An Automotive technician identifies issues or faults in an automobile’s mechanical or electrical systems. As the industry sees greater demand for service technicians, you might consider enrolling in an auto mechanic program if you enjoy working on vehicles and want to enhance your skills for a rewarding career in the industry. Automotive schools provide theory and extensive hands-on training that you can use to apply for various industry certifications and financial gains. The rise of technologically centered vehicles and accompanying diagnostic tools creates a space for techno-geeks. Auto mechanic programs also cover the use of computerized equipment and tools in the industry and prepare students for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles in our modern society.
San Diego Miramar College
The General Automotive Technology Program at San Diego Miramar College is as rigorous and comprehensive as the Honda PACT/Toyota T-TEN program but gives students the opportunity to work with various other industry partners. The training includes theory and hands-on instruction and professional development opportunities for industry employees. Course topics include engine and related systems, basic electricity and electrical systems fundamentals, advanced electrical, engine performance, advanced engine performance, clinical control systems, manual drive train and axles, automatic transmissions/axles, automotive brake systems, and suspension, steering and handling. The school provides two tracts – one leading to a Certificate of Achievement and the other leading to an Associate in Science Degree. Graduates will be able to diagnose and repair light-duty automotive systems and components, research automotive repair date, instructions, and specifications using printed material and electronic data, and identify workplace health and safety compliance using regulations using OSHA and EPA.
Program overview:
Automotive Technician – Certificate of Achievement
Duration: 12 months
Units: 40
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a high school graduate or have a GED
- Applicants 18 years of age or older who do not possess a high school diploma or equivalent may be admitted under provisional admission status
- Meet with an Admission Representative
- Obtain admission to San Diego Miramar College
- Must have a current state ID and social security card
Program cost:
Tuition costs $46 per unit for California residents.
Website: https://sdmiramar.edu/
Address: 10440 Black Mountain Road, San Diego, CA 92126-2999
Phone: (619) 388-7800
San Diego College of Continuing Education
The automotive technician program at San Diego College of Continuing Education includes classroom lectures and hands-on training in the shop. Students will work as a team on cars scheduled for repairs in an environment such as those offered in the automotive repair industry. Students will learn how to diagnose and repair problems with engines, brakes, suspension, steering, electronics, and fuel systems, perform diagnostic tests using computers, use and maintain hand tools and equipment, communicate effectively on the job, and follow industry safety practices and procedures. Lessons are based on best-practice industry standards from NATEF (National Automotive Technician Education Foundation) and include BAR-certified Level 1 and Level 2 training, so students will be eligible to take the California state exam for your smog inspector license.
Program overview:
Auto Technician
Duration: 39 weeks
Clock hours: 920
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a high school graduate or have a GED
- Must have a current state ID and social security card
- Must register for the program
Program cost:
The training is provided at no cost to students. Equipment fees may be waived in some instances.
Website: https://sdcce.edu/
Address: 4343 Ocean View Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92113-1915
Phone: 619.388.4956
Cuyumaca College
Cuyamaca College’s Automotive Technology Programs exceed manufacturers and ASE training requirements. The school offers a Certificate of Achievement and an Associate in Science option for students with no prior work experience. The program has nine ASE core competencies. Lab requirements are completed on campus where students will work on state of the art vehicles and equipment. Course topics include introduction to automotive technology, engine diagnosis and repair, automotive transmission theory and operation lab, manual transmission and transaxle repair, differential and WD system diagnosis and repair, steering and suspension diagnosis and repair, electrical diagnosis and repair electronics diagnosis and repair, climate control systems, engine performance, ignition and fuel systems, diesel engine performance and diagnosis and much more.
Program overview:
Automotive Technology – Certificate of Achievement
Duration: 18 months
Units: 40
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Submit an application online for admission to the college
- Set up a student account in WebAdvisor
- Submit official transcript to admission and records – high school and college transcripts where applicable
- Complete the online orientation
- Determine Math and English placement by taking the questionnaire on WebAdvisor
- Attend an advising session
- Must be a high school graduate or completed GED
- Applicants who are non-graduates and over 18 years may be eligible for admission
Program cost:
The estimated cost of tuition is $1,340 per year based on a resident student completing 14 units per term. It includes mandatory fees such as health, student representation, and student center construction fee.
Website: https://www.cuyamaca.edu/
Address: 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway, El Cajon, California 92019
Phone: 619-660-4000
Southwestern College
The Automotive Technology Certificate of Achievement program offered at Southwestern College provides students with a comprehensive study in motor vehicle systems with an emphasis on power train, chassis, and electrical systems. Theory and hands-on training cover introduction to basic automotive service, automotive science and basic mechanics, automotive braking systems, automotive suspension, alignment and steering, engine performance, automotive electronics, automatic transmissions and transaxles, manual transmission, transaxles and final drives, clean air car, and automotive emission systems. The certificate of achievement requires completion of 42 units. Graduates will be prepared to take all 8 ASE technician certification and for employment as General Repair Technicians.
Program overview:
Automotive Technology – Certificate of Achievement
Duration: 64 weeks
Units: 42
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Meet with an admission representative
- Submit an application for admission to Southwestern College
- Must be a high school graduate or completed GED
- Submit official high school and college transcripts
- Determine Math and English placement
Program cost:
The cost of tuition and fees is $1,932 for resident students and $14,541 for out-of-state students. Books and supplies cost an additional $2,781.
Website: https://www.swccd.edu/
Address: 900 Otay Lakes Rd, Chula Vista, CA 91910-7297
Phone: (619) 421-6700 x 5431