Best Automotive Mechanic Schools
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The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
It used to be the case that automotive repair was straightforward enough that many a “shade tree” mechanic was able to maintain their own vehicle for years and years. But cars, like everything else, have become increasingly more complicated, and the knowledge required for their repair and maintenance has become increasingly more specialized.
The list that follows ranks the top 20 colleges and universities offering Automotive Mechanics programs. All of these schools offer high-quality technical educations that will help get you qualified to work in the automotive service industry.
Some have more to offer than others, such as 4-year degree programs, combined majors that incorporate business education (in case you want to get into the business of automotive service, and not just the technical practice), unique program specializations, and a vibrant student life.
Featured Schools
Penn Foster Career School
Penn Foster Career School
Campus & Online
Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance
Penn Foster Career School offers an online diploma in diesel mechanics and heavy truck maintenance. The distance education program features coursework in diesel engine repair, fuel injection systems, brake and transmission systems, and bus or truck systems management. Students can complete this program in as few as eight months.
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It is important to note what schools and programs have been excluded from this list, and why. This ranking only looks at colleges and universities that offer automotive service programs (though often they also offer diesel mechanics programs as well). Other schools exist that offer automotive engineering programs, rather than automotive mechanics or automotive service programs. These programs are great in their own way but lie beyond the scope of this article, as they are more focused on mechanical engineering and the design of new vehicles, rather than the service and maintenance of vehicles that are currently being driven. So, we have excluded such schools.
This ranking does include programs that are offered at three community colleges by their affiliated universities, so they are university-level programs. Other than that, the list excludes technical colleges, community colleges, and trade schools. Universities have some significant benefits over those institutions, in addition to those mentioned above. For one, the credits earned at a full-fledged four-year college or university will more likely transfer to another school, should you choose to transfer, but this is sometimes not the case for technical colleges, community colleges, and trade schools.
ASE and NATEF certification
ASE is the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, an independent, non-profit organization that seeks to ensure mechanics are trained to the best of their abilities, and offering the highest quality, and safest, service possible. They do so by offering certification in a multitude of areas of general and special knowledge through exams, as well as “Master” certification if you pass enough exams in a series.
If you have any desire to work in automotive service, you need to be ASE certified. While it is not required by law to for a mechanic to be ASE certified, plenty of shops will not hire mechanics who are not, and often additional ASE certification affords you additional career advancement opportunities. Most of the universities on this list present a curriculum that incorporates ASE certification practices and standards; all of them will prepare you for the ASE exams, and will encourage you to take them as soon as possible.
Additionally, NATEF, the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, a related organization, accredits some of the programs ranked here with a specialized accreditation. But are NATEF accredited programs always better? Not necessarily. It depends on what you are looking for in terms of program specialization, as well as university benefits.
Ultimately, what matters is that you are getting the experience you desire, the education you need, and ASE certification, which is something you have to do separately from your program. So, NATEF accreditation is worth considering, and has been noted on each school’s profile, but if a school does not have NATEF accreditation, this shouldn’t necessarily be a deal breaker.
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Automotive Mechanic degree program ranking guidelines:
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of the program, types of courses offered, and faculty strength, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Featured Schools
Penn Foster Career School
Penn Foster Career School
Campus & Online
Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance
Penn Foster Career School offers an online diploma in diesel mechanics and heavy truck maintenance. The distance education program features coursework in diesel engine repair, fuel injection systems, brake and transmission systems, and bus or truck systems management. Students can complete this program in as few as eight months.
More Info
Sponsored
The Best Automotive Mechanic Schools
1University of Northwestern Ohio
(Lima, Ohio)
University of Northwestern Ohio
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University of Northwestern Ohio ranks #1 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Located in Lima, Ohio, UNOH is a private university that offers numerous degree and non-degree options for studying automotive mechanics, with plenty of paths for specialization.
UNOH combines the benefit of small class sizes, skilled instructors, state-of-the-art technology, and fast and focused six-week class sessions to provide a thorough educational experience. The curriculum is centered on ASE certification and is taught by Master ASE-certified instructors. Also, the school offers the unique options to focus on high performance technology, and alternative fuels technologies.
