Best Auto Mechanic Schools of 2023

Pittsburg State University offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology. Students who enroll in this program can choose from six different areas of emphasis: Advanced Vehicle Systems, Collision Repair, and Insurance Management, Diesel and Heavy Equipment, Dealership and Corporate Transportation Management, Automotive Mechanical Design, and Automotive Technical. Pittsburgh State is one of only about 10 institutions of higher learning in the country that offer a four-year degree in automotive technology. Class size is kept to around 20, so there is plenty of one-on-one instruction and hands-on experience. More than three dozen automobiles are on site for students to work on, and they study using the same tools and technology that are employed in auto service centers throughout the country. The core classes delve into such areas as electronics, brake systems, steering, alignment, suspension, transmissions, climate systems, fuels, lubricants, hybrid and electric cars, and more.

Southern Adventist University provides higher education in a Christian environment. The school offers an automotive technology program that includes a wide range of subjects such as oxy-acetylene and arc welding, electrical systems, steering and suspension, brakes, engine rebuilding and machining, transmission, fuel, engine performance, emission controls, and even estimating and accounting. Students pursuing their bachelor's degree are required to take at least 12 hours of religion courses and must demonstrate a knowledge of Seventh-day Adventist teachings. The university also offers an 18-credit auto service minor and a 32-credit automotive service technician certificate; the latter is awarded to students who complete the technical classes of the associate program and one religion class.

Southern Adventist University provides higher education in a Christian environment. The school offers an automotive technology program that includes a wide range of subjects such as oxy-acetylene and arc welding, electrical systems, steering and suspension, brakes, engine rebuilding and machining, transmission, fuel, engine performance, emission controls, and even estimating and accounting. Students pursuing their bachelor's degree are required to take at least 12 hours of religion courses and must demonstrate a knowledge of Seventh-day Adventist teachings. The university also offers an 18-credit auto service minor and a 32-credit automotive service technician certificate; the latter is awarded to students who complete the technical classes of the associate program and one religion class.

Rolla Technical Institute offers a two-year auto technology program. During the first year, students delve into theory and an in-depth study of automotive systems. The second year focuses on diagnosing and repair work. Subjects of study include engine repair and performance, transmissions, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical systems, heating, and air conditioning, shop safety, and cost estimates. Both instructors are Master Certified Technicians and certified for heavy-duty diesel by the A.S.E. Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a pre-entrance exam. The program is certified by NATEF (National Automotive Education Foundation), ASE, and East Central College, located in Union, Missouri, and offers dual college credits for students. SkillsUSA assists students of the program in developing technical, academic, and other skills so they can find employment and build a successful career in this field.

Rosedale Technical Institute offers an Associate Degree in Automotive Technology Training. Students get lots of hands-on experience in the school's automotive labs, where the environment is designed to reflect exactly what is found in real-world auto service centers, complete with lifts and the diagnostic and repair equipment used by those working in the field. Partnerships with local companies and national manufacturers ensure that students always have a variety of vehicles to work on. Instructors are A.S.E. certified, and the program prepares students to be both Enhanced Emissions Inspection Technicians and Pennsylvania State Inspection Technicians. Daytime and evening classes are available, so working adults or those with family responsibilities can earn their degrees without interfering with these obligations.

Walla Walla University provides liberal arts education in a Christian environment. The automotive department combines classroom instruction with hands-on training and complete access to the fully functional garage on campus that helps students earn money while honing real-world skills. High-level automotive classes are taught by faculty with many years of dealership and aftermarket modification experience. Small class sizes mean students get personalized advice and instruction in classes covering engine performance, computer systems, hybrids, welding, and machining, as well as math, English, and accounting. The intent is to graduate students who are well-rounded. Also, students get the opportunity to buy tools at a deep discount, enabling graduates to embark on their careers fully-equipped. Students may earn bachelor’s degrees in Automotive Service or Automotive Management, or an associate degree in Automotive Technology.

Northern Michigan University offers three automotive programs: a one-year maintenance certificate program, a two-year technician certificate program, and a two-year Associate Degree in Service Technology. The school's laboratory provides students with plenty of opportunities for hands-on study related to diagnosis and repair as well as general maintenance. They gain an in-depth understanding of brakes, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, steering, suspensions, transmissions and transaxles, drivelines, and more. Attention is also given to safe work practices. Credits earned in the associate program are transferable and can be applied toward a bachelor's degree. Besides auto service and repair, students of these programs can also find employment in auto manufacturing, auto parts sales, and other auto-related industries.

Bristol Technical Education Center offers a two-year, four-semester program in Auto Technology. Students learn how to diagnose, service, and maintain multiple automotive systems such as brakes, computers, fuel injection, steering and suspension, transmissions and differentials, and heating and air conditioning. Along with these technical skills, employability skills training is incorporated into the curriculum from start to finish. The first year consists of classroom instruction and practical application, and students learn about safety as well as tools and methods used by today's technicians. Year two gives them real-world experience as they diagnose and repair vehicles from actual customers. The school's work-based learning program assists with finding employment, and each student can take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification exams. High school students in grades 11 and 12 as well as those who have completed their compulsory schooling, can apply. Bristol Technical Education Center is located in Bristol, Connecticut.

The Automotive Technology program offered at CPI is a nine-month, 900-hour program that educates students to diagnose, repair, and maintain cars and light trucks that operate on gas, electricity, or alternative fuels. They learn how to use modern electronic diagnostic tools, digital manuals, and other computerized shop equipment found in dealerships and auto service shops throughout the industry. Subjects of study include brakes, transmissions, vehicle climate control, wiring diagrams, lamps and bulbs, security systems, cooling systems, drive trains, and more. Both theory and hands-on training equip students to enter the workforce as mechanics, technicians, and inspectors. The maximum class size is 15, and classes start in September. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.

The Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology Supervision at the University of Northwestern Ohio is one of the nation's top automotive education programs. Students who complete an associate degree in automotive technology at UNOH can matriculate directly into this two-year program to learn advanced skills and increase their earning potential. The curriculum focuses on experiential learning with students working in the program's auto shop on a variety of different vehicles. All students are eligible to take ASE tests to become ASE-Certified, a valuable, industry-recognized certification of excellence, and UNOH covers the cost of up to two ASE exams per student.