How Long Is UTI’s Automotive Program?

Key Points

• Modern automotive technicians and mechanics are highly respected professionals due to the complexity of new vehicles, which can have over 70 computers onboard and require a blend of intellectual and practical skills for repair and maintenance.
• Universal Technical Institute’s Automotive Technology program is a 51-week curriculum designed to prepare students to pursue a career as an automotive technician, covering everything from engine basics to advanced electrical applications and hybrid vehicle service.^1,7
• The curriculum of UTI’s Automotive Technology program starts with foundational courses and progresses to advanced technology, performance tuning and customer service, preparing graduates to pursue entry-level roles in the automotive industry.

Let’s face it. Many of us have been programmed to believe that the only way to find success is through a four-year college degree. It’s so ingrained in our belief system that some of us don’t even question it.

There’s nothing wrong with going to a four-year school, but it isn’t the path for everyone.

In fact, many people are walking away from tradition in favor of hands-on trade work. After all, there’s a real need for skilled tradespeople in today’s workforce — the very people we need to keep this country running.

If you’re also burdened by the idea of a four-year education, keep reading. In this blog post, we’ll share how you can prepare to pursue a career as an automotive technician in less than a year.

Don’t Confuse Automotive Trade School for a Last Resort

Modern automobiles are extremely complex. The electronics in late-model vehicles can have over 70 computers onboard—all capable of talking to each other in a matter of milliseconds while using sensor arrays and monitoring systems located all over the vehicle.

Today’s automotive technicians and mechanics are highly respected professionals who need to be able to repair those complex systems on top of conducting traditional repairs with parts like carburetors and spark plugs.

This evolving technology requires special diagnostic equipment and highly intelligent people who like to work with both their heads and their hands to be successful.

Here’s the best part – training to gain the skills of an automotive technician doesn’t require a four-year degree.

UTI Automotive Program Length: A Snapshot

Universal Technical Institute’s (UTI) Automotive Technology program consists of 17 three-week courses carried out over a 51-week period. But it’s important to know one thing before you keep reading: You do not have to be an expert before you attend UTI.

We have a variety of students with diverse backgrounds. Some have been wrenching since they could walk, while others had never popped the hood of a car before attending UTI. And there are a variety of students in between. Bring a willingness to learn new things, and we’ll bring the rest.

The 51-week program dives into automotive course topics like:

Automotive engines service & repair

An engines course is often the first one you experience if you attend UTI.³³ You’ll be taught about safety, engine configurations and engine components.

You’ll get a chance to dismantle the many components that make up an actual engine, reassemble the engine, and learn about the operation of lubrication and cooling systems that prevent damage to all those moving parts.

Automotive powertrains & transmissions

The powertrain instruction at UTI can help you learn how manufacturers transfer all that power to the wheels.

You’ll be taught about the different driveline configurations that include front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. You’ll also get introduced to the manual transmission, driveshafts and rear axle components like helical gear sets.

Then, you’ll dive into automatic transmissions and torque converters, disassembling, servicing and rebuilding an auto transmission!

Professional automotive service writing

Service writing plays an important role in the automotive field and some UTI grads go on to pursue this profession! During this portion of the program, students practice customer write-ups, service department operations and the paperwork process. With a focus on customer service, you can develop skills in report completion, organization and interaction with co-workers and management.

Key takeaways include learning about different computer software systems for writing and tracking service work, proper repair order completion, correct billing procedures and effective communication skills in a professional dealership or shop setting.

Vehicle electronic systems & technology

During electronic systems and technology instruction, you’ll be taught about electrical waveforms, along with the difference between analog and digital signals.

Students are also taught how to read and use scan tools (or oscilloscopes) to diagnose the components that use them. You’ll also go over the input, processing and output devices that a modern vehicle uses to control engine operation.

Automotive climate control systems and repair

This section of the program covers Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations as it relates to the Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) system within a vehicle. You’ll be taught about air conditioning system safety and the laws governing its use. Instructors often get granular with their teachings, diving into the different systems varying manufacturers use.

Students will also get hands-on with A/C recycling machines to test and inspect the system for leaks as well as depressurize and re-pressurize the system safely.¹⁸

Vehicle brake systems

Instruction on braking systems will enhance your knowledge even further by teaching about the complexities of power braking, anti-lock braking, traction and stability control systems and how to safely service and diagnose them.

Students explore brake system inspection and testing, warning systems and diagnosis. Train with the brake system hydraulics, system bleeding procedures, master cylinder and power braking system operation.

Learn about servicing and diagnosing anti-lock braking and traction control systems, and how they reduce both wheel skid under braking and wheel spin on acceleration.

Vehicle steering & suspension service & repair

Steering and suspension topics introduce you to the differing types of steering mechanisms and suspension systems used in modern vehicles, including those that use air and computers for control.

From struts and ball joints to tie-rod ends and steering gearboxes, students get hands-on with the parts of a car that make driving it safe! Your instructors will even cover how to check for correct steering and suspension alignment as well as the fundamentals of tire mounting and balancing!

Automotive power/performance tuning & emissions repair

In our Power & Performance courses,³⁷ students will gain knowledge of basic engine rebuilding procedures when given an exacting set of specifications. This is known as blueprinting.

Small-block domestic performance engines are disassembled, measured and reassembled with an emphasis on high-performance engine building techniques and practices. Students are taught basic cylinder head design and the operation of a flow bench to improve cylinder head flow characteristics.

Students also train in the operation of dynamometers for testing with an emphasis on tuning and component selection for optimum performance. Utilization of dynamometer data helps students understand what changes to an engine’s induction, exhaust and fueling system do in regard to the performance capability of the internal combustion engine.

Students will also use aftermarket software to change the calibration of the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) to better manage performance enhancements and modifications.

Hybrid vehicle system maintenance

Here, students cover theory, diagnosis and repair information necessary to safely and effectively service hybrid vehicles and alternative fuel systems and technology. Students will also go over the principles of service advising and how they fit into service operations.

This portion of the program covers the written and verbal communication standards typical of a professional dealership environment in providing customer service, questioning techniques, efficient diagnosis of customer concerns, report completion, organization and co-worker/management interaction skills.

*Only taught at select campuses. 

FAQs

How does UTI prepare students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification?

All of UTI’s automotive instructors are ASE certified. Our courses also cover topics required to prepare for the ASE certification exams. After completing UTI’s automotive program, graduates will be well prepared for the exams, and have one of the two years of experience required to test for the credential. Get more details by reading How To Become ASE Certified.

Are there any specializations within the UTI automotive program, and how do they affect the program's length?

Yes! Students who complete the 51-week Automotive Technology program can enroll in one of UTI’s Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs with top brands like Ford, BMW and Toyota.⁷ During their training, students can gain brand-specific knowledge and credentials valued by employers.

These programs range in length from 12-23 weeks. Some are manufacturer-paid and have stringent requirements to qualify.¹⁵ Unlock the details on our MSAT page. 

What is the cost of UTI's automotive program?

The cost of attendance for UTI’s automotive program can vary by campus. Visit our Cost of Attendance page and find a location near you for an estimated price.

Many of our eligible students receive financial aid from the government, scholarships or grants to help cover their trade school tuition. In fact, UTI is making more than $15 million in scholarships and grants available this year to those who qualify!¹⁰

Graduation

The UTI automotive program length from start to graduation is just 51 weeks. That’s less than a year! Upon completing the core courses in the topics listed above, graduates can enroll in specialized manufacturer-specific auto training or begin pursuing careers in the automotive industry! Ready to get started? Request more information or enroll online.