Automotive Technology AS Degree

The Automotive Technologies Degree program offers learners the opportunity to learn the academic and occupational skills needed by entry-level technicians in the automotive industry. The degree is aligned with the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), meet the standards of National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3), and integrate Mopar College Automotive Program (CAP) Local levels 0 and 1 online coursework. 

The curriculum was developed with industry guidance and prepares learners with foundation courses, then focuses on electronic technologies and other advanced diagnostic technologies used in light-duty vehicles currently produced and serviced by the major manufacturers.

The degree program’s emphasis is on key vehicle systems including: electrical, engine performance, emissions, braking, steering & suspension, engine, transmission and heating & air conditioning. Within each system the learner is taught to understand their operation, function, maintenance, repair and diagnosis. In addition to the degree option, the automotive technology certificate programs are designed to be as flexible as possible in offering learners and working technicians the opportunity to gain the needed and skills with short-term commitment.

As learners progress through the program, they will be exposed to other aspects of the transportation industry that include personal planning, development of individual and team working skills, development of advanced technical knowledge, health and safety, and environmental issues.

Learning Outcomes

Upon satisfactory completion of this program students will be able to:
  1. Fulfill the requirements for an entry-level position in their field.
  2. Providing the knowledge and skills for advancement at their current automotive/ advanced transportation job.
  3. Apply critical thinking skills to research, evaluate, analyze and synthesize information.
  4. Demonstrate the skills and aptitude necessary to pass certification exams in their field.

Program Requirements 

Course Code Title Units
Required CoursesUnits
AUTO 010Introduction to Automotive Technology3
AUTO 011BAuto Electronics & Electrical Systems4
AUTO 011CAdvanced Automotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 012AAutomotive Suspension & Steering Systems4
AUTO 013AAutomotive Braking Systems4
AUTO 014AAutomotive Engine Management4
AUTO 015Automotive Engine Diagnosis & Repair4
AUTO 020AAutomotive Quick Service3
AUTO 042BAutomotive Mechatronics3
AUTO 043AIntro to Hybrid, Electric & Fuel-Cell Vehicle Technology3
AUTO 095AAutomotive Technology Work Experience 12
Electives3
Select 3 units from the following:
AUTO 014BAdvanced Engine Management4
AUTO 016Automotive Manual Transmissions & Drive Train Systems3
AUTO 017Automatic Transmissions & Transaxles3
AUTO 018Automotive Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning4
AUTO 021AAutomotive Diagnosis & Troubleshooting2
AUTO 043BHybrid, Fuel-Cell & Electric Vehicle Diagnosis & Repair3
AUTO 044BAdvanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) Level 13
AUTO 044CAdvanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) Level 22
AUTO 045AIntro to Alternative Fuel Vehicles2
AUTO 046BAutonomous Vehicles3
AUTO 054DSmog Check Inspector Training Level 1&24
AUTO 054ESmog Check Diagnostic & Repair Technician3
AUTO 093AIntro to Light & Medium Duty Diesel Systems2
AUTO 093BLight/Medium Duty Diesel Systems4
AUTO 095AAutomotive Technology Work Experience (1-2 units in addition to required) 11-2
ENGR 009Introduction to Engineering3
BUMA 010Introduction to Business3
ACR 060Air Conditioning & Refrigeration I3
ACR 064Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Electricity I3
WELD 011AIntroduction to Shielded Metal Arc Welding2
WELD 012AIntroduction to Gas Metal Arc Welding2
Required Subtotal38
Elective Subtotal3
COD General Education Pattern23
DEGREE TOTAL64-65
1

For extenuating circumstances, as deemed by the automotive advisor, work experience may be fulfilled through a special shop project or an appropriate elective.