School Overviews
While most schools offer training in auto detailing through certificate programs, some auto body repair associate degree programs also include auto detailing training. The two schools we'll be looking at have diploma, certificate and associate degree options. Let's learn about the detailing programs and courses available at two top community colleges.
Saint Paul College
The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Auto Body Repair program at Saint Paul College in St. Paul, MN provides students with training in the essentials of auto detailing, vehicle body repair and labor and material cost estimation. Classes for the A.A.S. program include general detailing, paint and trim detailing and general education requirements such as math, history and communications. Students will be taught necessary skills like welding and cutting, frame repair, metal straightening, metal finishing, customized painting and body alignment.
SPC also offers an auto body repair diploma program, which includes much of the same coursework as the A.A.S. program. However, general education classes are not required in the diploma program.
Salt Lake Community College
There are two programs at Salt Lake Community College in Salt Lake City, UT that train students in auto detailing. The school's 34-credit certificate program in automotive refinishing trains students in detailing, coat smoothing, undercoating and color mixing. Alternatively, students who want in-depth training in this field can enroll in the school's A.A.S. in Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing program. In addition to auto detailing training, A.A.S. students learn about structural damage analysis and ways to straighten bent vehicles. Students who complete this degree program also have the option of obtaining a Technology Management Bachelor Degree at Utah Valley University.
Top Auto Detailing Training Programs
Besides the programs from the two schools we've looked at, there are other great auto detailing programs at schools across the country. These include the following:
| Name | Location | Distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Carolina Community College | Jacksonville, NC | Has different collision repair credentials including intro, intermediate and advanced levels as well as an evening option |
| Stark State College | North Canton, OH | Has auto detailing electives in the automotive technology associate's degree following the International Detailing Association (IDA) guidelines |
| Wake Technical Community College | Raleigh, NC | Offers automotive detailing certification |
The best auto detailing training programs offer a chance for students to earn a diploma, certificate or associate's degree, and are offered at Saint Paul College and Salt Lake Community College.