Go to nashuacc.edu/programs for even more details about this and other NCC programs and certificates.
Automotive Technology is a two-year associate degree program designed to combine automotive technical training and academic course work to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed for a rewarding career in the automotive service industry. While enrolled in the program, students will study the theory of operation of the automotive systems including electrical, brakes, steering and suspension, automatic and manual transmissions, heating and cooling, engine performance, and engine repair. Engine Repair is the capstone course for this degree program.
Each course includes an automotive lab that allows the students to apply and build their knowledge and skills by performing work on vehicles with “real life” problems in a “real shop” atmosphere. We accomplish this by completing repairs on customer vehicles in need of repair work covered in each course. This high tech training combined with the academic coursework and “hands-on” experience not only prepares the student to be employed in the automotive field, but also prepares the student to take the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) technician certification exams.
Classes are scheduled Monday through Friday between 8 am and 5 pm. In addition to automotive classes, students are required to take general education courses. (See catalog for course schedule). Graduates will satisfy an industry need for well-educated and technically trained people. Features of the program include:
- Master Automobile Service Technology (MAST) Accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation
- Highly trained ASE Master Certified Instructors
- Modern facility with state-of-the-art equipment
Upon the completion of the degree in Automotive Technology, graduates will be able to:
- Evaluate, diagnose, and repair various automotive systems using ASE guidelines.
- Use technology and basic scientific principles for research and diagnostics.
- Use industry relevant written and oral communication skills.
- Identify ethical repair procedures based on multiple factors.
- Achieve ASE Master Certification after an additional year in the field.
Graduates will also be able to demonstrate competency in the general education outcomes.
In addition to the general admissions requirements, the Automotive Technology applicants should be aware of the following criteria:
- A minimum of one year of high school Algebra I is recommended.
- Basic skills in written English are required.
- A basic automotive tool kit and roll cabinet are required.
- Students are expected to possess a good work ethic and a strong desire to learn.
- A valid driver’s license is required to be accepted into the program. It is recommended students be able to drive a manual transmission vehicle.
- A copy of a clean driving record will be required of all students in the Honda PACT or Mazda MAST program.
Students should familiarize themselves with the Transportation Technologies Department General Education Policies located in the General Education Policies section of the Catalog.
The programs are certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and the instructors are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications, 101 Blue Seal Drive, Suite 100, Leesburg, VA 20175.
- Have a high school degree or equivalent
- Have command of the English language
- Have reading comprehension skills sufficient to read and comprehend service literature
- Have communication skills sufficient to prepare required reports
- Understand and follow both written and oral instructions
- Be able to complete requirements for college-level classes
- Have sufficient vision to distinguish colors, read gauges, scopes, diagnostic equipment and information from a computer screen (adaptive equipment acceptable)
- Have sufficient hearing to distinguish various sounds and noises (adaptive equipment acceptable)
- Have the ability to stand for extended periods of time and physical strength to lift automotive parts and equipment.
- Have sufficient dexterity to perform manual skills related to automotive services
- Ability to work in an automotive service environment
- Maintain a valid driver’s license
- Be able to operate a manual transmission.
Job opportunities include: Dealership technician, Independent shop technician, auto part sales person, service writer, powersports technician, tuner and performance shops.
This program carries additional fees. Visit nashuacc.edu/tuition-fees for more information.