There are more drivers than ever on the road. Added to that, motorists are keeping their vehicles more than the six-year average. These two factors create a demand for skilled auto technicians to maintain and repair vehicles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there has been little or no change in the job outlook for Automotive Service Technicians. Although the profession does not attract streams of new prospects due to the stigma of manual labor, there is a definite need for technicians who are committed to updating their skills as technology advances. Mechanic schools offer certificate and degree programs with an emphasis on engine diagnostic work, electrical and electronics, and management for students who might one day open their own establishments.
Auto service technicians and mechanics earned around $42,090 a year in 2019. However, those with experience and advanced certifications can potentially earn six-figure salaries and even more when they operate their own businesses.
North Valley Occupational Center
The Auto Tech course offered by North Valley Occupational Center is a competency-based course that is part of a sequence of courses designed to fulfill the Automotive Service Excellence Program Certification Standards stipulated by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation. Students will acquire knowledge and technical skills through lectures and discussion, visual aids, projects, and multimedia presentations. Practical experiences in an automobile area will give students the opportunity to work with sustainable and green vehicle technologies. Areas of study include workplace policies and procedures, using service manuals, computer-based information systems, use, maintenance and storage of engine repair tools, and hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles.
Program overview:
Auto Tech: Engine Performance
Duration: 12 months
Clock hours: 180
Credits: 15
Prerequisites:
- Applicants must pass a reading and math assessment before admission
Program cost:
Some applicants such as those enrolled in high school, an Alternative Education Work Center Student, a minor student with a Pupil Accounting Report, and individual with a disability up to age 22 are exempt from all fees.
Website: https://www.uti.edu/locations/california/long-beach
Address: 11450 Sharp Avenue Mission Hills, CA 91345
Phone: (818) 256-1400 (818) 365-269
East Los Angeles College
The Automobile Technology program at East Los Angeles College prepares students for entry-level employment in transportation repair. Applicants do not need to have prior experience prior to entry since the curriculum is designed to help students build skills in the diagnosis and repair of sophisticated automobiles. Experienced faculty who are licensed Master mechanics will cover the systems of a vehicle to prepare students for practice in an age of computerized automobiles. The College provides a modern facility with state-of-the-art tools and equipment. Hands-on lab reinforces the classroom lectures, giving students a visual of the mechanical systems of modern cars and use computer-assisted repair and testing equipment that will prepare them for a smooth transition into repair shops and dealerships. Day and evening classes are available.
Program overview:
Automotive Technology
Duration: 12 months
Clock hours: 180
Units: 49
Prerequisites:
- Must 18 years or older
- Applicants under 18 may qualify if they graduated from high school
- High school students may concurrently enroll with permission from their parents
Program cost:
Tuition costs $46 per unit. Additional costs for registration, textbooks, and supplies must be covered by the student.
Website: https://www.elac.edu/Academics/Departments/Automotive-Technology
Address: 1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez, Monterey Park, CA 91754
Phone: 323.265.8650
Los Angeles Trade Technical College
The Automotive and Related Technology program offered by Los Angeles Trade Technical College trains students to work as entry-level auto technicians. They will learn how to maintain, diagnose, and overhaul electrical and fuel injection systems and understand the basic shop practices that meet industry standards. At the conclusion of the program, each student will be able to diagnose and repair vehicles using specialty tools and diagnostic equipment, perform repairs using manufacturer programs and in accordance with safety regulations, and write mechanical repair estimates according to industry standards.
Program overview:
Automotive & Related Technology
Duration: 4 semesters
Units: 49
Prerequisites:
- Must 18 years or older
- Fill out an application for admission to LATTC
- Log in to the student portal and complete the Online Orientation
- Meet with a Counselor to get an educational plan
- Apply for financial aid
- Register for classes
Program cost:
The cost of tuition is $1,830 for 12 months of attendance. Books and supplies cost an additional $1,620.
Website: http://www.lattc.edu/academics/pathways/atm/certificates-degrees/automotive-and-related-technology
Address: 400 West Washington Blvd, Los Angeles 90015
Phone: (213) 763-7000
Fax: (213) 763-5393
Abram Friedman Occupation Center
The Auto Technician courses offered by AFOC covers the use of tools and equipment, service manuals, and computer-based information systems. Students will learn trade mathematics, storage of tools and equipment, wheels and tires, resource management, entrepreneurial skills, and employability. The programs begin with Technology I followed by Technology I, Auto Tech Brakes, Auto Tech Diesel, Auto Tech Engine Repair, Auto Electrical and Electronics, Auto Tech Suspension and Steering, and Auto Tech Emission Control. The courses are offered in sequence and each component requires a separate registration. Morning and evening schedules are available.
