There is no denying the importance of auto mechanics in today’s day and age. Although the automotive industry has grown by leaps and bounds in terms of technology, it can’t do what a trained auto mechanic can.
And the best way to train automotive service technicians? An automotive technology program! So if you want to stand out from the competition and make your mark in the automotive industry as a technician or mechanic, you need to start looking up mechanic schools.
Some of the best auto mechanic schools house incredible auto mechanic programs that can help you learn and improve your performance. Hence, we have put together a list of our top picks when it comes to mechanic schools. But always remember, the best auto mechanic school is the one that best serves your interests!
Top Auto Mechanic Schools To Check Out
When it came to picking the best schools for automotive management and other disciples, we had to look at the following factors:
- The student success rate
- The student satisfaction rate
- Retention and graduation rates
- Student-to-faculty ratio
- Reputation and credibility
- Tuition quality
- Affordability
A school can achieve a score of 100. If the scores are tied, the institution or program with the lowest tuition earns the higher rating.
We believe that the four areas covered in this rating provide a decent indication of a school’s capacity to provide a high-quality education at a reasonable price.
Without further ado, here are the top automotive colleges and trade schools that every automotive service technician should look into.
1. Arkansas State University-Newport
Score: 100
Tuition: $7,130
Graduation Rate: 54%
Retention Rate: 75%
Student-Faculty: 14:1
Since its inception in 1909, Arkansas State University has been committed to the education of horticulture, farming, and textile industry in its home state. The simplest option for students to gain vocational experience at this school is to enroll directly in one of its top-ranked degree programs.
Technicians that are Master Certified by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) teach and supervise the Automotive Service Technology program. Using the latest diagnostic equipment and techniques in Arkansas State University-Newport’s Automotive Service Technology program, students will learn to diagnose and repair automobiles with hands-on training. Their automotive engineering technology program is of top-notch quality and the best place to start for mechanics looking to start their careers in automotive technology.
Because ASUN maintains smaller class sizes, each student receives the personalized attention required for success.
Finally, Arkansas State-Newport is one of the greatest places to get the skills needed to launch a prosperous career as an auto mechanic.
2. Walla Walla University
Score: 98.3
Tuition: $30,531
Graduation Rate: 64%
Retention Rate: 77%
Student-Faculty: 13:1
Walla Walla University, in College Place, Washington, has been affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist church since its inception in 1892. Currently, the school offers a variety of disciplines, but one of the most prominent is its Automotive School.
This training is the finest for aspiring car mechanics in terms of application. The program lets students gain real-world experience by allowing them to use cutting-edge instruments such as the Mustang AWD-IMP dynamometer and tire alignment equipment. By operating a genuine on-campus, student-run auto shop, students can work toward their associate of science in automotive technology and bachelor of science degrees in automotive technology or management. It is also a great place for students to learn about automotive engineering technology.
Finally, the skills students receive via WWU’s hands-on approach will place them ahead of competitors in the job market as they pursue successful careers in this profession.
3. Northwest Iowa Community College
Score: 97.3
Tuition: $7,130
Graduation Rate: 54%
Retention Rate: 75%
Student-Faculty: 14:1
Northwest Iowa Community College is a premier and community-oriented college of technology committed to providing quality education for every individual. Although the school offers a wide range of two-year degrees, its transportation department offers some of the most extensive job training opportunities in the country. It focuses on professional training for aspiring car technicians.
Within the transportation department, the automotive & light-duty diesel technology program teaches students essential diagnostic and shop management skills, while the diesel technology program focuses on the maintenance and repair of semi-truck/trailer, construction, and agricultural equipment systems. NCC also offers Iowa’s sole heavy equipment operating and maintenance program, where students are mentored in tractor and motor grater repairs, as well as a range of other skills in safe loading and transportation methods. In today’s fast-paced world, these unique abilities are priceless, and Northwest Iowa Community College is one of the greatest locations to learn automotive technology management.
4. University of Central Missouri
Score: 97.5
Tuition: $9,071
Graduation Rate: 53%
Retention Rate: 74%
Student-Faculty: 17:1
The University of Central Missouri initially opened its doors in 1871, establishing a tradition of academic quality and community involvement that continues to this day. The institution currently serves approximately 12,300 students and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It is the #87 school in the Midwest, according to the U.S. News and World Report.
UCM offers three different automotive technology undergraduate degrees. Students might pursue a career in automotive technology, design technology, or service management. Students can also pursue a minor in automobile technology. These programs train students in engine repair, design component engineering, and dealer/warranty operations. In addition to offering training on automotive management and engine performance, they also offer an advanced vehicle systems minor. The advanced vehicle systems minor comes really in handy for all automotive service technicians pursuing an automotive technology program.
Overall, students receive a well-rounded education in the auto tech field, with future professional success as the top goal.
