Diesel Technology A.A.S. and Diesel Technician Certificate Programs
School of Natural Resources Management
Schneebeli Earth Science Center, Rm. 105 · (570) 320-8038
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between the Diesel Technology associate degree and the Diesel Technician certificate?
- Can I switch from one program to another once I enroll?
- Do I need to purchase my own tools or are they provided by the College?
- What type of job could I get with a degree in Diesel Technology or a Diesel Technician certificate?
- What kinds of courses should I take in high school to prepare me for your College and this degree?
- What if I don’t have the appropriate high school courses? Can I still be admitted to Penn College?
- I'm just interested in the technical courses in my major. Why do I have to take math, English, fitness and other courses? Why can't I just concentrate on the courses I'll be using after I graduate?
- What is the placement rate of your Diesel Technology graduates?
- What kind of salary can I expect with a two-year degree in Diesel Technology?
- What if I can't afford to go to college?
- How do I get to the Earth Science Center from Main Campus?
- I still have other questions. Who can I talk to?
- How do I apply?
Q: What is the difference between the Diesel Technology associate degree and the Diesel Technician certificate?
A: Both programs train you in the repair and maintenance of diesel-powered highway, industrial and marine vehicles and equipment. Both programs are two-year programs.
In regard to the general education requirements, Career Mathematics is a requirement of the certificate program while the degree requires algebra and trigonometry. The associate degree also requires English composition as opposed to a communications course. Diesel Technology students also take a physics course. Students enrolled within the degree program must also take a fitness course and a three-credit elective in humanities, social science, art or foreign language.
Students with a strong math background and/or adequate placement test scores are encouraged to enroll in the degree program since we often find that these students, upon graduation, are more likely to secure management positions and earn higher salaries.
Q: Can I switch from one program to another once I enroll?
A: Yes, with permission from your adviser and the Dean of the School of Natural Resources Management. Remember though, you are required to complete ALL the requirements of the program you enroll in and that may mean taking an additional math, English or elective course.
Q: Do I need to purchase my own tools or are they provided by the College?
A: You are expected to purchase your own tools. For a detailed listing of tools and estimated price, please view our Tool List page. Tools can be purchased at the College Store or through a dealer such as Sears or Snap-on. The advantage to purchasing your own tools is that the tools are yours to use during your time as a student and later as an employee. Larger specialty tools such as those used in diagnostics and testing are purchased by the College or donated by industry for use by all students enrolled in the program.
Q: What type of job could I get with a degree in Diesel Technology or a Diesel Technician certificate?
A: Our graduates have gone on to work as heavy-duty truck technicians for dealerships and independent garages. Others have worked for truck fleet or leasing companies, contractors and as field service representatives or distributors. Still others have worked as service writers, warranty writers, parts and assistant service managers, yacht engineers, shop managers, technical and service coordinators and transport refrigeration technicians. As you can see, the opportunities are numerous. View the Skills and Career Web page for more information.
Q: What kinds of courses should I take in high school to prepare me for your College and this degree?
A: For the associate degree, we recommend that you have at least two years of algebra, two years of science (physics is particularly helpful) and four years of English. Although we are a technical college, we have the same general education requirements as other colleges so a strong foundation is essential for your success here.
For the certificate, three years of English, one year of science and one year of algebra are recommended.
Q: What if I don’t have the appropriate high school courses? Can I still be admitted to Penn College?
A: Yes! Penn College offers developmental coursework in math, English and reading. Once you’ve applied to Penn College, you will be scheduled for a placement test. This test provides us with information in regard to your skill level in those three areas. You will automatically be scheduled for developmental courses if your test scores indicate a need. Developmental coursework does not “count” toward coursework within your program so you must recognize that it may take you an additional semester or so to complete your degree. Developmental courses offer you the opportunity to strengthen your skills so that you can go on to be successful in your program.
Q: I'm just interested in the technical courses in my major. Why do I have to take math, English, fitness and other courses? Why can't I just concentrate on the courses I'll be using after I graduate?
A: Unfortunately, this is a common misperception among some students. English, math, computer science, etc., WILL BE a part of your future career. Advisory board members, who are representatives from businesses and industries hiring our graduates, have specifically requested that our students receive instruction in these areas. We continually hear that our graduates need to be able to communicate effectively on the job. Also, students who graduate with a degree are likely to have more career advancement opportunities than those who have not earned degrees. English, math and electives are all part of that degree! Those courses help develop critical thinking skills and expose students to other view points and diversity - all important in the world of work.
Q: What is the placement rate of your Diesel Technology graduates?
A: Based upon the latest data from Penn College’s 20004/2005 Graduate Survey, the overall five year placement rate for the diesel technology programs is 87.5%.
Q: What kind of salary can I expect with a two-year degree in Diesel Technology?
A: Based upon data from our 2004/2005 Graduate Survey, starting salary range is $26,000-$40,000. Advancement in this field is rapid and salaries increase significantly based upon the level of responsibility and the skill-level of the technician.
Q: What if I can't afford to go to college?
A: Penn College's Financial Aid Office can give you good advice about paying for college. Many of our students use loans and grants to help pay for their education. In addition, there are many scholarship opportunities available based on economic need, previous academic achievement or award-specific criteria.
Q: How do I get to the Earth Science Center from Main Campus?
A: The Earth Science Center is located approximately 12 miles south of Williamsport, just off of Route 15. View Earth Science Map
Free City Bus transportation to the Earth Science Center is available for Penn College students. The schedule is based on Earth Science Center student schedules and fits the majority of student needs. (Main Campus classes may conflict with the bus schedule.) Note: The bus schedule is subject to change based on student use and City Bus determinations. View City Bus Schedule
Q: I still have other questions. Who can I talk to?
A: Feel free to give us a call at (570) 320-8038, and we can answer your questions or put you in touch with faculty who can tell you more. You may also e-mail us at naturalresources@pct.edu.
If you'd like to come to our campus for a tour, please contact the Admissions Office at 1-800-367-9222 or schedule a tour on-line.
A: To obtain an application for admission to Penn College, you may phone our Admissions Office at 1-800-367-9222, or e-mail them at admissions@pct.edu. You may also apply for admission on-line.