Program overview:
Auto Technology I & II
Duration: 4 semesters
Clock Hours: 180
Prerequisites:
- Submit a completed application online
Program cost:
The cost of tuition is $120 for students who pay in full at the time of registration. Books and supplies are additional.
Website: https://abramfriedmanoc.org/automotive-technology-2/
Address: 1646 S. Olive St., Los Angeles, CA 90015
Phone: (213) 765-2400
Email: afoc9039@gmail.com
Los Angeles Pierce College
The Associate of Science Degree in Automotive Service Technology offered by Pierce College prepares students to work in the automotive service and repair field. The College frequently reviews and revises the curriculum with the aid of industry professionals to keep it current in light of technological changes in the industry. Required courses include Automotive Engines, Suspension and Brakes Power Systems, Engine Diagnosis and Tune-Up, Automotive Transmissions, Air Conditioning, Standard Transmissions, Clutches, Drive Lines & Differentials, Shop Operations and Management, and Advanced Engine Diagnosis and Performance. Students who are solely interested in the technical parts of the program have the option to earn a Certificate of Achievement after completing the major courses.
Program overview:
Automotive Service Technology Associate of Science Degree
Duration: 18 months (Core courses only)
Units: 46-47
Prerequisites:
- Must have graduated from high school or successfully pass the High School Proficiency Exam
- Must be at least 18 years old and not attending high school
- Applicants who are under 18 and not attending high school must secure special permission as a full-time student
- High school students may concurrently enroll with approval from a high school counselor
- Submit a completed application online and application processing fee
- Submit an official transcript of high school and all colleges attended
- Provide a copy of valid ID
Program cost:
Tuition for the major courses only is $4,517 for students who complete the program in the normal time. Books and supplies are additional.
Website: http://www.piercecollege.edu/departments/industrial_technology/autoshop.asp
Address: 6201 Winnetka Ave. Woodland Hills, California 91371
Phone: (818) 710-4100
Santa Monica College
The short-term Automotive Technician program offered by Santa Monica College prepares students for employment in repair shops where they will trouble and repair electronic and mechanical automobile issues. Students will learn how to operate tools and equipment and use safe practices under the guidance of experienced technicians. Areas of emphasis include Automotive Maintenance and Operations, Automotive Braking Systems, Automotive Electrical Systems, and Suspension and Steering. A passing grade of C or higher and completion of at least 50% of the area of emphasis are required for graduation.
Program overview:
Automotive Technician, Introductory, Department Certificate
Duration: 12 months or less
Units: 12
Prerequisites:
- Must have graduated from high school or successfully pass the High School Proficiency Exam
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Provide a copy of valid ID
- Submit an application online
- Complete an online orientation
Program cost:
Tuition costs $46 per unit for resident students. Books and supplies are additional.
Website: https://www.smc.edu/
Address: 1900 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: 310-434-4000
Santa Ana College
The Associate Degree in Automotive Technology offered at Santa Ana College prepares students for employment in modern automotive service and repair. The curriculum will over 28 to 29 units of core subjects. Students will need to complete additional requirements for general education courses. Learning will take place in the classroom followed by hands-on activities in the lab. Core units include Auto Essentials, Electronic Fundamentals, Electrical Systems, Engine Performance, Automatic Transmission Service, Advanced Drive Train Systems, Steering and Suspension Service, Automotive Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation, Engine Repair, Advanced Clean Air Car Course, Diagnostic Test, Hybrid Vehicles, Diesel Engines and much more.
Program overview:
Automotive Technology Associate Degree
Duration: 4 semesters
Units: 28-29 (core courses)
Prerequisites:
- Provide proof of completing high school or equivalent
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Provide a copy of valid ID
- Submit a completed application online
Program cost:
Tuition costs $46 per unit for resident students. Books and supplies are additional.
Website: https://www.sac.edu/AcademicProgs/HST/Auto/Pages/Automotive-Technology.aspx
Address: 1530 W. 17th Street Santa Ana, CA 92706-3398
Phone: (714) 564-6000