Not everyone wants to spend four years in college — and that’s okay.
Some students want to train, graduate and start working as soon as possible. If that sounds like you, Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers fast trade school programs that focus on hands-on, in-demand skills and help you get career-ready.1 Our programs range from 7 to 24 months.
Whether you’re looking for trade school programs for high school students or a new career, UTI's hands-on training options,18 including Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs, can help you prepare to pursue an in-demand career in two years or less.
Keep reading to learn more about some of the quick training paths we have available.
1. Auto Mechanic School
The 51-week Automotive Technology program teaches students how to diagnose, maintain and repair modern vehicles.7 From engines and brakes to steering and electronics, this program prepares graduates to pursue entry-level automotive career opportunities in places like dealerships and repair shops.
With specialized MSAT training, students can learn brand-specific automotive skills to service systems from brands like Ford, BMW and General Motors.11
Read: What Is the UTI Early Employment Program (EEP)?
2. Diesel Mechanic School
Diesel Technology students at UTI learn core technical topics in 48 weeks, from heavy-duty trucks to off-road equipment.7 Students learn how to service diesel engines, transmissions, hydraulics and electrical systems so they can pursue entry-level diesel roles in fields like manufacturing, construction and agriculture after graduating.
Those who complete the core program can apply for specialized diesel training, which can help them build brand-specific skills for working with Peterbilt15 and Cummins46 systems.
3. Motorcycle Technician School
UTI’s 48-week Motorcycle Technician Training program teaches in-demand skills for those aspiring for a hands-on career working on bikes, ATVs, personal watercraft and more.7 While enrolled, you can get hands-on time with real engines.18
After completing the core training component, students can choose from brands like Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson® and Honda to get specialized motorcycle mechanic training. Graduates can pursue jobs with dealers, race teams or specialty shops.
4. Auto Body Collision Repair School
Students in the 51-54 week Collision Repair & Refinish Technology program learn how to restore vehicles — including skills like custom painting. Training also covers refinishing, welding, structural repair and estimation.
Students undergo specialized instruction in auto body repair as part of their curriculum, helping them build brand-specific skills for systems from brands like 3M and Axalta. Graduates earn I-CAR Academy progress badges in several areas and can pursue entry-level roles in collision repair shops.
5. Robotics & Automation Technician School
In just 12–18 months, the Robotics & Automation Technician program teaches automation skills that can be used in fields like robotics, manufacturing, transportation and logistics. Training includes programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics, sensors and wiring.
Graduates can pursue entry-level roles in factories, smart warehouses or engineering support teams. It’s one of the best fast trade school programs if you want to pursue a high-tech field in less than two years.
Read: High School Tinkering to High-Tech Careers: Robotics & Automation With Ramon Cisneros
6. Welding School
Over 9-10 months, the Welding Technology program trains students in four key welding techniques: MIG, TIG, flux-cored and stick. You can practice in labs that mimic real job sites and train with the same tools used in the field.
Students who complete this program can pursue entry-level roles in fields like construction, manufacturing, pipeline and structural welding.
7. HVACR Technician School
This 9-10 month HVACR Technician training program teaches students how to install, maintain and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems. You can learn how to work with refrigerants, read blueprints and become compliant with energy standards and regulations.
In less than a year, students can learn core hands-on skills and prepare and test for North American Technician Excellence (NATE) and other key industry certifications. After program completion, graduates can pursue entry-level roles as technicians.
(Note: For NATE certification, after passing the NATE Core Exam, applicants must take and pass a specialty exam, usually offered by employers.)
Read: Love at First Install: Charles Bosman’s Journey to Becoming an HVAC Technician
Train for In-Demand Careers With UTI’s Trade School Programs!
Fast trade school programs can help you move from classroom to career by teaching in-demand skills — all without the time or debt of a traditional four-year college degree. Our focused training options, experienced instructors and industry relationships are here to help you take that next step in 7 to 24 months.
To speak with an Admissions Representative and learn more, call 1-800-834-7308 or click the button below.
Enroll now if you’re ready to get started.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.