St. Phillips College offers one of San Antonio's most advanced diesel and heavy machinery maintenance training programs at its new diesel technology center. It offers two two-year, 60-credit degree programs in automotive technology. Students can also obtain a 30-credit Automotive Technology Certificate. Students learn to service all modern vehicles with computer programs, audiovisuals and hands-on courses.
The University of Texas at San Antonio offers bachelor's and master's degree programs in mechanical engineering. Prerequisites for the bachelor of science include math and science subjects. The main components of the program are general mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering and systems, mechanical systems and design, biomechanics, mechanics and materials, energy, thermal and fluid systems. Students can take diesel programs as an elective.
Penn Foster Career Schools offers online training in the basics of diesel mechanics. Its diesel mechanics/heavy truck maintenance diploma program teaches the basic skills and prepares students for further studies. Courses include Diesel Engine Fundamentals, Hydromechanical Diesel Fuel Injection Systems, Computerized Truck and Bus Systems Management, Truck Steering, and Suspension, Brake and Transmission systems.
No other schools in San Antonio offer diesel mechanics courses. Students who are not seeking a long-term study regimen may consider traveling to a Universal Technical Institute campus in Dallas-Fort Worth or Houston. It offers a 45-week comprehensive diesel and industrial training program. The skills taught in this course include working on tractor-trailers, trains, construction equipment, forklifts and transportation refrigeration systems. The school assists with career placement and NATEF/ASE certification.