25 Best Auto Mechanic Schools of 2024

Mechanics are indispensable in our community. The other jobs can be replaced by technology, but the work of a mechanic remains irreplaceable. If you have a car hobby, it is time to make it a career and earn from it. To become a successful mechanic, you need to learn from one of the best auto mechanic schools.

The auto market is evolving very first, and on-the-job training is no longer sufficient. This is because the tools and knowledge needed to work on vehicles these days are more specialized. The best auto mechanic schools will take you through in-depth training about automobile parts and up-to-date information on upcoming technologies.

Finding a suitable school for auto mechanics may be a little difficult due to the many arising schools. To get the right training, you have to go to a good school which will help you in building a profitable auto mechanic career. Here, we shall make your search easier by discussing some of the best auto mechanic school near me that provides high-quality training programs:

The 25 Best Auto Mechanic Schools:

If you want to start your career as an auto mechanic, the first step is to look for a good auto mechanic school near you. You may decide to go for two years of training in a vocational school and get an official degree in automotive. Before you settle on a school, it is advisable to ensure that it has the right resources to offer the training.

We have done the research and come up with a list of the 25 best automotive schools which can fulfill your desire to be the best auto mechanic. The first 20 are located in the USA, 2 in the U.K., 2 in Canada, and 1 in Australia. All the schools we discuss below are authorized to offer automotive degrees. They also offer collision repair, engine performance, diesel technology, and diagnostic training.

1. University of Northwestern Ohio

The UNOH is located in Lima, Ohio. This school offers several non-degree and degree courses for auto mechanics. The University has numerous specialization paths.

This University has small sizes, and thus students are given enough attention. They also have state-of-the-art technology and skilled instructors. Their curriculum is centered on ACA certification. Their programs are taught by instructors with master’s ASE certification.

The University of Northwestern Ohio offers unique options for focusing on alternative fuel technologies and high-performance technology. One of their major course in automotive is their 2.2 B.s degree. This degree course combines business education and auto mechanic education.

The purpose of the program is to prepare students to own and manage their automotive schools. The campus has lots of automotive clubs where students network, socialize and share their knowledge and skills. UNOH has all the necessary tools that you will need all through the technical sturdy.

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Accreditation

The region accreditation of UNOH is from the Higher Learning Commission (HHC). NATEF gives accreditation to its automotive programs.

2. Weber State University

Weber State University is situated in Ogden, Utah. If you are somewhere in Utah and looking for auto mechanic schools near me, then this is the ideal place to go for your ATT or B.S. This University is reputable for its high-quality degree programs in automotive.

The college of Technology, Applied Science and Engineering offers non-degree, 4-year, and 2-year courses for sturdy and specialization. The sturdy prepares the students for both automotive business management and automotive service. They have a General Motors ASEP program that prepares you for automotive services in G.M. vehicles.

They offer the program in partnership with the dealership, thus increasing your recruitment potential. Weber State University also offers a 2+2 structure for degree programs. This allows you to start your career after two years of learning and then come back to continue with the program and graduate with a 4-year degree without losing your credits.

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Accreditation

The curriculum at Weber State University is based on the ASE certification. The auto mechanic students are taught by master ASE-certified instructors. The institution has regional accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). NATEF has accredited the automotive programs in this institution.

3. Ferris State University

Are you looking are an auto mechanic school online? Ferris State University is a well-known institution that will offer you an automotive management course remotely. This is a great option for those already working in the field but who want to expand their knowledge. The University is located in Rapids, Michigan.

Ferris State University’s curriculum blends theoretical, practical, and technical education. All their technical courses are taught by instructors who are Maters ASE certified. The training focuses on technology below seven years. They also have over 100 late model cars on site. This ensures that the students know of different current technologies and vehicle systems.

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Accreditation

The Ferris State University has regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). NATEF accredits the automotive programs at this University.

4. Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State University is one of the best institutions of post-secondary education at Kansas State. The institution started as a domestic and manual arts training school in 1903. They provide vocational opportunities for people out and in Kansas.

The University now has an automotive technology program that offers high-quality career-oriented education. This institution offers bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees. The sturdy equips you with all the knowledge and skills you need to deal with corporate transportation management, advanced vehicle systems, and collision repair.  

