Automotive Engineers design the systems and mechanisms of cars. These professionals ensure that automotive designs and systems conform to estimated quality and cost specifications.
Are you looking for Automotive Engineering schools in North Carolina? Search no more.
See the top Automotive Engineering schools in NC and kick off with a bachelor’s in Automotive Engineering program.
Automotive engineers design electronics and software systems as well as mechanical components that are integrated into the overall design of an automobile.
Many entry-level automotive engineering positions require a bachelor’s degree in the field, while job seekers with a master’s degree may be able to apply for management-level positions.
According to O*Net, the average salary for a North Carolina Automotive Engineer is $73,900 per year.
In this article by the Kiiky team, we’ll look at NC’s top Automotive Engineering schools.
Table of contents
- What Is Automotive Engineering?
- Why Should I Study Automotive Engineering In NC?
- What Does An Automotive Engineer Do?
- How To Become An Automotive Engineer In North Carolina
- How Much Does It Cost To Study Automotive Engineering In North Carolina?
- How Long Does It Take To Complete An Automotive Engineering Degree Program NC?
- What Is The Salary Of Automotive Engineers In North Carolina? Salary & Job Outlook?
- What Can I Do With A Degree in Automotive Engineering In North Carolina?
- What Are The Best Automotive Engineering Schools In NC?
- 1. Central Carolina Community College
- 2. Stanly Community College
- 3. Craven Community College
- 4. Johnson County Community College
- 5. Alamance Community College
- 6. Catawba Valley Community College
- 7. Southwestern Community College – North Carolina
- 8. Wilkes Community College
- 9. Gaston College
- 10. Wake Technical Community College
- FAQs On Automotive Engineering Schools In North Carolina
- Conclusion
- References
- We Also Recommend
What Is Automotive Engineering?
According to Wikipedia, Automotive Engineering, just like aerospace engineering and naval architecture is a branch of vehicle engineering that incorporates elements of mechanical, electrical, electronic, software, and safety engineering as applied to the design, manufacturing, and operation of motor vehicles. More so, it incorporates the modification of vehicles.
Automotive engineers research, design, and manufacture vehicles and their subsystems. They work with advanced technologies to create products that excite the senses and make mobility alluring.
Automotive Engineers focuses mainly on land vehicles like; cars, motorcycles, 4 wheelers, etc.
Why Should I Study Automotive Engineering In NC?
Automotive engineers create the systems and mechanisms of cars. They ensure that automotive designs and systems conform to planned quality and cost specs.
Similar to other types of mechanical engineers, automotive engineers examine potential queries in design and work to solve those problems, design, and retest prototypes of cars and car parts, and oversee the manufacturing of automobiles.
They employ the use of computers in their daily activities.
Most automotive engineers work full-time as a team, though many occasionally work more than 40 hours a week. Most times, they spend time in manufacturing plants.
What Does An Automotive Engineer Do?
Automotive Engineers are involved in designing, manufacturing, distributing, marketing, sales, and after-sales care of cars (including racing cars), motorbikes, and other commercial vehicles.
They work on these vehicles’ aesthetics and technical performance and, increasingly, the electronics and software involved with modern vehicles.
Responsibilities of an Automotive Engineer typically include:
- Evaluating project requirements.
- Agreeing and contracting project budgets, timescales, and specifications with clients and managers.
- Developing and executing test procedures.
- They build prototypes of components to carry out tests on.
- Organizing and carrying out tests. For instance, check whether engines will work in different conditions, such as high temperatures.
- Interpret and analyze results and data.
- Source vehicle components and select the best materials to use.
- Provide technical advice and answer queries from clients.
- Automotive Engineers use specialist computer software to produce designs.
- They modify vehicles in response to customer feedback.
- Investigate and solve problems like mechanical failures.
- They work and interact keenly with suppliers.
- Write reports and carry out proper documentation.
- Make project presentations.
- Lastly, they undertake relevant research.
How To Become An Automotive Engineer In North Carolina
To become a licensed Automotive Engineer in North Carolina, you must complete a Bachelor’s degree at an ABET-accredited Automotive Engineering school.
This degree exerts an average of four years to complete, as you must obtain 120 credits in classes like Vehicle Diagnostics, Alternate Fuel Systems, and Kinematics of Mechanisms.
In addition to these theoretical courses, you also take many practice-based courses. In these courses, you will be exposed to hands-on practicals in the Automobile engineering lab to understand how different vehicles and vehicle components work.
Furthermore, if you wish to extend your knowledge base and prepare for leadership and research roles, a Master’s degree is ideal. The Master’s degree in Automotive Engineering requires two years of school beyond your Bachelor’s degree. You may be asked to take high-level courses like Fuel Cells & Fuel Processors, Battery Systems & Control, and Mechanical Vibrations.
Take advantage of the ongoing master’s scholarships for graduate engineering students.
How Much Does It Cost To Study Automotive Engineering In North Carolina?
