Automotive Maintenance & Light Repair Technology Diploma

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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 diploma option prepares graduates for a career in automotive maintenance and minor repair. This will include the light repair and maintenance of electrical systems, brakes, suspension, steering, alignment, heating, air conditioning and engines.

For more information about the Auto Mechanics Technology program, please visit our website at www.dmacc.edu/programs/automotive/automechanics.

Location: Ankeny

Auto Maintenance & Light Repair diploma is available only at the Ankeny campus.

Ankeny Campus students start Fall or Spring semester.

Program Entry Requirements

Complete an application for admission.
Attend any required information/registration session.
Obtain the following scores on the COMPASS Reading Test, COMPASS English Test, ALEKS Math Placement Test and Mechanical Reasoning Test:

	Reading COMPASS test	81 or higher
	English (Language) COMPASS test	42 or higher
	Math (Numeric) ALEKS placement	9 or higher
	Mechanical Reasoning	50 or higher

Graduation Requirements

To earn a diploma in Auto Maintenance Light Repair a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Semester 1

AUT 114 - Shop Fund & Minor Service Credits: 4
AUT 615 - Auto Electricity/Electronics Credits: 4
AUT 652 - Adv Automotive Electricity Credits: 3
AUT 704 - Auto Heating & AC Credits: 4
SDV 108 - The College Experience Credits: 1

Semester 2

AUT 163 - Automotive Engine Repair Credits: 3
AUT 524 - Auto Brake Systems & Service Credits: 4
AUT 870 - Automotive Service Management Credits: 2
AUT 404 - Basic Suspension & Steering Credits: 4

Semester 3

AUT 535 - Adv Auto Brakes & Alignment Credits: 5
COM 703 - Communication Skills Credits: 3
HSC 102 - Emergency Care Credits: 1
MAT 772 - Applied Math Credits: 3
Select one course from Option 1 Credits: 3

Option 1 - Select 1 Course

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

Total Credits Required to Complete the Auto Maintenance & Light Repair Diploma - 44

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$147.00 per credit

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

Varied Costs

	Semester 1	Semester 2	Semester 3
Books (approximate)	450	450	300
Equipment-Tools (approximate)	3000	100	100

Approximate total for the program: $10,868*

*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 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 Program or Career Choice?

Basic math and reading skills are a must.
Students must provide own hand tools; approximately $3,000.
Average starting salary Auto Mechanics Tech. A.A.S. degree-$32,060 (2012-2013 Placement Report).

Nondiscrimination Policy

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in employment, hiring practices or the provision of services, and harassment or discrimination 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 may be contacted at 515-964-6857. For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850. ₍₂₀₁₆₎