Earn a Degree in Auto Body Repair and Technology
Wayne County Community College describes auto body repair and technology degrees as being "designed to provide students with in-depth instructionin the field of Automotive Body Paint and Repair." Graduates of these programs are prepared to diagnose, repair, and service automobile bodies.An education in Auto Body Repair and Technology is an option for military members and veterans looking for a hands-on career. The program teaches essential skills like vehicle repair, welding, painting, and diagnostics. Service members can build on the mechanical and technical experience they already have.
As car technology evolves, specialized knowledge from this degree can lead graduates to better job opportunities and higher pay. Veterans can also use their GI Bill benefits to help cover education costs.
Is an Auto Body Repair and Technology Degree hard?
This degree may be challenging because it combines technical proficiency, attention to detail, and physical endurance. Students are required to master complex repair techniques, modern automotive tech systems, and classic car machinery. This program can be particularly demanding for those who are uncomfortable with physical labor or attention to minute details.If you’ve worked on vehicles during your military career, your skills will provide you with a solid foundation, making earning the degree easier than it would be to someone who is new to it.
Earn a Degree in Auto Body Repair and Technology
Jobs in this field are in high demand due to the need for vehicle repairs and maintenance. As advancements in technology, particularly with electric and autonomous vehicles, become more widespread, having specialized knowledge in these areas can distinguish you in the job market, leading to more money or even your own business.Career opportunities can be found in various sectors such as:
- Collision repair shops
- Dealerships
- Custom car restoration
- Auto body manufacturing and design
- Insurance companies (as damage assessors)
- Fleet maintenance services
- Independent or mobile repair services
GI BIll and Yellow Ribbon Program options to Earn a Degree in Auto Body Repair andTechnology.
Our list of GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon participating schools is below. Don't forget to explore your other military financial aid and veteran student financial aid opportunities. There is also help for military spouses who need scholarships and other types of financial aid.Filters
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Associate Degree in Auto Body Repair and Technology
A student who earns an Auto Body and Tech Associate Degree will get hands-on experience and an internship or work-study hours with a local employer. Through this coursework, they will:- Learn repair fundamentals and techniques, including welding and refurbishing; and,
- Study topics like painting, refinishing, mechanical/electrical repair, and repair cost estimating.
Jobs with an Associate Degree in Auto Body Repair and Technology
- Detailing Technician: A person in this role cleans, polishes, and restores vehicles. Median Annual Salary: $59,773.
- Service Advisor: A service advisor works for a repair shop providing estimates to customers. Median Annual Salary: $47,932.
- Paint Technician: A paint tech applies paint and finishes to vehicles, making sure the proper color matching and surface preparation takes place. Median Annual Salary: $50,960.
Bachelor’s Degree in Auto Body Repair and Technology
A Bachelor's in Auto Body Repair and Technology is a four-year program that covers vehicle repair, painting, structural alignment, and modern materials in-depth and prepares graduates for leadership or management roles in this automotive sector. Coursework is typically on the following topics:- Collision repair and specific automotive brands
- Processes involved in auto parts manufacturing
- Management skills for running an automotive business
Jobs with an Bachelor’s Degree in Auto Body Repair and Technology
- Auto Body Shop Manager: A person who runs an auto body shop oversees daily operations, high-quality repairs and staff management. Median Annual Salary: $106,291.
- Collision Repair Technician: This role specializes in restoring damaged vehicle bodies. Median Annual Salary: $74,451
- Estimator: An estimator evaluates damage and prepares repair cost estimates for customers and insurance companies. Median Annual Salary: $67,146.
Is an Auto Body Repair and Technology Degree worth it?
If you love cars, you’ll find great interest in the specialized skills of this degree—among them, collision repair, painting, and vehicle restoration. Also an understanding of modern vehicle technology can be quite lucrative, as it's a specialized skill that quickly and frequently changes. While entry-level positions may start with modest salaries, gaining experience or managing your own shop can significantly increase earnings.Active duty service members, veterans and their families can use educational entitlements for low to no-cost degree-seeking opportunities. Programs such as MyCAA (for eligible spouses), the GI Bill, and the Yellow Ribbon program are opportunities to pursue to maximize your learning and earning potential.
GI Bill-approved Schools for Auto Body Repair and Technology Degrees
Ready to start your Degree in Auto Body Repair and Technology? Check out these programs available at our partner schools:- Cypress College-Offers an Associate of Science, Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician.
- American River College-Offers an Associate of Science in Automotive Collision Technology and is approved for tuition assistance.
- SUNY Morrisville-Offers an Associate of Science and Bachelor’s of Science in Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician and is approved for tuition assistance.