Among its degree programs, UNOH offers a 2+2 B.S. degree that combines auto mechanics education with business education, with the goal of preparing students to manage or even own an automotive repair business. The College of Applied Technologies claims a high placement rate for its students, and is dedicated to ensuring the students secure the careers they are pursuing, through its Career Services resource program, and through networking with numerous professional organizations in the field.
There are numerous automotive clubs on campus for students to socialize, network, share their knowledge, and test their skills, including a racing team. Unlike most institutions, UNOH provides the tools that are necessary for your technical studies.
The University of Northwestern Ohio is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology Supervision
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Diesel Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive High Performance Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Agricultural Equipment Technology
Other Programs:
Diploma – Automotive Technician
Diploma – Automotive – High Performance Technician
Diploma – Automotive – Diesel Technician
Diploma – Automotive – Alternative Fuels Technician
Diploma – Agricultural Equipment Technician
Diploma – Agricultural Equipment/Diesel Technician
2Montana State University Northern
(Havre, Montana)
Montana State University Northern
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Montana State University Northern ranks #2 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Montana State University Northern in Havre, Montana is a public university that offers a range of 2-year, 4-year, and non-degree options to study Automotive, as well as Diesel Technology and Agriculture Mechanics Technology.
The programs at MSU Northern have a comprehensive curriculum that is centered on ASE certification standards. The school is focused on making sure its students are well qualified for careers as soon as they have graduated, by communicating with industry representatives. The College of Technical Sciences encourages students to develop relationships with employers prior to graduation through practicums, which gives the students valuable worksite experience.
One attractive option that is available here is the Fast Track option, which allows you to get an A.A.S degree in Automotive Technology in half the time, and get your career started that much faster. Another attractive option is that the College of Technical Science has a partnership with Ford, through which Ford provides ready career opportunities for students who earn the Ford Maintenance & Light Repair Certificate.
MSU Northern is also home to the Advanced Fuels Center, which researches the development and application of locally grown biofuels. If you are interested in the study and application of biofuels, being at student in the College of Technical Sciences at MSU Northern might afford you an opportunity to get closer to, and even perform, some of this research.
Montana State University Northern is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology
Bachelor of Science – Diesel Technology, with additional options for emphasis in Equipment Management or Field Maintenance
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology, with option for Fast Track
Associate of Applied Science – Diesel Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Agriculture Mechanics Technology
Option to Minor in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, or Agriculture Mechanics Technology
Other Programs:
Certificate – Automotive Technology
Certificate – Ford Maintenance & Light Repair
3Ferris State University
(Big Rapids, Michigan)
Ferris State University
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Ferris State University ranks #3 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Ferris State University, a public university in Big Rapids, Michigan has been providing high-quality education in automotive mechanics since the early 1950s.
With numerous 4-year, 2-year, and non-degree options, Ferris is committed to preparing students for a variety of careers in the field. Ferris also presents the unique options of additional specialization and certification in Performance Machining and Performance Motorsports.
The curriculum blends technical, practical, and theoretical education in automotive mechanics with business education. The B.S. Automotive Management degree has two track options. One is a straight-forward 4-year degree program, the other is a 2+2 program, allowing students to combine the focus of a related A.A.S. degree with a business focus, should the student wish to pursue a career in management in the automotive service field.
The technical courses are taught by Master ASE-certified instructors and focus on technology that is seven years old and younger, with over 100 late-model vehicles on-site, to ensure students are familiar with a variety of current vehicle systems and technology.
The School of Automotive and Heavy Equipment at Ferris is invested in your success after graduation. The Center for Leadership, Activities, and Career Services, combined with strong industry and alumni support, helps students prepare for and secure careers in the automotive service industry. Also, it’s worth noting, should you be interested in Heavy Equipment, the B.S. HSET degree is the only one of its kind in the nation.
Ferris is home to several student organizations that are involved with national design and technical skill competitions, allowing students to share and test their knowledge, as well as socialize and network.
