Collision repair is typically learned through certificate, diploma or training programs. Some associate's degree programs are also available.
10 Schools with Collision Repair Programs
The following schools offer collision repair programs:
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition (2015-2016)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hillsborough Community College | Tampa, Florida | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $2,506 In-state $9,111 Out-of-state |
| El Camino College | Torrance, California | 2-year, Public | Certificate Associate's | $1,142 In-state $5,678 Out-of-state |
| Austin Community College | Austin, Texas | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $2,550 In-district $9,210 In-state $11,340 Out-of-state |
| Lansing Community College | Lansing, Michigan | 2-year, Public | Certificate Associate's | $3,020 In-district $5,660 In-state $8,300 Out-of-state |
| Butler Community College | Butler, Pennsylvania | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $4,230 In-district $7,230 In-state $10,230 Out-of-state |
| Tarrant County College | Fort Worth, Texas | 2-year, Public | Certificate Associate's | $1,320 In-district $2,064 In-school $4,920 In-state |
| Riverside City College | Riverside, California | 2-year, Public | Certificate Associate's | $1,426 In-state $7,366 Out-of-state |
| City College of San Francisco | San Francisco, California | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $1,598 In-state $7,554 Out-of-state |
| American River College | Sacramento, California | 2-year, Public | Certificate Associate's | $1,104 In-state $7,440 Out-of-state |
| Long Beach City College | Long Beach, California | 2-year, Public | Certificate Associate's | $1,182 In-state $7,398 Out-of-state |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
School Selection Criteria
Many collision repair technicians learn through on-the-job training; however, technical training institutes and 2-year colleges offer programs in collision repair. Considerations for students in this field include:
- Some training programs are specific to certain automotive manufacturers, like Ford or Chrysler.
- An aspiring technician may want to seek a program that prepares them for National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification exams.
- Students should consider the amount of time they are willing to invest into the program. Certificate programs are the shortest option, while associate's degrees can take roughly two years to complete.
- A modern, well-equipped repair lab is important as a large part of hands-on student education occurs in the lab.
Information on Courses
Although there will be some classroom study, many collision repair schools do the bulk of coursework in the repair lab where students are introduced to a variety of techniques and machines in repairing damage to motor vehicles. Some collision repair schools offer such unique options as street rod repair, custom fabrication and custom chassis fabrication.
In a collision repair program, students learn how to replace or repair damaged parts on vehicles and paint them to match the original condition of the vehicle. Aspiring students may seek out collision repair programs that prepare them for certification or that emphasize a particular auto manufacturer's brand.
