Automotive Technology
Winter 2018
Start
Fall, Winter, Spring
Additional Costs
| Books | $300 |
| Supplies and Equipment | $1500-2000 |
| * Estimate for six quarters. One book for use all six quarters. |
Program Description
The Automotive Technology program prepares students for employment in many areas of the automotive field including dealerships, independent garages, fleet shops, service stations and specialty shops which cover areas such as tune-ups and brakes. Students may enter the program only in the first quarter. The one-year certificate requires completion of any three quarters of the automotive technology program and the three related classes identified in footnote 1. This flexible schedule also enables students to receive short-term certificates while pursuing their degree. Students must complete all courses with a 2.0 grade or better before advancing to subsequent quarters.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Describe how an automotive heating, ventilation, and air-conditions system works.
- Discuss the refrigerants used and their impact on the environment.
- Explain airflow management and sensors and actuators used.
- Comprehend the refrigerant recycle importance and effects on the environment.
- Discuss engine constructions, energy and power of an engine.
- Discuss compression ratio, torque and horsepower.
- Discuss synthetic engine oils and their advantages.
- Discuss hybrids engine precautions.
- Learn theory and principles of computerized engine controls, automotive exhaust emissions, and fuel injection and ignition systems.
- Working knowledge of the brake system and component identification.
- Basic knowledge of the diagnostic process of the brak system.
- Working knowledge of the suspension system and component identification.
- Working knowledge of the alignment equipment and basic adjustments.
- Principles of late model automatic transmissions, transaxles and sub-assemblies.
- Operation of automotive manual transmissions and transaxles, differential, transfer case, drive line, and constant velocity joints.
- Diagnose and repair automotive electrical and electronic systems to industry standards (*ASE/NATEF).
- Use multi-meters, scopes, test lights, etc. properly to perform repairs and diagnostics.
Career Opportunities
Most automotive technicians are employed by automobile dealers, independent automobile repair shops, specialty shops and fleets. Employment is expected to increase because of the expansion of the driving-age population, consumer purchasing power and multi-car ownership. All current automobiles are equipped with sophisticated computer controlled devices including ignition and braking systems, air bags, etc. which require highly technical skills. POTENTIAL POSITIONS INCLUDE: automatic transmission specialist, salesperson, automotive technician, front end alignment technician, heating and air conditioning specialist, engine performance technician and electrical/electronics specialist.