Ferris State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Management
Bachelor of Science – Technical Education
Bachelor of Science – Heavy Equipment Service Engineering Technology (HSET)
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Service Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Heavy Equipment Technology (HEQT)
Other Programs:
Certificate – Performance Machining
Certificate – Performance Motorsports
4Weber State University
(Ogden, Utah)
Weber State University
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Weber State University ranks #4 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Weber State University, a public university located in Ogden, Utah, is well known for its high quality automotive degree programs, as well as having a high recruitment rate among its graduates.
The College of Engineering, Applied Science, and Technology offers numerous 2-year, 4-year, and non-degree options for study and specialization, allowing students to focus on automotive service, as well as automotive business management, and more. Notably, one of these programs is the A.A.S. General Motors ASEP program, which specifically prepares students for automotive service careers with GM vehicles, through partnering with GM dealerships. This provides strong career recruitment potential, as well as paid, on-the-job experience, and prepares students for Master ASE-certification.
The college is invested in the professional success of its students, and provides career counseling services and events, and internship opportunities with automotive companies and dealerships that help with career placement and advancement. It also offers a 2+2 structure for its degree programs, so students can earn a 2-year degree, enter the workforce, and then pick back up where they left off later and complete their 4-year degree without loss of credits.
The curriculum is based around ASE certification, and taught by Master ASE-certified instructors, in the large and well-equipped Weber State University Technical Education Building. There are numerous scholarship opportunities available here, and necessary tools are provided by the school, though it is recommended students work on developing their own collection.
Weber State University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology with Advanced Vehicle Systems Emphasis, or Field Service Operations Emphasis
Associate of Applied Science – Independent Shop Automotive Technical Education Program (ATEP)
Associate of Applied Science – General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP)
Associate of Applied Science – Heavy Duty Truck
Options to Double Major
Other Programs:
Institutional Certificate – Automotive Service Technology
5Southern Adventist University
(Collegedale, Tennessee)
Southern Adventest University
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Southern Adventist University ranks #5 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Southern Adventist University is a private university associated with the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, located in Collegedale, Tennessee.
SAU offers several 4-year, 2-year, and non-degree options for study, including a B.S./A.T. combined major that allows students to study Business Administration in combination with Auto Service. For students who are interested in a career in managing, operating, and even owning an automotive service business, this is an attractive option, providing for a business-heavy approach to the study of automotive service.
At SAU, Students receive hands-on instruction and practical experience through working in a full-service garage provided by the school to serves the surrounding community. Students also receive worksite experience by working in a local shop through a practicum. In addition to training, this helps students make connections with potential employers and begin to develop their careers.
As this is a religiously affiliated school, SAU offers opportunities for mission trips, which it describes as being designed to incorporate the specific focus of your major. If you are interested in taking a mission trip, and applying your studies along the way, this might be an attractive choice for you.
Southern Adventist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS). However, its automotive programs are not NATEF accredited.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Technology – Automotive Service
Bachelor of Science/Associate of Technology – Combined Major: Business Administration and Automotive Service
Associate of Technology – Automotive Service
Other Programs:
Certificate – Auto Service Technician
6Utah Valley University
(Orem, Utah)
Utah Valley University
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Utah Valley University ranks #6 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Utah Valley University is a public university located in Orem, Utah that offers numerous 4-year, 2-year, and non-degree options for studying Automotive Technology, Collision Repair Technology, and Diesel Mechanics Technology.
The many program options at UVU allow for a variety of focuses and specializations. In particular, a unique offering by USU is the option to pursue an A.A.S. in Collision Repair Technology with an emphasis on Street Rods. The programs are not all about speed and hi-gloss paint, however; USU also offers a B.S. in Technology Management, a multidisciplinary degree that prepares students for the business side of the automotive service industry.
Courses at UVU are taught with an emphasis on practical and hands-on learning, in a large and well-equipped facility, providing students with most of the tools they will need. Students have the opportunities to test and expand their knowledge, as well as socialize and make connections, through student organizations and automotive clubs on campus, group projects like the UVU Race Car, and through events like the annual Auto Expo. There are also many funding opportunities available to students, through numerous UVU and departmental scholarships.
