What Types of College Degrees are Available in Diesel Mechanics?
Diesel mechanics keep large vehicles running smoothly and efficiently, such as trucks, buses, bulldozers, cranes, tractors and combines. They repair heavy equipment, including oil rigs, farming equipment and hydraulic systems. Many of these mechanics are graduates of certificate programs or degree programs, such as the Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology or Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology. Continue reading for more details about study options in this area.
College Degree Programs for a Career in Diesel Mechanics
<p>Diesel mechanics are indispensable for manufacturers, equipment dealers and organizations that use, lease, sell and repair diesel equipment. The demand for highly skilled mechanics in this field has many vocational colleges, trade schools, junior colleges and 4-year universities developing diesel mechanic training programs. Certificate programs of study are common in diesel technology. Many students enroll in associate's or bachelor's degree programs for a more balanced education.
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<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisFieldOfStudy">Important Facts About This Field of Study</h3>
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<table border="1"><tr><td> Prerequisites </td><td> High school diploma or equivalent; basic computer literacy may also be required</td></tr>
<tr><td> Online Availability </td><td> Online programs are rare, but some for-profit schools offer full diploma programs online</td></tr>
<tr><td> Continuing Education </td><td> Diesel mechanic technical certification is optional</td></tr>
<tr><td> Licensure </td><td> Commercial driver's license is often required to test-drive vehicles</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $48,690 (<i>for diesel service technicians and mechanics</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 4% (<i>for diesel service technicians and mechanics</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
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<h3 id="section---CertificateInDieselMechanics">Certificate in Diesel Mechanics</h3>
<p>A diesel mechanics certificate program includes the basic technical courses that a student will need to begin an entry-level job in the field, including a specialized math course. Some courses will occur in the classroom, while others are hands-on 'laboratory' work. Certificate-level students even take communications courses so they can interact as part of a team in a garage or other workplace. Potential classes include:
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<ul><li>Fuel systems
</li><li>Electrical systems
</li><li>Brake systems
</li><li>Engine repair
</li></ul><h3 id="section---AssociateSDegreeInDieselMechanics">Associate's Degree in Diesel Mechanics</h3>
<p>Like in certificate program, the curriculum for a diesel mechanic degree consists of classroom instruction, as well as laboratory training on specialized equipment and tools. You'll also take general education courses, like English, humanities and sciences. You can earn an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Diesel Mechanics or a similar degree. The core courses of associate's degree programs generally include topics like:
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<ul><li>Power train equipment repair
</li><li>Hydraulic fundamentals
</li><li>Diesel engines
</li><li>Diesel electrical and electronic systems
</li><li>Diesel support systems
</li></ul><h3 id="section---DieselMechanicsBachelorSDegree">Diesel Mechanics Bachelor's Degree</h3>
<p>With an associate's degree in diesel technology, a mechanic can earn a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Diesel Technology. The B.S. program at Montana State University Northern includes an optional concentration in fabrication and welding. Bachelor's degree programs may also cover more advanced subjects, including:
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<ul><li>Hydraulics
</li><li>Advanced fuel systems
</li><li>Chassis repair</li></ul>