Automotive Technology

Program Description

The Automotive Technology program is offered as a four-semester associate degree. Students learn to diagnose, service, and repair all eight major systems of the automobile which includes engine mechanical, engine performance, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train, brakes, steering and suspension, climate control, and electrical and electronic systems. Mechanical aptitude, communication skills and an interest in the automotive industry are important to a successful automotive technician career. Graduates of the associate degree program have opportunities to further their education that may lead beyond the projected career paths of technicians in dealerships or other automotive repair facilities, service specialists, parts specialists, or as service writer/consultants. This program prepares students for ASE certification.

Statewide Salary Range for Recent Graduates

$16,639 $50,000

Approximate Costs

• $111.85 per credit (resident)
• $167.80 per credit (out-of-state resident)
• *Online students are not charged out-of-state fees.

Program Outcomes

• Demonstrate professionalism appropriate for the auto service industry.
• Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive internal combustion engines.
• Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive steering and suspension systems.
• Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive brake systems.
• Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive electrical/electronic systems.
• Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive heating and air conditioning systems.
• Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive engine performance systems.
• Acquire certification for Federal EPA and State of Wisconsin in mobile refrigerant recovery and recycling.
• Prepare for ASE certification testing.
• Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive automatic transmission/transaxle systems.
• Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive manual drive train and axle systems.

Career Opportunities

• Automotive Technician
• Automotive Specialist
• Parts Specialist
• Service Writer/Consultant

Entrance Scores

Admission Process

• Submit the college admission application.
• Submit the $30 one-time fee.
• Submit high school and other official college transcripts.
• Take the college assessment test (ACCUPLACER, ACT or other). The ACCUPLACER assessment can be taken at MPTC.
• Meet with Admissions to discuss order of courses and prerequisites (required for this program).
• Check with Admissions if any additional steps are required.