Universal Technical Institute

Universal Technical Institute (UTI) is a nationwide automotive training school that specializes in automotive training programs including automotive technology, diesel repair, motorcycle repair, and marine technology. UTI currently has 12 campus locations in Phoenix, AZ; Orlando, FL; Los Angeles, CA; Sacramento, CA; Chicago, IL; Philadelphia, PA; Boston, MA; Charlotte, NC; and Houston, TX.



The programs at UTI are designed to be hands-on, short-term, and cutting edge. Students are able to use modern technology and tools that they will need to know how to operate in the field. Students spend extensive hours in the garage learning and gaining experience. The instructors at UTI have years of industry experience and are also up to date with the changing state of the automotive industry. The instructors encourage collaborative thinking, teamwork, and doing the job right the first time.

The automotive technician program at Universal Technical Institute offers several variations for students to choose from. The core automotive technology program can be completed in as little as 51 weeks. Automotive technology program options include auto technology with BMW Fast Track, AT with Ford FACT, AT with Toyota TPAT, and AT with Nissan NATT. All of these programs can be completed in 66 weeks or less.

Universal Technical Institute offers support services such as housing location assistance and employment placement. Housing services help students locate housing without having to spend a lot of time and resources themselves. Housing services can help students locate a place to live before they relocate to the city where the UTI campus is located.

Employment services assist students with finding a job upon graduation. Universal Technical Institute maintains close relationships with several industry employers who hire UTI graduates on a regular basis. Employment services staff can assist students with job searches, networking, completing applications, writing a resume, and interviewing.



Automotive Technology training at UTI

Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers future automotive technicians thorough instruction to gain the basic skills that employers require, along with proficiency in parts and systems.

The Automotive Technology coursework at UTI offers students the know-how and abilities necessary to start as an entry-level automotive technician. Students learn how to perform diagnosis on, service, and repair domestic as well as foreign-made automobiles. In addition, they are instructed in how to pinpoint trouble spots with modern equipment.

UTI students can also learn how to build high-performance engines, and based on where you elect to receive your instruction, you can additionally receive maker-specific instruction. Some of the options include:

  • BMW FastTrack
  • Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT)
  • Nissan Advanced Technician Training (NATT)
  • Toyota Professional Automotive Training

The core automotive training program can take as little as one year to complete, although programs that include training specific to a certain manufacturer generally take a bit longer. Integrated with BMW FastTrack, the amount of time is extended to 63 weeks, while for Ford FACT it takes 66 weeks, and Nissan NATT or Toyota TPAT require 60 weeks. In addition, UTI teams up with the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing to form the NASCAR school called the NASCAR Technical Institute.

You can become a Motorcycle Repair Technician at Universal Technical Institute

Troubleshooting the advanced technologies of the modern motorcycles of today requires highly-skilled technicians who have undergone expert training. At Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI), you will use up-to-date systems and vehicles combined with practical training. Once you’ve learned the basics of theory, you will begin in the individually equipped labs by undertaking a series of courses that highlight motorcycle systems, putting stress on service, repair, and maintenance methods.

In the Motorcycle Technician Specialist program you'll learn things from chassis to engines to suspensions, electrical systems, and transmissions. You’ll also have the option to adapt your career according to your needs with manufacturer-specific training.

BMW MotorRad training

BMW MotorRad training is a BMW-endorsed 12-week elective program that can be added to the core motorcycle technology program. In the program you'll learn about servicing and repairing BMW motorcycles. In addition, the BMW MotorRad elective will help prepare you to become a Tier 1 Certified BMW Motorcycle Technician.

Honda HonTech training

HonTech is an elective program which is 24-weeks long and can be done on top of the core motorcycle technology program. This program, officially approved by Honda, can equip you with the fundamental as well as the progressive dexterities in the areas of servicing and corrections. You will learn by using special equipment, tools, and training aids. The HonTech elective helps you prepare for the Honda Pro Technician Routine Maintenance Certificate.

