The automotive technology program is designed to prepare students for a career in the automotive repair field. It combines theory classes with practical shop work to properly train students for entry-level into the automotive industry.
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification through National Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) evaluation ensures that certified training programs meet or exceed industry-recognized, uniform standards of excellence. Graduates of the program will have achieved competencies based on ASE tasks. Student achievement will be based upon demonstrated performance ability and testing in all required areas, which promotes individualized instruction.
Prior to enrollment in the automotive technology program, students must achieve appropriate scores on the placement test that will qualify them for MATH 92 or higher (or have completed MATH 90), OCED 101 and OCED 102. Additionally, students must have a valid driver’s license and a qualifying interview with one of the automotive program instructors during which they will also take a mechanical aptitude test. Students must pass each automotive course and supporting courses with a grade of “C” (2.0) or higher to remain in the program and to be eligible to receive the associate of technical science degree.
Students may elect to use a set of tools provided by WVC (for a $75 deposit) while they acquire their own set of tools. Safety glasses and coveralls are required for all students.
Core program courses may have prerequisite requirements. English and mathematics courses require qualifying placement scores or acceptable preparatory coursework in those subjects. See course descriptions for details.
For more information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, visit www.wvc.edu/autotech.
Total Credits for Certificate: 63
AUTO 296: Cooperative Work Experience can be taken any quarter with instructor’s permission.
AUTO 220: More in-depth training (study) in any offered automotive area to satisfy AUTO 220.
Program outcomes
Students who complete the ATS in Automotive Technology should be able to:
- Demonstrate skills and knowledge in:
- the fundamentals of operation of heating and air conditioning system and their components.
- the use of the scan tools, lab scopes and various diagnostic equipment in the automotive industry.
- the use of the various scan tools used to test anti- lock brake systems components and sensors.
- the use of the various automotive scan tools, lab scopes and diagnostic equipment used in the automotive industry while testing engine management systems.
- the use of tools to test, remove, disassemble, install and service the air conditioning system components.
- Demonstrate the ability to:
- locate, use and analyze information and technology resources to perform workplace duties.
- think critically (analyze, synthesize, evaluate and apply, problem solve, reason quantitatively and qualitatively) in workplace environments.
- act responsibly as an individual and as a member of a team or group in a workplace environment.
- Acquire training and education to seek employment or advance in current employment in the automotive industry.
- Develop a foundation to continue their studies in automotive technology or related fields.
- Become ASE certified.
- Continue education with factory/and aftermarket training as available.