Nov 07, 2024  
2024-2025 Course Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Course Catalog

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Automotive Mechanics Technology, AAS

Location(s): Ankeny



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The Auto Mechanics Technology program is designed to prepare students for employment in the high-technology automotive service industry and to update those who are already employed.

The Auto Mechanics Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program is a comprehensive training program designed to cover all aspects of automotive repair. Graduates with an AAS degree find employment in dealerships, independent service facilities, corporate repair facilities and automotive parts establishments. They are employed as automotive technicians, insurance claims adjusters, automotive instructors, parts specialists and repair technicians in related fields.

There are three separate diploma options, which can be taken individually or in combination. One option prepares graduates for job entry in current automotive technology tune-up and engine repair  . Another option prepares graduates to enter the automotive industry trained in the latest power train and chassis repair   techniques. A third option prepares graduates to enter the automotive industry as a maintenance and light repair  technician. Diploma recipients may receive an AAS degree by completing the additional courses required for the Auto Mechanics Technology AAS degree.

This program is accredited thru the ASE Education Foundation at the Master Automobile Service Technician (MAST) level.

Program Details


Location: Ankeny


Pathway: Building Trades & Transportation


More information on this Pathway.

Students start Fall or Spring semester. (Daytime program only)


Selected courses offered at the other campuses.


Graduation Requirements


To earn a diploma in Auto Engines and Tune-Up, Auto Chassis and Power Train or Maintenance Light Repair, or an AAS degree in Auto Mechanics Technology, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

These courses may have a different order of completion.

Semester 5


Option 1 - Select 2-3 Credits


Total Credits Required to Complete the Auto Mechanics AAS Degree - 76*


*Total credits are calculated using the least number of credits needed to satisfy the option requirements.

Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$193.00 per credit

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

Varied Costs


  Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Semester 4 Semester 5
Books (approximate)   450 75 150 150 175
Equipment-Tools (approximate) 3500 100 100 100 100

Approximate total for the program: $19,568**

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

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 from a computer and 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 Program or Career Choice?


  • 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. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs.

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 Executive Campus Dean’s office, the Executive 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 Academic Pathway website.(2024)

Competencies revised date


AY2023

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