Universal Technical Institute

Diesel Technology

Austin Campus
Diploma · On Campus
Diesel Technology
ASE Education Foundation — accredited.
On-campus, hands-on lab training.
$42,775 total program cost (tuition and fees) at the Austin campus.
about 45 weeks — diploma
No application fee; a registration fee (up to $50) applies at enrollment.
Financial aid available — FAFSA (Austin Federal School Code E40558), scholarships, grants, and VA benefits.

Diesel Technology is a Diploma program offered by Universal Technical Institute in Austin, TX. The program takes 45 weeks to complete, with a total cost, including fees, of $42,775.

Program Overview

UTI's Diesel Technology program trains you to inspect, diagnose, repair, and overhaul diesel-powered equipment — from trucks and buses to bulldozers, cranes, and generators. Using a blended model that combines instructor-led online coursework with hands-on lab application, the curriculum mirrors the workflows and diagnostics found in professional diesel shops. At UTI’s Austin, TX campus this program runs about 45 weeks and awards a diploma.

What sets this Program apart

  • Blended learning — instructor-led online coursework plus hands-on lab application
  • Accredited by the ASE Education Foundation
  • Career Services support — résumé development, interview training, a job database, and on-campus interviews
  • Snap-on tool discounts for eligible students and graduates
  • Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) options with industry leaders
  • Curriculum designed to mirror real professional diesel-shop workflows and diagnostics

Admission Requirements and Process

Getting started at UTI may be simpler than you think. Most students need to meet UTI's age and education requirements below. UTI does not require entrance exams, essays or ACT/SAT scores to apply and start, and you do not need previous trade training or industry experience. Not sure if you qualify? UTI's Admissions team can help: call 800-834-7308.

General Requirements

  • Age requirement
    Be 18 or older, or at least 16 with guardian consent. Students enrolling under the age of 18 need a parent or guardian to sign the Enrollment Agreement.
  • Proof of education
    A high school diploma, GED certificate or equivalent. UTI accepts a standards-based high school diploma recognized by your state (a copy of the diploma, a transcript from the high…
  • English language proficiency
    All instruction at UTI is in English. You can show proficiency by graduating from a U.S. high school, graduating from a high school in a country where English is the primary…
  • No entrance exams or minimum GPA
    UTI does not require entrance exams, essays or ACT/SAT scores, or a minimum GPA, to apply and start.
  • Blended learning readiness
    This program includes blended coursework. Applicants must complete a Distance Education Readiness Assessment before enrolling and must own or have offsite access to a PC or laptop…
  • Criminal background review
    Applicants who have been convicted of a felony or violent crime, or who must register as a sex offender, are reviewed by UTI before acceptance, and certain convictions make an…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Apply online
    It just takes a few minutes to fill out UTI's online application form, and UTI can begin processing your application right away.
  2. 2
    Talk with your Admissions Representative
    An Admissions Representative will typically contact you within 24 hours to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.
  3. 3
    Submit your education documents
    Provide proof of education. In most cases your high school can send your transcripts directly to UTI, and your Admissions Representative will guide you step by step. UTI recommends allowing at least 30 days for document evaluation.
  4. 4
    Sign your Enrollment Agreement
    Your enrollment is official once all requirements are met and verified and your Enrollment Agreement is signed, reviewed and approved. You may receive conditional acceptance, which saves your spot while your documents are reviewed.
  5. 5
    Apply for financial aid
    Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using the school code below. The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants, educational loans and possible work-study programs, and UTI's Financial Aid team can help you through it.
    FAFSA Code for Austin Campus: E40558
    Fill Out the FAFSA
  6. 6
    Start your training
    Classes are scheduled approximately every six weeks, and some start dates may be limited. Check with the Admissions Office at your campus or your Admissions Representative regarding availability.

