Automotive Technology

Choose the Automotive Technology Program That Fits Your Goal

Complete one or two courses in a matter of months or pursue a comprehensive two-year degree or certificate. An El Camino education in automotive technology will set you up for your first job or help you take an established career to the next level.

Automotive Technology Associate of Science (AS) Degree

An AS degree combines classes in the full-range of automotive technology topics with general education courses that help you develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. It’s the best option if you want a flexible, broad-based education.

An AS degree requires 60 units—36-40 from automotive technology and related electives, and the rest from general education areas. It usually takes two years to complete.

An AS degree goes on your transcript and becomes part of your permanent academic record. Credit for general education courses may transfer if you later pursue another degree.

• Take courses in automotive suspension, brakes, and alignment; electrical and fuel systems; transmission and drive train; engine repair and rebuilding; and related electives like welding.
• Complement your automotive courses with classes in the natural and social sciences, humanities, language and communication, health, and mathematics.
• Build the mix of technical and general skills employers say they most want.

Automotive Technology Certificate of Achievement

A Certificate of Achievement lets you focus on automotive technology with few if any requirements from other fields—a good option if you want to concentrate on technical skills. You can study the full range of automotive systems or specialize in the system of your choice.

These certificates require anywhere from 12 to 50 units (each class typically equals either 4 or 8 units). You can complete a short-term specialty program in one semester or take two years for a comprehensive certificate.

An El Camino Certificate of Achievement goes on your transcript and becomes a permanent part of your academic record.

• Choose the Automotive Technician I or Automotive Technician II option for comprehensive education in brakes, suspension, alignment, engines, electrical systems and more (36-50 units).
• Choose the Automotive Brakes/Suspension Transmission/Drive Train Technician, Automotive Engine Repair/Rebuilding Technician, or Automotive Tune-Up Technician option for quick, focused study (12-16 units).
• Stack certificates to earn additional professional credentials on the schedule you set.

Automotive Technology Certificate of Accomplishment

Earn a Certificate of Accomplishment for completing a specific course or course sequence (usually 3-10 total units).

These certificates show you’ve completed professional training, but they aren’t recorded on your academic transcript. They can be stepping stones toward a Certificate of Achievement or even an Associate of Science degree.

• Choose from Automotive Air Conditioning Technician; Automotive Brakes and Suspension Technician; Automotive Engine Rebuilding and Repair Technician; Automotive Engine Management; Automotive Transmission and Drive Train Technician; and Hybrid, Electric, and Alternative Fuels options.
• Complete additional certificates and build your skills on your own schedule.

Launch or Upgrade Your Automotive Career

Whether you’re new to the field or an experienced automotive technician, El Camino College provides education and support that get you to the next level.

• Land a job in automotive service, repair, tune-up, or air conditioning as a master mechanic or specialty technician.
• Get expert preparation for third-party industry certification tests.
• Work for major chains, independent shops, or dealerships—or start your own business.
• Average annual salaries range from $21,424 for new professionals to $76,445 for highly experience professionals.