Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at University of New Mexico-Main Campus

A certificate in automotive repair faces an uphill battle from the start: the national median for first-year earnings sits at just under $36,000, and UNM's program—based on comparable programs nationwide—appears to track right at that benchmark. The estimated $9,500 in debt is actually below the national median for this field, which offers some relief, but you're still looking at a quarter of first-year income dedicated to loan repayment if your child follows a standard plan.

The bigger concern isn't the debt load—it's whether this credential delivers enough earning power to justify college costs at all. Many automotive technicians enter the field through employer training programs or community college certificates with minimal or no debt. With 18 programs across New Mexico offering this same credential, your child would be competing in a crowded market where hands-on experience and ASE certifications often matter more than the school name on the certificate.

The practical question: Would your child be better served by a lower-cost community college option or direct entry into a dealership training program? Unless UNM offers specific industry connections or equipment access that justify the investment, the estimated outcomes suggest this certificate may not be the most efficient path into automotive work. Look hard at what distinguishes this program from cheaper alternatives before committing.