Are you interested in becoming a skilled auto mechanic? You may want to consider one of the top auto mechanic schools near Massachusetts. These schools offer rigorous training to provide the skills and knowledge needed to work as an auto mechanic.
Becoming a skilled auto mechanic requires more than just a mechanical aptitude. As automotive service technology evolves in advanced vehicle systems, companies will need professionals with up-to-date training.
Automotive programs set you up for a rewarding and stable career as a technician or a mechanic. The right school depends on your specific career goals.
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In this article, we’ll explore some of the top auto mechanic schools in and around Massachusetts. We’ll also review the job outlook in the Northeast and beyond. Read on to learn more.
Table of Contents
What is the ASE Certification?
The Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification helps technicians demonstrate their automotive repair and maintenance expertise and skills. It establishes that the individual can work on any vehicle’s electrical, electronic, and mechanical components. An ASE certificate is important because it:
- Increases customer confidence and satisfaction
- Improves employment opportunities
- Demonstrates the commitment of the employee
- Stepping stone for pursuing higher education
While ASE certification is not mandatory, obtaining the credential provides significant advances for your career. You can choose from 57 certification tests, with concentrations on cars and light trucks, medium-heavy trucks, collision repair, school and transit buses, auto and truck parts, military tactical wheeled vehicles, and more.
The Best Auto Mechanic Schools in Massachusetts
Check out our list of auto mechanic programs in Massachusetts. These schools offer world-class education in automobile mechanics and offer plenty of opportunities for career advancement in automotive service technology.
Because vocational training can take different forms, the top auto mechanic schools in the Massachusetts area are ranked in no particular order.
Penn Foster
Penn Foster is a nationally accredited school that offers online courses. You can complete your education on your own schedule with the help of digital study guides and video and audio content. You can also request instructor assistance and student services.
Courses and Fees
The Penn Foster Automotive and Engine Repair Program offers six courses:
- Automotive HVAC essentials | Duration: 1-5 months | Fee: $299
- Automotive repair technician | Duration: 10-14 months | Fee: $59/month
- Automotive transmission essentials | Duration: 1-5 months | Fee: $399
- Diesel mechanics/Heavy truck maintenance | Duration: 10-14 months | Fee: $59/month
- Motorcycle repair technician | Duration: 6-10 months | Fee: $59/month
- Small engine repairs | Duration: 5-9 months | Fee: $59/month
Massachusetts Bay Community College
Massachusetts Bay Community College (MassBay) offers an automotive technology associate degree program (ADP) with four manufacturer-specific training options. The manufacturers include BMW, GM, Chrysler, and Toyota/Lexus. Degree courses include:
- BMW Associate Degree Program (ADP)
This program focuses on providing lecture/laboratory instruction on BMW products. Students will also work at a BMW dealership and get ASE certified at the end of the program.
- Chrysler MOPAR Career Automotive Program (MOPAR CAP)
The course includes lecture/laboratory instruction on Fiat Chrysler Automobiles LLC. Students also learn to work at Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram (CDJR), Fiat, and Alfa Romeo dealerships. They will receive the ASE certificate at the end of the program.
- General Motors Automotive Service Education Program (ASEP)
This course provides lecture/laboratory instruction on General Motors (GM) products. All students receive ASE certification upon completion.
- Toyota Technical Education Network (T-TEN)
The college also offers a certificate program focused on Toyota/Lexus vehicles. The Toyota Technical Education Network (T-TEN) course provides technical competence to become a dealership technician. During the course, students work at a Toyota-Lexus dealership.
MassBay programs have certification from the ASE Education Foundation. Students also receive course credits from the University of Toyota-Lexus college.
Course Fees
The course fee depends on the credits you earn.
- Resident tuition – $224 per credit
- Non-resident tuition – $430 per credit
- NEBHE tuition – $236 per credit
There is an additional course and lab fee of $50 per credit for each manufacturer.
MassBay is FAFSA-affiliated, and students can apply for Federal Student Aid.
Program Length
- Associate in Science – Automotive Technology BMW | Duration: 1.5 years
- Associate in Science – Automotive Technology Chrysler | Duration: 1.5 years
- Associate in Science – Automotive Technology Toyota/Lexus | Duration: 1.5 years
- Certificate Program – Automotive Technology Toyota/Lexus | Duration: 1.5 years
Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology (BFIT)
BFIT is a private non-profit college that offers a certificate and associate of science degree in automotive technology. The school has a close association with manufacturers in Boston such as Audi, BMW, Ford, GM, Subaru, Honda, Chrysler, Nissan, VW, Toyota, and Lexus.
BFIT holds the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Students learn concepts including electrical/electronic components, climate control, transmissions, brakes, engines, chassis, and emissions and energy performance.
