Automotive Degrees, Certificates, & Courses

Degree in Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology, A.S. Degree (Program Code: SAC.AUTO.AS)

Mopar Automotive Technician, A.S. Degree (Program Code: SAC.AUMAT.AS)

Bachelor's Degree in Automotive Technology arriving Fall 2026: Read the Orange County Register report here.

Certificates in Automotive Technology

Engine Performance Option	Chassis Service Option
Drive Train Service	Engine Performance & Electrical
Engine Service Option	Automotive Fundamentals
Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Technician	Alternative Powertrain Technology
Automotive Applied Skills	Automotive Essentials
Mopar Fundamentals	Mopar Mechanical Systems
Mopar Drivability Systems	Mopar Advanced Systems
Mopar Service Technician

Automotive Courses

These classes are offered every semester on a day and evening rotation sequence. Starting salaries range between $16.50 to $24.00 per hour. Skilled mechanics can earn $70,000+ per year with experience. Full and part time jobs are available.

Automotive Technology 101A
Automotive Mechanical Operation
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 54 Lecture hours.
This course will focus on function, operation, and design of the mechanical aspects of modern automobiles. Engine repair, manual and automatic transmissions, brakes, and suspension operation and design will be covered. The course is designed for students seeking general knowledge of automotive mechanical systems and employment in a non-technical field.

Automotive Technology 101B
Automotive Electrical Operation
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 54 Lecture hours.
This course will focus on the function and operation of the electrical aspects of modern automobiles. Electrical theory and application, engine sensors, computer systems, and emission control devices will be covered. Also, air conditioning, heating, and electrical accessories will be examined. This course is intended for students seeking general automotive knowledge and employment in a non-technical automotive related field.

Automotive Technology 102
Introduction to Automotive
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 45 Lecture / 27 Lab hours.
Introduction to the primary automotive systems used on modern vehicles. Theory, parts nomenclature, and description of system operation are emphasized. This course is intended for students seeking technical knowledge, with hands-on lab work, and future employment as an automotive service technician.

Automotive Technology 111
Engine Repair
Unit(s): 5.0 Class Hours: 72 Lecture / 72 Lab hours.
This course deals with tear-down, assembly, diagnosis, and repair of gasoline automotive engines. Accurate engine measurement is highlighted. Hands-on practice of engine repair skills is emphasized. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists the student in preparation for the A1 (Engine Repair) ASE certification exam. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 112
Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles
Unit(s): 4.5 Class Hours: 54 Lecture / 90 Lab hours.
This course will cover the theory, operation, diagnosis, and service procedures of automatic transmissions and transaxles. Hydraulic systems are highlighted, along with exploration of electronic controls and continuously variable transmissions (CVT). Hands-on testing and service procedures are emphasized. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists the student in preparation for the A2 (Automatic Transmission/Transaxles) ASE certification exam. Field trips may be required

Automotive Technology 113
Manual Drive Train and Axles
Unit(s): 4.5 Class Hours: 54 Lecture / 90 Lab hours.
This course will cover the theory, operation, diagnosis, and service of manual transmissions, transaxles, clutches, driveshafts, and differentials. This course also covers four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems. Safe and correct hands-on procedures are emphasized. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists the student in preparation for the A3 (Manual Drive Train) ASE certification exam. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 114
Suspension and Steering
Unit(s): 4.5 Class Hours: 54 Lecture / 90 Lab hours.
This course will cover the theory, operation, diagnosis, and service of the steering and suspension systems used on modern vehicles. Wheel alignment, tires, tire pressure monitoring systems, and electronic suspension/steering components are included. Hands-on practice is emphasized. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists students in preparation for the A4 (Steering and Suspension) ASE certification exam. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 114A
Suspension and Steering Lecture
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 54 Lab hours
This course will cover the theory, operation, diagnosis, and service of the steering and suspension systems used on modern vehicles. Wheel alignment, tires, tire pressure monitoring systems, and electronic suspension/steering components are included. This course assists students in preparation for the A4 (Steering and Suspension) ASE certification exam. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 114B
Suspension and Steering Lecture
Unit(s): 1.5 Class Hours: 90 Lab hours
This course will cover the operation, diagnosis, and service of the steering and suspension systems used on modern vehicles. Wheel alignment, tires, tire pressure monitoring systems, and electronic suspension/steering components are included. Hands-on practice is emphasized. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists students in preparation for the A4 (Steering and Suspension) ASE certification exam.