A career in Automotive Engineering is obtainable with the Automotive Engineering schools in NC. One of these schools offers an Associate’s degree program, while the other two state schools award Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in the field.
At Gaston University, tuition is $71.50 per credit hour for residents and $263.50 for non-residents.
East Carolina University may be one of the costliest options in North Carolina; tuition is $3,071 per semester for residents and $10,128 per semester for non-residents.
However, the typical median cost of tuition in North Carolina is $6,400 per year.
With North Carolina engineering scholarships, you can also ease the financial burden. Professional Engineers of North Carolina is a local group that awards several scholarships.
How Long Does It Take To Complete An Automotive Engineering Degree Program NC?
A bachelor’s degree program in Automotive Engineering can be accomplished in four years and prepares graduates for entry-level positions.
An internship in automotive work experience may be allowed during the final semester of an undergraduate program and can contribute to securing a full-time position shortly after graduation.
On the other hand, a master’s degree in automotive engineering demands an additional two years of study beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Unlike a bachelor’s degree program, which covers general education courses, and automotive engineering courses, which cover an array of automotive concepts, a master’s degree program enables students to focus on a particular aspect of automotive engineering.
Common specialization tracks constitute manufacturing processes, electrical and computer systems, mechanical systems, and materials science.
To complete the degree, students should expect a capstone project or thesis paper.
What Is The Salary Of Automotive Engineers In North Carolina? Salary & Job Outlook?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for Engineers generally is expected to grow 5 percent from 2018 to 2028.
According to O*Net, the average salary for a North Carolina Automotive Engineer is $73,900 per year. To increase your earnings, there might be a need for professional development.
What Can I Do With A Degree in Automotive Engineering In North Carolina?
Automotive engineers create the systems and mechanisms of cars. They ensure that automotive designs and systems conform to planned quality and cost specs.
Similar to other types of mechanical engineers, automotive engineers examine potential queries in design and work to solve those problems, design, and retest prototypes of cars and car parts, and oversee the manufacturing of automotive.
They employ the use of computers in their daily activities.
Most automotive engineers work full-time as a team, though many occasionally work more than 40 hours a week. Most times, they spend time in manufacturing plants.
What Are The Best Automotive Engineering Schools In NC?
A career in Automotive Engineering is within your reach with the Automotive Engineering schools in North Carolina.
These schools were selected based on the following ranking factors;
Acceptance rate – This represents the percentage of students the school admits yearly.
Accreditation – An institution’s accreditation status shows that the program has achieved an industry-recognized competency standard.
Reputation – A school’s reputation highlights its ranking performance on other reputable websites.
1. Central Carolina Community College
Central Carolina is an above-average public college situated in Sanford, North Carolina. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 1,753 undergraduate students. The Central Carolina acceptance rate is 100%.
Students take classes in engine fundamentals, brake and electrical systems, and emission controls. In addition, they study chassis electronics, suspension, and steering systems, and automotive heating and air conditioning.
Advanced studies in the two-year degree program include engine performance and repair classes, transmissions, and engine electrical management.
Central Carolina alumni go on to earn a starting salary of $21,100.
2. Stanly Community College
Stanly is one of the top Automotive Engineering schools in NC. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 761 undergraduate students.
The Stanly acceptance rate is 100%.
Popular majors include Criminal Justice and Safety Studies, Child Development, and Liberal Arts and Humanities. Graduating 48% of students, Stanly alumni earn a starting salary of $24,000.
Stanly Community College offers several automotive training opportunities. Our automotive programs give students the skills and knowledge that can lead to satisfying careers with good pay and opportunities for advancement.
The school offers Curriculum classes that lead to a degree, diploma, certificate, or transfer credits, and some classes require appropriate prerequisite courses and Continuing Education classes for the working class.
Students must fill out and apply for admission. Transcripts must also be submitted if working toward a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Stanly Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees.
3. Craven Community College
Craven is a public college situated in New Bern, North Carolina. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 1,038 undergraduate students. The Craven acceptance rate is 100%.
The Automotive Systems Technology program prepares individuals for employment as automotive service technicians. It presents an introduction to a career in the automotive service industry and enhances a student’s awareness of the hurdles inherent in the evolving profession.
Much importance is placed on theory, servicing, and operation of brakes, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, steering/suspension, automatic transmission/transaxles, engine diagnostics and repair, climate control, and manual drivetrains.
Upon fulfillment of this curriculum, students will have gained the knowledge, understanding, and hands-on experience needed to prepare them for the nationally recognized Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) exams and a full-time position in the automotive service industry.
4. Johnson County Community College
Johnston is a public college in the Raleigh Area in Smithfield, North Carolina. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 1,355 undergraduate students. The Johnston acceptance rate is 100%.
The two-year associate of applied science degree incorporates all major areas, including diagnosis and tune-up, chassis, electrical/electronic and hydraulic systems, automatic transmissions, engines, and emissions. Students work on developing the skills required to advance in their field as automotive technicians.
