Car Mechanic: Educational Requirements for Being a Mechanic
Car mechanics are responsible for servicing and repairing automobiles. Mechanics work on brakes, engines, ignition control units and other parts of cars to ensure that they are functioning properly and safely. Some car mechanics also work on non-essential automotive aspects, such as air conditioners or radios.
Educational Requirements for Car Mechanics
Aspiring car mechanics may choose from several educational paths to gain the knowledge and skills to enter the field. For example, high school students may gain introductory knowledge through auto shop or mechanics courses. Completing these courses may provide students with enough education to enter the work force. However, below are more advanced education options for interested candidates.
Specialized High School Training
Some schools have Automotive Youth Educational System (AYES) programs that provide advanced training in automobile service and repair to high school students. Certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), these programs offer courses in topics that include electronics systems and diagnostic software. Graduates are qualified to become entry-level car mechanics.
College Certificate and Associate's Degree Programs
Those who do not have access to automobile training in secondary school may consider enrolling in a certificate or associate's degree program after graduating high school. Offered by junior colleges and technical schools, these programs generally last 6-24 months and cover topics ranging from wheel alignments to fuel systems. Aside from in-class instruction, students also receive hands-on training that may include repairing drive trains and rewiring ignition systems. Some programs may also offer courses in alternative fuel cells and hybrid cars.
Apprenticeships
Aspiring car mechanics may also enroll in a professional apprenticeship program. Programs can last 2-4 years, and they are generally offered by automobile manufacturers and postsecondary institutes. During their training, apprentices work regular hours at a repair center or car dealership and then take nighttime automotive service classes. These courses cover all aspects of the car from steering and suspension to heating and air conditioning.
Voluntary Certification
Car mechanics looking to increase their employment or promotion opportunities may look to the ASE for certification. The ASE offers certifications in a number of areas, such as collision repair and engine machinist. Although eligibility requirements include at least two years of work experience, mechanics who have completed automotive training in high school or college may be able to reduce this requirement by a year or more. Those who are eligible can then take the certification exam, which they must pass to become credentialed.
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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