Utah Valley University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). However, its automotive programs are not NATEF accredited.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Technology Management
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Collision Repair Technology, with option for Street Rod emphasis
Associate of Applied Science – Diesel Mechanics Technology
Associate of Science – Pre-Major in Automotive Technology
Other Programs:
Diploma – Automotive Technology
Diploma – Collision Repair Technology
Diploma – Diesel Mechanics Technology
Certificate – Automotive Technology
Certificate – Diesel Mechanics Technology
Certificate – Collision Repair Technology
7Brigham Young University Idaho
(Rexburg, Idaho)
Brigham Young University Idaho
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Brigham Young University Idaho ranks #7 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
BYU Idaho, located in Rexburg, Idaho, is a private university affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
BYU Idaho offers a high quality education with 2-year and 4-year degree program options. Their programs prepare students for the jobs of service technician and beyond, allowing for focuses in business and engineering, in addition to repair service. The technical courses are taught to ASE certification standards by Master ASE-certified instructors, ensuring the students receive a high-quality, valuable education.
The College of Physical Sciences and Engineering is focused on student success by providing career building and internship opportunities. Automotive students at BYU gain real-world experience by working in the full-service automotive garage that BYU Idaho provides for the surrounding community. Here, students can work on real cars with real issues, making repairs as instructional projects, and gaining valuable workplace experience.
Automotive students at BYU Idaho have numerous opportunities to share their knowledge, socialize, and network through automotive-focused student clubs and events, such as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Supermileage Competition Team.
Brigham Young University Idaho is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology Management
Bachelor of Science – Advanced Vehicle Systems
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology
8Walla Walla University
(College Place, Washington)
Walla Walla University
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Walla Walla University ranks #8 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Walla Walla University is a private university, affiliated with the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, located in College Place, Washington.
WWU offers 4-year and 2-year degree program options aimed at preparing students for a career in automotive service, as well as the management and operation of an automotive service business. Courses are taught in a state-of-the-art facility by Master ASE-certified instructors, using some of the newest, professional-grade technology.
Students can gain on-the-job experience while employed at University Auto, a full-service automotive shop run by WWU students that serves the surrounding community, which helps prepare for taking the ASE certification exams. Besides knowledge gained from experience (not to mention income) this is also valuable for students because it helps build their resumes before they’ve even graduated, showing potential employers that they not only know how to do the job, but that they’ve already been doing it, professionally, for a while.
Also, There is an Auto Club on campus that gives students opportunities to share their knowledge and skills, as well as socialize and network.
As this is a religiously-affiliated school, WWU helps arrange mission trips for students. If pursuing a mission trip is something that interests you, this could make WWU an attractive option.
Walla Walla University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). However, its automotive programs are not NATEF accredited.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Management
Associate of Science – Automotive Technology
9Idaho State University
(Pocatello, Idaho)
Idaho State University
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Idaho State University ranks #9 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Located in Pocatello, Idaho, Idaho State University is a public university devoted to teaching students the skills and technical knowledge they need for careers in automotive service, as well as collision repair and refinishing, and diesel technology.
ISU offers numerous 4-year, 2-year, and non-degree program options for study and specialization. The programs are tight-knit, with small class sizes and 8-week sessions for the technical courses, making for a focused, hands-on experience with the machines and tools used for instruction. Courses are taught by Master ASE-certified instructors, and based around ASE certification standards.
ISU aims to prepare its students for entry-level positions as automotive technicians, and has a high job placement rate for its graduates. Also, there are several student organizations at ISU through which students can share knowledge, socialize, network, and even compete, such as Skills USA.
Idaho State University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Applied Science – Automotive Technology
Bachelor of Applied Science – Collision Repair and Refinishing
Bachelor of Applied Science – Diesel/On-site Power Generation Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Collision Repair and Refinishing
Associate of Applied Science – Diesel Technology
Associate of Applied Science – On-site Power Generation Technology
Other Programs:
Intermediate Technical Certificate – Automotive Technology
Advanced Technical Certificate – Collision Repair and Refinishing
Intermediate Technical Certificate – Collision Repair
Advanced Technical Certificate – Diesel Technology
Advanced Technical Certificate – On-site Power Generation Technology
10Northern Michigan University
(Marquette, Michigan)
Northern Michigan University
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Northern Michigan University ranks #10 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Northern Michigan University, located in Marquette, Michigan, is a public university whose automotive programs are dedicated to preparing students for, and helping them secure, stable, long-term careers in the automotive service industry.
