Median Earnings (1yr)
$35,784
49th percentile (40th in AZ)
Median Debt
$13,875
26% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.39
Manageable
Sample Size
2558
Adequate data

Analysis

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

Universal Technical Institute-PhoenixOther vehicle maintenance and repair technologies programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix graduates compare to all programs nationally

Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix graduates earn $36k, placing them in the 49th percentile of all vehicle maintenance and repair technologies certificate programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona

Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies certificate's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (20 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix$35,784$40,798$13,8750.39
Universal Technical Institute of Arizona Inc$41,147$47,215$14,2430.35
GateWay Community College-Central City$39,690$41,768——
GateWay Community College$39,690$41,768——
Pima Community College$37,826$41,358$9,1250.24
Miller-Motte College-Arizona Automotive Institute$35,147$34,280$15,3330.44
National Median$35,905—$11,0000.31

Other Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies Programs in Arizona

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Arizona schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Universal Technical Institute of Arizona Inc
Avondale
—$41,147$14,243
GateWay Community College-Central City
Phoenix
—$39,690—
GateWay Community College
Phoenix
$2,358$39,690—
Pima Community College
Tucson
$2,370$37,826$9,125
Miller-Motte College-Arizona Automotive Institute
Glendale
—$35,147$15,333

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.