Oct 06, 2024  
2024-25 Catalog 
    
2024-25 Catalog

Automotive Technology


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Program Coordinators Ben Cook and Clayton Renth

Today’s automobiles are being referred to as “smart cars.” With one or more on-board computers on current model vehicles, it has become a very sophisticated piece of equipment. Electronic devices now control 85 percent of all vehicle functions including fuel management, ignition, electric shift transmissions, ABS brakes, and climate control to mention a few.

With this widespread use of electronics and on-board computers comes the need for formal training for current and future automotive technicians. Our associate of applied science degree and certificate programs give graduates an edge in competing for the best jobs in the automotive industry.

Lewis and Clark students learn in high-tech facilities, working with a variety of specialty tools and equipment ranging from hand-held scanners that interface with on-board computers to computerized alignment and diagnostic equipment. Students learn to diagnose vehicle problems with modern test equipment, and to perform corrective measures based on their findings. Plus, they are trained to repair and replace parts and make adjustments on the full range of automotive systems.

Program Learning Objectives

  1. Demonstrate technical and customer service skills required for employment in the automotive service industry
  2. Earn Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certifications
  3. Transfer successfully to baccalaureate programs


Entering the Program: If you’re exploring a career related to today’s computer-based vehicles, Lewis and Clark is for you. High school graduates, adults changing careers and automotive technicians seeking to upgrade their skills are eligible to enroll. L&C’s Automotive Technology program also provides advanced placement for high school graduates of partnership programs and technicians with current ASE certification and/or recent automotive work experience.

Automotive Technology Graduates: You’ll be trained to work with the most sophisticated equipment in the industry today and, even more importantly, you’ll be better prepared to move into a service manager or other supervisory position. The Lewis and Clark Automotive Technology program can be the difference between a job and a career with a future.

Nature of Work: The automotive technician will diagnose automobile malfunctions based on specific diagnostic procedures utilizing modern automotive test equipment. Corrective measures are then performed based on the findings of these tests. The technician will also perform various preventive maintenance procedures. Both will require the technician to repair or replace parts and/or make adjustments on various automotive systems.

Skills and Abilities: The ability to make a quick and accurate diagnosis is one of the technician’s most valuable skills. This skill requires good reasoning ability and a thorough knowledge of the various automotive systems. All applicants and students should possess the manual dexterity to perform moderate to heavy lifting of components during the service and repair of a vehicle.

Related Careers: General automotive service technician or specialist in one or more of the following areas: engine repair, manual drive train and axle assemblies, automatic transmissions/transaxles, engine performance, brake repair, electrical systems, heating, cooling and air conditioning, alignment, suspension and steering and machine shop. Other employment opportunities include equipment and tool sales and/or service representatives as well as automotive parts related occupations.

Graduation Requirements: Due to the constantly changing technology in the automotive industry, students pursuing an Associate in Applied Science Degree or Certificate of Proficiency in Automotive Technology must meet one of the following requirements in the completion of these programs:

  • Successful completion of one or more courses each semester (excluding summers) required in the degree or certificate.
  • Successful completion of the degree or certificate program requirements within a five year period commencing with the first semester an automotive course is completed.
  • Successful completion shall be defined as having received a passing grade of C or better.

Students who do not meet one of the above program completion requirements may receive coordinator approval to continue pursuing or completing the A.A.S. Degree or Certificate of Proficiency if one of the following requirements is met:

  • Successful completion of automotive courses attempted and current A.S.E. certification in those course specialty areas required for the degree or certificate.
  • Successful completion of automotive courses attempted, current work experience and successful completion of a proficiency exam (75 percent or higher) in those course specialty areas required for the degree or certificate.

Students must complete all program course requirements for the A.A.S. Degree and Certificate of Proficiency as outlined in this section, as well as meeting all of L&C’s degree and certificate requirements described earlier in this catalog.

Automotive Technology - AUTO/TECH.AAS


Associate in Applied Science Degree

First Year


Fall Semester


Total: 18-19 Credit Hours


Total: 15 Credit Hours


Summer Session


  • Humanities/Fine Arts Elective 3 credit hours
  • Social/Behavioral Science Elective 3 credit hours

Note: Summer courses are optional.  These courses may be taken during a regular fall or spring term.

Total: 6 Credit Hours


Second Year


Total credit hours required for the A.A.S. in Automotive Technology: 72


 

Automotive Drive Line, Suspension & Brakes - AUTO/SUSP.CP


Certificate of Proficiency

Total: 15 Credit Hours


Second Semester


Total: 18-19 Credit Hours


Approved Automotive Drive Line, Suspension & Brakes Electives List


Total credit hours required for the Certificate of Proficiency in Automotive Drive Line, Suspension and Brakes: 33


 

Auto Performance, Accessories & HEV Tech. - AUTO/ACCS.CP


Certificate of Proficiency

Total: 17 Credit Hours


Second Semester


Total: 17 - 18 Credit Hours


Approved Automotive Performance, Accessories and HEV Tech Electives List


Total credit hours required for the Certificate of Proficiency in Automotive Performance, Accessories and HEV Tech: 34



Diesel Technology - AUTO/DSEL.CP


Certificate of Proficiency

 

Undercar Specialist - AUTO/UNDR.CC


Certificate of Completion

This certificate is designed to provide basic skills in diagnosing and repairing various suspension and brake designs on both front-wheel and rear-wheel drive vehicles. Shop experience and classroom work cover replacement of brake linings, turning drums and rotors, replacement of wheel and master cylinders, specialized alignment, diagnosis and repair of anti-lock brake systems, traction control and stability systems, and tire balancing.

Total: 12 Credit Hours


Total credit hours required for the Certificate of Completion in Undercar Specialist: 12


 

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