What Can You Do With an Automotive Technology Degree?

An automotive technology degree gives you the knowledge you need to thrive in the automotive industry. From diagnosis to repair, you’re trained to do a variety of work. Graduates of CMC go on to work as:

  • Auto specialty technician
  • Auto mechanic
  • Service technician
  • Diagnostic technician
  • Service writers
  • Diagnostic technician
  • Service technician

More Than a Grease Monkey

Learning the fundamentals of engine repair and separate specialties, like steering and suspension, are important skills to have for the automotive industry. You also need “people skills,” like customer service, communication, and patience. Even though you’re dealing with car engines, air conditioning units, or brakes, you’re also dealing with the vehicle owners. The expert instructors at CMC teach you the fundamentals of auto technology along with the business side of the industry. Everything you learn is designed to help you succeed.

Getting the Hands-On Experience

A degree in automotive technology means getting your hands dirty as you learn to fix different parts. That’s why the courses at CMC give you direct hands-on experience, guided by helpful instructors. Once you complete your courses and earn your degree, you can enter any dealership or body shop with the necessary experience—and the confidence to get the job you want.

Your Automotive Technology AS Program Map

  • 1

  • 2

  • 3

  • 4

Restricted electives — more available below. Download a PDF Program Map

Automotive Technology AS: What to Expect

  • Completion Requirements
    • 42-43 units of required courses
    • Restricted electives
    • A grade of C or higher in all required courses
    • Minimum grade point average of 2.0
  • Required Courses

    Principles of Automotive Technology (AUTO 004) | 4.00

    Automotive Electrical Systems I (AUTO 020) | 4.00

    Automotive Electrical Systems II (AUTO 021) | 4.00

    Engine Performance I (AUTO 018) | 4.00

    Engine Performance II (AUTO 029) | 4.00

    Automotive Steering, Suspension, and Alignment (AUTO 035) | 4.00

    Automotive Brake Systems (AUTO 036) | 4.00

    Automotive Engine Repair (AUTO 044) | 4.00

    Introduction to Business (BUMA 010) | 3.00

    Hybrid & Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AUTO 078) | 4.00

    or

    Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology (AUTO 028) | 3.00

    Manual Transmission & Transaxles (AUTO 065) | 4.00

    or

    Automotive Brake Systems (AUTO 036) | 4.00

    Restricted Electives – choose at least one (1) class from the following:

    AUTO 027, AUTO 060, CIS 070A, AUTO 045 or AUTO 065, and AUTO 028 or AUTO 078 | 3.00 – 5.00

  • What You Learn
    1. Prepare for the ASE certification by identifying, describing, and servicing at least six out of the eight general automotive areas of the certification. *
    2. Use different auto testing equipment to analyze, diagnose, estimate cost, and fix any engine issues in at least six of the eight general automotive areas of ASE certification. *
    3. Use service info to find and document any repairs that were done on hybrid and alternative fuel cars.
    4. Learn how to properly use common auto repair tools, lab equipment, and machines by following common safety practices.
    5. Work alone and in a team to diagnose, fix, and maintain different types of cars.
    6. Show you can be professional with coworkers and customers even during complaints or special challenges.

    *Dependent upon restrictive electives chosen.

Related Programs

Contact Admissions

Admissions & Records
300 Quad
6162 Rotary Way
Joshua Tree, CA 92252
 
Phone: 760.366.5201 ext. 4232