The Technology and Occupational Sciences Department at NMU works closely in partnership with industry professionals and businesses to provide internships and employment opportunities for students, giving them knowledge, experience, and connections.
The curriculum centers on ASE certification standards. The hands-on technical courses are taught with small class sizes in specialized labs in a state-of the-art facility, the Jacobetti Complex.
The degree programs offered through the Technology and Occupational Sciences Department are designed to “ladder” so that the credits of a certificate or 2-year degree can be applied toward a more extensive degree, such as a B.S. in a related field, without having to make up for missing credits. To aid in this, NMU offers numerous scholarship opportunities.
Northern Michigan University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Associate of Science – Automotive Service Technology
Option for Automotive Service Technology Minor
Other Programs:
Certificate – Automotive Service
Featured Schools
Penn Foster Career School
Penn Foster Career School
Campus & Online
Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance
Penn Foster Career School offers an online diploma in diesel mechanics and heavy truck maintenance. The distance education program features coursework in diesel engine repair, fuel injection systems, brake and transmission systems, and bus or truck systems management. Students can complete this program in as few as eight months.
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11Pittsburg State University
(Pittsburg, Kansas)
Pittsburg State University
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Pittsburg State University ranks #11 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas is a public university that offers industry-renowned 2-year and 4-year degree programs, and so, offers not just a high-quality, comprehensive education, but also a high recruitment rate for graduating students in the automotive mechanics industry.
The multiple options for study at PSU allow students to focus just on the technical side of the automotive repair industry, or to expand their focus to the business and management side of it. PSU readily accepts transfer students with relevant 2-year degrees, who can enter the B.A.S. in Technology program without loss of credits, as it is a 2+2 style degree. Also, students in the 4-year degree programs have their necessary tools provided by the school.
The Department of Automotive Technology is dedicated to helping students with career placement and advancement, and offers several career development opportunities, such as industry events. On campus, automotive student organizations, both competitive and non-competitive, allow students to share knowledge, socialize, network, and test their skills.
Pittsburg State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology
Bachelor of Applied Science – Technology with Automotive Service Technology focus, Collision Repair and Insurance Management Focus, Diesel and Heavy Equipment Focus, or Caterpillar ThinkBIGGER focus.
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Service Technology
Options to Minor in Automotive Technology, or Diesel/Heavy Equipment.
12McPherson College
(McPherson, Kansas)
McPherson College
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McPherson College ranks #12 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
McPherson College is a private college located in McPherson, Kansas, and is affiliated with the Church of the Brethren.
McPherson College is especially unique when compared to other schools with automotive mechanics programs, thanks to its dedicated focus on historic automobiles and their restoration. Its six 4-year degree programs allow students to focus on different aspects of automotive restoration, including automotive restoration business management, as well as motorcycle restoration. Also, it is the only school to offer a B.S. degree in Automotive Restoration Technology.
All of this makes McPherson a seriously attractive option if you are passionate about restoring old vehicles, but it is a path of specialization.
McPherson is home to the C.A.R.S. club, which allows students to share and test their knowledge of automotive restoration and socialize in a casual setting. The club hosts numerous events throughout the year and travels to conventions and car shows.
McPherson offers many scholarship and award opportunities, including two scholarships that were established by celebrity car enthusiast Jay Leno.
McPherson College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). However, its automotive programs are not NATEF accredited.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Restoration Technology
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Restoration Management
Bachelor of Science – Historic Automotive Technology
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Restoration Design
Bachelor of Science – Motorcycle Restoration Technology
13University of Alaska Anchorage – Community and Technical College
(Anchorage, Alaska)
University of Alaska Anchorage - Community and Technical College
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University of Alaska Anchorage Community and Technical College ranks #13 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
The University of Alaska Anchorage, the largest university in Alaska, is a public university that offers a straightforward approach to the study of automotive technology through its Community and Technical College division.
