Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Oakland Community College

Based on comparable Michigan programs, this automotive technology degree appears to deliver solid entry-level earnings of around $45,900 while keeping debt manageable at an estimated $11,425. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25 suggests graduates could reasonably pay off their loans within a year or two of full-time work—a practical financial outcome for a hands-on technical field where jobs are readily available.

What works in this program's favor is that the estimated earnings track closely with both the state and national medians for automotive technology associate degrees, while the projected debt sits notably below Michigan's typical $16,720 for similar programs. Automotive technicians enter a field with consistent demand and clear career progression, making this a relatively straightforward investment compared to more speculative degree paths.

The caveat: these figures are estimates drawn from peer programs since Oakland Community College's graduate sample was too small to report publicly. Your actual outcome depends heavily on factors these estimates can't capture—which specific certifications you earn (ASE credentials matter significantly in this field), whether you land at a dealership versus an independent shop, and how quickly you move beyond entry-level roles. For a technical credential with immediate job placement potential, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value, but confirm the program's specific industry connections and job placement track record before committing.