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

How to Pick the Best Auto Mechanic School for You

Get offers and scholarships from top coding schools illustration

Find Your Bootcamp Match

  • Career Karma matches you with top tech bootcamps
  • Access exclusive scholarships and prep courses










By continuing you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, and you consent to receive offers and opportunities from Career Karma by telephone, text message, and email.

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?

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

Role Required Education Average Salary
Diagnostic Technician Certification $51,404
Auto Body Collision Repair Technician Certification $45,758
Automotive Mechanic Certification $41,122

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.

Get matched match you to training programs with Flexible Options, Income Sharing

jobtraininghub

Start a new job in 12 months

By continuing you indicate that you have read and agree to Job Training Hub Privacy Policy.

Powered By
Career Karma

X

Register

You don't have permission to register