Automotive Engineering Schools in New Mexico
If you want to become an automotive engineer, your career starts with a thorough education in engineering. You can attend three different schools in New Mexico. All three of these schools have Associate’s degree programs. One school also has a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, and PhD program. The average cost of tuition is $5,300 per year.
A Bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering is where you need to start for most automotive engineering jobs. This degree is fairly comprehensive, as it covers over 120 credits that you complete over four years. You may have to take lower-level and higher-level engineering courses like Automotive Design, Methods for Vehicle Testing, and Aerodynamics.
If you already have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, perhaps you could benefit from a Master’s degree or PhD! These degrees both require intensive higher-level courses like Fuel Cells & Fuel Processors, Embedded Control Systems, and Automotive Body Structures.
An essential part of an engineering education is lab work. You’ll work with vehicles, vehicle parts, engineering materials, and engineering tools to gain valuable hands-on skills.
Tuition and financial aid determine how much you will have to pay for your education, so it’s good to look at the full range of tuition rates in New Mexico. One of the lowest-priced colleges in New Mexico is New Mexico Junior College. Tuition is $420 per semester for residents and $744 per semester for non-residents. New Mexico Tech is one of the most expensive schools in the state, although it is still very affordable. Tuition is $2,857 per semester for residents and $8,537 per semester for non-residents.
Scholarships and grants can make a world of difference in your out-of-pocket expenses. The Society of Women Engineers –Central New Mexico awards scholarships to female engineering students.
As an automotive engineer, you may be able to earn a competitive salary in New Mexico. The average salary for an automotive engineer is $89,600 per year, according to O*Net. High-paying jobs may be reserved for Professional Engineers. To reach this level of certification, apply to take the Principles & Practice of Engineering exam through the New Mexico State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Professional Surveyors.
New Mexico is home to many professional organizations, including the New Mexico Society of Professional Engineers. Consider joining so you can attend networking events and educational seminars.