Universal Technical Institute

Collision Repair & Refinish Technology

Houston Campus
Diploma
Collision Repair & Refinish Technology
I-CAR progress badge certifications. Axalta Cromax Pro certification. EPA 609.
On-campus, hands-on lab training.
Not published
36 weeks (~8 months). Diploma.
No fee to apply. A registration fee (up to $50) applies at enrollment.
Federal financial aid available.

Collision Repair & Refinish Technology is a Diploma program offered by Universal Technical Institute in Houston, TX. The program takes 36 weeks to complete, with a total cost, including fees, of $28,880.

Program Overview

This program trains students to become automotive collision repair and refinish technicians or estimators. Students learn to repair structural and non-structural damage, perform damage analysis, and use industry software for estimates, including custom paint and metal fabrication training.

What Sets This Program Apart

Multiple industry certifications earned during program. ADAS calibration training included.

Admission Requirements and Process

To enroll, a prospective student must be at least 16 years of age; students under 18 require a parent or guardian to sign the Enrollment Agreement. Before starting, entrance requirements must be met by supplying documentation UTI accepts — a standards-based high school diploma recognized by the student's state, a state-issued GED or state-authorized equivalent, qualifying postsecondary coursework, or completion of an officially recognized home-schooling program. Applicants complete an application and Enrollment Agreement through UTI's electronic enrollment process and, upon acceptance, are conditionally admitted until their documentation is judged acceptable. UTI recommends allowing adequate lead time (ideally at least 30 days) for documents to be evaluated and any deficiency to be addressed.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Submit Application
    Complete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
    Apply Now
  2. 2
    Submit Transcripts
    Provide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
  3. 3
    Financial Aid
    Complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.
    Complete FAFSA Application
  4. 4
    Enrollment
    Once accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.

Program Schedule

Class sessions vary by campus, so specific class times are listed on the Enrollment Agreement for each campus and each student's actual class time is determined at orientation. Courses are generally three weeks in length; exceptions include General Education courses (select programs only), which run 5–6 weeks, and courses at the Canton campus, where course length varies. UTI reserves the right to change scheduled class times at its discretion, and start/end times may vary during peak enrollment periods. In total, this program runs 36 weeks.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • December 07th, 2026

Curriculum

Courses include Collision Repair Fundamentals, Metal Joining Methods, Automotive Refinishing, Electrical Systems and ADAS Integration, Mechanical Systems, Plastic Repair, Dent Removal, Structural Alignment and Measurement, and Auto Estimation. Based on the industry-standard I-CAR Academy.

Career Outcomes

Entry-level collision repair technician or estimator for dealerships, collision centers, or fleet repair facilities; certification pathways in Axalta, 3M, and Chief Automotive.

What to Expect as a UTI Student

At UTI you train the way the industry works — hands-on. UTI has trained technicians since 1965, and its blended-learning model pairs online coursework with lab time on real equipment, taught by industry-experienced instructors.

Beyond the core program you may have the opportunity to pursue manufacturer-specific advanced training, and UTI's career services team supports you with résumé development, interview training, access to a nationwide job database, on-campus interviews, and career networking events.

School Information

Universal Technical Institute
uti.edu
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Location

Houston Campus
721 Lockhaven Drive
Houston, TX 77073

Why Accreditation Is Important

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

Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Total Program Cost
≈ $28,880

Total program tuition $28,880.

Ready to get started?
Apply to Collision Repair & Refinish Technology at Houston Campus.
Collision Repair & Refinish Technology