Automotive Technician Diploma

Program Information

The Anoka Technical College Automotive Technician diploma is a 60-credit program that prepares graduates for an entry level career in the automotive service industry. Most entry level automotive technicians start as tire or lube techs. Within a few months they will be performing many routine service tasks and perform simple repairs. It usually takes two to five years of on-the-job training to become a journey-level technician. This means that the technician is skilled enough to perform difficult repairs. However, graduates of a college-level training program are often able to advance to that level in a shorter period of time.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Develop the knowledge and demonstrate an understanding of automotive related systems, components, terminology and acronyms.
2. Develop and demonstrate knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to the automotive repair industries expectations of performance.
3. Demonstrate the ability to utilize computer and non-computer based vehicle service information systems.
4. Use automotive tools, shop and test equipment, materials, and chemicals safely and effectively.
5. Develop critical and creative thinking processes required to effectively and efficiently diagnose and repair vehicle technical problems.

Industry and Career Outlook

With more than 276,000,000 light-duty cars and trucks on the road in the United States alone, there will always be jobs for qualified technicians. One of the automotive technician’s most in-demand and valuable skills is the ability to make a quick and accurate problem diagnosis. This requires a thorough knowledge and understanding of light-duty vehicles and their systems. Good reasoning abilities and critical thinking along with the ability to locate and understand vehicle service information is also important.

Many technicians will perform a variety of repairs while others will seek additional training to specialize. Areas of specialization include the diagnosis and repair of engines or transmissions, electrical systems, driveability (fuel and ignition), air conditioning, suspension systems and wheel alignment. Due to the ever-increasing use of electronics and new technology in the vehicles of the future, the ability to adapt and continue learning will be very important.

Wage information is available from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

Admission Requirements

A minimum Next Generation Accuplacer reading score of 232 or equivalent.

Program Start Dates

Fall Semester: August

Graduation Requirements

Students must earn a cumulative 2.0 GPA or higher to be eligible for graduation from this program.

Faculty Contact

Dave Holmquist: 763-576-4187
Dave McFarland: 763-576-4193
Jim Talmadge: 763-576-4098

For information on how to apply, to schedule a tour, or for service during summer hours, contact Enrollment Services at 763-576-7710 or EnrollmentServices@anokatech.edu