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Accreditation

The Mater Automotive Service Technology accredits the automotive program at Pittsburg State University through the NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation). These accreditations ensure that you get the highest quality academic program to help you in your career life.

5. Northern Michigan University

Northern Michigan University is located in Marquette, Michigan. This public University offers automotive programs that prepare students to secure long-term and stable careers in the automotive service industry. NMU works in close partnership with businesses and industry professionals, which helps students to find employment and internships.

Northern Michigan University’s curriculum follows the ASE certification standards. They teach technical courses that require hands-on in small classes to give them a better understanding. The technical labs are specialized in automotive training. NMU has the highest level of accreditation, which is Master Automotive Service Technician.

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Accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission accredits Northern Michigan University. The automotive courses in the institution have their accreditation by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology.

6. Southern Adventist University

Southern Adventist University is situated in Collegedale, Tennessee. It is a privately owned institution that functions under the Seventh-Day Adventist Church since 1892. This University offers Christian values alongside professional and academic work ethic.

Students from Southern Adventist University are recognized in the industry for graduating with both associate and bachelor’s degrees. The school has a full-service garage where students get practical experience and hands-on instructions. The garage also serves the surrounding community.

SAU students also go for practicum in local shops where they gain worksite experience. On top of the training, students can also make connections and networks with potential employers during these exercises.

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Accreditation

Southern Adventist University has regional accreditation by SACSCOC (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges). Their automotive programs are, however, not accredited by NATEF.

7. Wyotech

Wyotech is situated in Laramie. It is one of the top-notch institutions in the state. Wyotech is a highly intensive school with different automotive courses. Technical courses use most of their time doing hands-on work. Each of the courses you take has a nine months track.

This track consists of 6 months of core classes on your area of interest and three months for specialty focus. Wyotech aims to provide top-notch and concentrated training to prepare students for the increasing demand for technicians in the diesel and automotive industries.

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Accreditation

Wyotech is accredited by Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), which was formally called NATTS. This institution is nationally accredited but not regionally accredited. This means that most of the regionally accredited institutions will not accept degrees and credits from Wyotech.

8. Kettering University

Kettering University was founded in 1919 by a group of visionaries as The School of Automobile Trades. The University is located in Flint, Michigan. It offers both engineering and management courses. Kettering University offers you the skills you will need to thrive in whichever field you want to enter.

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Accreditation

Kettering University is accredited regionally by the Higher Learning Commission. ABET accredits the mechanical engineering courses.

9. Universal Technical Institute

Universal Technical Institute is located in Phoenix, AZ. It is one of the best schools offering Automotive Technology Programs. The school believes in learning by doing. They will train you on maintenance and repair for both domestic and imported vehicles. UTI has a hands-on training environment with experienced instructors.

By the time you are studying at Universal Technical Institute, you will know how to work on auto systems, from simple engine systems to complex power and performance machines. They have specialized training in Lexus, BMW, and Ford, among others.

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Accreditation

All the Universal Technical Institute schools are accredited by the ACCSC. The agency is recognized by the United States Department of Education. 

10. Fox Valley Technical College

FVTC is located in Appleton, Wisconsin. This school has been a college of choice for more than 100 years now. The institution offers learners high-tech occupational training for today’s workplace. It is the right institution for people seeking to start their careers in the automotive industry or those who want to sharpen their job skills.

Fox Valley Technical College has more than 200 programs you can choose from. Their Automotive Programs offer you a well-rounded and broad knowledge base education in career advancement. The programs will give you an overview of the automotive industry.

Through the course at the institution, you will learn how to diagnose, repair and service a wide range of auto and engine components. Fox Valley Technical College automotive programs offer you some elective courses. This course helps you to gain experience or pursue a specialty via an internship at local automotive shops.

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Accreditation

Fox Valley Technical College has its regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Their Automotive courses have been accredited by the Automotive Service Education Program.

11. Utah Valley University

If you live in Utah and happen to be looking for ‘auto mechanic schools near me,’ then Utah Valley University would be an ideal choice. This public University is located in Orem, Utah. The institution offers non-degree, 2-year, and 4-year options for studying Diesel Mechanics Technology, Collision Repair Technology, and Automotive Technology.

