Automotive Technology

This program teaches students how to work on modern automobiles. It covers all aspects of automotive repair. Students will practice their skills in a state-of-the-art facility. Graduates earn a Washington State Emission Certification and ASE Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling Certificate. Students also have the opportunity to earn ASE certification in other automotive specialties.

Update: Part-time evening program available for Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair Certificate.

Program Map: Guide to program costs, careers, and classes.


Enrollment Point: Fall, Winter, Spring


Certificate of Completion
5-7 Quarters
36-80 Credits
Associate of Applied Science
5+ Quarters
100 Credits
AAS - Transfer
N/A
N/A
Bachelor of Applied Science
N/A
N/A

All program lengths are estimates and are not guarantees. For the most current program information, check with an adviser by calling (425) 235-5840.

Median Salary
$41,600
Projected Growth
9%
Annual Job Openings
23,760

These amounts are based on median entry level wages, they are estimates and are not guarantees. For more information, visit careerinfo.net

Tuition

At Renton Technical College, tuition is affordable and competitive.

Financial Aid

Federal aid is available for most students to help pay for school. Fill out your FAFSA now to get started.

Scholarships

The RTC Foundation offers scholarships to help pay the costs of attending school.


All costs are estimates and are not guarantees. For the most current program information, check with an adviser by calling (425) 235-5840.

Please see the online class schedule for day & time information.


Michael Fobes, Ryan Hoaglin, Warren Takata, David Uryash


Entry Requirements

Admission Recommendations

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent recommended.
  • High school level courses in math, science, power, or auto mechanics.
  • Counselor and instructor interview.
  • Hold and maintain a valid driver's license.
  • Insurable to school requirements (good driving record).
  • INDS 101 - CPR/First Aid/AED certification is required and offered in the first quarter of the automotive program
    • If you have proof of this certification and it remains valid through graduation, we may be able to give you prior learning credit if deemed equivalent (based on individual circumstances)
    • Please check in with the Transportation technology academic advisor

Bridge to Transportation Programs

Are you new to the automotive industry? Please consider taking our new Bridge to Transportation class to help you set up for success! Check out the flyer here. Email askccp@rtc.edu or talk to an entry advisor to register. The fee is just $25 (we can also waive the fee if you are unable to pay).

Info Sessions via Zoom

This session will provide information specifically about the Automotive Technology program entry.

If you have any questions about the virtual information sessions, please contact Ryan Hoaglin, Instructor, at rhoaglin@rtc.edu.

Session dates/times:

Sessions are offered on the second and fourth Friday of each month from 9–10 a.m.

  • March 22
  • April 12, 2
  • May 10, 24
  • June 14, 28

Join Here


Course Information

Course Requirements for Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair Certificate

Course # Course Title Credits
COL 101 College Success 2
AMATH 178J Automotive Mathematics 1
AUTC 101 Safety/Environmental Issues 2
AUTC 112 Maintenance and Light Repair 7
AUTC 117 Electrical Systems 7
AUTC 118 Brakes 7
AUTC 132 Steering and Suspension 7
AUTC 171 Written Communications 1
AUTC 180 Human Relations/Customer Relations 1
INDS 101 First Aid/CPR and AED 1
  Total 36

 

Course Requirements for Automotive Technology Certificate

Course # Course Title Credits
Certificate Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 36
AUTC 124 Heating and Air Conditioning 6
AUTC 204 Automatic Transmissions/Transaxle Repair 6
AUTC 216 Engine Performance and Emissions 10
AUTC 226 Advanced Electronics 6
AUTC 228 Engine Repair and Shop Computations 8
AUTC 233 Manual Drive Train and Axles 8
  Total 80

 

Course Requirements for Automotive Technology AAS Degree

Course # Course Title Credits
Certificate Automotive Technology Certificate 80
AMATH 175 Financial Math 5
CMST& 101 Introduction to Communication 5
COMP 100 Applied Composition 5
PSYC& 100 General Psychology 5
  Total 100

Program Outcomes

  • Diagnose and repair of vehicles to NATEF certification standards. 
  • Use technical service materials, printed or online, to analyze and determine proper repair procedures for vehicles of different brands. 
  • Perform repairs using the proper tools and diagnostic equipment as per manufacturer's specifications. 
  • Troubleshoot vehicle systems using logical, traceable steps that lead to identification of the root cause of malfunction. 
  • Apply mathematical skills essential to the requirements of the automotive service industry. 
  • Communicate effectively in oral or written form within the environment of a commercial repair shop. 
  • Model professional and ethical behavior, and practice good customer communication skills essential to the requirements of the work place. 

Accreditation

External accreditation is not applicable to this program.

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