Get the Skills to Be a Professional Automotive Technician

The Colorado Springs Automotive Technician program is designed to give you the confidence and skills you need to succeed in your new career.

During your classes, you will:

• Get hands-on automotive training using Snap-on tools and diagnostics
• Design and assemble high performance engines at our Colorado Springs campus
• Learn light diesel engine repair at our Albuquerque, Grand Junction, and Pueblo campuses
• Receive personalized instruction from ASE and Snap-on certified instructors. (Not all instructors are ASE and/or Snap-on certified)
• Prepare to sit for automotive certifications

Automotive Technician Program Gainful Employment Disclosures: Albuquerque | Colorado Springs | Grand Junction| Pueblo 

Here’s what will you learn in the Associate of Occupational Studies Degree program:

Automotive Service Practices

AUT-119 Automotive Service Practices

This course is designed to orient students to the automotive industry and repair environment. Students should apply the topics of this course to identify automotive systems, describe the diagnostic process, properly document a basic repair order, and demonstrate the navigation of a repair database. Student demonstration of shop and tool safety procedures and fluid and materials safety is a must.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): None

Automotive Electronics Fundamentals

AUT-120 Automotive Electronics Fundamentals

This course is designed to cover the fundamentals and build a foundation for the student to draw from. Topics include basic electrical principles, electrical circuits and wiring diagrams, theories of magnetism, capacitance, induction, solid state electronics and semiconductors. Students gain basic knowledge to understand and diagnose the vehicle’s battery, starting, and charging systems.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): None

Automotive Electronics Application

AUT-121 Automotive Electronics Application

This course is designed to apply knowledge gained in basic DC/AC circuits. Topics include troubleshooting basic electrical circuits, wiring diagrams, and solid state electronics. The application of hands-on skills to diagnose the vehicle’s battery, starting, and charging systems prepare the student for the workplace.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Engine Design Fundamentals

AUT-122 Engine Design Fundamentals

After successful completion of this course, students should have a fundamental understanding of the inner working of the four stroke engine, tear down and reassembly procedures. Safety, cleaning, measurements, and proper procedures will be emphasized. Students become familiar with engine sub-systems, components, fluids, and timing belt systems.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): None

Engine Design Application

AUT-123 Engine Design Application

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to tear down and reassemble the automotive four cycle engine. Safety, cleaning, measurements, and proper diagnostic procedures will be emphasized. Students apply knowledge in a lab setting using engines, engine sub-systems, components, fluids, and timing belt systems to demonstrate proper diagnostic and maintenance procedures.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Automotive Accessories & HVAC Fundamentals

AUT-124 Automotive Accessories & HVAC Fundamentals

This course introduces the student to basic and computerized automobile accessory systems including the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC). Students become familiar with system schematics, and basic computer diagnostics. Building upon the electrical and electronic instruction in previous courses, students expand their learning to electrical accessory circuits on the automobile. This course covers the fundamentals of servicing heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems. In addition, students learn proper procedures for retrofitting older R12 systems to today’s R134a refrigerant systems and receive the opportunity to sit for the MACS 609 certification exam.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): AUT-120 and AUT-121

Automotive Accessories & HVAC Application

AUT-125 Automotive Accessories & HVAC Application

This course introduces the student to the application of computerized automobile accessory systems including the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC). Students apply system schematics, and basic computer diagnostics. Building upon the electrical and electronic instruction in previous courses, students apply their learning to diagnose electrical accessory circuits. Students diagnose and service heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems. In addition, students demonstrate proper procedures for retrofitting older R12 systems to today’s R134a refrigerant systems and receive the opportunity to sit for the MACS 609 certification exam.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): AUT-120, AUT-121

Brakes, Steering, & Suspension Fundamentals

AUT-126 Brakes, Steering, & Suspension Fundamentals

Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to identify and diagnose brake system concerns and suspension/steering concerns. Topics covered include hydraulic systems, drum brakes, disc brakes, power assist units, antilock brake systems, general suspension and steering systems, power assist steering, front suspension, rear suspension, wheels/tires, shock absorbers, alignment and traction control systems.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): None

Brakes, Steering, & Suspension Application

AUT-127 Brakes, Steering, & Suspension Application

After successful completion of this course, students should be able to service and repair brake system concerns and suspension/steering concerns. Applications covered include hydraulic system service, disc and drum brake service, antilock brake systems diagnosis and repair, steering and suspension systems, power assist steering, wheels/tires, shock absorbers, four wheel alignments and traction control systems.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Manual Transmission & Drive Train Fundamentals

AUT-128 Manual Transmission & Drive Train Fundamentals

Students develop the skills necessary to properly identify and interpret drive train concerns. Students will gain knowledge in clutch systems, operation of the transmission/transaxle, drive shaft, half shaft, CV joint, ring and pinion, differential case assembly, limited slip differential and four-wheel/all-wheel-drive systems.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): None