5. Northeast Community College
Score: 97
Tuition: $3,750
Graduation Rate: 52%
Retention Rate: 71%
Student-Faculty: 17:1
Northeast Community College was founded in 1973 by the merger of Northeastern Nebraska College and Nebraska Technical College. Now, it has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and serves nearly 6,500 students.
The institution offers associate’s degrees in auto body repair technology and automotive technology, as well as certificates that prepare graduates for work as automotive light service technicians. Their automotive technology supervision is top-notch.
Students in these specialized schools learn frame alignment, metal finishing, panel replacement, automotive maintenance, engine performance, collision repair, auto service management, braking and alignment technicalities, electric and fuel systems, and a variety of other specialist abilities. Students who seek Northeastern’s auto mechanic degrees and certificates ultimately discover that their new abilities make them valuable competitors in the job market after graduation.
6. Alfred State College of Technology
Score: 95.5
Tuition: $8,857
Graduation Rate: 54%
Retention Rate: 72%
Student-Faculty: 16:1
In 1945, Alfred State College of Technology was formed in Alfred, New York, on the principles of honesty, respect, service, and dedication. This reputable college provides both associate and baccalaureate degrees in a hands-on environment that prepares students for in-demand and involved careers.
The institution’s automotive service technician program is a two-year advanced curriculum. As of 2021, Niche.com ranked ASC third in the United States for universities with the general subject of study: mechanics. This two-year program will keep you constantly involved while you investigate every aspect of cars, including systems, engine styles, and car varieties, including diesel.
Together with the daily hands-on lab work in which students participate, many students contribute to community projects that expand their abilities and enhance their resumes. Those who complete this degree can immediately enter a program to get their bachelor’s degree. Automotive engineering programs can be quite helpful before pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
7. Southern Adventist University
Score: 95.5
Tuition: $23,210
Graduation Rate: 48%
Retention Rate: 82%
Student-Faculty: 13:1
Since 1892, Southern Adventist University has served as a Seventh-day Adventist school for post-secondary education and professional training in automotive service technology. The school fosters Christian values within its students, alongside academic and professional work ethics. Students who train under SAU’s career programs become highly sought-after in their particular spheres of the industry after graduating with both their bachelor’s and associate’s degrees.
SAU’s industrial technologies division provides potential mechanics and car service industrialists with a thorough liberal arts education as well as mechanical instruction and real-world experience. Students have the option of earning both their associate’s and their bachelor’s of technology in auto service management. A certification in automotive service technology is also available to these students, who may minor in auto service technology if they choose. Southern Adventist University alumni who pass the Auto Service Test (ASE) go on to have prosperous careers in the auto repair field.
It is great for technicians and services pursuing automotive engineering technology who plan on taking the automotive service excellence test as well.
8. Alexandria Technical & Community College
Score: 95.3
Tuition: $5,910
Graduation Rate: 62%
Retention Rate: 67%
Stud1ent-Faculty: 20:1
Since its founding in 1961, Alexandria Technical and Community College has dedicated itself to furthering trade mastery and education. According to Niche.com, the school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ranks ninth among Minnesota’s best community colleges.
The school operates through six schools of study, and its transportation and mechanics programs are top-of-the-line. Students pursuing an associate’s diploma in diesel mechanics can focus on developing skills in truck repair, maintenance, and even farm and construction equipment repair.
Students can also choose to participate in a marine, motorcycle, and powersports technician training program that works directly with some of the world’s greatest name-brand manufacturers. Finally, the possibilities Alexandria provides assist students in finding and succeeding in long-term careers.
9. Southern Illinois University – Carbondale
Score: 94.5
Tuition: $15,240
Graduation Rate: 45%
Retention Rate: 75%
Student-Faculty: 10:1
Since its founding in 1869, Southern Illinois University has been committed to leading research as a postsecondary educational institution. It has the #185 top undergraduate engineering programs in the US, according to US News and World Report. The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation has accredited SIU’s College of Applied Sciences (NATEF).
SIU’s automotive technology program enables students to obtain their bachelor of science in automotive technology. Through this program, students learn about embedded technologies, autonomous mobility systems, automotive business operations, and technology. The SIU student automotive technology club operates an open car shop where students can obtain real-world experience related to their studies. Overall, the university provides a diverse range of possibilities for potential auto mechanics to improve their education while also gaining the skills required to thrive in their field.
10. Ferris State University
Score: 94
Tuition: $12,740
Graduation Rate: 48%
Retention Rate: 77%
Student-Faculty: 15:1
For those interested in a career in automobiles and technology, FSU offers a variety of options. For example, they offer bachelor’s degrees in automotive engineering technology and automotive management. Students can also pursue an associate’s degree in automotive service technology and a minor in automotive management. The curriculum associated with each of these degree options teaches students engineering, emission and dynamometer testing, vehicular systems, instrument calibration, and other skills. Finally, Ferris State is an excellent alternative for those interested in a career in automotive technology.
