Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Southwest University at El Paso

This program ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally for automotive technology earnings—meaning 95% of similar programs produce better outcomes. Starting at $28,000 and reaching only $34,000 after four years puts graduates roughly $8,000 below Texas's median for auto tech programs and $9,000 below the national average. For context, Tarrant County College's graduates earn $50,000, while Austin Community College produces $41,000—both substantially higher than Southwest's $28,000 starting point.

The $20,000 debt load compounds the problem. While that sits below the national median for this field, it's still high relative to these earnings—you're asking your child to borrow nearly a full year's salary for a career where experienced mechanics at other schools start considerably higher. The 21% earnings growth is positive, but it merely brings graduates closer to where other programs begin.

The bottom line: If your child is set on automotive technology in Texas, this particular program appears to underperform dozens of alternatives. Community colleges like Tarrant County or Austin offer the same credential with significantly better earning potential, making them worth exploring first. The tuition savings at a community college combined with stronger graduate outcomes creates a materially better investment.