Mar 28, 2024  
2016-2017 Course Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Automotive Minor Repair and Vehicle Maintenance


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The Automotive Minor Repair & Vehicle Maintenance Certificate will prepare students to enter the workforce in an entry-level position performing minor vehicle maintenance and repair.

Locations: Ankeny

Students start Fall semester.

Program Entry Requirements

  1. Complete an application for admission.
  2. Attend any required information/registration session.
  3. 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 test - 50 or higher

Graduation Requirements

To earn an Automotive Minor Repair and Vehicle Maintenance Certificate, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Semester 1


Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 23


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    300 0 0
Tools 3,000 100 100

Approximate total for the program: $6,881*

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

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 Specialist Certificate?


  • 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)

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