The Best Training for
Auto Mechanics in 2021
Cars are becoming more complicated than ever. The knowledge required for their maintenance and repair is now more specialized. If you want to pursue a career as an auto mechanic, you need the proper education and certification. This guide covers the best auto mechanic schools and programs in 2021.
There are many options to choose from. Some schools offer two-year degrees, while others have four-year programs. This guide highlights the best of them and gives you tips on how to select the best one for your specific needs.
Rundown: The Top 15 Auto Mechanic Programs in 2021
The table below contains a rundown of the best auto mechanic programs, including costs, locations, and certifications. The information was sourced from the schools’ official websites.
School | State | Programs and Cost | Certifications |
---|---|---|---|
Arkansas Tech University | AR | Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Service Technology $232 per credit (in-state) $464 per credit (out-of-state) |
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification |
Brigham Young University | ID | Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology $2,150 per semester (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) $4,300 per semester (non-members) Bachelor of Science – Automotive Engineering Technology $315 per credit (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) $630 per credit (non-members) |
ASE Certification |
Ferris State University | MI | Bachelor of Science – Automotive Engineering Technology $12,404 per year (in-state) $20,020 per year (out-of-state) Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Service Technology $12,404 per year (in-state) $20,020 per year (out-of-state) |
ASE Certification |
Idaho State University | ID | Bachelor of Applied Science – Automotive Technology $15,382 per year Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology $15,382 per year |
ASE Certification |
Indiana State University | IN | Bachelor of Science – Automotive Engineering Technology $10,678 per year (in-state) $23,988 per year (out-of-state) |
ASE Certification |
Minnesota State University Mankato | MN | Bachelor of Science – Automotive Engineering Technology $297.80 per credit |
ASE Certification |
Northern Michigan University | MI | Associate of Science – Automotive Service Technology $11,679.94 per year |
ASE Certification |
Pittsburg State University | KS | Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Service Technology $16,940 per year Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology $16,940 per year |
ASE Certification |
Southern Illinois University | IL | Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology $29,903 per year |
ASE Certification |
University of Arkansas – Pulaski | AK | Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology $134 per credit hour |
ASE Certification |
University of Central Missouri | MO | Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology Management $237.60 per credit hour |
ASE Certification |
University of Northwestern Ohio | OH | Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology $230 per credit hour |
ASE Certification |
Utah Valley University | UT | Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology $206 per credit hour |
ASE Certification |
Vincennes University | IN | Associate of Science – Collision Repair Refinishing $17,158 per year (in-state) $25,690 per year (out-of-state) |
ASE Certification |
Walla Walla University | WA | Associate of Science – Automotive Technology $28,908 per year |
ASE Certification |
How to Pick the Best Auto Mechanic School for You
Before sending out applications for suitable mechanic schools, you need to consider several factors. Cost is one such factor. You need to know if the tuition and fees are affordable.
Also, you should look out for financial aid or be ready to take out student loans. There are several other considerations to make. These include the following.
Hands-On Training
Learning to become an auto mechanic requires a lot of hands-on training. The nature of the profession demands it.
Theory is important for some aspects of the profession, but the best way to learn is by practicing. Look out for auto mechanic schools that offer hands-on experience. This gives you an opportunity to practice what you are learning.
Class Sizes and Curriculum
If you want to start a career as a mechanic, you need to learn a lot about recent technologies. Class sizes are an important consideration when embarking on technical education. A smaller class means you will get more support from the instructor. It also includes extra guidance on complicated replacements and repairs.
This is not the case for larger classrooms. Students may not get adequate support to thrive.
Network Building
Networking is important in any field. For mechanics, it is the same thing. You need to start making worthwhile career connections while you’re in school.
Top mechanic schools allow students to network with their peers and instructors, which may pave the way for apprenticeships and mentorship in the future.
The Best Auto Mechanic Schools of 2021
The best auto mechanic programs offer skills training, and they are accredited by the required bodies. Most have online options. Below is a summary of the best mechanic schools, online and in person.
Arkansas Tech University
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Service Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
Arkansas Tech University offers a program for students to gain fundamental skills and practical training in automotive repair. It comes with the option to earn an associate degree or a certificate.
The courses in the program are all Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified, and you will work on vehicles brought for repair into the university’s lab on the Ozark campus.
Below are some of the topics taught in the curriculum.
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Service Technology Curriculum
Automotive electronics
Gasoline engine theory
Automotive career readiness
Brigham Young University
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology, Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology
Accreditation
Higher Educational Institution by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Options
Yes
This school has both bachelor’s degree and associate degree programs in automotive technology. Each program prepares students for jobs as service technicians with a focus on engineering and business. All courses follow ASE certification standards to ensure that the school is better than most universities at preparing students for the workforce.
Below are some salient topics in the curriculum for the bachelor’s program.
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology Curriculum
Introduction to automotive technology
Automotive electrical systems
Static systems in mechanical engineering
Ferris State University
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology, Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Service Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
This school offers unique options for certification and specialization in performance motorsports and performance machining. The curriculum covers practical, technical, and theoretical training in automotive mechanics. It also includes business education.
Below are the main topics covered in the bachelor’s program.
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology Curriculum
Manual transmission and drivelines
Automotive brake systems
Auto engines
Idaho State University
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology, Bachelor of Applied Science in Automotive Technology
Accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Online Options
Yes
Students have the option to enroll in a non-degree or degree automotive technology program. Idaho State University offers small class sizes, tight-knit programs, and eight-week sessions. Students learn through hands-on experience with machines and tools they will use in the field. All courses are taught according to ASE certification standards.