The school is career-focused, and the courses are modeled after corporate training programs, and based on ASE certification standards. It offers the unique option of the General Motors ASEP program, which specifically prepares students for automotive service career on GM vehicles, through partnering with GM dealerships. This provides strong career recruitment potential, as well as paid, on-the-job experience, and prepares students for Master ASE-certification.
The courses have small class sizes, and take a hands-on approach, allowing students to gain valuable experience with a wide variety of vehicles, working closely alongside instructors and peers.
The University of Alaska Anchorage is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on College and Universities (NWCCU) and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology with focus in General Automotive, or with focus in General Motors ASEP
Associate of Applied Science – Diesel Power Technology
Other Programs:
Certificate – Automotive Technology
Certificate – Diesel Power Technology
14University of Central Missouri
(Warrensburg, Missouri)
University of Central Missouri
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University of Central Missouri ranks #14 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
The University of Central Missouri, a public university located in Warrensburg, Missouri, is known for having a high quality, 4-year automotive technology degree program.
It is also known for having a high career-placement rate for its graduates, thanks to the School of Technology utilizing partnerships with automotive industry companies to provide internship opportunities, and career placement and advancement opportunities.
The B.S. in Automotive Technology Management offers three options for emphasis, blending technical instruction with business education. This gives students a comprehensive education, while allowing them to choose to focus more on automotive service, business management, or a balance of the two. Its technical courses are based around ASE certification, and taught in small class sizes in a large, well-equipped facility by Master ASE-certified instructors.
UCM is also home to a chapter of the Society of Automotive engineers, which provides numerous educational, enrichment, socialization, and networking opportunities for student members.
The University of Central Missouri is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology Management with concentration options in Automotive Technology, Design Technology, or Service Management
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15Southern Illinois University Carbondale
(Carbondale, Illinois)
Southern Illinois-Carbondale
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Southern Illinois University Carbondale ranks #15 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Southern Illinois University Carbondale is a public university that offers the only automotive technology program at a research university, making it stand out on this list.
The Department of Automotive Technology at SIU Carbondale offers a comprehensive, renowned B.S. in Automotive Technology program that mixes theoretical and technical education with business education, to produce well-rounded and well-prepared graduates. It is known for being a high quality program, with a high industry demand, which means students have more career opportunities upon graduation and a better chance at placement. The department is engaged in helping students secure and advance their careers in the field.
The courses are taught in the new, state-of-the-art Transportation Education Center, which houses over 90 late-model vehicles, giving students a healthy variety of hands-on experience. The school is also home to an automotive student organization that allows students to socialize and practice and develop their skills through varied activities, such as developing and racing a racecar, and community outreach.
Southern Illinois University Carbondale is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Technology
16Arkansas Tech University Ozark Campus
(Ozark, Arkansas)
Arkansas Tech University Ozark Campus
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Arkansas Tech University Ozark Campus ranks #16 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Arkansas Tech University is a public university that offers automotive programs at its satellite campus in Ozark, Arkansas.
The school offers a straightforward approach to the study of automotive mechanics service, as well as the study of collision repair, through several 2-year degree and non-degree options. Its courses are taught to ASE certification standards and provide students with hands-on, practical knowledge, as well as theoretical.
ATU Ozark offers a university quality education with a community and technical college feel, and the programs are geared toward preparing students for entry-level positions in the automotive service field. To aid in this mission, there are plenty of funding opportunities available through awards and scholarships at ATU.
Arkansas Tech University Ozark Campus is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Service Technology
Associate of Applied Science – Collision Repair Technology
Other Programs:
Technical Certificate – Automotive Service Technology
Technical Certificate – Collision Repair Technology
Certificate of Proficiency – Automotive Service
17Vincennes University
(Vincennes, Indiana)
Vincennes University
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Vincennes University ranks #17 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Vincennes University is a public university located in Vincennes Indiana, and boasts that it is “Indiana’s first college,” having been established in 1801.
VU offers several 2-year degree options, allowing for students to focus on automotive service, collision repair, or even diesel. The programs offer a straightforward approach, focused on helping students prepare for and enter the workforce in entry-level positions. The courses are taught by Master ASE-certified instructors in state-of the art facilities with small class sizes. This ensures intimate, hands-on training with new technology, equipment, and machines and gives students an up-to-date and practical knowledge of current industry practices and techniques.