Utah Valley University has a variety of programs that provide you with several specializations and focuses. The courses here are taught with an emphasis on hands-on and practical learning in well-equipped and large facilities. Students can further expand their knowledge and connections through automotive clubs, student organizations, and other group projects.

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Accreditation

Utah Valley University has regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Their automotive programs, however, do not have NATEF accreditation.

12. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas is among the best institutions to get your automotive technology degree. This University is located in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The school also offers you several options for specialization. The school is committed to offering the best automotive knowledge and skills to prepare you for your career ahead.

The University of Arkansas has several professional partnerships with automotive firms in the region. The firms offer students with internship opportunities where they get career placements, workplace experience, and advanced opportunities.

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Accreditation

The University of Arkansas has its accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). NATEF accredits the automotive programs in this institution.

13. Central Lakes College

Central Lakes College is among the 37 Minnesota State Universities and Colleges offering affordable and excellent education in the state. The institute is located in Brainerd, MN. Therefore, if you live around the area and look for a ‘mechanic college near me, this will be an ideal school.  

Central Lakes College offers Auto Mechanic programs that prepare you for pursuing your career. The students have a student conduct code, dress code, and an attendance policy that is strictly enforced. The programs are so intense, thus preparing the students for the real world.

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Accreditation

Central Lakes College has accreditation in the Master Automotive Technician Level, which is the highest-ranking accreditation. The Automotive Technology programs are accredited by NATEF.

14. Massachusetts Bay Community College

Massachusetts Bay Community College is located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is among the leading institutions in Automotive Programs. They offer automotive specializations and career pathways. This enables their students to get an Associate of Science degree with a specialization in Chrysler, BMW, BM, or Lexus/Toyota.

The instructors at Massachusetts Bay Community College are ASE certified. The students in this institution are taught using new model vehicles and advanced diagnostic equipment. The automotive programs are designed with a built-in experimental learning component.

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Accreditation

The NECHE regionally accredits Massachusetts Bay Community College. NATEF accredits all their automotive programs in this institution.

15.  San Jacinto College Central CA

San Jacinto College Central CA is located in San Jacinto, CA. this automotive school concentrates on producing sharp and highly skilled technicians versed with the latest technology. The school collaborates with different automotive manufacturers such as Toyota T-TEN, Mopar CAP, Honda PACT, GM ASEP, and Ford ASSET.

This partnership helps San Jacinto College Central CA to offer specialized training in automotive programs. They also have an automotive FAST program where the students study the eight areas of Automotive Service Excellence. With this program, you become a generalist in the automotive industry.

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Accreditation

San Jacinto College has its accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The automotive programs in this institution are accredited by NATEF.

16. Penn Foster College

If you are passionate about vehicles and you want to begin your career in auto mechanics, then Penn Foster College will take you through the training. From their training, you will gain the necessary skills and knowledge to work in car dealerships, repair shops, and even garages.

Penn Foster College offers online automotive programs at an affordable price. With their online programs, you can learn from hone at custom-designed time. The institution has a committed support system. You can reach the instructors and student service departments easily through calls or email.

After finishing the automotive programs, you go through a self-arranged work experience that helps you gain more experience. This is an optional exercise that helps students get hands-on and practical experience in real-world work environments.

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Accreditation

Penn Foster College is accredited by DEAC (Distance Education Accrediting Commission). Their automotive curriculum is certified by ASE.

17. McPherson College

McPherson College is situated in McPherson, Kansas. This institution is associated with the Church of Brethren. McPherson College outstands when compared to other automotive schools since it focuses on historic automobiles and how you can restore them.

The automotive degree programs in McPherson College go for four years. In the program, you learn different aspects of automotive restoration, including motorcycle restoration and automotive restoration business management.

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Accreditation

McPherson College has its regional accreditation from Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The automotive programs are, however, not accredited by NATEF.

18. Idaho State University

Idaho State University is situated in Pocatello, Idaho. This public University concentrates on teaching students technical knowledge and skills that they require in the automotive industry. This University offers non-degree, 2-year, and 4-year degree programs.

Idaho State University prepares its students for entry positions as automotive technicians. Graduates from this institution have very high job placement rates. The school also has student organizations where students network, socialize and share their knowledge and skills.

