State School Rankings

Best Auto Mechanic Schools In Michigan Ranked For 2026

Explore 24 automotive schools in Michigan, with certificate and degree options, tuition, and facts about automotive training.

Michigan geographic illustration for the best auto mechanic schools in Michigan guide
Michigan · Geographic Illustration
Schools Compared
24
Across The State
Annual Tuition From
$2,909
Institution-Wide · 2024–25
Michigan Median Pay
$54,120
Automotive Mechanics · May 2025
Michigan Employment
22,280
Occupation-Wide · BLS OEWS

The best auto mechanic schools in Michigan include 24 schools and 50 automotive certificate and degree options. The programs report 483 awards in 2023-24. Michigan's May 2025 BLS OEWS median wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $54,120.

Alpena Community College reports a 52% schoolwide graduation rate, $7,590 annual in-state tuition, and 15 awards across certificates and associate degrees. Northern Michigan University reports the same 52% schoolwide rate, $13,374 tuition, and nine awards. Ferris State University reports 19 awards, a 47% rate, and $14,582 tuition.

Compare The Best Auto Mechanic Schools In Michigan

Ranked schools receive a comparison score from automotive credential awards (50%), annual institution-wide tuition (30%), and schoolwide graduation rate (20%). These measures help compare reported scale, cost, and institutional completion. Read The Full Ranking Method.

SchoolLocationAnnual In-State TuitionAutomotive Awards
Wayne County Community College DistrictDetroit, MI$2,90975
Washtenaw Community CollegeAnn Arbor, MI$4,34447
Macomb Community CollegeWarren, MI$6,36058
Kalamazoo Valley Community CollegeKalamazoo, MI$6,57051
Grand Rapids Community CollegeGrand Rapids, MI$7,83041
Henry Ford CollegeDearborn, MI$4,84825
Alpena Community CollegeAlpena, MI$7,59015
Southwestern Michigan CollegeDowagiac, MI$5,93718
Ferris State UniversityBig Rapids, MI$14,58219
Lansing Community CollegeLansing, MI$7,20023
Kirtland Community CollegeGrayling, MI$6,45016
Northern Michigan UniversityMarquette, MI$13,3749
Glen Oaks Community CollegeCentreville, MI$4,8244
Bay de Noc Community CollegeEscanaba, MI$8,13314
Gogebic Community CollegeIronwood, MI$6,1507
Delta CollegeUniversity Center, MI$6,7209
Mid Michigan CollegeHarrison, MI$8,71010
Oakland Community CollegeAuburn Hills, MI$5,3407
Baker CollegeOwosso, MI$12,6008
Monroe County Community CollegeMonroe, MI$6,6386
Mott Community CollegeFlint, MI$7,1855
Muskegon Community CollegeMuskegon, MI$10,1204
Northwestern Michigan CollegeTraverse City, MI$9,1464
Michigan Career and Technical InstituteResidential Vocational Training For Students With DisabilitiesPlainwell, MI$8,5488

Tuition is the institution’s annual undergraduate figure for 2024–25, excluding fees, tools, housing, and other expenses. Awards are credentials reported in 2023–24, not a count of unique graduates. Blank cells indicate an omitted measure.

01

Detroit, MI

Wayne County Community College District

61.2Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Electrical Core With Systems Choices

WCCCD suits you if you want a required electrical foundation and a choice of later automotive courses within a certificate or associate degree.

Wayne County's Downriver Campus offers a 30-credit Automotive Service Technology certificate and a 64-credit AAS. Both require Electrical/Electronic Systems I through IV. The AAS then lets you select automotive courses in areas such as engine performance, brakes, transmissions, HVAC, and engine repair.

Annual In-State Tuition
$2,909
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
75
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
22%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Credential Requirements

The Automotive Service Technology certificate totals 30 credits, and the AAS totals 64 credits.

Required Electrical Courses

Both credentials require Electrical/Electronic Systems I, II, III, and IV.

AAS Technical Choices

The AAS plan calls for six elective automotive credits in the third semester and 15 in the fourth, chosen from the listed vehicle-system courses.

Campus And Accreditation

Automotive Service Technology is offered at Downriver Campus and is identified by WCCCD as ASE-accredited.

02

Ann Arbor, MI

Washtenaw Community College

53.3Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

30-Credit Service Certificate

This certificate fits a student who wants a defined technician curriculum with state and ASE certification preparation.