The College of Technology is partnered with major corporations such as Subaru and Toyota, to bring students in all of its programs valuable educational and professional opportunities. Also, VU offers many opportunities for funding your education through scholarships and awards.
Vincennes University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). However, its automotive program is not NATEF accredited.
Degree Programs:
Associate of Science – Automotive Technology
Associate of Science – Collision Repair and Refinishing
Associate of Science – Diesel Technology, with options for General Study, or John Deere Ag-Tech Concentration or John Deere Consumer & Commercial Equipment Concentration (C&CE)
18Indiana State University
(Terre Haute, Indiana)
Indiana State University
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Indiana State University ranks #18 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana, is a public university that offers a B.S. degree program in Automotive Engineering Technology, with options to Minor.
The program mixes theoretical, technical, and practical education in automotive mechanics, with business education, emphasizing managerial skills. The goal of the program is to produce well-rounded automotive industry professionals who have a thorough understanding of both automotive technology, and sound management practices.
The Department of Applied Engineering and Technology Management provides opportunities for career placement and advancement, and for students to gain real-world experience and develop business connections through co-op and internship opportunities with automotive industry businesses.
Students at ISU have the chance for membership in automotive and engineering professional organizations, such as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and Epsilon Pi Tau, the international honorary for professions in technology. All of these organizations provide opportunities for academic enrichment, socialization, and professional development.
The program courses are taught in the state-of-the-art John T. Myers Technology Center, providing lab, classroom, and practical education. ISU offers numerous scholarship options for students.
Indiana State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its Automotive Engineering Technology program is nationally accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE), but it is not NATEF accredited.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Engineering Technology
Options for Minors in Automotive Technology Management, and Automotive Technology
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19Minnesota State University Mankato
(Mankato, Minnesota)
Minnesota State University Mankato
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Minnesota State University Mankato ranks #19 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
Minnesota State University Mankato is a public university that offers a comprehensive B.S. degree program in Automotive Engineering Technology.
Its curriculum is based on ASE standards with a particular engineering emphasis, blending the practical and skill aspects of automotive mechanics with engineering theory. The program expects students to have hands-on involvement with new and emerging automotive technologies, as well as the repair and maintenance of current ones. The courses are taught in a large, state-of-the-art facility.
The Automotive and Manufacturing Engineering Technology department is associated with several professional organizations such as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). Students can become involved with the organizations, and socialize, expand their knowledge, and make professional connections through organization-sponsored events, which can help with education enrichment, as well as career placement and advancement. MSU Mankato also offers many scholarship opportunities.
Minnesota State University Mankato is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its automotive program is nationally accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), but it is not NATEF accredited.
Degree Programs:
Bachelor of Science – Automotive Engineering Technology
20University of Arkansas Fort Smith
(Fort Smith, Arkansas)
University of Arkansas Fort Smith
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University of Arkansas Fort Smith ranks #20 on The 20 Best Automotive Mechanic Schools!
The University of Arkansas Fort Smith is a public university that offers a straightforward approach to the study of automotive technology, with several options for specialization.
The College of Applied Science and Technology at UAFS is committed to career readiness, offering internship opportunities for students to gain workplace experience, as well as career placement and advancement opportunities through the school’s professional partnerships.
The curriculum is based around ASE certification, and includes a balance of practical and theoretical instruction, with small class sizes.
The University of Arkansas Fort Smith is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its automotive programs are accredited by NATEF.
Degree Programs:
Associate of Applied Science – Automotive Technology
Other Programs:
Technical Certificate – Automotive Technology
Technical Certificate – Diesel Technology
Certificate of Proficiency – Automotive Driveability Specialist
Certificate of Proficiency – Automotive Undercar Specialist
Certificate of Proficiency – Automotive Drivetrain Specialist
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Penn Foster Career School
Penn Foster Career School
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Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance
Penn Foster Career School offers an online diploma in diesel mechanics and heavy truck maintenance. The distance education program features coursework in diesel engine repair, fuel injection systems, brake and transmission systems, and bus or truck systems management. Students can complete this program in as few as eight months.
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