Below are some subjects covered in the associate program.
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology Curriculum
Advanced engine mechanics and repair
Engine performance
Steering and suspension
Indiana State University
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
The program is a blend of technical, theoretical, and practical training in automotive mechanics. Furthermore, this program adds business education and managerial skills to the training. This ensures that the graduates are well rounded for a future in the automotive industry.
Below are some topics covered in the curriculum.
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology Curriculum
Automotive electronics
Body computer systems
Engine theory and service
Minnesota State University Mankato
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
This bachelor’s degree program has a solid curriculum based on ASE standards. It also offers an engineering emphasis and provides a hands-on experience for students. Students also learn new and emerging technologies in the automotive industry. They learn the practical side of the curriculum through repairing damaged vehicles.
Some courses in this curriculum include the following.
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology Curriculum
Automotive emission design and measurement
High-performance engineering
Advanced automotive emissions and measurement
Northern Michigan University
Programs
Associate of Science in Automotive Service Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
This associate degree prepares students to move onto a bachelor’s of science. Students can also choose to enter the workforce with the skills they have gathered. It offers hands-on training and numerous scholarship opportunities.
Below are some courses in NMU’s curriculum.
Associate of Science in Automotive Service Technology Curriculum
Automotive fundamentals and technician safety
Steering and suspension fundamentals
Manual drive trains and axles
Pittsburg State University
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology, Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Service Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
This university has different degree programs for automotive technology. Its curriculum is comprehensive, and its training is practical. The programs allow students to focus on the technical aspects of automotive repair.
Choose this route and you will also have an option to expand into the business and management side of the industry. You can also transfer to another educational institute without losing credits.
Below are some key courses in the bachelor’s program curriculum.
App Academy Software Engineering Curriculum
Advanced vehicle systems
Automotive mechanical design
Collision repair and insurance management
Southern Illinois University
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
The program offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Automotive Technology. It blends both technical and theoretical education with business education. The goal is to produce skilled and knowledgeable graduates in both fields. The department also focuses on soft skills to support students as they embark on their job searches.
Below are some courses in the curriculum.
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology Curriculum
Automotive laboratory practices
Internal combustion engine principles
Automotive powertrain electronics
University of Arkansas
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
This training program prepares students with its two-year AAS in Automotive Technology. It offers internship opportunities to prepare students for the workforce.
It also has career advancement and placement opportunities through different school partnerships. Its curriculum is ASE-based and involves theoretical and practical instruction. You will also benefit from small class sizes if you enroll here.
Below are some prominent courses in the curriculum.
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology Curriculum
Theory and maintenance
Electrical systems
Suspension and steering
University of Central Missouri
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology Management
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
This bachelor’s degree program offers career placement services through numerous partnerships. Students also have internship opportunities to put into practice the training they receive in school. The program has three options and students can choose to include business education with their training.
Below are some main courses in the curriculum.
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology Management Curriculum
Contemporary power systems
Automotive braking systems
Steering and suspension systems
University of Northwestern Ohio
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
This associate degree program offers skilled instructors, small class sizes, and comprehensive training. The curriculum of the program is approved by ASE. Students have an option to choose alternative fuels or high-performance technologies. As with the other institutions, you will get both hands-on and theoretical training.
Below are some key automotive courses that UNOH offers.
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology Curriculum
Manual and automatic drive trains
Automotive transportation air conditioning and refrigeration
Computerized engine control systems
Utah Valley University
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology
Accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Online Options
Yes
This associate program provides hands-on and practical learning. Students get all the training they need using tools and machines. It also offers networking opportunities for students to make connections and socialize.
Below are some examples of courses in this program.
Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology Curriculum
Automotive electrical systems
Automotive electrical systems lab
Engine repair lab
Vincennes University
Programs
Associate of Science in Automotive Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Options
Yes
This associate program teaches students about collision repair, automotive services, and diesel engines. It has a straightforward approach to training and students are ready to enter the workforce and ace their job interviews after graduation.
Below are some top courses in the curriculum.
Associate of Science in Automotive Technology Curriculum
Automotive engine systems laboratory
Transportation fundamentals
Transportation electrical laboratory
Walla Walla University
Programs
Associate of Science in Automotive Technology
Accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Online Options
Yes
This program offers hands-on training and employs students at the university’s auto shop. It helps students learn all they need to qualify for ASE certification. Students earn a living and gain valuable experience to build their resumes while still in school. At graduation, they will be ready for entry-level positions without the need to intern.
Below are some notable courses in the curriculum.
Associate of Science in Automotive Technology Curriculum
Internal combustion engine theory
Manual drive trains and axles lab
Electrical systems lab
How Much Can You Earn as an Auto Mechanic?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for auto mechanics is $44,050. There is, however, a projected four percent decline in job opportunities between now and 2029. Despite this negative growth, the field still offers a lot of potential.
Below are some of the highest-paying auto mechanic roles.
The Highest-Paying Auto Mechanic Roles
Why You Should Be an Auto Mechanic in 2021
Auto mechanics maintain and repair automobiles. The profession will be in demand as long as people drive cars and other automobiles. The skills you learn in training make it easy for you to branch out to other technical sectors.
If you have a flair for machines, becoming an auto mechanic will allow you to earn an honest living while pursuing your passion. You’ll also never be bored. New technology is introduced all the time, so there will be plenty of opportunities to learn new skills and increase your earning potential.