdrawal, if approved, is defined as a withdrawal after the 60% deadline. A student may petition for a hardship withdrawal by submitting the “Hardship Withdraw Request Form” from the Office of the Registrar. Hardship withdrawals MUST be requested no later than the end of the following semester for which the withdrawal is requested.
• (e.g.- to submit a request for a Spring Semester course, the Office of the Registrar must receive the request no later than the last day of the Summer Semester).
Examples of a reason to submit a hardship withdrawal includes, but is not limited to, hospitalization of the student, death in the immediate family, or military duty. A request must include verifying documentation of the extenuating circumstances.
If a hardship withdrawal is requested/granted, it will include all classes for the given term. Only one hardship withdrawal is allowed per student while enrolled at ATC. The final decision as decided by the Office of Academic & Student Affairs regarding the hardship withdrawal is final and not subject to appeal.

Grading Scale

Grades are issued at the end of each semester. A grade of "C" or better is required for most programs in all classes for graduation. However, there are some programs that may require a “B” or better; therefore, it is recommended that students consult with their specific program advisor.

 

Grades

Numerical Equivalent

Grade Points

A

90-100

4

B

80-89

3

C

70-79

2

D

60-69

1

F

0-59

0

Other grades allowed by Atlanta Technical College include:

 

EX

Exempted by Examination

Not Computed

W

Withdrew

Not Computed (Only Given Before 60% Deadline)

TR

Transfer Credit

Not Computed (Displayed as TRA, TRB, or TRC – See Below)

AU

Audited

Not Computed

S

Satisfactory

Not Computed

U

Unsatisfactory

Not Computed

I

Incomplete*

Not Computed

*Course Requirements for removal of an incomplete must be satisfactorily completed prior to the following semester’s mid-term date.

I Indicates that student has an "incomplete" but has satisfactorily completed a substantial portion of the course work. For NON-ACADEMIC reasons beyond their control, the student has not been able to complete some specific part or amount of the work required. An "I" must be satisfactorily changed to a letter grade by the midpoint of the next semester, or it will be changed to the grade of "F" by the Office of Enrollment Services. Students must get approval from the instructor prior to the end of the semester to be eligible for an "I" grade. No credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

IP Indicates that a course continues beyond the end of the semester. An “IP” must be satisfactorily changed to a letter grade by the midpoint of the next semester, or it will be changed to the grade of “F” by the Office of Enrollment Services. No Credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

W Students who withdraw before the 60% point of the semester receive a grade of “W” Withdrew. No credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

EXE Indicates that a student has exempted a course through examination or through the articulated Tech Prep programs. Credit is given but grade points are not calculated. Instructors must submit an Exemption Form to the Office of Enrollment Services to report an exemption.

EXP Indicates the student has been awarded transfer credit though essential learning/prior learning assessment

TR Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from AP. CLEP or IB examinations.

TRA, TRB, TRC Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from another institution. Credit is given but no grade points are calculated. If a student earns credit for a course taken at Atlanta Technical College for which transfer credit has been awarded, then the transfer credit will be deleted from the student's record.

TRM Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from their military experience.

AC Indicates articulated credit earned by students as a part of formal articulation agreements.

AU Indicates an audited course. No grade is given, no credit hours are earned and grade points are not calculated. Auditing a course must be initiated during the registration process. Approval for an audit cannot be granted after participation in classroom instruction. Instructors must submit an Audit Form to the Office of Enrollment Services to report an audit. Audited classes are not eligible for financial aid.

Z indicates students whose academic performance was affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic. A grade of Z is the functional equivalent of a grade of W; the course in which a student received a Z grade does factor into total credit hours attempted for financial aid calculations but does not affect overall GPA.

Student Handbook

All policies and procedures are listed in the Student Handbook, including procedures for filing a grievance.  Select this link to review the Student Handbook.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is expected at all times. Any student found to have engaged in academic misconduct such as cheating, plagiarism, or collusion is subject to disciplinary sanctions as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct detailed in the ATC Catalog and Student Handbook.

Essential Workplace Skills

A Workplace Essential Skills grade will be given each semester for specified courses. The Workplace Essential Skills grade will not affect the academic grade point average (GPA) of a student; that is, Workplace Essential Skills grades remain separate from academic grades. Workplace Essential Skills grades will be reported each semester.

The Workplace Essential Skills program is designed to evaluate and encourage good work habits that ensure job retention and career advancement.

Employability skills refer to the basic academic, interpersonal, reasoning, problem solving skills, and Workplace Essential Skills that, when transferred to the occupational settings, facilitate job acquisition, retention, and advancement.

The Essential Workplace Skills:

1. Leadership
2. Communication
3. Organization
4. Productivity
5. Teamwork
6. Professionalism
7. Resourcefulness

Students of core and program courses will receive a Workplace Essential Skills grade. Instructors will give Workplace Essential Skills assignments throughout the semester. Workplace Essential Skills grades are optional for developmental courses and for grades of W, WF, or WP. Workplace Essential Skills grades will not be used for grades of AC, AU, EX, I, IP, or TR.

