Become a Skilled Automotive Technician

The Automotive Technology program is a hands-on, competency-based program to provide you with the knowledge and skills that employers expect. RVCC is committed to match your job placement needs at the end of the training program for you to be successful in the automotive industry while fulfilling your passion. The program mirrors a real-world workplace so you can learn in an actual shop environment. All program standards have been set to match the performance expectations of current automotive technicians working in this field. Students have the opportunity to develop diagnostic and mechanical competency in the automotive field. The program supports the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified Automobile Technician Training Program standards. Graduates of the Automotive Technology program will be prepared to complete ASE exams and can substitute their training for one year of the two years of work experience required to become ASE Certified.

RVCC has partnered with manufacturers to bring a higher level of industry certifications to the Automotive Technology program.

  • Mopar CAP Local specialized certification track to become a Chrysler Certified Technician at the second level of technician training status.
  • Subaru University specialized certification track to become a Subaru Certified Technician at the second level of technician training status.
  • Ford ACE specialized certification track to become a Ford Certified Technician.
  • Toyota specialized certification track to become a Toyota Certified Technician.

Once you are trained, we’ll help you find the job that works for you. The program is eligible for federal and state student financial aid.

Note: Students in the Automotive Technology program at RVCC are required to have a current valid driver’s license.

Pursue one of these Automotive Career Paths at RVCC

Certificate Program

1-year Certificate Track (35-36 credits)

Prepare for an entry-level technician position. All classes college credit worthy.

Degree Program

2-year AAS Degree Track (60 credits)

Prepare for any higher level Automotive Technician position. If you choose to pursue further education in this field, all credits in this program are fully transferable towards a B.S. in Automotive Technology Management at the Pennsylvania College of Technology (the transfer agreement hasn’t been finalized yet).

Choose Your

Path

AAS Degree

Automotive Technology, Associate of Applied Science

Engineering/Technology

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Certificate

Automotive Technology, Certificate

Automotive

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Certificate Program

The Certificate in Automotive Technology prepares students for entry into the automotive service field as technicians.  Graduates are qualified for various technical level positions in manufacturing or developmental laboratories, diagnostic centers, specialized repair shops and sales. Graduates are also prepared for self-employment. This certificate is designed for students to complete in one year, if they begin in the fall semester.

Instruction in the program includes fuel systems, electrical systems, analysis of engines, suspension systems and wheel alignment.  Students have the opportunity to develop diagnostic and mechanical competency in the automotive field. Courses in this certificate prepare students to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification test.

Graduates are able to:

  • demonstrate the skills necessary to diagnose and repair various automotive systems
  • demonstrate the usage of various pieces of service and repair equipment being utilized in the automotive service field
  • demonstrate an understanding of the different systems being used in the modern automobile
  • locate service repair information, using both print and PC-based technical service information, as required in the modern automotive repair shop/dealer

Degree Program

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology prepares students for entry into the automotive service field as technicians or managers. Graduates are typically qualified for entry-level positions at new-car dealerships, independent repair shops, or franchise service centers. Graduates are also prepared for self-employment.

Instruction in the program includes engines, fuel and ignition systems, electronics, brakes, transmissions, steering, and suspensions systems. Training is conducted by a combination of class lecture and practical shop work, so that students can develop diagnostic and mechanical competencies. Courses in this degree prepare students to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification tests.

Students who have completed the Automotive Technology courses as part of the Certificate in Automotive Technology Program have the option to transfer credits from completed classes into the AAS degree program.

Graduates are able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of the theory behind the basic functions of a modern automobile
  • demonstrate the skills necessary to diagnose and repair various automotive systems
  • demonstrate an understanding of the necessary safety precautions required in a service repair shop
  • demonstrate a working knowledge of automotive repair hand and power tools, test equipment, and shop supplies
  • locate service repair information, using both printed and PC-based technical service information, as required in a modern repair shop
  • devise solutions to first-level management situations