Washtenaw Community College’s fall 2026 Automotive Services Technician certificate requires 30 credits. The curriculum names engine, fuel, transmission, brake, suspension, electrical, and electronic coursework, with electives for HVAC, advanced transmissions, welding, and alternative vehicle safety.

Annual In-State Tuition
$4,344
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
47
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
33%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Certificate Credits

Washtenaw lists the Automotive Services Technician certificate at 30 credits in its Fall 2026 catalog.

Core Systems

Required courses cover automotive service, electrical, engines, fuel systems, transmissions, suspension and steering, brakes, and electrical and electronic systems.

Technical Electives

Students may choose welding, alternative vehicle fundamentals and safety, heating and air conditioning, or advanced transmissions.

Certification Preparation

The program prepares students for Michigan Mechanic Certification tests and ASE Certification Exams.

Advanced Vehicle Topics

The catalog offers opportunities to explore diesel, alternative fuel, hybrid, and performance vehicles.

03

Warren, MI

Macomb Community College

43.4Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

GM Sponsorship And An AAS

Macomb's GM ASEP route fits you if you want manufacturer-focused study linked to a sponsoring service workplace.

Macomb offers Automotive Technology and GM ASEP associate degrees, both accredited by the ASE Education Foundation. The GM option combines college classes and labs with work at a sponsoring GM-approved service facility. On campus, you practice diagnostics and repairs in labs arranged like service bays.

Annual In-State Tuition
$6,360
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
58
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
18%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Associate Degree Options

Macomb offers Automotive Technology and Automotive Technology GM ASEP associate degrees.

GM Workplace Training

GM ASEP combines classroom and lab study with on-the-job training at a sponsoring GM-approved automotive service facility.

Service-Bay Labs

The automotive labs resemble modern shop service bays and provide diagnostic and repair tools for hands-on vehicle work.

Program Accreditation

Both automotive associate degrees are accredited by the ASE Education Foundation.

04

Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo Valley Community College

42.8Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

A Certificate Before Choosing A Specialization

The General Automotive Service certificate fulfills the first two semesters of either automotive AAS, giving students a shared entry route before focusing on electrical and engine performance or mechanical undercar work.

Kalamazoo Valley Community College’s one-year General Automotive Service certificate provides a starting point for two automotive AAS degrees. Students can specialize in drivability or undercar systems; both degrees list an automotive internship, while the certificate prepares students for selected Michigan mechanic exams and refrigerant-handling certification.

Annual In-State Tuition
$6,570
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
51
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
28%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Certificate Entry

The 2026–27 catalog lists a 32-credit, one-year General Automotive Service certificate whose requirements fulfill the first two semesters of both automotive AAS programs.

Degree Specializations

Both AAS degrees require at least 62 credits. Drivability emphasizes electrical, computer, and engine-performance work; Undercar emphasizes mechanical driveline, brakes, and suspension.

Workplace Requirement

Both associate degrees include Automotive Internship in their required-course lists.

Certification Preparation

The certificate prepares students for Michigan exams in engines, brakes, steering/suspension, and air conditioning, plus MACS refrigerant-handling certification.

Different Advanced Courses

Drivability requires Light Duty Diesel Engines and Alternative Auto Propulsion; Undercar requires Introduction to Welding and Auto Brake Electronic Systems.

05

Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids Community College

36.8Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Under-Ten-Month Service Certificate

This certificate suits you if you want training in six defined service areas and preparation for their corresponding mechanic certification tests.

GRCC's Automotive Technology certificate is designed for completion in less than ten months. It focuses on six service areas, from electrical diagnostics to engine performance and HVAC. The college also awards credit for current ASE certifications, which matters if you're returning with professional credentials.

Annual In-State Tuition
$7,830
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
41
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
21%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Program Length

GRCC says the certificate can be completed in less than ten months.

Six Service Areas

Training covers brakes, electrical and electronics, engine repair, engine performance, HVAC, and suspension and steering.

Exam Preparation

The program prepares you for Michigan or ASE tests in engine repair, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical systems, HVAC, and engine performance.

Credit For Certification

GRCC grants college credit for current Automotive Service Excellence certifications.

06

Dearborn, MI

Henry Ford College

36.6Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

60-Credit MAST AAS

This degree fits a student seeking a five-semester associate program with broad systems coursework, substantial laboratory practice, and MAST accreditation.

