Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
uti.eduAnalysis
Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix's vehicle maintenance program delivers below-average outcomes compared to other Arizona options, which is concerning given the competitive landscape in the state. While graduates earn $35,784 in their first year—close to the national average—this places them in just the 40th percentile among Arizona programs. More troubling, this ranks them 4th out of 5 major programs in the state, with the top performer (Universal Technical Institute of Arizona) paying graduates $5,363 more annually.
The financial picture is mixed but leans positive. At $13,875 in median debt, students borrow slightly more than both state and national averages, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 is quite manageable—meaning graduates can realistically pay off their loans within 2-3 years of full-time work. The 14% earnings growth to $40,798 by year four shows decent career progression in this field.
For parents considering this program, the key issue isn't whether automotive technology is a viable career path—it clearly is. The question is whether this particular program offers good value when stronger options exist in Arizona. With robust sample size data showing consistent underperformance relative to state competitors, families should seriously explore alternatives like the higher-ranked Universal Technical Institute of Arizona location or community college options that deliver similar or better outcomes at potentially lower cost.
Where Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all vehicle maintenance and repair technologies certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix | $35,784 | $40,798 | +14% |
| Universal Technical Institute of Arizona Inc | $41,147 | $47,215 | +15% |
| GateWay Community College-Central City | $39,690 | $41,768 | +5% |
| GateWay Community College | $39,690 | $41,768 | +5% |
| Pima Community College | $37,826 | $41,358 | +9% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies certificate's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | $35,784 | $40,798 | $13,875 | 0.39 | |
| — | $41,147 | $47,215 | $14,243 | 0.35 | |
| — | $39,690 | $41,768 | — | — | |
| $2,358 | $39,690 | $41,768 | — | — | |
| $2,370 | $37,826 | $41,358 | $9,125 | 0.24 | |
| — | $35,147 | $34,280 | $15,333 | 0.44 | |
| National Median | — | $35,905 | — | $11,000 | 0.31 |
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-Phoenix, approximately 39% 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 2558 graduates with reported earnings and 2604 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.