This curriculum includes advanced operating theories of automotive systems and components. Students learn to apply automotive operating principles and to diagnose malfunctions in automotive systems.
The course work emphasizes the development of skills in service, repair, and test procedures.
Course work prepares students to take written certification exams (e.g., the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence exam and the Pennsylvania Vehicle Safety Inspection exams, written and practical) for certification as vehicle safety inspectors.
Program Specs
- Major Code: AM – view in catalog
- School: Transportation & Natural Resources Technologies
- Degree Type: Certificate
- Total Credits: 63
About the curriculum
Classes
View the classes you will be attending in the College Catalog.
Accreditation & Industry Connections
CERTIFICATION: The automotive major is master-accredited by the National Automotive Technician's Education Foundation and meets the standards for Automotive Service Excellence.
After Graduation
Career Opportunities
General auto technician in a dealership, independent garage, fleet operation, service station, self-employment.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $39,550 in May 2017. The top 10 percent earned more than $65,430.
Industries with the highest published employment for this occupation are:
| Industry | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automobile Dealers | 237,060 | $21.86 | $45,470 |
| Automotive Repair and Maintenance | 228,400 | $19.17 | $39,880 |
| Automotive Parts, Accessories, and Tire Stores | 64,070 | $17.81 | $37,030 |
| Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 16,490 | $24.91 | $51,820 |
| Gasoline Stations | 15,290 | $19.09 | $39,700 |
Statistics reported in May 2017
Transfer Procedures
This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College. Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.
Tools, Uniforms & Supplies
Tool List
Uniforms
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.
Clubs & Activities
SkillsUSA
Penn College Motorsports Association
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Automotive Advisory Committee
- Mr. Tom Barnes, Manager, Steve Shannon Tire and Auto Centers, Inc.
- Mr. Michael Bastian, Owner, Bastian Tire Sales
- Mr. Christoper B Brown, Hyundai Service Manager, Jack Giambalvo Motor Co., Inc.
- Mr. Caleb Cartmell, '16, '18, Customer Service Advisor, Blaise Alexander Chevrolet
- Mr. J. Michael Faryniak, Jr., '00, Automotive Instructor, Jersey Shore Area High School
- Mr. Joseph D Fosko, Senior Service Specialist, AAA East Penn
- Mr. Steve Kaiser Jr., General Manager, Fairfield Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram
- Mr. Beau Keyte, '00, Service Manager, Blaise Alexander Chevrolet
- Mr. Andrew Leigey, '01, '05, Automotive Instructor, Williamsport Area High School
- Mr. David K Plessinger, '78, Owner, Economy Auto Parts
- Mr. Nick Rieber, '08, '10, Assistant Service Manager, The Faulkner Organization
- Mr. Philip Rizzo, Operations Director, Blaise Alexander Management Company
- Mr. Alan Wyland, Owner, Dave's Service Center
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