Automotive Technology 115
Brakes
Unit(s): 4.5 Class Hours: 54 Lecture / 90 Lab hours
This course will cover the theory of operation, diagnosis, and service of drum, disc, and anti-lock brake systems used on modern vehicles. Safe and correct hands-on practice is emphasized. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists the student in preparation for the A5 (Brakes) ASE certification exam. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 115A
Brakes Lecture
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 54 Lecture
This course will cover the theory of operation, diagnosis, and function of drum, disc, and anti-lock brake systems used on modern vehicles. This course assists the student in preparation for the A5 (Brakes) ASE certification exam. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 115B
Brakes Lecture
Unit(s): 1.5 Class Hours: 90 Lab
This course will cover the operation, diagnosis, and service of drum, disc, and anti-lock brake systems used on modern vehicles. Safe and correct hands-on practice is emphasized. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists the student in preparation for the A5 (Brakes) ASE certification exam.

Automotive Technology 116
Electrical Fundamentals
Unit(s): 5.0 Class Hours: 72 Lecture / 72 Lab hours.
Introduction to the basic operating principles of electrical and electronic devices used in modern vehicles. Hands-on digital multimeter testing is highlighted. Safe and correct use of tools and equipment by students will be emphasized. The course will also include Ohm's law, circuit testing, electromagnetism, batteries, starters, and alternators. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists students in preparation for the A6 (Electrical/Electronics) ASE certification exam. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 117
Heating and Air Conditioning
Unit(s): 5.0 Class Hours: 72 Lecture / 72 Lab hours.
This course will cover the operation and service of modern automotive air conditioning systems. Practical application of air conditioning theory is presented to enable problem solving. Heating, ventilation, and electronic control systems are also included. Safe hands-on practice is emphasized. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. This course assists the student in preparation for the A7 (Air Conditioning and Heating) ASE certification exam. EPA 609 certification is integrated into this course. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 118
Engine Performance
Unit(s): 5.0 Class Hours: 72 Lecture / 72 Lab hours.
This course will cover engine performance procedures including fuel, ignition, oscilloscope, emission control, and computer systems found on modern automobiles. Hands-on testing and diagnosis are emphasized. This course assists the student in preparation for the A8 (Engine Performance) ASE certification exam. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. Field trips may be required

Automotive Technology 119
Light Vehicle Diesel Engines
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 45 Lecture / 27 Lab hours.
This course will introduce the applications of modern light and medium duty diesel engines. American and German engine systems will be covered, including common rail fuel injection, turbochargers, and diesel emission systems. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 190
Automotive Manufacturer Exploration
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 45 Lecture / 27 Lab hours.
This course will allow students will gain experience working with vehicles and training systems from different car manufacturers. The course is intended for students seeking employment at a new car dealership as an entry-level technician. Students can choose to focus on various manufacturers including Ford, Subaru, Fiat-Chrysler, or other vehicle manufacturers.

Automotive Technology 216
Electrical Systems
Unit(s): 5.0 Class Hours: 72 Lecture / 72 Lab hours.
Theory, operation, and diagnosis of automotive body electrical systems. Use of wiring diagrams is highlighted, with a concentration on electrical accessories. Ohm's law and electromagnetism will also be covered. Safe and correct use of tools and equipment in the shop by students is emphasized. This course assists students in preparation for the A6 (Electrical/Electronics) ASE certification exam. Students must furnish approved safety glasses. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 220
Introduction to Mopar CAP
Unit(s): 2.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 12 Lab hours.
This course will introduce students to the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP). Course content will include access to Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Alfa Romeo online training. Students will have a chance to visit a local Mopar dealership as part of a field trip.

Automotive Technology 221
Mopar Electrical Systems Phase 1
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover the basic electrical systems of Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include electrical theory, series and parallel circuits, digital multimeters, batteries, starters, alternators, wiring diagrams, and specific Mopar electrical diagnostics. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP). A field trip to a Mopar Dealership may be required.

