Program Overview

The Automotive Service Technology program prepares you for employment in new car agencies, independent repair facilities, automotive supply stores, service stations and as fleet mechanics. The program is certified through the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

Program Structure

The Automotive Service Technology program runs on a block schedule, Monday through Friday, typically from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm. The program mixes classroom instruction on automotive theory with extensive lab time. Students will cover a range of topics relating to the automotive industry and will apply this knowledge to actual work on vehicles in the lab.

A typical year in the AST program students will spend approximately 25% of their time on theory and remainder on application and practice. There is some computer work involved in this program. Students in all Technical and Professional Division programs are also required to take Technical Mathematics and Introduction to Computing as part of the Technical Certificates.

The AST program currently offers two levels of training. First year students will work toward a Technical Certificate in Automotive Maintenance and Repair. Students desiring to return for the second year of the program will earn a Technical Certificate in Automotive Service Technology.

Job Opportunities

Students who graduate from the automotive program find the following job opportunities and fields more open to them:

Technician

  • New Car Dealership
  • Independent Garage
  • Mass Merchandiser (Sears, Midas, Goodyear, etc.)
  • City/State Fleet Services (Police, Fire, General Service Vehicles)
  • Corporate Fleet Services (Fed-Ex, UPS, School Buses, etc.)

Parts Sales and Service

  • Counter Technician

Management

  • Dealership
  • Warranty
  • Service Department
  • Automotive Parts Stores
  • Service Writing
  • Instructional / Education

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence/National Automotive Education Foundation (ASE/NATEF). Students completing the program have an opportunity to earn credentials by successfully completing ASE/NATEF certification exams upon completion of the program.

Degrees and Certificates

Technical Certificate in Automotive Maintenance and Repair

The Technical Certificate in Automotive Maintenance and Repair is a 42 credit hour program of study.

View the TC in Automotive Maintenance and Repair degree plan - Gainful Employment Disclosure* for a complete course listing.

Technical Certificate in Automotive Service Technology

The Technical Certificate in Automotive Service Technology is a 30-36 credit hour program of study and is designed as the second year of a two year program. A Technical Certificate in Automotive Maintenance and Repair is a prerequisite to the Technical Certificate in Automotive Service Technology.

View the TC in Automotive Service Technology degree plan - Gainful Employment Disclosure* for a complete course listing.

Certificates of Proficiency

Service / Maintenance

The CP in Automotive Service/Maintenance is a 12 credit hour program of study. View the CP in Automotive Service/Maintenance degree plan for a complete course listing.

Brake Specialist

The CP in Automotive Brake Specialist is a 9 credit hour program of study. View the CP in Automotive Brake Specialist degree plan for a complete course listing.

Tune-up Specialist

The CP in Automotive Tune-up Specialist is a 12 credit hour program of study. View the CP in Automotive Tune-up Specialist degree plan for a complete course listing.

Front End Specialist

The CP in Front End Specialist is a 9 credit hour program of study. View the CP in Front End Specialist degree plan for a complete course listing.

Engine Performance Specialist

The CP in Engine Performance Specialist is a 9 credit hour program of study. View the CP in Engine Performance Specialist degree plan for a complete course listing.

A.A.S in General Technology

The Associate of Applied Science in General Technology is a 60 credit hour program of study. It is designed to meet the needs of students who wish to combine technical or vocational coursework with general education requirements to complete a two-year degree. The AAS in General Technology degree enables a student to design an individual program of study to fulfill a unique career goal that cannot be met through the completion of any single technology program offered by the college. It also serves as a bridge program for students enrolled in technical programs at other institutions who wish to complete an Associates Degree. Students wishing to complete the AAS in General Technology will develop an individual course of study through a structured advising process with faculty and college counselors.

View the AAS in General Technology Degree Plan for a complete course listing.