Automotive Technology
About this program
Put your troubleshooting skills to the test in state-of-the-art labs. Dive into real-life diagnostic situations. Test and solve vehicle malfunctions using the latest software. Perform routine service and maintenance. Working alongside expert faculty, you’ll study brake systems, electrical processes, engine performance and repair, suspension, steering, and more. From fundamentals to advanced diagnostics, learn what it takes to keep vehicles on the road and running smoothly. And when you’re done, you’ll have the advanced skillset you need to land a high-demand career in automotive technology.
Graduates of this major can earn a bachelor of science degree in automotive technology management, available online or on-campus, with just four more semesters of applied technology management coursework.
Next steps...
You're on your way to becoming a tomorrow maker.
This program has reached capacity and is waitlisted for Spring 2026. Seats are still available for Fall 2026. Prior to application deadlines, you can still apply for this program but will not begin technical coursework in your first semester.
2:1
Student-to-Project Ratio
95%
Overall Placement
7
Specialized Labs
Careers
- Dealership service specialist
- Assistant manager
- Skilled jobs in automotive manufacturing
Courses
At Penn College, we believe your educational experience should go beyond specialized skills. Real-world ready means taking a broader approach that builds communication skills, inspires collaboration, and encourages exploration of arts, history, and science.
Specialization requires in-depth knowledge and high-level proficiency. Students learn and apply major-specific concepts, skills, and methods.
- AMT100Introduction to Automotive Technology
- AMT111Manual Transmission & Transaxle Principles
- AMT112Brake Systems
- AMT113Steering & Suspension
- AMT109Automotive Electrical Fundamentals
- AMT119Fundamentals of Automatic Transmissions
- AMT122Engine Principles
- AMT127Engine Electrical Systems
- AMT267Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology
- AMT236Engine Performance
- AMT266Engine Repair
- PERELCCore Perspective Elective
- AMT242Vehicle Safety Inspection
- AMT243Automotive Chassis & Wheel Service
- AMT274Automotive Air Conditioning Systems & Service
- AMT276Electrical/Electronic Accessory Service
Perspectives are points of view, offering a variety of ways of understanding, interacting, and influencing the world. Students identify, explain, and utilize the approaches used by academics and professionals to study, analyze, or understand problems, and offer solutions.
- PHS103Physics Survey
Your Path
Automotive Degrees
Interested in a career in automotive? Explore the possibilities with students Shawn and Mark. In this video, they’ll show off the labs, explain the various degree options, and talk about the ease of leveling up from certificate to associate’s to bachelor’s.
Facilities
Modern Fully-Equipped Labs
Get hands-on experience in specialized labs using industry-standard equipment, just like you’ll see in the real world.
Specialized Equipment
46
Vehicle Lifts
9
Tire Mounting Machines
8
Tire Balancing Machines
7
Wheel Alignment Systems
1
Chassis Dynamometer
Maker Profiles
Student
Mark Bierly
Automotive
After one semester at his previous school, he said ‘good-bye’ to large lecture halls and ‘hello’ to hands-on learning.
Student
Andrew Placencia
Automotive
From time to time, an extraordinary leader rises above the crowd. That's Andrew.
Student
Shawn Simmons
Automotive
After spending three years training in automotive at his CTC, Shawn knew a college degree would take him where he wanted to go.
Faculty
Joe Tavani
Automotive
Seemingly impossible mechanical issues? No worries. Joe loves a challenge.
Tour Schedule
Seeing is believing.
Think Penn College might be a good fit for you? Make plans to visit and discover what hands-on learning is all about.
Feb 21
Undergraduate Open House
Saturday, February 219 AM - 3 PM
Apr 26
Undergraduate Open House
Sunday, April 269 AM - 3 PM
Industry Partners
Work with experts to become an expert
Penn College's strong partnerships impact every step of your journey – from your first day in the classroom and labs, to career placement (oftentimes before graduation) and beyond.
Related Programs
Follow your passion
Student Life
Lead and put your skills to the test
Penn College Motorsports Association
The club activities offer members exclusive exposure to the racing industry with tours of performance shops and opportunities to test their driving ability by participating in track days, autocross, and other driver skill events
Student Organizations at Penn College
Your college experience is about more than the classroom. Join one of 65+ clubs and organizations, or create your own.
Penn College News
Saturday, May 17, 2025
WACC automotive grad honored as distinguished alumnus
Thursday, May 1, 2025
10 Penn College students earn Allan Myers Scholarships
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Ciocca dealership donates car to Penn College program
Study Abroad
Gain global experience
See the world via Williamsport. Take your education abroad and get hands-on experience learning about your industry on a global scale.
Student Experience
The community as their classroom
Automotive students, faculty compete in ‘Green Grand Prix’
Members of the Penn College Motorsports Association participated in the 15th annual Toyota Green Grand Prix, which promotes innovation in sustainable transportation technologies while launching the season-opening weekend at New York’s renowned Watkins Glen International racetrack.
More Information
Master Automobile Service Technology accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation.
This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits ). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.
- View the Automotive Required Tools
You are required to have a uniform for lab classes. It is recommended that you purchase three uniforms.
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store.
Alternative Credit refers to academic credits earned through means other than traditional college course completion, including: credit by exam, articulation, proof of competency gained in high school, work/life experience, and advanced placement.
Visit the Alternative Credit Options page for requirements and procedures and for information on credit through Advanced Placement.
- Anthony J Cox, 2012, Aviation Engine Warranty Coordinator, Lycoming Engines
- Mr. Joey A Fleck, Competency Based Teacher Education Coordinator, The Penn State University
- William Larkin
- Mr. Patrick McCormick, Retired, Ford Motor Company
- Mr. Anthony J Piccari, '08, Aftersales Department, Ferrari North America, Inc.
- Mr. David K Plessinger, Owner, Economy Auto Parts
- Mr. Carlo Santora, '08, '09, Technical Manager, Eastern US, Maserati North America
- Dr. Mark D Threeton, Assistant Professor, Workforce Education, The Pennsylvania State University