Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
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
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)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Technical Institute-Phoenix | $35,784 | $40,798 | $13,875 | 0.39 |
| Universal Technical Institute of Arizona Inc | $41,147 | $47,215 | $14,243 | 0.35 |
| GateWay Community College-Central City | $39,690 | $41,768 | — | — |
| GateWay Community College | $39,690 | $41,768 | — | — |
| Pima Community College | $37,826 | $41,358 | $9,125 | 0.24 |
| Miller-Motte College-Arizona Automotive Institute | $35,147 | $34,280 | $15,333 | 0.44 |
| National Median | $35,905 | — | $11,000 | 0.31 |
Other Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies Programs in Arizona
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Arizona schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (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.