Automotive Technician
Courses
- Automotive Technician — A.A.S. Degree 72 credits
- Automotive Technician — Diploma 65 credits
- Driveability — Certificate 20 credits
- Drivetrain/Transmission — Certificate 20 credits
- Engines/General Automotive — Certificate 20 credits
- Brakes, Suspension and Electrical — Certificate 17 credits
Major Description
The automotive technician is one of today's most skilled professionals. Students will learn to maintain and repair the engine, chassis, drive train, front-wheel drive, fuel injection and modern electrical and emission systems. The instruction will involve classroom theory, demonstrations, computer applications and repair of automobiles. Making repairs on vehicles plays a vital role in skill development. Technicians already in the field can update their knowledge by registering for individual automotive technical courses.
Nature of Work
Automotive technicians use their analytical ability to quickly and accurately diagnose mechanical problems including engine and transmission, fuel injection, suspension, and electrical systems. Technicians use a variety of current, state-of-the-art equipment, hand and power tools and aligning equipment to return vehicles safely to the road.
Career Opportunities
Automotive technicians find jobs at dealerships and independent and specialty shops. A graduate can find a challenging career as a technician, service manager, sales representative, factory representative, service writer or shop owner.
Program Delivery
Students can begin this program in the Fall or Spring semester. Courses are offered during the day. A full-time start is preferred.
Advanced Standing
Previous college courses, certification, licensure and training may be considered for credit in the major. The responsibility for seeking credit rests with the student and can be initiated by completing the course SMGT2950 Prior Experiential Learning Portfolio Development (1 elective credit).
After DCTC
DCTC has transfer agreements for this program with the following colleges: Bemidji State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead, Cardinal Stritch, Southwest Minnesota State University, the University of Minnesota– Crookston and Saint Mary's University. See Transfer Credits for more information.
Student Outcomes
- Graduates of the Automotive Technician program will be prepared for employment in the automotive technician field.
- Students will accurately diagnose mechanical problems.
- Students will have the knowledge to repair vehicles through engine overhaul, drive train overhaul, suspension overhaul, driveability service and electrical trouble-shooting.
- See General Education outcome statement
Academic Advisors
- Jennifer Robinson-West
Vocational Education Advisor
jennifer.west@dctc.edu
651-423-8217
Dean
- Mike Opp
Dean of Transportation and Technical Careers
Faculty
| Robert Engberg | 651-423-8322 | robert.engberg@dctc.edu | BIO |
| Roger (Sam) Olson | 651-423-8455 | roger.olson@dctc.edu | BIO |
| Jeffrey Copeland | 651-423-8296 | jeff.copeland@dctc.edu | BIO |
