Online Schools with Auto Body Repair Programs: How to Choose

There are a number of professional online programs for students interested in pursuing a career in auto body repair. Online programs can either be taken online or through a hybrid option that incorporates hands-on shop training with online instruction.

How to Choose an Online Program in Auto Body Repair

Award Levels

Post-secondary and certificate programs in automotive technology provide adequate preparation for a career in automotive repair. Students learn to diagnose problems and repair surface and interior car damage.

Program Type

Online programs in auto body repair offer students enrollment opportunities in full, online immersion and low-residency, hybrid programs. Online immersion programs provide course instruction though video, voice and e-mail correspondence and don't require students to take classes on-campus. They are well suited for working professionals or students who have had some hands-on experience in the shop.
Although less common, hybrid programs in auto body repair require students to spend at least part of the time on-campus. Students benefit from hands-on training with welding and metalworking tools. A few schools may also offer accelerated or self-paced study options that allow students to complete courses at their chosen pace.

License

A certificate in Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is becoming the norm for prospective individuals on the job market. Professional online programs offer adequate preparation for the exam; however, in order to receive the certificate, applicants must also have two years of hands-on experience in the field.

Technical Requirements

To participate in online programs, students are required to have updated software and a computer that can operate large media files like video, live streaming and 3D animation graphics. All online programs will require students to have some level of technical fluency in order to feel comfortable uploading, opening and accessing files on the Internet.

Popular Online Programs in Auto Body Repair

Online Certificate in Auto Body Repair

An online program provides students with basic knowledge in auto body repair and teaches them to work with plastic and metal surfaces and finishes. Students will receive instruction on the basics of metalworking, welding, finishing and painting by following online interactive exercises, video lectures, animations and studying 3-D drawings and charts. Although the length of the program can vary from a few weeks to a few months, students are expected to pass all the lesson reviews, quizzes and tests.