Automotive Technology

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Overview

If you’re interested in how cars and trucks run and how you can service and repair them, choose BTC’s automotive technician training program, which will help prepare you for top jobs in the automotive field.

Career choices are extensive in the field of automotive technology; you’ll be well-qualified for automotive technician or service technician jobs. Or you can work as a specialist in automatic transmission, brake, engine performance, or electrical systems. If you’re looking for an Automotive Technology associate degree program or certificate program that provides a wide range of high-demand skills sought by top employers (including automotive dealerships, auto rental companies, federal and local government repair shops, and fleet maintenance businesses), then check out the program at Bellingham Technical College. 

Program Outcomes

After successfully completing the AAS degree, students will be able to:

• Comply with personal and environmental safety practices specific to the automotive industry.
• Perform advanced maintenance and light repairs on various automotive systems.
• Diagnose and repair electrical and electronic systems.
• Provide critical thinking skills while utilizing technical information and testing procedures to diagnose customer concerns.
• Communicate work performed using trade specific language while documenting critical aspects clearly and concisely.
• Demonstrate positive work traits and excellent customer service skills.
• Research and identify emerging automotive related technologies.
• Model teamwork that is reflective of a diverse work environment.

After successfully completing the General Automotive Repair certificate, students will be able to:

• Comply with personal and environmental safety practices specific to the automotive industry.
• Perform fundamental maintenance and repairs on basic automotive systems
• Provide critical thinking skills while utilizing technical information to perform various repairs.
• Communicate work performed using trade specific language while documenting critical aspects clearly and concisely.

Placement Requirements

A completed college admissions application and placement in English and math. BTC uses a Guided Self-Placement process to help you choose the best starting point for your English and math courses. Your selections will determine whether you begin with program coursework or complete prerequisites classes first.

To get started or for help determining your English and math placement, contact the Outreach department at Outreach@btc.edu.

Additional Requirements

Prior to enrolling in program classes, during the mandatory GET Started appointment, students will be required to present and attest the following to the Outreach, Advising, and Counseling Department:

1. Present your valid driver’s license;
2. Attest that you presented a valid driver’s license to your program advisor and that you will notify your program faculty immediately if your driver’s license is suspended OR restricted for any reason.

 Important Program Notes:

1. While it is not required to have a clean driving record to enter the program, some employers and internship providers in this field may only hire applicants who have a clean driving record;
2. All General Education courses must be completed prior to the beginning of the 2nd year of the program.

Degree and Certificate Requirements

Automotive Technology AAS Degree and Certificate completions require a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher with a minimum grade of D/1.0 in program courses. General education courses require a minimum grade of D/1.0.

Programs

• Automotive Technology, AAS

• General Automotive Repair Certificate

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