Automotive Mechanic: Educational Requirements for a Career in Auto Mechanics and Repair Technology
Automotive mechanics are trained to service and repair cars and small trucks. Aspiring mechanics may look to postsecondary education programs such as the programs covered below for the necessary training.
Career Definition: Automotive Mechanics and Repair Technology
Automotive mechanics and repair technology involve the use of diagnostic software and mechanical skill to maintain, repair and modify automobiles and their various parts. The role of an automotive mechanic is to identify car troubles and fix them. Mechanics receive training in automobile parts, functions and repair tools.
Educational Requirements for Automotive Mechanics and Repairers
While some high schools may provide basic shop and mechanics courses, others have joined with Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES) to bring advanced instruction to the classroom. The AYES offers students technical courses on automotive parts and systems in conjunction with on-the-job training from local automotive dealers (www.ayes.org). Upon completion, students are ready to enter the workforce as entry-level automotive technicians.
Postsecondary Education
Students in high schools that don't offer vocational training may consider completing a 6-12 month certificate or 1-2 year associate's degree program in automotive repair or technology. The rapid advancement in technology demands that automotive technicians be able to use both mechanical and electronic technology to do their work. Postsecondary programs offer classes covering topics including air-conditioning parts installation and ignition systems repair. Classes are generally conducted in a repair shop setting allowing students to use equipment ranging from simple hand tools to more complicated diagnostic software.
Some associate degree programs may offer students the opportunity to become familiar with a specific manufacturer's parts. For example, students may be able to take courses on General Motors braking systems or Chrysler steering and suspension systems. Other programs may offer specializations in general collision repair that include classes on structural analysis, painting and refinishing.
Certification
Although not required for employment, automotive mechanics may look to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) to earn credentials in a specific field of automotive service (www.ase.com). The ASE offers a number of automotive certifications ranging from damage analysis to diesel engine diagnosis. Eligibility for each certification requires at least two years of experience; however, postsecondary coursework may be substituted as credit. Once eligible, technicians must successfully complete an exam to earn the respective designation.
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3 Popular Schools
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 17 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
- Bachelor
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Distance Learning Programs
Other Schools:
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School locations:
- Rhode Island (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at New England Institute of Technology include:
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- Non-Degree: Coursework
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Electrical Repair and Maintenance
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Autobody Repair
- Automotive Mechanics
- Marine Watercraft Repair and Maintenance
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School locations:
- Ohio (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at University of Cincinnati include:
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- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Automotive Mechanics
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
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School locations:
- Michigan (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Ferris State University include:
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- Graduate: First Professional Degree, Master
- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Electrical Repair and Maintenance
- Heavy Equipment Maintenance
- Precision Metal Working
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Autobody Repair
- Automotive Mechanics
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School locations:
- Illinois (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Southern Illinois University include:
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- Graduate: Doctorate, First Professional Degree, Master
- Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance
- Automotive Mechanics
- Avionics Repair and Maintenance
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
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School locations:
- Mississippi (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Pearl River Community College include:
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- Non-Degree: Coursework, Diploma
- Undergraduate: Associate
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation, and Refrigeration Maintenance
- Precision Metal Working
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Automotive Mechanics
- Diesel Mechanics
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School locations:
- Georgia (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Valdosta State University include:
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- Graduate: Doctorate, Master
- Post Degree Certificate: Post Master's Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Automotive Mechanics
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
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School locations:
- Tennessee (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Nashville State Technical Community College include:
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- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Undergraduate: Associate
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Precision Metal Working
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Automotive Mechanics
