Diesel Technology Diploma

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

The Diesel Technology program prepares students for a career in the area of diesel repair. Instruction is in the repair, maintenance and testing of diesel engines, power trains and components of trucks and heavy construction equipment.

This program is accredited by the AED Associated Equipment Distributors, www.AeDnet.org.

For more information about the Diesel Technology program, please visit our website at www.dmacc.edu/programs/diesel.

Location: Ankeny

Students start any semester. This program is taught between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Program Entry Requirements

Complete an application for admission.
Satisfy the assessment requirement.
Complete a mechanical aptitude and ability test.
Attend any required information/registration session.

Graduation Requirements

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

Requirements for Diesel Technology

These courses may have a different order of completion.

Semester 1

DSL 356 - Diesel Engines I Credits: 6
DSL 366 - Diesel Engines II Credits: 6
SDV 108 - The College Experience Credits: 1
Select 1 Course from Option 1 Credits: 3-4

Option 1 - Select 1 Course

MAT 772 - Applied Math Credits: 3
MAT 141 - Finite Math Credits: 4
MAT 130 - Trigonometry Credits: 3

Semester 2

DSL 546 - Power Trains I Credits: 6
DSL 606 - Hydraulics and Brakes Credits: 6
DSL 145 - Basic Electricity Credits: 5

Semester 3

DSL 733 - Air Conditioning Credits: 3
DSL 830 - Operation & Maintenance Credits: 5
Select 1 course from Option 2 Credit: 3
Select 1 course from Option 3 Credits: 3

Option 2 - Select 1 Course

COM 703 - Communication Skills Credits: 3
ENG 105 - Composition I Credits: 3

Option 3 - Select 1 Course

PSY 102 - Human and Work Relations Credits: 3
PSY 111 - Introduction to Psychology Credits: 3
MGT 145 - Human Relations in Business Credits: 3
SOC 110 - Introduction to Sociology Credits: 3

Total Credits Required to Complete the Diploma - 47

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
Books (approximate)	462	464	150
Supplies	80
Equipment-Tools (approximate)	3,000

Approximate total for the program: $10,877*

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

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

• Diagnose mechanical and functional failures.
• Remove, repair and install various components from diesel equipment.
• Diagnose and repair electrical and hydraulic systems.
• Modify existing machinery to improve or adapt from its original design.
• Make recommendations concerning the repair and maintenance of machinery.
• Order parts and submit repair bills and estimates for the repair of machinery.
• Use special tools and equipment to diagnose the condition of machines, systems and components.
• Plan and organize work requested to repair a machine.
• Use computers to retrieve information and service equipment.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

• Be goal-oriented.
• Be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Be able to follow directions and work well with others.
• Be able to use mechanical skills and apply theoretical knowledge.
• Be able to grasp new ideas and concepts rapidly.
• Ability to read and comprehend new information.
• Ability to communicate with others in the industry.

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

• Graduates have moved into management positions in 3-5 years.
• Some positions require a Class A CDL license.
• There is a minimum investment in tools.
• Graduates will usually be required to serve two or three years as an apprentice before attaining journeyman status.
• Possess a strong personal commitment to succeed as a technician.
• Average starting salary Diploma: $30,000; A.A.S. degree: $31,307 (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.