Automotive Technology

Degree Types

A.S., Certificate

Mode of Study

Hybrid, On Campus

Program Description

The Merced College Automotive Technology program provides students with skills required for efficient diagnosis, maintenance and repair of current automobiles and automobile systems. The program is recognized and certified by ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) To the Automotive Service Technician Level (AST) and the automotive program instructors are ASE certified at the instructor level. The Merced College Automotive program is also certified by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) to teach the Basic and Enhanced Clean Air Car Courses.

Degrees/Certificates

Merced College offers the following degrees/certificates in Automotive Technology:

Automotive Technology Level 1 Certificate (09010.CL)
Automotive Technology Level 2 Certificate (09002.CT)
Automotive Master Technician Certificate (09008.CT)
Automotive Master Technician, A.S. (09003.AS)

See Degree Requirements & Course Descriptions

Career Opportunities

Automotive Service Technicians
Automotive Line Technicians (mid-level)
Automotive Master Technicians
Service Managers
Parts Specialist
Field Technical Specialists
Director of Fixed Operations
General Managers

Course Sequence

This is a sample three-semester course sequence for an Associate Degree or Certificate of Completion for Automotive Technology:

Semester 1
Auto 04	Automotive Mechanics
Auto 63	Basic Automotive Electronics for Technicians
Auto 32	Wheel Alignment and Suspension
Auto 33	Automotive Brake Systems
Auto 42	Automotive Electrical Systems

Semester 2
Auto 41	Automotive Engines
Auto 36	Automotive Manual Transmissions and Drive Trains
Auto 43	Automotive Fuel Systems
Auto 46	Automatic Transmissions

Semester 3
Auto 44	Automotive Engines
Auto 47	Automotive Manual Transmissions and Drive Trains
Auto 55	Automotive Fuel Systems
Auto 56	Automatic Transmissions
Auto 66	Automotive Parts and Service Advising

Program Tools & Resources

For information regarding the Automotive Technology Programs, call (209) 384-6250, or schedule an appointment with an Industrial Technology Counselor by calling the Guidance Division at (209) 384-6314.