Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Universal Technical Institute of Northern California Inc
Associate's Degree
uti.eduAnalysis
UTI Sacramento's automotive program delivers solid value despite modest first-year earnings. While graduates earn $40,213—below the national average of $42,896—they carry just $17,368 in debt, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43. More importantly, this program ranks in the 60th percentile among California automotive programs, meaning graduates out-earn those from most competing state schools.
The debt picture is particularly attractive. At the 25th percentile nationally for student debt, UTI Sacramento costs significantly less than typical programs while still delivering above-median earnings for California. Compare this to the state median debt of $18,788, and you're looking at nearly $1,500 less borrowing. Given that automotive technology is a hands-on field where employer training matters as much as classroom learning, starting with lower debt provides crucial financial flexibility early in your career.
The numbers reflect automotive industry realities—this isn't a high-earning field initially, but it offers stable employment and growth potential. With nearly half of students qualifying for Pell grants, UTI Sacramento clearly serves working-class families seeking practical career training. For parents considering this investment, the combination of reasonable debt, solid state-level performance, and robust job market demand makes this a sensible choice for students genuinely interested in automotive careers.
Where Universal Technical Institute of Northern California Inc Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all vehicle maintenance and repair technologies associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Universal Technical Institute of Northern California Inc graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies associates's programs at peer institutions in California (83 total in state)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40,213 | — | $17,368 | 0.43 | |
| $64,326 | $63,194 | $20,188 | 0.31 | |
| $64,326 | $63,194 | $20,188 | 0.31 | |
| $39,458 | $47,748 | $17,389 | 0.44 | |
| $39,458 | $47,748 | $17,389 | 0.44 | |
| $38,493 | $61,405 | $23,609 | 0.61 | |
| National Median | $42,896 | — | $12,000 | 0.28 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with vehicle maintenance and repair technologies graduates
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Avionics Technicians
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Automotive Body and Related Repairers
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
Motorcycle Mechanics
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Universal Technical Institute of Northern California Inc, approximately 49% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 818 graduates with reported earnings and 805 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.