The Best Training for
Diesel Mechanics in 2021
Diesel mechanics work with diesel-powered machines of different sizes. They include buses, 18-wheelers, ships, generators, trains, bulldozers, and cranes. The best diesel mechanic schools and programs teach you how to repair and maintain these machines. If you want to learn how to service diesel engines, there are a lot of technical skills required.
In diesel mechanic trade schools, you can learn how to diagnose, disassemble, and reassemble different kinds of diesel engines. You’ll also learn about components such as chassis, fuel systems, power trains, steering, suspension, brakes, heating and AC, electrical systems, and engines. For the best places to acquire these skills, read on.
Rundown: The Top 10 Diesel Mechanic Schools in 2021
The table below contains the top diesel mechanic schools and their programs, along with costs and affiliated certifications. The information in the table was sourced from the various schools’ websites.
| School | State | Programs and Cost | Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hinds Community College | MS | Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Equipment Technology In-state tuition: $1,750 per semester Out-of-state tuition: $3,275 per semester Diesel Equipment Technology Program In-state tuition: $120 per credit Out-of-state tuition: $240 per credit |
None |
| Idaho State University | ID | Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology In-state tuition: $3,936 per semester Out-of-state tuition: $12,247 per semester Advanced Technical Certificate in Diesel Technology Tuition: $11,808 total |
None |
| Lone Star College-North Harris | TX | Industrial Diesel Technology Certificate Level I Industrial Diesel Technology Certificate Level II Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Diesel Technology In-district tuition: $88 per credit hour Out-of-district tuition: $199 per credit hour Out-of-state tuition: $254 per credit hour |
None |
| Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology | OK | Associate of Applied Science in Diesel and Heavy Equipment Resident tuition and fees: $192 per credit hour Non-resident tuition and fees: $379 per credit hour |
None |
| Pennsylvania College of Technology | PA | Diesel Truck Maintenance Technician Electric Power Generation Technology: Diesel Emphasis Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology In-state tuition: $504 per credit hour Out-of-state tuition: $756 per credit hour |
None |
| Tidewater Community College | VA | Associate of Applied Science: Specialization in Diesel Marine Technician In-state tuition: $156 per credit Out-of-state tuition: $333 per credit |
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Entry-Level Certification, American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) Certification |
| University of Northwestern Ohio | OH | Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology Tuition: $230 per credit |
None |
| Utah Valley University | UT | Diploma in Diesel Mechanics Technology Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Mechanics Technology In-state tuition: $315 per credit hour Out-of-state tuition: $888 per credit hour |
ASE Entry-Level Certification |
| Vincennes University | IN | Associate of Science in Diesel Technology In-state tuition: $3,125 per semester Out-of-state tuition: $7,391 per semester |
None |
| Walla Walla Community College | WA | Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology In-state tuition: $130 per credit Out-of-state tuition: $165 per credit |
ASE Entry-Level Certification |
How to Pick the Best Diesel Mechanic School for You
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.
There are a lot of essential factors to look out for before choosing a suitable diesel mechanic school. These factors determine if regulatory bodies or employers recognize the school.
They also help you check if you will learn the right skills to thrive as a diesel mechanic. One of the factors is cost. Is the program affordable, or will you have to hunt around for the best private student loans to finance your education?
Class Size
To gain knowledge and develop your skills, you need to consider the size of the diesel mechanic program. Why is the class size important? Well, smaller classes mean that students stand a better chance of receiving one-on-one support from teachers. Personal interaction is the best way to learn the techniques and methodologies of diesel technology.
Hands-On Experience
Another critical component of the diesel mechanic trade is hands-on training. The reason is that the profession is mostly a manual one. Students will need to get a practical example of what they are taught.
As an aspiring diesel mechanic, you should choose a school with an on-site garage. Some schools and programs also allow students to train with different manufacturers.
Equipment
Since practical learning is the best for the profession, the school needs to have the necessary equipment to train students with.
If you get a chance to tour the school before enrolling, be sure to check the quantity and quality of equipment in the garage. Is it up to date? It’s incredibly important to learn using the latest and greatest equipment and materials.