Henry Ford College’s Automotive Technology AAS requires 60 credits across five semesters. Students study electrical, fuel, ignition, power, and drivetrain systems, then apply the theory in laboratories equipped with representative vehicle components and testing equipment.

Annual In-State Tuition
$4,848
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
25
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
17%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Program Length

Henry Ford lists a 60-credit Automotive Technology AAS designed for completion in five semesters.

Systems Study

The program covers electrical, fuel, ignition, power, and drivetrain systems with diagnostic, servicing, and testing work.

Laboratory Equipment

Laboratories use representative engines, chassis, transmissions, rear axles, and automotive testing equipment.

MAST Accreditation

Henry Ford identifies the program as fully certified by ASE and accredited at the MAST level by the ASE Education Foundation.

07

Alpena, MI

Alpena Community College

34.0Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Three-Level Automotive Program

Alpena suits you if you want an entry certificate first, room to continue toward an AAS, and access to borrowed shop tools.

Alpena's Auto Service & Repair program moves through three levels: a one-year vocational certificate, a master certificate, and an AAS. You begin with five service areas, add engines and drivetrains at the master level, then complete general education for the degree. A tool checkout room reduces the need to arrive with a full personal set.

Annual In-State Tuition
$7,590
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
15
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
52%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Certificate Sequence

The one-year certificate covers engine performance, brakes, electrical systems, suspension and alignment, and climate control.

Master Certificate

After the vocational certificate, you can add master-level courses in engines, transmissions, and drivetrains.

Associate Degree

Additional English, mathematics, and political science courses complete the AAS level.

Tools And Clothing

You supply safety equipment and work clothes. Personal hand tools are recommended, and the college also operates a tool sign-out room.

08

Dowagiac, MI

Southwestern Michigan College

33.9Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Automotive Degree With An Internship

SMC fits you if you want a certificate option or an associate degree that adds workplace preparation and an internship to shop training.

Southwestern Michigan offers a one-year automotive certificate and an AAS. Students service real vehicles in a full-service lab, with training that includes traditional and hybrid vehicles. Degree students also complete workplace citizenship coursework and an internship.

Annual In-State Tuition
$5,937
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
18
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
38%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Award Choices

SMC offers a one-year Automotive Technology certificate and an associate degree.

Real-Vehicle Practice

Students service real vehicles in a full-service automotive lab and prepare to work on foreign, domestic, traditional, and hybrid vehicles.

AAS Workplace Preparation

Degree students complete a workplace citizenship course and an internship, along with mathematics and communication courses.

ASE Training

The automotive program is ASE-accredited, and its professors are ASE Master Certified Technicians.

09

Big Rapids, MI

Ferris State University

33.1Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

38-Credit University Certificate

This certificate gives you a concentrated automotive course plan that includes a workplace component within a university program.

Ferris State's Automotive Service undergraduate certificate requires 38 credits and includes cooperative work experience. Its technical courses cover engines, brakes, electrical systems, steering, transmissions, and HVAC. The certificate is open to admitted Ferris students, with good academic standing specified for new students.

Annual In-State Tuition
$14,582
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
19
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
47%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Certificate Credits

The Automotive Service certificate requires 38 credits through the College of Engineering Technology.

Electrical Coursework

The plan includes Auto Electricity and Electronics, Electronic Fuel Management Systems, and Chassis Electrical and Electronics.

Cooperative Work

AUTO 291 Cooperative Work Experience appears in the required certificate course list.

Entry Requirements

New students admitted to Ferris and in good standing may enroll. Transfer students may enroll after admission to the university.

10

Lansing, MI

Lansing Community College

29.8Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Small Classes And Included Testing

Lansing is useful if you value frequent lab instruction, small classes, and fewer separate expenses for certification tests and textbooks.

Lansing's Automotive Technologies program pairs an AAS and certificates with focused options in engine overhaul, drivability, brakes, and electrical/HVAC diagnosis. About 70% of instruction is lab work. Classes stay below 16 students, and LCC covers state and ASE testing costs plus most automotive textbooks.

Annual In-State Tuition
$7,200
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
23
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
25%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Credential Choices

Options include an AAS, an automotive certificate, and specialist certificates in brakes, electrical/HVAC diagnosis, engine and transmission overhaul, and drivability.

Lab Time

Approximately 70% of instruction takes place in hands-on laboratories.