The ASE Education Foundation accredits JCCC’s Automotive Technology program at the master automotive service technician level. Upon graduating, you will have the knowledge to take and pass the A1-A8 and G1 ASE exams.
5. Alamance Community College
Alamance is on our list of the top Automotive Engineering schools in NC. The public college is situated in Graham, North Carolina, in the Greensboro Area. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 1,581 undergraduate students. The Alamance acceptance rate is 100%.
The state-of-the-art facility provides hands-on experience for technical careers in Automotive Systems.
The Automotive Systems Technology curriculum at Alamance Community College furnishes men and women with careers as Automotive Service Technicians.
Upon completing this program, students will be prepared to take the ASE exam and ready for full-time employment in various settings: dealerships, repair shops, automotive manufacturing facilities, and a whole lot more.
6. Catawba Valley Community College
Catawba Valley is a public college situated in Hickory, North Carolina. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 1,684 undergraduate students.
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, the Automotive Systems Technology curriculum prepares students to utilize technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles.
Students learn brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.
Furthermore, classroom and lab experiences integrate technical and academic coursework. Courses work may include transportation systems theory, braking systems, climate control, design parameters, drive trains, electrical/electronic systems, engine repair, engine performance, environmental regulations, materials, product finish, safety, steering/suspension, transmission/transaxle, and sustainable transportation, depending on the program major area chosen.
The Automotive Systems Technology program is approved by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation.
7. Southwestern Community College – North Carolina
Southwestern CC – North Carolina is located in Webster Township, North Carolina. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 825 undergraduate students.
The program affords an introduction to transportation industry careers and increases student awareness of the diverse technologies associated with this dynamic and challenging field.
It incorporates courses like; transportation systems theory, braking systems, climate control, design parameters, drive trains, electrical/electronic systems, engine repair, engine performance, environmental regulations, materials, product finish, safety, steering/suspension, transmission/transaxles, and sustainable transportation, depending on the program major area chosen.
Furthermore, the Automotive Systems Technology program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles.
The Automotive System program meets Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) guidelines and National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) certification.
8. Wilkes Community College
Wilkes Comm is a public college situated in Wilkesboro, North Carolina. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 1,095 undergraduate students.
With an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, the Automotive Systems Technology curriculum equips individuals for employment as automotive service technicians. It presents an introduction to automotive careers and increases student awareness of the challenges associated with this fast and ever-changing field.
Classroom and lab sessions combine technical and academic coursework. Emphasis is placed on theory, servicing, and operation of brakes, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, steering/suspension, automatic transmission/transaxles, engine repair, climate control, and manual drive trains.
Furthermore, the program prepares students for the ASE exam and full-time employment in dealerships and repair shops in the automotive service industry.
This program satisfies Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) guidelines.
9. Gaston College
The Automotive Systems Technology program at Gaston College will give you all the training and skills you need for a good foundation in a sustainable career in Automotive industry.
In this program, you will learn about brake and electrical systems, engine repair and performance, steering, suspension, transmissions, drive trains, heating and air conditioning systems, and more.
When you earn an associate’s degree, diploma, or certificate in the Automotive Systems Technology program at Gaston College, you will be qualified to take professional licensure exams and find a new career in the transportation service industry.
The Automotive Systems Technology program is approved by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation.
10. Wake Technical Community College
Wake Tech is a public college located in Middle Creek Township, North Carolina in the Raleigh Area. It is a mid-size institution with an enrollment of 7,611 undergraduate students.
Wake Tech offers a two-year (21-month) Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Automotive Systems Technology. The program incorporates new and emerging technologies. Most classes allow for three hours of hands-on (lab) experience for each classroom instruction/lecture hour.
Wake Tech’s Automotive Systems Technology program covers all automotive systems, progressing from beginners to advanced technologies. It prepares students for success in the workplace.
The Automotive Systems Technology associate degree program at Wake Tech Community College has gained the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) certification. It is accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
FAQs On Automotive Engineering Schools In North Carolina
Automotive engineering is a branch of vehicle engineering that incorporates elements of mechanical, electrical, electronic, software, and safety engineering as applied to the design, manufacturing, and operation of motor vehicles.
To become a licensed Automotive Engineer in North Carolina, you must first complete a Bachelor’s degree at an ABET-accredited school. This degree exerts an average of four years to complete, as you must obtain 120 credits in classes like Vehicle Diagnostics, Alternate Fuel Systems, and Kinematics of Mechanisms.
The typical median cost of tuition in North Carolina is $6,400 per year.
A bachelor’s degree program in Automotive Engineering can be accomplished in four years and prepares graduates for entry-level positions.
Conclusion
Automotive engineering is one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding careers. To push the dream to a great height, studying in one of the Automotive Engineering schools in NC will be a step in the right direction. I hope this article meets your scholarship demands.
References
- https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-with-automotive-mechanics/s/north-carolina/
- https://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice/job-descriptions/275855-automotive-engineer-job-description
- https://educatingengineers.com/states/north-carolina/automotive-engineering
- https://study.com/articles/Automotive_Engineer