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Accreditation

Idaho State University has its regional accreditation from Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The automotive programs are NATEF accredited.  

19. Walla Walla University

Walla Walla University is situated at College Place, Washington, and it is associated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. This University offers students 2-year and 4-year automotive degree programs. Their training aims to prepare their students for a great career in the automotive industry.

Walla Walla University ensures the students have technical skills and equip them on operation and management of the automotive service business. The automotive courses take place in state-of-the-art facilities, and the instructors are ASE certified. The school is religiously affiliated. Thus they also organize mission trips for the students.

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Accreditation

Walla Walla University has its regional accreditation from the NWCCU. The automotive programs from the institution are, however, not NATEF accredited.

20. University of Alaska Anchorage

This university is situated in Anchorage, Alaska. It is the largest University in Alaska. If you live around Alaska and are looking for mechanic trade schools for auto mechanics, this community college will be the place. The institution is career-focused, and its curriculum meets the ASE certification programs.

This University has unique automotive programs like General Motors ASEP. This program prepares the students specifically to work on GM vehicles. The school curriculum follows the ASE standards. The automotive courses are taught in small class sizes. They also have specialized state-of-the-art facilities where students go for their practices.

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Accreditation

The University of Alaska Anchorage is accredited regionally by NWCCU. Their automotive programs have accreditation from NATEF.

21. Birmingham City University

Birmingham City University is located in Bartholomew Row, Birmingham, in the United Kingdom. This institution offers some of the best automotive programs in the UK. The institution offers students with knowledge and skills that will enable them to be at the forefront of developments in the automotive industry.

Birmingham City University, automotive engineering courses focus on project-based activities. Students get practical experience on how to apply automotive engineering to real-life problems. The instructors are highly knowledgeable, and you have an opportunity to interact and learn from the experts.

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Accreditation

Automotive engineering courses at Birmingham City University are accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)

22. Coventry University

Coventry University is located at Priory St, Coventry in the UK. The school offers an automotive engineering course that aims to raise highly skilled and qualified graduates to match the requirements in the industry. The courses equip the students with both managerial and technical skills.

Coventry University has partnered with the Jagua Land Rover. Students learn how to rest and design safe, refined, and fuel-efficient vehicles from experts through this network. By the end of the program, the students understand all the components of a vehicle.

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The automotive programs at Coventry University are recognized and accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). When taking the master’s programs, you undertake some professional development module which is accredited by Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

23. Fanshawe College

Fanshawe College is located in Ontario, Canada. This institution offers experimental education and flexible learning opportunities as per the market needs. The school has more than 200 certificates, diplomas, degrees, and apprenticeship programs in business, hospitality, technology, and automotive fields.

Fanshawe College also provides skill upgrading and re-skilling opportunities for mature learners. Their automotive service management course will prepare you for supervisory and management positions in the transportation industry. They also train their students on how to deal with the sophisticated systems in today’s automobiles.  

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Accreditation

The programs in Fanshawe College are accredited by The Co-operative Education Work Integrated Learning Canada.

24. Ontario Tech University

Ontario Tech University is located in Oshawa in Canada. Their unique and innovative graduate and undergraduate programs are designed to meet their students’ interests and career aspirations. Their automotive and mechatronics engineering department offers students a high-quality education through research and teaching.

Ontario Tech University is the only institution in Canada that offers an automotive engineering program. Their leading and innovative programs prepare students to thrive in the 21st evolving century. Students are taught how to develop solutions to issues in the industry such as robotics and automation, electric and hybrid vehicles, and autonomous vehicle designs.

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Accreditation

The automotive engineering programs at Ontario Tech University have accreditation from Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB).

25. Brighton Institute of Technology

Brighton Institute of Technology is located in Melbourne, Australia. This technical institution offers some of the best automotive courses. The courses provide the students with the knowledge and skills of becoming an automotive managers. By the end of the courses, the graduates have management and leadership skills.

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Brighton Institute of Technology is a leading institution in Australia and Australian Registered Training Organization. All the programs offered in the institution are recognized nationally and internationally.

Some Related FAQs

Is There a High Demand For Auto Mechanics?

Most people are running away from blue-collar jobs, and this is making its demand rise. The demand for auto mechanics is quite high. Thus it would be an excellent choice to take an automotive course. Automotive mechanics will is one career that will never be replaced by technology. However, you need to be up to date with the most recent technologies.