Kawasaki K-Tech Specialist training

This program is officially endorsed by the motorcycle company Kawasaki and will teach you how to service and repair their motorcycles. You will be taught on the Kawasaki ATV line and the Mule along with personal watercraft. Completion of the Kawasaki K-Tech Specialist elective entitles you to a Kawasaki entry-level technician certificate.

Factory authorized Suzuki training (FAST)

In the optional 12-week Suzuki FAST program, which has official recognition from Suzuki, you'll learn about maintaining and troubleshooting Suzuki bikes in addition to the core motorcycle technology program. Additionally, you'll be awarded a Suzuki entry-level technician certificate upon successful completion of the Suzuki FAST elective.

Yamaha YamaPro training

With the optional 12-week, Yamaha-endorsed Yamaha YamaPro elective program which can be added to the core motorcycle technology program, you will learn how to service and repair Yamaha motorcycles. You'll study with Yamaha-specific equipment and tools and will receive practical experience in water, snow, and all-terrain vehicles. Upon successful completion of the YamaPro elective you'll be awarded a Yamaha entry-level technician certificate which could be beneficial to you when looking for employment.

Harley-Davidson Technician training

The Harley-Davidson classes start after completing the first 30 weeks of the Motorcycle Technician prerequisite. You will then advance to the Harley-Davidson technology section which covers parts, vehicle maintenance, customer service skills, and management techniques. You can further choose either Harley-Davidson Early Model or Harley-Davidson Late Model, or you can elect to take both courses.

Diesel and Industrial Technology Training program

Qualified diesel technicians are in high demand by manufacturers and dealerships that need experienced employees who know how to repair diesel trucks, construction equipment, forklifts, and transportation refrigeration systems. Universal Technical Institute can help you to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to enter the diesel truck and industrial equipment industries.

In the diesel and industrial technology program, you'll learn the intricacies of diesel truck engines. You will receive practical experience with engines and equipment from brands like Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, and International Truck. You will gain experience working on preventive maintenance and computer controls, as well as with brakes, transport refrigeration, hydraulics, and other electronics.

In addition, to increase your skills and versatility you can also take the 12-week Cummins elective program along with your basic program. Or you can combine the basic program with the Automotive Technology program. If you wish you could combine diesel and automotive technology and leave out the industrial component.

Are you really interested in boats?

Universal Technical Institute's Marine Mechanics Institute offers thorough instruction for future marine mechanics. The program features individual courses that focus on a specific manufacturer and their current products and technologies.

Marine Yamaha

In this course you will gain a solid knowledge of Yamaha's offerings. You will begin by identifying Yamaha outboard motors as well as performing rigging procedures. You will also learn how to examine, maintain, and repair Yamaha fuel systems and oil-injection systems.

Honda Marine

You will first learn in this course to identify Honda four-stroke outboard motor models. Then you will learn about Honda outboard warranty policy, as well as special outboard tools and to identify and resolve problems with Honda’s DC-CDI and TMI ignition systems.

Marine Volvo-Penta

In this course you will gain a comprehensive understanding of Volvo Penta’s diesel, inboard, outboard, gasoline sterndrive, and diesel sterndrive engines. You will also work on set-up and maintenance jobs on the engines and on Volvo Penta drive systems.

Marine Suzuki

You will gain a deeper understanding of the two-stroke and four-stroke outboard motors manufactured by Suzuki. In addition, you will be able to demonstrate further understanding of the company's warranty procedures and Extended Protection system.

Mercury Marine

In this course you will acquire the knowledge required to qualify for entry-level employment as a Mercury Marine technician within Mercury's network of dealers. You will also learn about Mercury’s service administration procedures.

Personal Watercraft

With MMI's six-week Watercraft Technician program, you learn how to repair and maintain personal watercraft. You will be able to identify watercraft models, practice safe workshop activities, and properly use various tools specific to personal watercraft.

Universal Technical Institute list of campuses


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