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Statistics show that millions of people are employed in the automotive industry worldwide. In the US, from July 2022 to 2023 alone, this industry has employed approximately 56,200 people in the manufacturing sector, 27,400 in the motor vehicle and parts retail trade, and 6,500 in the automobile trade.
With advancements and technologies that keep the automotive industry evolving, especially with the positive growth rate forecasted for the global electric vehicle market, the industry can sustain employment growth in the next years.
Students who want to take advantage of employment opportunities in the industry can consider taking on-campus or online degrees in automotive at the bachelor’s level as early as now.
While a two-year associate degree in Automotive will equip oneself with the technical expertise in vehicle repair and servicing, a four-year bachelor’s degree program equips graduates with a more comprehensive understanding of automotive engineering–a skill that automotive technicians must possess.
Undergraduate Automotive degrees also cover automotive business law and strategies that ensure smooth and sustainable operations in the auto industry.
The Lowdown
A Bachelor’s degree in Automotive is generally a four-year program with a curriculum that covers the technical aspects of automotive engineering and mechanical engineering technology as well as the development of valuable business skills, including leadership and management, communication, problem-solving, project management, financial literacy, supply chain management, and many others.
Although the program is highly focused on the automotive environment, graduates can gain transferable skills valuable in many other business scenarios or managerial roles regardless of the industry.
Methodology
We compiled the colleges and universities in the country that offer Bachelor in Automotive degree programs! As automotive technology online or blended programs are rare, our list includes a traditional or in-person program on Automotive Technology.
Each undergraduate program meets these specific criteria:
- Offered either online or as a hybrid undergraduate degree in Automotive, emphasizing flexible distance learning options that may require in-person attendance,
- Features a comprehensive curriculum on automotive engineering and business management principles,
- Offers hands-on training and experiential learning opportunities as part of the curriculum,
- Prepares students for licensure or certification examinations relevant to the automotive industry,
- Employs faculty members and staff who are experts in the industry with real-life experiences and relevant qualifications,
- Provides students with a range of support services, including academic advising, online tutorials and 24/7 technical support,
- Fosters networking opportunities with alums and professionals in the relevant industry,
- Accredited by agencies recognized by the Department of Education, ensuring meeting quality education standards,
- Recognized by well-respected organizations in the industry.
Check out our Methodology for more information.
5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Automotive Programs
Pennsylvania College of Technology
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology Management (Online)
Pennsylvania College of Technology offers an online BS in Automotive Technology Management degree program that allows students to build their leadership, business, and management skills while balancing their professional and personal commitments.
High school graduates are expected to have two years of algebra, a year of physical science, and three years of English courses. This program also applies to individuals with an industry-related Associate’s degree, especially those who want to upgrade their careers by taking management roles or opening their dealership.
The program requires 126 total credits for completion.
The BS Automotive Technology Management program is accredited by the ATMAE or Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering.
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education acknowledges Pennsylvania College of Technology’s accredited status.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Part-time students are accepted into the online program.
The curriculum involves asynchronous classes through Penn College’s Platform for Learning and Teaching Online (PLATO).
A range of student services are available for online learners, including one-on-one interaction with faculty and 24/7 online tutoring.
Did You Know?
Penn College consistently ranks superior in terms of academic quality and innovation.
New England Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Service Management (Online and Hybrid)
New England Institute of Technology offers the online BS in Automotive Service Management degree program for students who aspire to become business managers or to run their own car and truck dealerships. Classes are also available in hybrid formats for those who prefer to learn in a face-to-face, on-campus environment.
The curriculum covers essential topics in the fields of automotive and business necessary to succeed in the automobile industry, particularly in vehicle dealerships and marina and boatyard management.
The program is also designed for students with an associate degree, as it offers an accelerated academic schedule. More specifically, the curriculum has four academic quarters annually, each having ten weeks.
Rhode Island-based New England Tech is approved by the New England Commission of Higher Education or NECHE.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Students under the online program have access to essential support services, including access to advisors and 24/7 technical support.
Faculty members are industry experts who can bring real-world insights into the classroom.
Did You Know?