Class Size

Lab and lecture classes have fewer than 16 students and are taught by ASE-certified instructors.

Included Expenses

LCC covers State of Michigan and ASE test costs, along with most automotive textbooks.

11

Grayling, MI

Kirtland Community College

28.8Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

AAS With Gas And Diesel Study

Kirtland suits you if you want automotive repair training that includes diesel diagnostics and an introduction to managing service work.

Kirtland's Automotive Technology AAS requires at least 66.5 credits, including 51.5 technical credits. The curriculum reaches gasoline and diesel engine performance and adds service management to repair training. Separate Master Certification and Diesel Service Specialist certificates provide additional credential choices.

Annual In-State Tuition
$6,450
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
16
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
34%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
AAS Credit Requirements

The AAS requires at least 66.5 credits, including 51.5 credits of automotive courses.

Diesel Competency

Diesel engine performance is one of the nine areas in which AAS graduates are expected to demonstrate competence.

Management And Capstone

Required automotive courses include Introduction to Auto Service Management and a Capstone Lab.

Practice From The Start

Kirtland says hands-on learning begins on the first day in a lab built to automotive industry standards.

12

Marquette, MI

Northern Michigan University

24.8Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Certificates Through An Associate Degree

NMU suits you if you want several automotive award levels and a stated route from the associate degree into further university study.

NMU offers a 24-credit maintenance certificate, a 48-credit service certificate, and a 63-credit associate of technology degree. The associate adds liberal studies to the service certificate's technical courses. You'll need safety glasses, a basic tool set, and a lockable toolbox for the automotive program.

Annual In-State Tuition
$13,374
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
9
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
52%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Certificate Lengths

The maintenance certificate takes one year and 24 credits. The service certificate takes two years and 48 credits.

Associate Requirements

The two-year, 63-credit associate of technology degree includes the service certificate's technical coursework plus liberal studies.

Bachelor's Progression

NMU says Automotive Service Technology associate credits transfer into its industrial technology or technology and applied sciences bachelor's programs without credit loss.

Required Tools

Students provide safety glasses, a basic tool set, and a lockable toolbox.

13

Centreville, MI

Glen Oaks Community College

24.3Score

CertificatePublic

Engine Rebuilding With Applied Welding

Glen Oaks combines separate valve/head and cylinder-block rebuilding courses with applied welding, while allowing an arranged technology internship to satisfy the technician certificate’s elective choice.

Glen Oaks Community College offers an Automotive Service certificate that leads into its Automotive Technician certificate. Technician coursework includes valve and cylinder-block rebuilding plus applied welding, with an internship available by special arrangement as an alternative to the transmissions elective.

Annual In-State Tuition
$4,824
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
4
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
43%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Certificate Progression

The Automotive Technician certificate continues the Service certificate and can apply toward an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Required Shop Subjects

The technician certificate requires Valve and Head Rebuilding, Auto Cylinder Block Rebuilding, and Applied Welding for Skilled Trades.

Internship Choice

The elective is either Intro to Automotive Transmissions or Internship I–Technology; the internship requires special arrangement.

Course Format

Glen Oaks allows evening or part-time study. Most courses meet in person with hands-on labs.

Lab Instruction

Both certificates use domestic and import vehicles for lab work and are taught by ASE-certified instructors.

14

Escanaba, MI

Bay de Noc Community College

22.4Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

AAS With Automotive Co-Op

Bay is a useful choice if workplace experience is part of your degree plan and you can meet the co-op's license and tool requirements.

Bay College's Automotive Technology AAS includes an Automotive Service Co-op alongside at least 53 technical credits and 15 general education credits. The course plan develops engine performance and electrical skills through successive levels. You can also choose a Master Technician or Maintenance Technician certificate.

Annual In-State Tuition
$8,133
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
14
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
30%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Degree Requirements

The AAS requires at least 53 credits of automotive coursework and 15 credits of general education.

Certificate Choices

Bay also offers Automotive Master Technician and Automotive Maintenance Technician certificates.

Co-Op Placement

AUTO 2720 places qualified students at approved training work sites, with instructor approval and preregistration documentation.

Work-Site Requirements

A valid driver's license and an approved hand-tool set are required for the co-op.

15

Ironwood, MI

Gogebic Community College

19.6Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Two-Year Ironwood Training

Gogebic gives you a full technical certificate with an associate option that adds general education to the same automotive foundation.

