What You Should Know About This Degree
Career paths that are similar to auto maintenance include automotive management, marine maintenance, and aviation maintenance. Before you commit to any particular program, make sure it aligns with your specific career goals.
There are many types of auto mechanic certificates you can earn to demonstrate your car knowledge to a prospective employer. For example, ASE offers 52 certification tests, including Collision Repair and Refinish Certification, Damage Analysis and Estimating Certification, and Alternate Fuels Certification.
It is possible to take these certification tests without first going to an auto mechanic school, but you should consider that such schools allow you to gain invaluable hands-on experience. Just because you have passed a written test does not mean you are ready to start working on a car. There is no substitute for the in-person experience of an auto mechanic school, as it gives you the skills to start your career right away.
In addition to preparing you for certification exams, many auto mechanic programs offer associate and bachelor’s degrees. This level of education can open up more opportunities for your career, such as helping car companies develop the latest automotive technology.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching auto mechanic schools.
- Am I eligible for this program? Generally, you will only need a high school diploma to be accepted into an auto mechanic school.
- How long does it take to complete this program? The answer to this question will depend on your particular program. Full-time students can expect associate degrees to take two years to complete, and bachelor’s degrees tend to take four years. Certificate programs can usually be completed in about a year.
When you are researching programs, be sure to keep track of deadlines and all other application requirements. Find this information on the school’s website or by contacting their admissions department.
Finance is yet another factor that you will need to consider. To help cover the cost of the auto mechanic school, apply to any available scholarships or grants and consider other financial aid options such as loans and income share agreements.