New England Tech is highly dedicated to providing hands-on learning experiences through state-of-the-art laboratory simulations so that students can develop real-world skills in their chosen profession or trade.
Ferris State University
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Management (Online)
The BS in Automotive Management is one of the many online programs in the Michigan-based Ferris State University. It provides students with hands-on experiences to gain the technical skills and the business know-how to excel and advance their careers in the automotive industry.
The Automotive Management degree online program is also designed for students with an associate degree in automotive or related programs. It requires at least 120 credits toward graduation, including a minimum of 40 credits from level 300 courses or higher, and the University’s residency requirement of at least 30 credits.
Ferris State University’s academic programs have received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission or HLC.
What Makes this Program Unique:
The University has an existing partnership with Macomb Community College that makes transferring more convenient with some college credits to be applied toward the Bachelor in Automotive Management degree.
Did You Know?
The University has five local Student Success Hubs where online students can visit to find personalized resources and support, including local program advising, financial aid assistance, and registration support. These local hubs are in Detroit, Flint, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and Traverse City.
Liberty University
BSBA and Data Analysis – Automotive Dealership Management (Online)
Students who want to gain managerial skills to boost their career in the automotive retail industry can consider enrolling in the BS in Business Administration and Data Analysis – Automotive Dealership Management offered by Virginia-based Liberty University. It’s a 100% online degree program with courses that are eight weeks long.
This Automotive Dealership Management degree program requires students to complete 120 credit hours.
Liberty University’s institutional accreditation is the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
What Makes this Program Unique:
Faculty members have extensive real-world experience in the automotive industry and, thus, can provide valuable and practical insights for students to manage a productive, efficient, and profitable vehicle dealership.
As a Christian, nonprofit University, this Automotive Management degree program is designed to mold students into professionals who are not just equipped with the industry’s best practices and uphold Christian principles that help them excel in the business world with integrity.
Did You Know?
The University is among the educational institutions nationwide with the lowest tuition rates. It also offers many payment options, discount opportunities, and a range of cost-reduction options for students.
Montana State University-Northern
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology (On-Campus)
Montana State University – Northern offers various Automotive Technology degree programs, including a four-year BS in Automotive Technology degree.
The bachelor’s program requires students to complete 122 credits toward graduation. Graduates of this program are ready to become technical representatives, specialized diagnosticians, service managers, and other positions in the automotive industry.
This program highly focuses on leadership and quality based on the standards for Master Certification of ASE Education Foundation.
MSU-Northern holds institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
What Makes this Program Unique:
Under this automotive technology bachelor program, students will receive certification in the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) and Preparation for Ford’s Maintenance and Light Repair Program (MLR).
Did You Know?
MSU-Northern functions as an important continuing education and cultural resource center for the large geographic region that it serves, including four Native American reservations as well as Montana’s towns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What career opportunities are available after completing a Bachelor’s in Automotive Technology and Management?
Graduates can pursue roles as automotive engineers, technicians, project managers, dealership managers, and supply chain specialists. They can also work in automotive design, manufacturing, sales, and aftermarket services. Furthermore, graduates can become entrepreneurs and open their shops or dealerships.
Is a Bachelor’s in Automotive Technology worth it in terms of career prospects and wage potential?
Yes, it is. Graduates with technical skills and management knowledge can find opportunities in various executive roles, including project and dealership managers. The automotive industry also continues to evolve with advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and connected technologies.
How do students stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in the Automotive industry during their studies?
Stay engaged by attending industry conferences, joining automotive clubs or societies, reading automotive publications, and following reputable online sources. Many programs also incorporate real-world projects and internships that provide hands-on exposure to the industry’s latest developments.
Summary Points
- A Bachelor’s in Automotive combines technical coursework with a broader understanding of business management, engineering principles, and industry trends.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Automotive graduates can further their education and improve their career options by pursuing the Bachelor’s program, where they can level up their practical, hands-on technical education by gaining all the skills and strategies necessary to manage business operations.
- Students are advised to research the curriculum of the program they’re considering to ensure it aligns with their educational and career goals in the automotive industry.
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