Auto Collision Technology, AAS

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The Auto Collision Technology program is designed to prepare students for employment in the highly technological auto collision industry and to update those already employed.

The Auto Collision diploma option prepares graduates for entry into auto collision jobs related to paint, refinishing and major structural repairs.

In addition, individual courses may be taken to satisfy one who wants only specific segments of the complete program.

For more information about the Auto Collision Technology program, please visit our website at https://go.dmacc.edu/programs/automotive/autocollision.

Location: Ankeny

Students start Fall or Spring semester.

Program Entry Requirements

Complete an application for admission.
Satisfy the assessment requirement.
Attend any required information/registration session.

Graduation Requirements

To earn an Automotive Collision Technology diploma or AAS degree, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Requirements for the AAS Degree

Total Credits Required to Complete the AAS Degree - 75

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$143.00 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)	105	55	55	65	65
Equipment-Tools (approximate)	3,100-4,300

Approximate total for program: $14,170-$15,370*

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

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

Use special machines to straighten and align damaged frames and body sections.
Remove damaged sections of body panels with plasma arc cutting, die grinder, or various metal cutting saws and weld in new sections.
Prepare vehicle for spot refinishing; partial and/or entire body repainting.
Repair and care for automotive tools and equipment.
Remove and replace electrical and electronic wire connections and mechanical devices from metal portions of car (degree option only).
Make damage estimations.
Work with various types of substrates.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

Visualize and create a three-dimensional object from a flat object.
Work independently of supervisor.
Possess good eye/hand coordination for effective use of hand tools.
Do detail work with precision.
Must plan a work schedule in a detailed, organized and sequential order.
Must possess physical stamina to perform the work.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?

Sensitivity to the fumes of paint, lacquers, 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.
Advancement in career opportunities can be achieved in certain areas such as custom painting or in owning your own business.
Color blindness could be a handicap.
Student must provide own hand tools (refer to tool list).
Average anticipated starting salary, Diploma: $21,840; A.A.S. Degree: $24,446 (2010-2011 Placement Report).

Nondiscrimination Policy

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in or allow discrimination covered by law. This includes harassment based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. 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. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator can be contacted at 515-964-6857. For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850.