Courses
Certificate of Proficiency in Automotive Technology
The 10-month certificate program offers courses to prepare candidates for entry-level positions in the industry. Students can select day or evening programs and use these credits to enter the associate degree program.
Associate of Science (AS) in Automotive Technology
If diagnosing and repairing mechanical components and computer/electrical circuitry interests you, this automotive education program is a great choice. The course covers a broad spectrum of marine, off-road, heavy-duty equipment, recreational vehicles, and stationary power plants.
Graduates can work as automotive maintenance technicians, unit specialists, machinists, emission and performance engineers, department managers, and manufacturer representatives. After completing this course, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Management.
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Automotive Management
This automotive education course sets you up for mid-level and senior-level management careers in the automotive industry. The course works to enhance opportunities for association with Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, and VW.
The department has a laboratory for automotive electricity, internal combustion engines, automatic and manual transmissions, brakes, chassis, hybrid and alternative fuels, and engine performance. Students also enjoy access to a 12-bay working laboratory and drivability clinic with state-of-the-art equipment.
Course Fees
Full-time Courses
All associate and certificate programs have a fee of $8,475 per semester.
All bachelor programs cost $9,095 per semester.
Part-time Courses
All associate and certificate programs have a fee of $707 per credit.
All bachelor programs are $758 per credit.
There is an additional fee for audit, technology, health insurance, tools, and textbooks.
The Best Auto Mechanic Schools Near Massachusetts
Looking for a top auto mechanic school near Massachusetts? Here are some of the best schools in the area offering automotive technology programs.
New England Institute of Technology
The New England Institute of Technology is located in the neighboring state of Rhode Island and offers both associate and bachelor degree programs in automotive service technology.
Courses center on industry certification tests, manufacturer factory training, and hands-on learning. Students can earn their degree and the certification simultaneously to enter the workforce in as little as 18-months.
Courses
Associate Degrees
Advanced Automotive Technology with Fabrication and Refinishing
This ASE-approved program gives students hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication, auto body repair, auto fabrication, welding, fiberglass fabrication, brazing, cutting, and paint refinishing.
The Advanced Automotive Technology with Fabrication and Refinishing is a 3-year course with a fee of $16,725 for the first two years and $11,150 for the last year. The program also paves the way for bachelor’s degrees in automotive engineering technology or automotive management.
Automotive Collision Repair Technology
Here, students will learn about all the aspects of auto body repair, automotive refinishing, and collision repair technology management. They will also gain experience in engine accessories, electrical diagnosis, wheels, tires, and drivetrain parts.
Graduates can go on to work as technicians, truck mechanics, auto body painters, or auto insurance adjusters.
Automotive Technology
The automotive technology degree provides instruction on how modern automobiles operate, design, and servicing techniques. This ASE-approved curriculum uses the latest industry standards and modern diagnostic equipment.
The program, Master Certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF), prepares students for entry-to-industry-level technical capability. Graduates can become automotive technicians, distribution managers, glass repairers, or shop foremen.
This is a 2-year course with a fee of $16,725 per year.
Automotive Technology with High-Performance
With the latest industry standards and modern diagnostic equipment, this ASE-certified course trains students in automotive technology with high performance.
The program is Master Certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.
This is a 3-year course with a fee of $16,725 for the first two years and $5,575 for the last year.
Bachelor’s Degree
Automotive Service Management
Students enrolled in the bachelor’s degree pay a fee of $32,100 per academic year.
Lincoln Technical Institute
The Lincoln Technical Institute, based in Connecticut, offers auto mechanics and automotive technology courses. As a graduate, you can work at car dealerships, independent automotive shops, fleet maintenance departments, and service centers.
Courses
Automotive Mechanics – Certificate Program
The objective of this certificate program at the Lincoln Technical Institute is to give you entry-level knowledge to test, replace, and repair internal combustion engines, electric vehicles, starting and lighting systems, steering, brakes, air conditioning, suspension, and electrical accessories.
The course lasts for approximately 33-weeks, including holidays and scheduled breaks. It runs in the day, afternoon, and evening shifts.
Automotive Technology – Diploma Program
This diploma program trains you in gasoline engine construction and operation, fuel and emission systems, electrical systems, drivability diagnostics, transmissions and drivelines, automatic transmissions, air conditioning, electrical accessories, electronics, service shop procedures, and steering and brake systems, and shop management.
Naugatuck Valley Community College
The Naugatuck Valley Community College offers degree programs in automotive technology to help you prepare for various industry needs.
Courses
Automotive Technician – Degree
This 2-year course is for full-time students who learn using modern equipment from Hunter, Snap-On, OTC, MAC, etc. It has accreditation from the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation. After completing the course, students will be prepared to take the ASE certification tests.
