2026-2027 Course Catalog
Auto Collision Technology, Diploma
Location(s):
Ankeny
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The Auto Collision Technology program is designed to prepare students for employment in an auto collision facility with the basic skills needed to be successful in your career. The Auto Collision diploma prepares graduates for entry into highly demanded auto collision jobs related to estimating, collision repair, refinishing, paint correction & detailing.
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Students start Fall or Spring semester. Full-time, Daytime program only.
Graduation Requirements
To earn an Automotive Collision Technology diploma , a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. Total Credits Required to Complete the Diploma - 46
Fixed Costs
Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change. Varied Costs
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Semester 3 | | Books (approximate) | 105 | 55 | 55 | | Equipment-Tools (approximate) | 3,500 - 4,500 |
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Approximate total for Diploma program: $13,605-$14,605**
**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost. What Kind of Work Will You Do?
- Proper use of safety in the workplace
- Prepare estimates, blueprint and complete a repair plan.
- Understand vehicle construction & materials used.
- Remove and replace/reinstall exterior nonstructural components and alignment of panels.
- Remove and replace/reinstall interior components and exterior moldings and related trim.
- Work with tools and equipment in a collision facility such as welders, grinders, sanders and paint guns.
- Learn basic skills of metal finishing and analyzing collision damage.
- Prepare vehicle for spot refinishing including masking.
- Restore vehicles finish to OEM standards.
What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?
- Work as part of a team and independently.
- Process hand eye coordination for effective use of hand tools.
- Be on time and organized with all lab work and assignments.
- Perform detailed work with precision.
- Plan and organize detailed tasks to meet deadlines.
- Read and interpret vehicle service information.
- Maintain focus during lengthy repetitive tasks.
What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?
- Advancement in career opportunities can be achieved in many areas earning as much as $100,000 within 3-5 years.
- Sensitivity to chemicals, environmental and airborne contaminants, etc., must be considered.
- Physical conditioning is important; you must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, handle, push and pull.
- The ability to identify subtle differences in color/hue/value/saturation of paint color is important.
- Students must purchase their own set of hand tools (refer to tool list and supplies cost).
- Average anticipated starting salary: Hourly $22.20 (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Program Competencies
- Demonstrate the basic skills and industry requirements for collision repairs.
- Demonstrate the ability to safely operate auto collision repair equipment and tools while repairing vehicles.
- Prepare accurate and complete computerized estimates.
- Repair vehicle systems according to industry standards.
Nondiscrimination Statement
It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of 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. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov (2026) |
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