automotive.chemeketa.edu

The Automotive Technology degree program emphasizes technical training and development of skills through the study of the various systems of the automobile. The degree has been designed to be completed in less than two years. The program offers instruction and training in entry-level skills, auto body repair, and auto machine shop, as well as courses in auto heating and air conditioning, welding, general education, and Cooperative Work Experience. Students in the degree program must attend full time.

The instruction, course of study, facilities, and equipment of the Automotive Technology program have been evaluated by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation and meet the ASE Standards of Quality for the training of automobile technicians in all eight automotive specialty areas (Master Certification).

To help you work effectively with people, the program also includes written and oral communications classes and general education electives. The curriculum emphasizes related scientific, mathematical, and general mechanical principles.

Progam Outcomes

Students completing the Automotive Technology degree should be able to satisfy the following outcomes:

1. Perform tasks related to brakes, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance and repair, suspension and steering, automatic transmissions and transaxles, heating and air conditioning systems, and manual drivetrain and axles.
2. Analyze, diagnose, and repair automotive components and systems in the Automotive Service Excellence areas.
3. Identify and use appropriate tools, testing, and measuring equipment required to perform automotive service.
4. Comply with personal and environmental safety practices associated with clothing; eye protection; hand tools; power equipment; and handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals in accordance with local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations.
5. Practice professional and ethical behaviors as applied to the workplace environment.
6. Use industry standard automotive terminology and clarifying language to communicate orally and in writing with customers, suppliers, supervisors, and co-workers.

Getting Started

The Automotive Technology degree has special admission requirements and enrollment limits. The first step to entering the program is to take the college’s free placement assessment and meet with Chemeketa Advising and First Year Programs staff. Call 503.399.5120 to schedule an appointment. There are entry-level expectations for skill levels in reading, writing, and mathematics. Your advisor will help you develop an individualized program of study. Failure to be assessed may delay your entry into program classes.

For admission to the program, an application is required. This is a separate step from Chemeketa’s assessment and advising steps. Applications are available online at go.chemeketa.edu/automotive, from Advising and First Year Programs, Admissions, the Applied Technologies office in Building 20, and the Automotive Technology program staff office in Building 4, Room 232. Enrollment in the Automotive Technology program is limited, and there is an early deadline for applications. All applicants must attend the Automotive Technology Orientation as a prerequisite for acceptance into the program. We recommend that you contact the Automotive Technology program chair at 503.399.6523 for details if you are considering the Automotive Technology degree or a certificate in Automotive Body Repair, Automotive Machining, or Automotive Entry Level Technician. To enroll, you must have a high school diploma or GED certificate.

You may be interested in our Cooperative Work Experience program, which allows you to earn college credit for work you do relating to your program. To be eligible for on-site Cooperative Work Experience, students must maintain a 2.50 or higher GPA in Automotive Technology courses. With the approval of the program chair, you may enroll in AUM280B-L Cooperative Work Experience and earn college credit hours. For more information, look under Cooperative Work Experience in the catalog index.

You may earn an associate of applied science degree by successfully completing the required 98 credit hours with a grade of “C” or better in AUM courses.