Automotive Technology, A.A.S.

Academic Programs

Career Path

Industrial Technology

Start Term

Program Options

Degree, Certificate or Diploma

Locations

Council Bluffs Campus

Program Information

Do you like to tinker with cars and seek to make that a career? The Automotive Technology program of study will get you into the field with an Associate of Applied Science degree in just two years. The program combines classroom work with hands-on lab experience to prepare you as an automotive technician.

Students gain real-world experience in IWCC’s remodeled and roomy lab, arming themselves with the specific knowledge to qualify for an entry-level position. This program addresses:

  • Engine repair
  • Fuel and emission systems
  • Electronic systems
  • Manual and automatic transmissions
  • Brakes
  • Air conditioning
  • Steering and suspension systems
  • Powertrain management systems

Students who complete this AAS degree will have earned an Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair diploma by completion.

Job Outlook

2,259 Jobs (2020)

-1.6% Change from 2020-2025

Data is from the Omaha Metropolitans Area, and the seven counties in Southwest Iowa that Iowa Western serves

What will you do

Automotive Technology is designed to place students into the work force upon completion of the two-year program. The program will train you as an entry-level technician and provide you with the skills you need to thrive in this high-tech field. More specifically, you will be trained to serve as a heavy line technician in a wide-range of specialty areas, such as engine performance and driveability, or transmission and driveline repair. The need for more technicians will continue to increase at an above average rate and those with an Associate’s degree will be in even higher demand and have more options for employment. Historically, nearly 100 percent of graduates from this program have located positions in the field, finding employment in dealerships as well as independent garages.

Wages

  • Entry: $13.29
  • Average: $18.66
  • Experienced: $32.38

Career Examples

  •  Automotive Technicians
  •  Maintenance Mechanics
  •  Maintenance Technicians
  •  Lube Technicians
  •  General Service Technicians
  •  Tire Technicians
  •  Maintenance Managers
  • Oil Technicians

First Semester

AUT 119 - Introduction to Automotive Technology 4.0 Credit(s)
AUT 615 - Automotive Electricity/Electronics 4.0 Credit(s)
AUT 116 - Automotive Technology Lab I 6.0 Credit(s)
MAT 743 - Technical Math 1 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 17.0 Credits

Second Semester

AUT 524 - Automotive Brake Systems and Service 4.0 Credit(s)
AUT 404 - Automotive Suspension and Steering 4.0 Credit(s)
AUT 220 - Automotive Technology Lab II 6.0 Credit(s)
ENG 110 - Writing For The Workplace 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 17.0 Credits

Summer

AUT 837 - Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning 2.0 Credit(s)
WEL 117 - General Welding 2.0 Credit(s)
AUT 249 - Automotive Technology Lab III 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 7.0 Credits

Third Semester

AUT 951 - Advanced Automotive Engine and Electronic Diagnostics 4.0 Credit(s)
AUT 617 - Automotive and Diesel Fuel Systems 4.0 Credit(s)
AUT 421 - Automotive Technology Lab IV 6.0 Credit(s)
MGT 195 - Workplace Empowerment 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 17.0 Credits

Fourth Semester

AUT 302 - Automotive Engine Repair and Rebuild 4.0 Credit(s)
AUT 301 - Automotive Transmission and Drivetrain 4.0 Credit(s)

 

AUT 521 - Automotive Technology Lab V 6.0 Credit(s)

or

AUT 910 - Automotive Technology Internship I 6.0 Credit(s)

 

SOC 240 - Criminology 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 17.0 Credits

Summer

AUT 506 - Automotive Technology Lab VI 3.0 Credit(s)

or

AUT 915 - Automotive Technology Internship II 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 3.0 Credits

Total Semester Hours Required: 78.0

Notes:

1May substitute MAT 102 or higher.

Notes:





Additional Information

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Program Outcomes

Upon the successful completion of the program students will:

  • Apply safe work practices in accordance with industry standards.
  • Explain the function of automotive systems using proper terminology.
  • Demonstrate use of appropriate shop practices while performing repairs.
  • Explain electrical and electronic terminology.
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive vehicle inspection.
  • Evaluate vehicle system or component failures.
  • Interpret written repair orders.
  • Describe the function of fuel and ignition systems.

Program Disclaimers

  • Salary information from EMSI Analyst Database