What Is The Highest Paid Automotive Mechanic?

Automotive mechanics are well paid, but the prices differ depending on the type of career. The pay will also vary with which part of the world you are working in. Some of the best-paid automotive mechanical jobs in the US are aircraft mechanics, industrial machinery mechanics, Mobile heavy equipment mechanics, diesel mechanics, and electrical mechanics. As per Zip Recruiter, the highest-paid automotive mechanic starts from $29,500 as an apprentice and may end up getting $86,000 as a veteran roadway mechanic in the United States.

Can Mechanics Make 6 Figures?

Most mechanics can make a decent living from their earnings. The question of whether they can earn six figures will depend on how the mechanic gets paid. Some of them are paid at a flat rate, meaning that they will get the same salary irrespective of their work. However, those that get paid based on the automotive they repair can make close to 6 figures, if not six figures.

How Much Money Does One Get for Being a Mechanic?

How much a mechanic makes highly depends on their exact profession and industry. The salary also varies from one country to another. To be gross, mechanic salaries range between $44,000 and $55,000. This can go higher if you take additional tasks out of the workplace. This tells you that automotive mechanics is a good choice if you are looking for a promising career.

Is It Worth Becoming a Mechanic?

Mechanic career is a completely worth career, especially in the modern days. These days people want white color jobs, thus increasing the demand for mechanics. Mechanics work pays quite well, and it will not take you long to get employment. Therefore, if you are interested in vehicles, you can earn from it by studying automotive programs.

Is Auto Mechanic a Dying Trade?

Some people think an auto mechanic is a dying career due to the raising in technology, but this is not true. There will always be the need for a person to diagnose and repair autos, thus creating mechanics. Vehicle technologies keep on advancing, and as a good mechanic, you will need to keep up with the pace.

Is Auto Mechanic a Good Job?

An auto mechanic is an awesome career for people looking for something enjoyable and highly rewarding. There is a shortage of auto mechanics, thus increasing the demand. The job is also well rewarding, and you will make decent earnings from the job.

With the highly rising number of vehicles on the road, you can be assured of the great need for auto mechanics. The best way to become a good mechanic is to attend a good automotive school and get the task’s knowledge, skills, and experience.

How Can I Become a Good Auto Mechanic?

If you are a vehicle lover and enjoy working on mechanical objects, being an auto mechanic is the right career. But how do you become a good auto mechanic? This is a question that will most probably run across your mind.

One of the ways to become a good auto mechanic is by attending the best automotive school. Apart from that, you have to go some extra steps. Here are some other tips that will help you become a good mechanic:

Read Also: How To Become An Electric Car Mechanic?

Finish your GED or High School Education

Before becoming an auto mechanic, you will need to have completed your GED or high school diploma. It is more advisable to do an Automotive Youth Education Service program in high school. This program offers students with hands-on and academic training in automotive technology.

Enroll in a High Learning Education Program

To become a good mechanic, you need to advance your knowledge in a high institution of learning. Most states have a variety of automotive programs. You are, therefore, free to choose the program that you are interested in.

Automotive technology degrees offer you classes in different education systems ranging from power trains, suspensions, and engine repair. The degree certificate will make employers more confident that you have sufficient knowledge to work on auto machines.

Look for Car Manufacturer Internships and Certifications

Apart from the training you get in school, go for additional training to get extra certifications. You can also look for internships, and this will help you to connect with the work environments. Some auto mechanic schools partner with local repair shops and dealerships where they post their students to get hands-on experience.

Get a Set of Tools

The best auto mechanic has the right tools in their toolbox. Once you have the knowledge and skills, consider buying high-quality mechanical tools from good brands. Some jobs will require you to have personal tools, and you need to be prepared as a mechanic.

Final Words:

One way to become a good mechanic is by going to the best auto mechanic schools. If you want to make a living from this career, look for a school near you that offers the best automotive programs. It is always recommended to choose a program that goes with your interest.

In our article above, we have discussed some of the best automotive schools to choose from if you live in Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Before you settle for a school, check on their accreditation. Ensure that the right institution accredits its programs. Also, consider their training methods and if they have the right tools and equipment for the training.