The Ultimate Guide to Earning a Diesel Technology Degree: Costs, Duration and Benefits

Diesel engines play a crucial role in various sectors of transportation, from commercial vehicles to heavy-duty trucks. Understanding diesel mechanics is essential for diagnosing, repairing and maintaining these engines, ensuring their optimal performance and longevity.

As the automotive and diesel industries continue to evolve, diesel technology is becoming more sophisticated, incorporating advancements in efficiency, emissions control and integration with emerging technologies.

For those interested in diesel tech, training opportunities are available at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), with some program combinations allowing students to earn Diesel Technology degrees.¹

Benefits of a Diesel Technology Degree

Participating in diesel mechanic training can be beneficial for those interested in servicing and repairing these big engines. UTI’s Diesel Technology program offers students the opportunity to learn hands-on and gain skills needed to maintain and repair diesel engines.¹⁸

The core diesel program presents students with different a diploma or certificate, depending on the campus they’ve attended. Some UTI campuses offer advanced specialized training or an Automotive/Diesel & EV Technology program that results in a degree.

Diesel technology degree offerings

While diplomas and certificates are still a great way to showcase knowledge and education to employers, having a degree under your belt may be a goal of yours and can add a bit more oomph to your resume. A degree can help show your commitment to your craft, dedication and willingness to learn.

Most UTI campuses do offer students the opportunity to earn a degree if they take the core Diesel Technology program along with a Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) program, OR if they enroll in the combined Automotive/Diesel & EV Technology program, which features courses from both the core Auto and Diesel programs.

Depending on the campus and program, they may earn an occupational associate degree (OAD) or associate of occupational studies (AOS) degree.

READ: Check out a list of our degree, diploma and certificate program options

Curriculum and Courses

If you choose to train at UTI, we’ll build your knowledge from the ground up to ensure you know the ins and outs of diesel engines and related systems. Our emphasis is on practical, hands-on diesel training so you can learn in-demand industry skills.¹⁸

Some diesel courses include the following:

• Introduction to Automotive Physical Science: Engine Design and Function
• Electrical Applications
• Manual Transmissions
• Technology Principles and Consumer Communication of Automotive HVAC
• Hydraulics
• Steering and Suspension Systems
• Diesel Engine Fuel Systems and Accessories
• Preventative Maintenance

For those taking the combined Automotive/Diesel & EV Technology program, some courses include these:

• Power & Performance I: Engine Build
• Power & Performance II: Bolt-On Performance
• Power & Performance III: Computer Performance Tuning
• Advanced Technology/Hybrid & Service Advising
• Battery Electric Vehicle Technology
• Introduction to Driveability

If you choose to take an MSAT program with your diesel technician training, your course topics will focus on the tools and technology used by the specific manufacturer you choose. MSAT programs include¹¹:

• Cummins Engines.
• Cummins Power Generation.
• Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) Finish First.
• Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI).¹⁵

Career Opportunities

Diesel technicians are needed in industries across the country, from transportation to agriculture to construction. Employers look for skilled techs to fill these roles.

Whether they obtain a degree, diploma or certificate, our grads are prepared to pursue entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work.

Some potential diesel mechanic career opportunities for those interested in the diesel industry may include⁷⁷:

Entry-Level

• Diesel technician
• Heavy equipment repair technician
• Power generation technician
• Agriculture technician

Advanced

• Mobile diesel mechanic
• Master technician
• Fleet manager
• Shop foreman
• Service manager
• Shop owner

When it comes to salary, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $60,640 in May 2024.²⁹ This means half of diesel technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that a diesel mechanic salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.

Read more: Diesel Technology Careers

Industry Relationships and Internship Opportunities

As mentioned before, there are some diesel MSAT programs that, combined with core diesel training, allow students the opportunity to earn a degree.

MSAT programs provide a great opportunity to focus more on specific industry brands. UTI’s relationships with these manufacturers help ensure curriculum is up-to-date and relevant to what techs are learning in the field.

Check out a brief overview of the current MSATs that offer diesel technology degree opportunities when combined with the core diesel program at select locations:

Cummins Engines

The 12-week Cummins Engines program helps provide students with the opportunity to learn about the Cummins brand of heavy-duty engines.⁹ They’ll learn about warranty specs, diagnosis and repair of cooling and fuel systems, emissions-related components and more.⁴⁶

Cummins Power Generation

Over the course of 12 weeks, the Cummins Power Generation program focuses on engine maintenance of electric generators and power generation systems, as well as the equipment and controls that keep them running.⁹ Those who complete the curriculum also earn CMI Level 1 Technician status!

Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) Finish First

The 12-week program provides students the opportunity to train hands-on, as they learn about DTNA brands like Freightliner, Cascadia and Western Star.⁹ Topics covered include heavy-duty truck systems, HVAC diagnostics, electronic troubleshooting and more. Plus, grads earn Professional Level Technician status.

Opportunities for Work Experience During Training

There is potential for students to gain relevant work experience while still in school.

UTI offers an Early Employment Program (EEP), where participating employers offer qualified UTI auto or diesel students paid work experience and consideration for full-time employment or other benefits after graduation.³⁶

Our Career Services team is available to help with everything from job searching to resume development, and many times, manufacturers will come to UTI campuses for career fairs!

READ: What Is the UTI EEP program?

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Like any type of higher education, there are some admissions requirements to become familiar with to help ensure you are eligible to enroll in diesel mechanic training.

At UTI, students must be at least 16 years of age, and those under the age of 18 require a parent or guardian to complete the enrollment agreement.

Another basic requirement is to provide proof of high school qualifications. This can be different across the board and doesn’t mean you need a diploma. A state-issued GED certificate or state-authorized equivalency exam are also accepted documents. UTI also accepts evidence of attending a Title IV-eligible program or successful completion of a postsecondary degree program.

While a minimum GPA is not required for acceptance into a core program at UTI, specific GPAs may be required to qualify for things like scholarships or enrollment into an MSAT program.

Speaking of scholarships, there are several potential ways students who qualify can help fund their education. We have an entire Financial Aid team dedicated to helping with this process, which includes looking at potential loans, grants or scholarships.¹⁰

READ: Trade School Requirements: Ultimate Application Guide

FAQ

What are the benefits of a diesel technology degree?

While having a degree is not a requirement for working in the diesel or automotive industries, it can help you stand out to prospective employers. A diesel technology degree helps provide proof that you have an education focused on repairing and maintaining diesel engines and related equipment!

What job opportunities are available for someone with a diesel technology degree?

Graduates from UTI are prepared to pursue entry-level roles, but as with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work. Some common entry-level positions include diesel technicians, power generation techs and agricultural technicians. With more experience, advanced opportunities can include master technician, service manager and shop foreman!⁷⁷

How much do diesel technicians make?

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $60,640 in May 2024.²⁹ This means half of diesel technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.

Take Steps Toward a Diesel Technology Degree

Earning a degree with a focus on diesel technology can be beneficial when you’re ready to pursue a career in the industry! Fortunately, UTI offers several diesel training options for those with this goal.

To learn more about our degree program options, request more information or give us a call at 1-800-834-7308. We’re happy to help you take the first step toward the future!