Approved Workplace Essential Skills Grades

3 = Exceeds Expectations

2 = Meets Expectations

1 = Needs Improvement

0 = Unacceptable

Bookstore

Most books and supplies are available at the college bookstore. Books may be purchased there or rented at a reduced rate: Atlanta Tech Bookstore

Learning Resources

The student is expected and encouraged to use the school library which is located on the main campus in building G. The library has media equipment for faculty and staff use for instructional purposes. There are over 130 computers, a multimedia room equipped with audio and audiovisual resources, and printing, copying, faxing, and scanning services. Seating is available throughout the library along with study carrels, six study rooms for reserve, one conference room and a Digital Classroom used for class instruction. Atlanta Technical College's library operating hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Students may use the library located at Atlanta Metropolitan State College, or any other library within their access, to gather further information about the topic under discussion in class, or about any topic of interest to the student. If a particular resource cannot be obtained at the ATC Library, a student may use the Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service to locate the item(s). This service borrows books, articles and other resources from other libraries within the region. The ILL form may be accessed via the webpage under the Library’s home page. Students are also expected and encouraged to use available Internet resources, as well as relevant periodicals, books, and electronic resources. Most course textbooks may be checked out for a two-hour, in-house library use only.

Tutorial Support

Tutorial support is available by each instructor during designated office hours. Remediation/tutorial support may be teacher or student initiated depending on the student’s progress. Several programs of study offer services through peer counselors and mentors. Atlanta Technical College also offers math, English, reading, and study skills tutorials through the Academic Success Center. Located in room 2118, the Academic Success Center provides an open study area, face-to-face tutorial, Internet access, and various tutorial computer software. Students may also find out how to access our 24/7 online tutorial programs by visiting the Academic Success Center. The Academic Success Center’s operating hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.; Friday, 9:00a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

 

Financial Aid

The Financial Aid office is located in the Dennard Building, Room 125, and the phone number is 404.225.4716. Financial Aid information, resources, and specialists are located on our Atlanta Tech website: Financial Aid.

For information about tuition & fees, refunds and payment plans visit The Office of Student Accounts.

Non-Discrimination Policy

As set forth in its student catalog, Atlanta Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, veteran status, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). For further information regarding these laws (Title VI and IX) contact the College's Title IX, Section 504 Coordinator in the Student Support Services office in the Academic Building, Suite C1109.

For more information about Title VI and Title IX, contact the College’s Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator in the Student Support Services Office, Academic Building, Suite C1109.

American with Disabilities Act

Atlanta Technical College strives to provide equal access to education for all students. Students with a documented disability are eligible to receive reasonable academic adjustments and auxiliary aids in the classroom and/or for testing at Atlanta Technical College once the appropriate documentation of the disability has been submitted to the Director of Student Services.

To request reasonable accommodations upon enrollment (Section 504/ADA), please contact the Resource Accommodation Specialist located in the Student Support Services office at Atlanta Technical College, Academic and Student Affairs Division, Academic Building, Suite C1109.

Special Populations

Special Populations services are available to meet the needs of qualifying students. Services include but are not limited to workshops and training on educational, employability, and life skills; institutional and community resources and referrals; and resource fairs. Special populations include:

  1. Single Parents - Individual with custody of a minor child or children.
  2. Single Pregnant Women.
  3. Displaced Homemakers - Adults who have been dependent on the income of a family member and no longer supported by that income, have been performing unpaid labor in the home and as a result have diminished marketable skills, and have difficulty securing employment.
  4. Economically Disadvantaged - Any student who is a Pell Grant recipient, or is receiving federal assistance such as Food Stamps and/or Medicaid.
  5. Individuals with other barriers to educational achievement, including individuals with limited English proficiency.

Please complete the Special Populations form State Enrollment System Information Form if you would like more information on the types of services available and if you qualify.

The Atlanta Technical College Resource Accommodation Specialist is located in the Student Support Services office in the Academic and Student Affairs Division, Academic Building, Suite C1109. 

Warranty

Curriculum standards have been developed with direct involvement of business and industry. These standards serve as the industry-validated specifications for each occupational program. The TCSG guarantee to every one of our students is this: If one of our graduates educated under a standard program or his/her employer finds that the graduate is deficient in one or more competencies as defined in the standards, the technical college will retrain the employee at no instructional cost to the employee or the employer. This guarantee is in effect for a period of two years after graduation.

Accreditation

Atlanta Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Atlanta Technical College may also offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Atlanta Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Continuation of Instruction Plan

All classes at Atlanta Technical College use the Blackboard Learning Management System which allows for the continuation of classes even if the school is closed due to inclement weather or any other reason.  In the event of school closure, continue to work on your class through Blackboard and be sure to check your Blackboard course and student email for class information from your instructor.