Mar 29, 2024  
2023-2024 Course Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Course Catalog

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Automotive Minor Repair and Vehicle Maintenance, Certificate

Location(s): Ankeny



The Automotive Minor Repair & Vehicle Maintenance Certificate will prepare students to enter the workforce in an entry-level position performing minor vehicle maintenance and repair.

This program is Accredited thru the ASE Education Foundation at the Maintenance and Light RepairTechnician (MLR) level.

Program Details


Pathway: Building Trades & Transportation


More information on this Pathway.

Students start Fall semester (Daytime program only)


Automotive Minor Repair & Vehicle Maintenance certificate is available only at the Ankeny campus.


Graduation Requirements


To earn an Automotive Minor Repair and Vehicle Maintenance Certificate, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 23


Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$185.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs



Semester 1Semester 2Semester 3
Books   20000
Tools3,500100100

Approximate total for the program: $7,994**

**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate costs.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


  • Service automobiles to keep them from developing mechanical problems (preventive maintenance).
  • Make systematic examinations and adjustments; repair and replace defective parts of cars and trucks.
  • Diagnose drivability problems so repairs can be made.
  • Use different kinds of testing equipment, such as engine analyzers, compression gauges, and electrical test meters, lab scope and computers.   

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?


  • Use your hands to do technical and manipulative skills with accuracy.
  • Use hand tools and interpret readings from meters, gauges and computers.
  • Establish effective interpersonal relations with customers and coworkers.
  • Read and understand technical information off a computer and from technical manuals.
  • Ability to diagnose problems and take proper remedial measures.
  • Lift and carry objects up to 60 pounds.

What Else Should I Consider about this Specialist Certificate?


  • Basic math and reading skills are a must.
  • Students must provide own hand tools; approximately $3,500.
  • Average starting salary Auto Mechanics Tech. A.A.S. degree-$33,280 (2017-2018 Placement Report).

Program Competencies


  1. Demonstrate the ability to work with others in a safe, professional, respectful and constructive environment
  2. Use verbal and written information as required by the industry to effectively communicate with customers, coworkers, and employers
  3. Perform preventative maintenance checks and services to industry standards
  4. Repair vehicle systems according to industry and vehicle manufacturer specifications and standards
  5. Evaluate vehicle systems using manufacturers’ published diagnostics
  6. Demonstrate the ability to operate diagnostic and repair equipment​

Nondiscrimination Statement


Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in its programs, activities, employment practices, or hiring practices, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law.

Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. ADA questions and concerns may be directed to the Section 504/ADA Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 6, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6857, dso@dmacc.edu. Title IX questions and concerns may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 1, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6216, Title9@dmacc.edu. Questions or complaints about this policy may be directed to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, John C. Kluczysnki Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604-7204, phone 312/730-1560, fax 312/730-1576, TDD 800-877-8339 Email OCR.Chicago@ed.gov.

DMACC offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:
Agriculture, Natural and Environmental Science
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Arts, Design, and Visual Communication
Business, Management, and Marketing
Education, Public, and Human Services
Health Science
Hospitality and Culinary
Information Technology
Manufacturing
Transportation & Logistics

Entrance requirements for specific programs can be found at https://www.dmacc.edu/pathways/.(2021)

Competencies revised date


AT2023