Gogebic's Ironwood automotive program offers a 53-credit certificate and a 69–71-credit associate degree, each planned over two years. The associate degree adds general education to the certificate courses. Your repair practice uses late-model cars and light trucks, and the technical sequence includes an introduction to hybrid vehicles.

Annual In-State Tuition
$6,150
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
7
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
36%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Credential Requirements

The certificate totals 53 credits. The associate degree totals 69–71 credits and includes the certificate coursework.

Vehicle Practice

Both programs use equipment and procedures to test, diagnose, and repair late-model cars and light trucks.

Hybrid Course

The fourth-semester plan includes a three-credit Introduction to Hybrid Vehicles course.

Alignment Credential

Successful steering and suspension coursework includes a Hunter Engineering alignment technician certificate of completion.

Shop Clothing

Students provide safety glasses and appropriate shop clothing, including closed-toe shoes.

16

University Center, MI

Delta College

17.3Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

AAS With Two Internships

Delta suits you if you want repeated workplace experience and are prepared to secure an approved internship site.

Delta's 63-credit Automotive Service Technology AAS requires two internships and includes hybrid technology. The suggested plan runs across fall, winter, and spring terms in both years. You arrange college-approved internship employment, while advanced coursework builds on the initial systems sequence.

Annual In-State Tuition
$6,720
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
9
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
27%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Degree Length

The AAS totals 63 credits, with a suggested sequence spanning six terms over two years.

Hybrid Instruction

Both the automotive certificate and the AAS include hybrid technology.

Internship Responsibility

Two internships are required for the certificate and AAS. Students obtain their own college-approved employment sites.

Driving Requirement

You need a valid driver's license to participate in the program's hands-on vehicle tasks.

17

Harrison, MI

Mid Michigan College

17.0Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Fast-Track To Associate

This pathway fits a student who wants a compact entry credential with a clear route into a longer applied degree and workplace practice.

Mid Michigan College’s Automotive & Diesel Service pathway offers a training credential that can be completed in eight months or two semesters and ladders into a two-year associate degree. Students work on real vehicles in a dealership-style environment, with internships available for associate students.

Annual In-State Tuition
$8,710
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
10
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
28%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Fast-Track Credential

Mid says its Automotive & Diesel Service Training Credential can be completed in eight months or two semesters.

Associate Ladder

The one-year training credential ladders into the college’s two-year associate degree.

Real-Vehicle Practice

Students work on real vehicles and vehicle systems in a dealership-style learning environment.

Internship Option

Students pursuing the associate degree intern at local businesses alongside certified auto technicians.

Master Accreditation

Mid identifies nearly 15 years of Master Accreditation through NATEF for its automotive and diesel pathways.

18

Auburn Hills, MI

Oakland Community College

16.7Score

Associate DegreePublic

61-Credit Metro Detroit AAS

This pathway fits a student who wants stackable credentials and hands-on study that includes newer vehicle technologies.

Oakland Community College’s Automobile Servicing pathway combines classroom study with immediate vehicle work in a state-of-the-art lab. It offers a 61-credit AAS, a 36-credit certificate, and a certificate of achievement, with training across conventional, hybrid, and electric vehicle systems.

Annual In-State Tuition
$5,340
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
7
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
21%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Credential Stack

Oakland lists a 61-credit AAS, a 36-credit certificate, and a certificate of achievement in Automobile Servicing.

Hands-On Lab

Students apply classroom learning to vehicles in Oakland’s state-of-the-art automobile servicing lab.

Systems Coverage

The program covers heating and air conditioning, transmissions, brakes, electrical and electronics, emissions, engines, and suspension and steering.

Emerging Vehicles

Oakland includes hybrid and electric vehicles in its automobile servicing instruction.

Embedded Certifications

NC3 certifications are built into classes, and Mopar CAP credentials are available.

19

Owosso, MI

Baker College

16.4Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePrivate nonprofit

Two-Semester Owosso Certificate

You can complete a defined service certificate in person while getting substantial lab time in individual repair courses.

Baker's Auto Diesel Institute in Owosso offers a 32-credit Automotive Services Technology certificate that averages two semesters. Its 43,000-square-foot training facility supports instruction by ASE Master Certified technicians. Brake coursework includes anti-lock systems, traction control, machining, and scan-tool use.

