Automotive Technology

The Automotive Technology curriculum at College of the Desert is aligned with the standards of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The program is ASE certified, a member of the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3), and a Local Mopar Career Automotive Program (MCAP Local).

Automotive Technology is the study of automotive systems as they relate to the current generation of computer controlled vehicles. Career paths in this discipline include automotive service technician, automotive service consultants, various supervisor and management positions, automotive parts sales people, and vehicle modifiers in the alternate fuels and fuel cells. Learners who choose not to major in automotive technology find that coursework in the field can improve their ability to solve complex problems, improve diagnostic skills, and research complex problems. As learners progress through the program, they will be exposed to other aspects of the industry that include personal planning, development of individual and team working skills, development of advanced technical knowledge, and safety and environmental issues and concerns.

College of the Desert’s automotive curriculum includes course offerings that provide a general overview of the discipline as well as specific courses in steering, suspension, braking systems, automatic and manual transmission, air conditioning, electrical systems, electric/hybrid/hydrogen, engine performance, and emission control systems. The College also offers certificates of achievement for learners to specialize in these areas. Those earning the certificates of achievement in the various specialty areas may choose to continue towards an associate's degree or go directly to entry level jobs in that aspect of the automotive service industry. 

This program is designed to prepare learners and incumbent employees for entry-level and mid/advanced-level positions at local automotive dealerships, independent repair facilities, national repair chains, and parts suppliers. 

Advisors:

Dorothy Anderson
doanderson@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.776.7368

Douglas Redman
dredman@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.776.7390

Associate Degrees (AA/AS)

Certificates of Achievement

Noncredit Certificates