Program Schedule

This program is completed in about 45 weeks at the Austin, TX campus, using UTI’s hands-on, lab-based training model. UTI offers multiple program start dates throughout the year.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • November 16th, 2026

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Cost
≈ $42,775
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

The total cost for the Diesel Technology program at UTI’s Austin, TX campus is $42,775 (tuition and fees), per UTI’s catalog Tuition Chart for enrollments on or after August 1, 2026. Cost can vary by campus and enrollment date, so use the Net Price Calculator above (select the Austin, TX campus) for a personalized estimate after aid. UTI participates in federal financial aid — file the FAFSA using the Austin campus Federal School Code E40558, and connect with UTI’s Financial Aid team about scholarships and grants (UTI awarded more than $27 million in scholarships and grants in 2025), loans, tuition reimbursement, and VA education benefits.

Curriculum

The required courses below are from UTI's course catalog. Program number: AD1100; 45 weeks; 55 semester credit hours; 660.5 class, 583.0 Lab; Delivery: Blended. Credits shown are semester credit hours.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
AD13-101Introduction to Automotive Physical Science: Engine Design and Function3.5
AD13-103Introduction to Automotive Physical Science: Undercar Systems3.5
AD13-104Automotive Physical Science Principles: Electrical Fundamentals3.5
AD13-105Electrical Applications3.5
AD13-154Manual Transmissions4
AD13-156Technology Principles and Consumer Communication of Automotive HVAC3.5
AD13-157Advanced Electrical Applications4
DT13-161Hydraulics3
DT13-162Steering and Suspension Systems3.5
DT13-163Drivetrain4
DT13-164Brakes3.5
DT13-211Diesel Engines4.5
DT13-212Diesel Engine Fuel Systems and Accessories3.5
DT13-213Preventative Maintenance4
DT13-214Transport Refrigeration3.5
Totals55

Career Outcomes

Diesel Technology graduates pursue entry-level roles such as diesel technician, heavy-equipment repair technician, power-generation technician, mobile diesel mechanic, and agriculture technician; with experience, master technician, fleet technician, shop foreman, service manager, and shop owner. UTI cites 26,000+ estimated average annual diesel job openings in the U.S.

Photos

Diesel Technology — image 1
Diesel Technology — image 1
Diesel Technology — image 2
Diesel Technology — image 3

Location

Austin Campus
301 W. Howard Lane
Austin, TX 78753

Why Accreditation Is Important

UTI is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). The Diesel program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation — graduates can substitute training for one of the two years of experience required for ASE certification.

When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:

A reliable indicator of quality
Approved program of study
Qualified instructors
Recognition by employers nationwide

Accreditations

ASE Education Foundation

ASE Education Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I train on Cummins diesel engines?
Yes! UTI offers two specialized Cummins programs: Cummins Engines and Cummins Power Generation. The Cummins Engines diesel mechanic classes provide training on midrange engines, heavy-duty engine overhaul, electronically controlled engines and more. The Cummins Power Generation courses focus on equipment and controls, as well as engine maintenance of electrical generators and power generation systems that run in a variety of commercial and personal applications.
What is the salary of an entry-level diesel mechanic?
The median annual salary for salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $61,770 in May 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This means half of diesel technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area. View our diesel technician salary guide to learn more.
How long does it take to train to become a diesel mechanic?
UTI’s Diesel Technology program is designed to be completed in less than a year. Learn more about our diesel mechanic classes here.
Can I start diesel mechanic training right after high school?
Yes. You can start training for a career as a diesel mechanic right after high school. To enroll in UTI’s Diesel Technology program, you’ll need to have a high school diploma or GED, complete an admissions interview, and submit your application. Some campuses may have additional steps, such as providing proof of age or identification.
Can veterans or service members use military education benefits for the Diesel Technology program?
Yes. If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member, you may be eligible to apply benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill® toward your diesel technician training. Additionally, programs like SkillBridge or Career Skills may also support your transition into civilian technician roles.
What are the requirements for a diesel mechanic and what is the fastest path to certification?
To become a diesel mechanic you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, then complete a formal training program like UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program. After graduation you can pursue manufacturer‐specific advanced training and you’re eligible to take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams, as training at UTI counts toward one of the required years of work experience.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Diesel Technology at Austin Campus.
Diesel Technology