Annual In-State Tuition
$12,600
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
8
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
36%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Length And Location

The certificate consists of 32 credits over two semesters and is offered in person at Owosso.

Training Facility

ADI uses a 43,000-square-foot facility equipped with tools and equipment used in professional shops.

Course Lab Hours

The featured engine repair, steering and suspension, and brake courses each require 15 lecture hours and 90 lab hours.

Attendance Requirement

Those featured courses require attendance for at least 85% of their lecture and lab hours to earn a grade.

Program Accreditation

The Automotive Services Technology certificate is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation.

20

Monroe, MI

Monroe County Community College

15.9Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

Automotive AAS With Elective Choices

Monroe fits you if you want workplace experience in the degree and room to choose a later automotive specialty.

Monroe County's 2026–27 Automotive Service Technology AAS requires 61–63 credits and places cooperative work experience in the fourth semester. Electrical systems and engine performance each have a two-course sequence. Later choices include electric and hybrid vehicles, engine repair, and transmissions.

Annual In-State Tuition
$6,638
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
6
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
34%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Degree Requirements

The 2026–27 catalog lists 61–63 credits for the Automotive Service Technology AAS.

Required Systems Sequence

Electrical Systems I and II and Engine Performance I and II are required, alongside brakes, steering and suspension, and summer HVAC coursework.

Cooperative Experience

The fourth-semester plan includes a three-credit Cooperative Work Experience course.

Technical Electives

Restricted elective choices include Introduction to Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, Engine Repair, and Automotive Transmissions.

21

Flint, MI

Mott Community College

13.1Score

Associate DegreePublic

Automotive AAS With Practicums

Mott fits you if you want repair-facility practice within the degree and can commit to its grade, equipment, and course-recency requirements.

Mott's Automotive Technology AAS covers all eight ASE service areas and includes Service Floor practicums at dealerships or independent repair facilities. You need your own hand tools and safety glasses. Occupational courses require a 2.0 grade, and older automotive credits have a recency rule for returning students.

Annual In-State Tuition
$7,185
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
5
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
32%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
ASE Curriculum

The AAS covers all eight ASE service areas and the tasks specified by ASE/NATEF.

Service Floor Experience

Service Floor I and II place students alongside professional technicians at dealerships or independent repair facilities.

Grade And Recency Rules

Occupational courses require a 2.0 grade. Returning students repeat AUTO courses over five years old unless currently Michigan- or ASE-certified in that area.

Student Equipment

You provide your own hand tools and safety glasses for automotive classes and lab work.

22

Muskegon, MI

Muskegon Community College

7.9Score

Certificate · Associate DegreePublic

AAS With Two Course Options

Muskegon gives you a choice of emphasis within the AAS, including an automotive option with service management and advanced engine performance.

Muskegon's 60-credit Automotive Technology AAS lets you choose between an additional automotive course group and an alternative group containing calculus, physics, history, and psychology. A separate 30–32-credit technician certificate includes 27 credits of required automotive courses and a mathematics requirement.

Annual In-State Tuition
$10,120
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
4
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
28%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Credential Credits

The AAS requires 60 credits. The Automotive Technician certificate requires 30–32 credits.

AAS Automotive Option

One 17-credit option includes air conditioning, automatic transmissions, service management, advanced engine performance, and automotive service.

Alternative AAS Option

The other option combines Western Civilization to 1500, Calculus I, College Physics I with lab, and General Psychology.

Certificate Mathematics

The technician certificate includes 27 required automotive credits and 3–5 mathematics credits.

23

Traverse City, MI

Northwestern Michigan College

7.6Score

CertificatePublic

Customer Cars And Evening Classes

NMC suits you if you need day or evening scheduling and want to practice on customer vehicles while working toward a defined automotive credential.

Northwestern Michigan College teaches automotive students on real customer cars in a 13-bay shop. Day and evening classes support an AAS and four specialist certificates, including hybrid technology. In-house state certification testing is part of the program.

Annual In-State Tuition
$9,146
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
4
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
25%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Credential Menu

NMC offers an Automotive Service Technology AAS plus Electrical and Drivability, Hybrid Technology, Master Automotive Technician, and Under Car specialist certificates.

Class Scheduling

Automotive classes are offered during both the day and evening.

Customer Repair Shop

Students use diagnostic equipment on real cars for real customers in the college's 13-bay automotive shop.

