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For the last decade or more, cost has dominated almost every conversation about college enrollment.

The media reports almost daily on the rising cost of tuition at all types of higher education institutions, from state schools to elite universities. Many schools have come to realize exactly how important it is to a person’s future to obtain a college degree – and they are making students pay for it.

If you’re one of the many thousands of potential students who are considering pursuing a degree in the automotive repair field, then these questions might have crossed your mind: How much is automotive school? Has the cost of tuition at career training-oriented institutions also skyrocketed?

These are critical questions for anyone who is thinking about enrolling in an automotive repair program. In the Unites States alone, there are about 2,400 automotive programs. This makes it one the most broadly offered programs at career colleges, which also creates a broad price range dependent on the school and the type of learning involved.

So, how do you determine if you can afford the sort of training you want for your future? Here is a snapshot of automotive program costs and fees for various training options:

• Certificate programs – Earning a certificate is among one of the more reasonable options available to you because the training only lasts a few months to two years. For around $5,000-$20,000, you can earn a certificate and be ready to get your hands greasy working for a dealership or another automotive repair establishment. If finances are tight, a program that is shorter in length (and thereby less expensive) might make more sense for you starting out.
• Associate's degree – The next option is an Associate's degree, which generally takes about two years to complete. Degrees of this nature fall somewhere within the $10,000-$25,000 price range. Of course, tuition costs can vary substantially when you take into consideration factors such as demand for the courses and program’s reputation. This is not unlike traditional universities, where you pay far more for a degree from Harvard than you would for one from a state school.
• Voluntary certifications – In addition to the typical certification and degree programs, you can also attain voluntary certifications through the National Institute for Auto Service Excellence. Of course, these courses are available for a fee – anywhere from $30-$60 a test, and a registration fee around $35. A variety of voluntary certifications can be earned, including brakes, steering and suspension, and engine performance.
• Licensing requirements – Licensing requirements are required and vary by state. Some states require auto mechanics to take a test for each licensing area requested. Usually the programs are somewhat inexpensive – usually only a few dollars – and a small application fee, around $25.

So, what should you get for the cost of your education – besides a solid education itself? Most online certificate programs often include automotive tools and related study materials as part of their fees. For classes that can be taken in person, your tuition will cover classroom lectures, instruction and hands-on training with equipment.

Open road ahead
More than 250 million vehicles are on the road in our nation. Of course, these cars, trucks and other models will need frequent servicing and repair work, the frequency of which increases with the age of the vehicle. This means the cost of your automotive repair program is likely going to pay off for you in the future. Find a fit that is right for you financially, and get on the road to a bright career.