After graduation, students can also pursue an associate degree in automotive technology or management degree. Tuition, college service fee, and student activity fee depend on the number of semester hours they complete. The annual fee for full-time students is approximately $4,740.
Automotive Technician – Certificate
Students who do not want to pursue a 2-year course can enroll in certificate programs in automotive fundamentals, general automotive service, and advanced engine performance.
You can refer to this list of top automotive mechanic schools across the U.S. for more details on accreditation status, faculty-student ratio, infrastructure, specializations, tuition and expenses, course duration, and online and offline degrees.
Should You Go to an Auto Mechanic Trade School?
Understanding the difference between an auto mechanic and an automotive technician will help you make more informed decisions concerning your career.
Many aspiring automobile mechanic aspirants employment as soon as possible and overlook the importance of investing time in a trade school. Though they may land an apprenticeship without a formal degree, there are tremendous benefits to studying the subject before entering the workforce.
An Education Makes for a Strong Resume
Business owners that hire mechanics for their workshops or manufacturing units notice if you have a trade school degree. Being qualified in automotive service technology, automotive engineering technology, or advanced vehicle systems puts you ahead of other applicants without a formal education.
It Also Helps You Polish Your Communication Skills
A trade school education can also work wonders for your communication skills. It provides tools that will be helpful during interviews and when explaining why a company should hire you over your competition.
If you are a skilled mechanic but do not know how to communicate that to the employer, you may not get the job. Your skill is only as much as you can present and prove to the employer.
Trade Schools Connect You to Important Networks
At a trade school, students build valuable networks that act as a springboard, helping students land exciting new jobs.
If you already work in your chosen field, a trade school acquaintance can connect you with employers to increase your opportunities. Successful professionals in the automotive engineering industry are happy to help when students from their alma mater reach out.
You Get Recommendations from Industry Professionals
Personal recommendations are extremely helpful in getting you the job you want. Your time at a trade school for auto mechanics helps you make connections and prove your capabilities.
This brings you the recommendations from industry professionals and professors. Applicants who are new in the industry and have no work experience benefit greatly from the recommendations.
Helps You Get the Science Right
Without a trade school degree, you won’t have expertise in the trade, even if you know how to fix a vehicle. Studying the theory gets your basics right and allows you to reason with logic.
Mechanics often fail at jobs because they don’t know the theory. Most new mechanics work with other experienced professionals and are only able to catch up by recognizing important theoretical concepts.
Job Outlook for the Massachusetts Area
Automotive service technicians can expect a rewarding career in MA. The four most common areas of expertise are:
- Auto collision repair and auto bodyworkers
- Diesel mechanics and heavy truck and bus specialists
- Autogas installers and repairers
- Auto mechanics and service technicians
Some employers prefer their employees to have the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification and training. Many service shops offer entry-level positions after a high school diploma or equivalent.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, MA employed between 7,550 and 14,520 automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2020. The annual mean wage was $48,530 to $64,640, which is among the highest in the U.S.
The job growth projection in MA is at 1% over the next several years. The data for Rhode Island from 2020 shows that the annual mean wage for auto mechanics was $45,000 to $47,830. Around 2,620 mechanics were working in Rhode Island.
The yearly projection of growth in jobs across the U.S. for automotive service technicians and mechanics is 69,000 on average.
Becoming a skilled auto mechanic is a fulfilling and lucrative career path. It is crucial to have the right tools and resources to become a successful mechanic.
Many online and offline courses can help you learn the necessary skills. If you are passionate about cars and want to make a career out of it, becoming a skilled auto mechanic is the right choice.
If pursuing a career in this field interests you, do your research and find a good school or training program today.
START YOUR AUTOMOTIVE CAREER
Earn your degree in Automotive Technology from NEIT and begin your new career path today!
ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE
BACHELOR'S DEGREE
FAQs
Can I Get the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certificate Online?
Students can do trade schools online, but ASE certification tests require clearing the exams and two years of experience. Alternatively, you can achieve one year of experience with a full-time associate degree.
Is It Worth Doing an Automotive Technology Program?
Auto mechanics enjoy good salaries and attractive career opportunities provided they have completed the necessary automotive engineering programs. An understanding of the theory along with some hands-on experience makes you a desirable candidate among organizations willing to invest in further on-the-job training.
What Are the Top Three Industries That Employ Auto Mechanics?
The top three industries with the highest concentration of employment in auto mechanics are:
- Automotive repair and maintenance – 226,750
- Automobile Dealers – 230,070
- Automotive Parts, Accessories, and Tire Stores – 56,540