Certification Testing

NMC provides in-house testing for State of Michigan certification as part of the program.

Automotive Programs With Specific Eligibility Requirements

Plainwell, MI

Michigan Career and Technical Institute

CertificatePublic

Residential Vocational Training For Students With Disabilities

MCTI serves people with disabilities through Career Assessment and program placement. Its October 5–December 18, 2026 term is canceled for construction, with unfinished students scheduled to resume January 11, 2027.

Residential Vocational Support

This program serves students with disabilities who want residential training and support. Entry to an automotive cohort follows Career Assessment and available program space.

MCTI provides residential vocational training for people with disabilities at its Plainwell campus. Automotive students study diagnosis and repair while preparing for Michigan and ASE certifications. Construction has canceled the October 5–December 18, 2026 winter term. Students with unfinished programs are scheduled to resume January 11, 2027.

Annual In-State Tuition
$8,548
Institution-wide · 2024–25
Automotive Awards
8
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24
Schoolwide Graduation
38%
Institution-wide · 150% time

Program Details

Researched September 8, 2026
Residential Training

MCTI's main Plainwell campus provides residential vocational training and support services for people with disabilities.

Program Entry

Career Assessment is the starting point for most students. Results guide recommendations for vocational training, with enrollment subject to program space.

Automotive Instruction

Training covers brakes, suspension, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, and engine performance diagnosis and repair.

Certification Preparation

Students work toward State of Michigan mechanic certification and national ASE certification.

Winter 2026 Cancellation

Construction has canceled the October 5–December 18, 2026 term. Students with unfinished programs are scheduled to resume January 11, 2027.

Best Auto Mechanic Schools In Michigan

Michigan's 483 awards are spread across 50 programs, so the schools offer many ways to narrow the search. Alpena's 15 awards and Northern Michigan's nine sit beside Ferris State's 19, with different annual tuition figures and credentials.

Michigan's choices invite a campus-type comparison. Alpena Community College gives you a lower published annual tuition among these three examples with both certificates and associate degrees. Northern Michigan University also shows both credentials at a higher $13,374 tuition. Ferris State University reports an associate's program and 19 awards. The schoolwide rates sit at 52%, 52%, and 47%, so the rates provide institution context for the specific automotive award and lab sequence.

Auto Mechanic Pay In Michigan

The May 2025 BLS survey reports a $54,120 median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Michigan, across 22,280 jobs. The median is the midpoint for the occupation, not an offer to new graduates.

10th Percentile
$36,110
Median
$54,120
90th Percentile
$79,060

Experience, employer, and the work you do affect where you fall in that spread. Explore Auto Mechanic Salaries.

School Credentials And ASE Certification

A college certificate is an academic credential; professional ASE certification requires passing the relevant ASE test and satisfying its work experience rule. For the A1–A9 automobile tests, that rule is two years of qualifying repair experience. You can take most tests before completing the experience requirement, but passing alone does not make you certified.

Completing an ASE-accredited automotive program can count for one year of that experience. An eligible ASE-accredited manufacturer co-op program can count for the full two years when it includes the required hands-on work. These substitutions cannot be combined. Source: ASE Work Experience Rules.

Our certificate and associate degree comparison explains the academic routes, while the ASE certification guide covers professional credentials. The school cost guide separates tuition, fees, and tools.

Michigan Auto Mechanic School Questions

What Is The May 2025 Michigan Wage Median?
The May 2025 BLS OEWS median for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Michigan is $54,120. The middle figure is a statewide occupation measure, with the 10th percentile at $36,110 and the 90th percentile at $79,060.
Where Does Michigan Report Associate Degree Awards?
Wayne County Community College District (certificate and associate degree, 75 awards), Macomb Community College (certificate and associate degree, 58 awards), Kalamazoo Valley Community College (certificate and associate degree, 51 awards), Washtenaw Community College (certificate and associate degree, 47 awards) show associate degree credentials among the published school figures.
How Many Automotive Awards Are Reported In Michigan?
The Michigan schools span certificate and associate degree credentials across 50 automotive options and 483 awards in 2023-24. Wayne County Community College District has the largest listed award count at 75. Wayne County Community College District lists $2,909 in annual in-state institution tuition.

Sources For These School Comparisons

School records and program sources checked September 8, 2026. Federal figures retain their original reporting years; program details cite the school’s published requirements and costs. Send A Correction.

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