The Best Diesel Mechanic Schools of 2021
The schools on this list are located throughout the United States. One of them just might be the best diesel mechanic school near you. They offer a combination of associate degrees, certificate programs, and technical diplomas. Most importantly, all of the programs listed below offer hands-on training and support.
Hinds Community College
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Equipment Technology, Diesel Equipment Technology Program
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Options
No
This is an instructional program that provides students with the skills and competencies needed to repair and maintain different types of industrial diesel equipment. Some of the types are commercial trucks, agricultural tractors, and construction equipment.
In the program, you will learn to repair, inspect, and maintain hydraulic systems, power trains, engines, brake systems, air conditioning, and electrical systems.
Below are some top courses in the two main program options.
AAS in Diesel Equipment Technology Curriculum
Fundamentals of equipment mechanics
Welding for diesel equipment
Preventive maintenance and service
Diesel Equipment Technology Program Curriculum
Basic and advanced hydraulics
Mobile air conditioning and heating
Electronic diesel control
Idaho State University
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology, Advanced Technical Certificate in Diesel Technology
Accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Options
No
These programs offer students a chance to learn how to maintain, repair, and service diesel equipment. It covers construction engines, farming machines, and trucks. The school offers hands-on training experience.
The classes involve the use of equipment and specialized tools. When students complete the program, they are ready to enter the truck mechanics field.
Below are some of the main topics covered.
AAS in Diesel Technology Curriculum
Intro to diesel technology
Diesel engine fuel systems
Diesel engine electrical systems
Advanced Technical Certificate in Diesel Technology Curriculum
Introduction to shop practices and safety
Advanced engine electronics
Basic hydraulics
Lone Star College-North Harris
Programs
Industrial Diesel Technology Certificate Level I, Industrial Diesel Technology Certificate Level II, Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Diesel Technology
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
Online Options
No
This school offers a broad array of programs. Students can learn all they need to enter the industry as diesel technicians. They can stop after one semester and get a basic certificate, or they can stay in the program for longer and earn more advanced credentials.
Students learn to repair, disassemble, and reassemble engines. The curricula also cover preventative maintenance and electrical systems. Students are required to complete 60 credits if they want to earn an associate degree.
Below are some of the top courses in the three curricula.
Industrial Diesel Technology Certificate Level I Curriculum
Shop safety and procedures
Preventative maintenance
Diesel engine testing and repair
Industrial Diesel Technology Certificate Level II Curriculum
Basic hydraulics
Basic brake systems
Advanced diesel tune-up and troubleshooting
AAS in Industrial Diesel Technology Curriculum
Intro to diesel technology
Diesel engine diagnosis and repair
Diesel preventative maintenance laboratory
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Diesel and Heavy Equipment
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
No
Graduates with an AAS in Diesel and Heavy Equipment are trained to enter the workforce to take up roles as service technicians. They can diagnose problems while performing factory-recommended procedures.
The program covers new components and systems to ensure that you have valuable experience. Graduates can work as industrial and farm equipment technicians for different clients. Below are some of the things the AAS program covers.
AAS in Diesel and Heavy Equipment Curriculum
Diesel engines service and repair
Diesel truck manual transmissions
Diesel truck brake systems and chassis
Pennsylvania College of Technology
Programs
Diesel Truck Maintenance Technician, Electric Power Generation Technology: Diesel Emphasis, Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Options
No
These programs feature immersive lab experiences as well as book learning. It allows students to apply what they have learned. Students master skills like servicing, writing service reports, and repairing diesel-powered machines. The curriculum also covers practical skills required for working with electronic equipment.
Below is an overview of the three main programs.
