Learn foundational skills to get an entry-level job in an automotive repair facility.

Develop basic skills in our ASE-Certified program. Learn from instructors with decades of real-world experience in our clean and spacious automotive lab, using state-of-the-art technology used in shops today.

Program location

Skills you'll learn

Learn the fundamentals of automotive servicing:

• Understand suspension and steering systems
• Study automotive brake systems
• Gain knowledge in automotive engine repair and manual drivetrains
• Delve into automotive electrical systems
• Apply basic math in automotive applications

Key classes you'll take

• Automotive Suspension and Steering
• Automotive Electrical I
• AC/DC Fundamentals

What you can do after completing the program

• Automotive Service Technician
• Electronic Equipment Installer/Repairer

Keep going!

Learn advanced skills and grow your career faster. Check out our 2-year degree programs and unlock even better opportunities and higher-paying jobs.

Automotive Technology AAS 2-year degree

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The Automotive Technology program is an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified program. This certification assures the student that the program meets the standards set by National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) regarding equipment, tools, scheduling, instructors and curriculum.

In order for a technician to become ASE certified, they must have two years experience in addition to passing tests in the various areas of automotive repair. However, by attending the SCC Automotive Technology program, students may take these tests at any time during their education. If a student passes these tests, they will become ASE certified pro-tem upon graduation. After just one year of experience in the field, they become officially ASE certified.

The Automotive Technology AAS is awarded after successful completion of two full years.

*Diploma can be earned one time.

Please view the technical standards for this course.

For specific information regarding program rules and expectations, please view the Automotive Program Handbook.

Summary Sheet

The summary sheet provides a program overview and other information.

Download the Summary Sheet.

Curriculum Sequence

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Fall Semester	Course Title	Credit
AUT-106	Introduction to Automotive Technology	2
AUT-126	Fundamentals of Automotive Servicing	2
AUT-405	Automotive Suspension and Steering	5
AUT-505	Automotive Brake Systems	5
HSC-181	First Aid/CPR for Non-Health Care Workers	1.5
MAT-702	Introduction to Math Applications	3
	TOTAL CREDITS	18.5

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Spring Semester	Course Title	Credit
AUT-166	Automotive Engine Repair	6
AUT-244	Manual Drivetrains I	3
AUT-610	Automotive Electrical I	4
ENG-110	Writing for the Workplace	3
ELT-295	AC/DC Fundamentals	2
Take WBL-110 as 1 credit
WBL-110	Employability Skills	1-3
	TOTAL CREDITS	19

AUT-106 - Introduction to Automotive Technology

Lecture: 1

Lab: 2

Credit: 2

This course will serve as an introduction to the complete automotive field, including safety, ASE certification, employment potential, customer service, employer/employee relations and the parts and service industry.

AUT-126 - Fundamentals of Automotive Servicing

Lecture: 1

Lab: 2

Credit: 2

This course will familiarize students with basic scheduled maintenance. Proper usage of hand and power tools will be covered, as well as precision measuring systems and equipment. Prerequisite: AUT-106 with a minimum grade of C-.

AUT-405 - Automotive Suspension and Steering

Lecture: 2

Lab: 6

Credit: 5

This course will look closely at automotive suspension systems, manual, power and four-wheel steering and proper vehicle wheel alignment.

AUT-505 - Automotive Brake Systems

Lecture: 2

Lab: 6

Credit: 5

This course will explain and demonstrate the principles of friction and the components and operation of hydraulic brakes, including power and anti-lock brakes. Prerequisite: AUT-126 with a minimum grade of C-.

HSC-181 - First Aid/CPR for Non-Health Care Workers

Lecture: 1

Lab: 1

Credit: 1.5

This course follows the American heart Association Basic Life Support (CPR) Heart Saver for the Lay Person. It includes AED and basic first aid. This course is not for health care workers.

MAT-702 - Introduction to Math Applications

Lecture: 2

Lab: 2

Credit: 3

This course is offered to students who can profit from an applied course in mathematics and will prepare students who need to develop skills for MAT-704. It is designed as an introductory level algebra course recommended for students with one year of high school algebra. Emphasis is on the building of basic algebra skills and the application of these mathematical techniques. The course studies the relationship of geometry and algebra as they apply to various fields. This course will also cover whole numbers/decimals, integers, fractions/percents, direct measurement, basic geometric concepts/relationships, linear equations and right-triangle trigonometry. Prerequisite: MAT-052 or meet minimum placement testing requirements.

AUT-166 - Automotive Engine Repair

Lecture: 3

Lab: 6

Credit: 6

This course will introduce the internal combustion engine and the variety of designs in popular usage today. It also offers a general introduction to engine diagnosis and testing. The engine will be explored piece by piece, and the description and function of each part explained.

AUT-244 - Manual Drivetrains I

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

This course will introduce the student to the concepts of front- and rear-wheel drive, four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles. Clutches, CV joints and universal joints will also be covered.

AUT-610 - Automotive Electrical I

Lecture: 2

Lab: 4

Credit: 4

This course will introduce to the student the theory and operation of basic electrical and electronic principles as a science. How the basics are applied to automotive electrical circuits and the proper procedures to diagnose and repair are covered. Lab sessions are spent turning theory into "hands-on" practice with meters and basic circuits.

ENG-110 - Writing for the Workplace

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

Writing for the Workplace prepares students for the various types of written communication required by professional employers. In this class, students learn how to write informal and formal documents and reports in the design and style of career-related communication with a focus on audience, purpose, subject and genre and how they affect our writing choices. This course also includes a review of grammar and usage skills, as well as emphasizes effective language use in real-world applications. Prerequisites: ENG-013 with a minimum grade of C-or meet minimum placement test score requirements. No Waivers.

ELT-295 - AC/DC Fundamentals

Lecture: 1

Lab: 2

Credit: 2

This course introduces students to the components used in most electronic circuits and how they are measured, tested and function. Students will learn the fundamentals of AC and DC electrical systems used for power and control in industrial applications. Students will learn how to operate, install, design and troubleshoot basic AC and DC electrical circuits.

WBL-110 - Employability Skills

Lecture: 1-3

Credit: 1-3

This course is designed to assist students in developing the skills necessary to obtain employment, and to learn and practice the skills and attitudes required for job success. Students will practice resume writing, job application completion and interviewing techniques. Additionally, students will practice work-place problem solving strategies and demonstrate skills required to work in a diverse environment. Prerequisite: WBL-150 is recommended.

Wes Carpenter - Assistant Professor - Automotive Technology

Email: wcarpenter@scciowa.edu
AAS, Lincoln Technical Institute
BA, Western Illinois University
ASE Master Tech, ASE Advanced Engine Performance
GM and Ford Certified

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