Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at College of Southern Idaho

College of Southern Idaho's auto tech program costs significantly less than most alternatives—graduates owe just $7,743, far below both the national median ($12,000) and Idaho average ($10,875). That low debt matters because earnings here plateau early. Graduates start at $44,037 and see virtually no growth over four years, slightly trailing the state median of $45,404. Among Idaho's seven auto tech programs, CSI ranks toward the middle of the pack, with Idaho State's graduates earning about $8,000 more annually.

The economics still work in your favor. With less than $8,000 in debt against $44,000 in first-year earnings, graduates can realistically pay off loans within months while building their careers. The program performs slightly above the national median, suggesting solid foundational training even if it doesn't match the earning power of larger state institutions.

This is a practical choice for students who want to enter the workforce quickly with minimal financial burden. The lack of earnings growth means the real value comes from that low debt load, not from upward mobility in this specific credential. If your child plans to eventually pursue ASE certifications or open their own shop, the minimal debt makes CSI a sensible starting point.