Diesel Truck Maintenance Technician Curriculum
Diesel engine technology
Commercial truck power train
Preventative maintenance
Electric Power Generation Technology: Diesel Emphasis Curriculum
Operation, applications, and troubleshooting of gaseous fueled engines
Systems, operation, and diagnostics of diesel electronic fuels
Diesel engines laboratory
AAS in Diesel Technology Curriculum
Alternating current fundamentals
Power generator theory
Power generator operation
Tidewater Community College
Programs
Associate of Applied Science: Specialization in Diesel Marine Technician
Accreditation
Southern Association Of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Options
No
This program focuses on marine diesel technology. Students learn the ropes of maintenance, repair, and service for these machines. The associate degree gives students an in-depth background in the fundamentals of diesel machines through hands-on and theoretical instruction.
Students are prepared to work in different industries that use vessels and boats powered by diesel. At the end of the program, students can take the certification exam from the American Boat and Yacht Council. The certification will give them the required qualifications to work in different industries.
Below are some of the top courses in this curriculum.
AAS: Specialization in Diesel Marine Technician Curriculum
Basic automotive electrical diagnostics
Orientation to automotive technology
Marine maintenance mechanics
University of Northwestern Ohio
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
Yes
This program trains students with the latest tools and equipment found in dealerships and service centers. They can get jobs at businesses that use diesel trucks. The program covers manufacturer training aids from Power Stroke, Cummins, Volvo, Mack, DuraMax, and Caterpillar.
It also includes all the hands-on training and theory required to pass certification exams. The program covers student fees for the state license exam.
Below are some of the main courses in the curriculum.
AAS in Diesel Technology Curriculum
Diesel engine diagnosis and repair
Diesel performance and diagnosis
Heavy equipment and vehicle integrated electronics
Utah Valley University
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Mechanics Technology, Diploma in Diesel Mechanics Technology
Accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Options
No
The two-year associate degree program offers students the ability to handle diesel hydraulics, engines, power trains, electricity, and chassis. The systems are complex, so students can specialize in certain areas. The skills they gather prepares them for a career in diesel repair and maintenance.
They learn with modern machines to ensure that their skills are helpful in the workforce. This hands-on training gives them the skills needed to thrive. Students also have the option of getting a 61-credit technical diploma instead of the 63-credit AAS.
Below are some of the highlights of the AAS curriculum.
AAS in Diesel Mechanics Technology Curriculum
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration theory
Electronic engine management
Diesel engine overhaul lab
Vincennes University
Programs
Associate of Science in Diesel Technology
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
No
This diesel technology program can be completed in two years. It is designed to help students advance their technical skills and become full-fledged service technicians. The program teaches students the skills needed to excel in this fast-paced and high-tech area of the workforce.
They learn to rebuild diesel engines, hydraulic systems, drive trains, and brakes. The curriculum also covers heating and air conditioning, diesel-electric systems, and steering and suspension.
Below are some of the main courses in this hands-on Associate of Science program.
AS in Diesel Technology Curriculum
Preventative maintenance laboratory
Diesel electronic systems laboratory
Diesel chassis systems laboratory
Walla Walla Community College
Programs
Associate in Applied Sciences Degree in Diesel Technology
Accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Options
Yes
This program offers a wide range of technical skills and knowledge to help students enter the diesel mechanic industry or improve their existing diesel mechanic skillset. Students learn how to diagnose and repair heavy-duty equipment like trucks, forklifts, medium-duty vehicles, mining equipment, logging equipment, and agricultural equipment.
Below is a list of some of the courses in the curriculum.
AAS in Diesel Technology Curriculum
Introduction to quantitative problem-solving
Machinery repair
Communication in the workplace
How Much Can You Earn as a Diesel Mechanic?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average diesel mechanic earns $50,200 per year. Also, this profession is expected to grow by three percent from 2019 to 2029. This level of job growth is close to the average for all occupations.
However, experts can earn more as they progress in the industry.
The Highest-Paying Diesel Mechanic Roles
Why You Should Be a Diesel Mechanic in 2021
Diesel mechanic training programs take less time to complete than a lot of other degrees. Also, they are cheaper to prepare for than most professions. In as little as two years, you can begin to work as a professional.
This career also opens the door to other career paths. If you have a flair for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining diesel-powered engines, then this is most definitely the career for you.
