The Associate of Science in Automotive Technology Degree prepares students as entry-level technicians for the automotive field. This degree will provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully perform diagnosis and repair in the automotive shop environment, using a combination of classroom and hands-on shop experiences. Students will be prepared to pass National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification tests and will also be able to earn Certificates of Achievement as they complete coursework on their path to earning this Associate degree. This program will also provide students with an articulated pathway to the Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Automotive Technology at Rio Hondo College should they wish to continue their education. All courses included in this program are aligned with C-ID to ensure student transfer and portability.

To complete the Associate Degree, students must meet requirements in the major, general education, competency, units, scholarship, and residency. Refer to Earn an Associate Degree and the A.A. or A.S. Degree in Specific Majors sections of this catalog.

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to: 

• Comply with personal and environmental safety practices in accordance with applicable safety and environmental regulations.
• Integrate and analyze online service data, written repair material and technical service bulletins to repair and service a vehicle.
• Demonstrate proficiency in the use of specialized automotive service tools, electronic diagnostic equipment and basic hand tools.
• Demonstrate the use and care of basic automotive tools and equipment.
• Diagnose and repair or replace brake systems and components.
• Diagnose and repair or replace drivability systems and components.
• Diagnose and repair or replace steering and suspension systems and components.
• Read and interpret automotive electrical wiring diagrams to aid in the diagnosis of automotive electrical problems.