Motorsports Engineering Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Students in this program develop a robust foundation in engineering principles and hands-on technical competencies tailored to the high-performance demands of the motorsports industry. The curriculum equips learners to support engineering teams in the development, testing, and maintenance of race vehicles through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application.
- Aerodynamics: Study of air flow around vehicles to optimize downforce, reduce drag, and enhance overall speed and stability during high-velocity operation.
- Vehicle Dynamics: Analysis of how vehicles respond to forces during acceleration, braking, and cornering, focusing on suspension systems, weight transfer, and handling characteristics.
- Performance Engines: In-depth exploration of high-output internal combustion engines, including tuning, component selection, and thermal management for maximum power and reliability.
- Fluid Mechanics: Examination of fluid behavior in engine cooling systems, lubrication, fuel delivery, and hydraulic components critical to race vehicle performance.
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Use of advanced software tools to create precise digital models of vehicle components and systems for simulation, prototyping, and manufacturing.
- Mechanical Engineering Principles: Core concepts in materials, forces, motion, and energy transfer applied to the design and analysis of mechanical systems in race vehicles.
- Welding and Fabrication: Practical training in metal joining techniques and structural fabrication essential for building and repairing chassis, roll cages, and custom components.
- Design and Systems Integration: Application of engineering design methodologies to develop cohesive, high-performance vehicle systems that meet safety, efficiency, and regulatory standards.
Motorsports Engineering Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Motorsports Engineering Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Motorsports Engineering Technology degrees, including Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other and Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 753,250 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other 17-3029 | $77,390 | $47,010 - $114,630 | 64,410 | $37.21 |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics 49-3023 | $49,670 | $33,660 - $80,850 | 688,840 | $23.88 |
Motorsports Engineering Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $48,410 in South Dakota to $90,075 in District of Columbia—a 86% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Maryland, and New Mexico. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 753,250 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Motorsports Engineering Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Motorsports Engineering Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Motorsports Engineering Technology is found at Ohio Technical College (Ohio Tech) (32 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 32 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio Technical College (Ohio Tech) |
Certificate (≥2 yrs)
Associate's
|
32 | Cleveland, Ohio | Private | ohiotech.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Motorsports Engineering Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Motorsports Engineering Technology degree?
Salaries for Motorsports Engineering Technology graduates vary by role and location. Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other earn a median of $77,390 annually, while Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics earn around $49,670. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $90,075 compared to $48,410 in South Dakota. Approximately 753,250 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Motorsports Engineering Technology programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Motorsports Engineering Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Ohio Technical College (Ohio Tech) (32 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Motorsports Engineering Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, . Related occupations employ approximately 753,250 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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