Engine Research and Development Technician
Program Number: 10-606-5
School Year: 2011-2012
Associate of Applied Science Degree
Campus: Fond du Lac
Program Description
The Engine Research and Development Technician program trains students to assist engineers in engine development and design. Engine technicians conduct tests to determine engine characteristics such as torque and horsepower curves, engine efficiencies, exhaust emissions and durability. Data is collected using technologies such as engine dynamometers, engine transducers and data acquisition systems.
Graduates of the program become test lab technicians and other technical employees for manufacturers of internal combustion engines. Engine research and development technicians need strong mechanical aptitude, sound math and science skills, and an interest in internal combustion engines.
Statewide Salary Range for Recent Graduates

$29,950 $32,000
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
- Complete the assembly and disassembly processes for internal combustion engines.
- Develop plans and procedures for engine modification.
- Evaluate engine and engine-driven components.
- Evaluate engine performance.
- Prepare technical report(s).
- Operate advanced engine evaluation equipment.
Career Opportunities
- R&D Technician
- Associate Test Engineer
- Emission Technician
- Engine Technician
- Dynamometer Technician
- Applications Technician
- Service Representative
- Service Technician
Entrance Scores
| Assessment Area | ACT | ACCUPLACER |
|---|---|---|
| English/Sentence Skills | 16 | 76 |
| Reading/Reading Comprehension | 16 | 67 |
| Math/Arithmetic | 18 | 79 |
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 (strongly encouraged).
- Check with Admissions if any additional steps are required.
Courses
| Number | Title | Crds |
|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | ||
| 106-138 | Computer Essentials | 2 |
| 606-150 | Electronics and Instrumentation | 3 |
| 606-164 | Engine Fundamentals | 3 |
| 606-167 | Engine Development and Design | 2 |
| 623-162 | Manufacturing Processes | 3 |
| 804-113 | College Technical Math 1A | 3 |
| Total | 16 | |
| Term 2 | ||
| 606-155 | Ignition Fuels and Combustion | 4 |
| 801-195 | Written Communication | 3 |
| 804-114 | College Technical Math 1B | 2 |
| 809-166 | Introduction to Ethics: Theory and Application | 3 |
| Total | 12 | |
| Term 3 | ||
| 606-168 | Engine Testing and Testing Equipment | 5 |
| 628-135 | Principles of Machining | 2 |
| 801-196 | Oral and Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| - OR - | ||
| 801-197 | Technical Reporting | 3 |
| 806-137 | Comprehensive Technical Physics | 4 |
| 809-195 | Economics | 3 |
| Total | 17 | |
| Term 4 | ||
| 606-169 | Engine Emission Testing and Control | 3 |
| 606-173 | Engine Problems | 3 |
| 606-174 | Transmission of Power | 3 |
| 606-176 | CAD 2-D, AutoCAD | 3 |
| 809-198 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| - OR - | ||
| 809-199 | Psychology of Human Relations | 3 |
| Total | 15 | |
| Required Elective Credits | 3 | |
Exit Assessment
Capstone projects are an exit assessment graduation requirement for the program.
Institutional Requirements
- 890-125 Student Success
- 103-159 Computer Literacy/Advanced Standing
- 890-130 Career Development
Academic Planner
- Engine Research and Development Technician, 2011-2012
- Engine Research and Development Technician, 2010-2011
Transfer Opportunities
Check out the Credit Transfers page for more information.