Automotive Technology 222
Mopar Engine Repair & Maintenance
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover engines and maintenance on Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include the four-stroke cycle, engine components, engine compression, engine leak-down, turbochargers, engine maintenance, filters, oils, and specific Mopar engine maintenance procedures. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 223
Mopar Chassis Systems
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover chassis systems and components on Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering, alignment, wheels and tires, tire pressure monitoring system, frame designs, stability control, and chassis computer module diagnosis specific to Mopar vehicles. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 224
Mopar Brakes and Driveline
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover brake and drivelines systems and components on Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include front brakes, rear brakes, power brakes, anti-lock braking system, hydraulic systems, electronic parking brakes, brake bleeding, driveshafts, constant velocity axles, and brake computer module diagnosis specific to Mopar vehicles. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 225
Mopar Transmissions
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover transmission systems and components on Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include automatic transmissions, manual transmissions, hydraulic pressure, valve bodies, clutches, torque converters, four-wheel drive, all-wheel-drive, and transmission computer module diagnosis specific to Mopar vehicles. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 226
Mopar Electrical Phase 2
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover the body and advanced electrical systems of Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include electrical circuits, accessories, power seats, door locks, windows, sunroofs, instrument clusters, navigation, audio, lighting, and specific Mopar electrical diagnostics. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 227
Mopar Diesel Engines
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover diesel engine systems of Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include mechanical diesel engine components, Cummins specific engines, Dodge designed diesel engines, diesel engine controls, diesel emissions, and specific Mopar diesel engine diagnostics. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 228
Mopar Engine Controls
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover engine control systems of Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include engine performance related items, emission controls, sensors, combustion, ignition systems, fuel systems, OBD, control modules, networks, and specific Mopar engine controls diagnostics. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 229
Mopar High Voltage and NVH
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover high voltage systems and noise, vibration, an harshness conditions of Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include high voltage safety, high voltage batteries, electric motors, inverters/converters, wiring, insulated digital multimeters, Pico scope testing, diagnosing noises and vibrations, and specific Mopar diagnostics. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 230
Mopar Air Conditioning System
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 36 Lecture / 54 Lab hours.
This course will cover air conditioning and heating systems of Mopar vehicles, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. Topics include Freon, air conditioning components, heating system components, electric motor controls, automatic climate controls, sensors, high voltage compressors, A/C on electric/hybrid vehicles, control modules, networks, and specific Mopar A/C control diagnostics. This course is meant for students in the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP).

Automotive Technology 260
Introduction to Hybrid/Electric Vehicles
Unit(s): 5.0 Class Hours: 63 Lecture / 81 Lab hours.
This course will explore the function, operation, and design of hybrid/electric vehicles. The course will also focus on safe practices and procedures when working with high voltage systems. Students will build a purpose-built electric vehicle in the course and study current electric vehicle manufacturers. Students will work on hybrid transaxles also. High voltage systems will be examined, along with battery designs, AC and DC power motors, and electrical inverter/converters. Fuel cell vehicles are also included in the course content. Field trips may be required.

Automotive Technology 284
Automotive Emerging Technologies
Unit(s): 3.0 Class Hours: 54 Lab hours
This course will cover emerging technologies found on modern automotive vehicles. Topics will include advanced navigation systems, WiFi on vehicles, smart and connected cars, Controller Area Network (CAN) systems, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), collision avoidance systems, driverless vehicles, and auto-pilot systems. New drivetrain systems will also be included, such as electric vehicle motors and high voltage systems, along with advancements in engine tuning and computer programming.

Automotive Technology 299
Automotive Work Experience
Unit(s): 0.5 - 4.0
This work experience course of supervised employment assists students to acquire desirable work habits, attitudes, and skills in automotive mechanical repair. A student can earn 0.5 to 4 units per semester, up to a maximum of 14 units total. Additionally, students must work 54 paid hours or non-paid hours per unit earned. Student repetition is allowed per Title 5, Section 55253.

Automotive Degrees, Certificates, & Courses

​​​​​​​​​​Degree in Automotive Technology

Certificates​ in Automotive Technology

​​​Automotive Courses

Degree in Automotive Technology

Certificates in Automotive Technology

Automotive Courses