Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at UEI College-Sacramento

UEI College-Sacramento's automotive program starts weak but shows something promising: graduates who stick with the trade see their earnings jump 30% by year four, reaching $35,815. That's still barely reaching what typical graduates from California automotive programs earn right out of the gate. Among the state's 100 programs, this ranks in just the 25th percentile—meaning three-quarters of alternatives produce better initial outcomes. The top California programs like West LA College deliver nearly double these earnings ($65,978), suggesting location and employer networks matter enormously in this field.

The $9,500 debt load is manageable and matches the state median, so you're not overpaying relative to other options. With 72% of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves working-class families hoping automotive work provides middle-class stability. The trajectory shows that's possible—earnings do grow substantially for those who remain in the field—but the starting point creates real financial strain when graduates are earning just $27,550 initially.

If your child is committed to automotive work and Sacramento is home, this provides an affordable entry point. But the earnings data suggests they'd be better served at community college alternatives that place graduates into higher-paying positions from day one, skipping those tough first few years of below-market wages.