Manual Transmission & Drive Train Application

AUT-230 Manual Transmission & Drive Train Application

After successful completion of this course, students should have developed the skills necessary to properly identify and interpret drive train concerns, diagnose and repair clutch systems, diagnose and service the transmission/transaxle, drive shaft, half shaft, CV joint, ring and pinion, differential case assembly, limited slip differential and four-wheel/all-wheel drive.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Automatic Transmissions Fundamentals

AUT-130 Automatic Transmissions Fundamentals

This course is designed to orient the student to the hydraulic principles, power flow, sub-assemblies of automatic transmissions and transaxles. Students should be able to demonstrate power flow as well as execute common diagnostic procedures including testing of electrical components and computerized controls.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): None

Automatic Transmissions Application

AUT-131 Automatic Transmissions Application

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to diagnose and service automatic transmissions and transaxles and properly disassembly and reassembly an automatic transmission/transaxle. Execution of common off-car service and diagnostic procedures, including R&R of the Transmission/Transaxle assembly is demonstrated.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Basic Light Diesel Fundamentals

AUT-132 Basic Light Diesel Fundamentals

After successful completion of this course, students should have developed an understanding of diesel engine operation. This course introduces the student to light diesel function and operation. Students become familiar with the diesel engine, sub systems, components, fluids and fuel delivery systems.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): AUT-120 and AUT-121

Basic Light Diesel Application

AUT-133 Basic Light Diesel Application

Upon completion of this course, students should have developed the basic skills needed to be able to diagnose and perform maintenance/repairs on diesel engines. Performing repairs and service to diesel sub-systems, components, fluids and fuel delivery systems is the focus.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): AUT-120 and AUT-121

Engine Performance & Hybrid Fundamentals

AUT-134 Engine Performance & Hybrid Fundamentals

This course provides fundamental knowledge of on-board computerized engine control systems used on vehicles. Students should gain a working knowledge of common input and output devices, ignition systems, fuel systems, and emission systems. In addition, diagnostic scanners are covered in depth. Hybrid vehicle types and safety procedures are also discussed.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): AUT-120 and AUT-121

Engine Performance & Hybrid Application

AUT-135 Engine Performance & Hybrid Application

Through practical lab training, students should be able to diagnose and service common input and output devices, ignition systems, fuel systems and emission systems. In addition, students should be able to demonstrate proper scanner usage to aid them in this diagnostic procedure. Hybrid vehicle systems and safety procedures will actively be practiced in a lab environment.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Automotive Service Industry

AUT-213 Automotive Service Industry

Understanding of how an automotive repair facility operates, including service flow, personnel roles, estimates, repair orders, repair/warranty laws, and regulations are presented. Students practice estimates, repair order creation and documentation procedures. Students gain an understanding of business operations from the dealership, retail, and small / independent repair facility perspectives in order to prepare the student to function effectively in multiple workplace structures.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): AUT-119

Advanced Light Diesel Fundamentals

AUT-214 Advanced Light Diesel Fundamentals

Upon completion of this course, students should have an understanding of diesel electronic control systems. Knowledge needed to diagnose, test, and service common diesel electronic fuel injection systems, engine electronic systems, and diesel charging and starting systems are covered.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): AUT-120, AUT-121, AUT-132, AUT-133

Advanced Light Diesel Application

AUT-215 Advanced Light Diesel Application

Upon completion of this course, students should have developed the skills needed to diagnose and repair diesel electronic control systems. Students receive practical lab training in diagnostic testing procedures and service of common diesel electronic fuel injection systems, engine electronic systems and diesel charging and starting systems.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): AUT-120, AUT-121, AUT-132, AUT-133

Automotive Capstone Review & Preparation

AUT-216 Automotive Capstone Review & Preparation

This course is designed to provide students review and preparation covering all aspects of the automotive program. Repair order preparation, technician documentation and scheduling will be incorporated along with a review of all automotive systems to prepare students for real world service applications.

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): AUT-119, AUT-120, AUT-121, AUT-122, AUT123, AUT-124, AUT-125, AUT-126, AUT-127, AUT-128, AUT129, AUT-130, AUT-131, AUT-132, AUT-133, AUT-134, AUT135

Automotive Capstone Application

AUT-217 Automotive Capstone Application

This course is designed to provide students review and extended learning opportunities covering all aspects of the automotive program. Students should use critical thinking skills and apply the use of advanced diagnostic tools to challenging drivability concerns. Students apply their learning thus far to demonstrate proper maintenance and repairs to all automotive systems by completing modules designed to simulate real world service applications.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): NoneAUT-119, AUT-120, AUT-121, AUT-122, AUT123, AUT-124, AUT-125, AUT-126, AUT-127, AUT-128, AUT129, AUT-130, AUT-131, AUT-132, AUT-133, AUT-134, AUT135

Organizational Communication & Etiquette

COM-110 Organizational Communication & Etiquette

The course examines the role of communication and etiquette in organizations. Concepts like teamwork, ethics and diversity are addressed as they relate to organizational effectiveness. Basic workplace technology, including Microsoft Office, is also covered.

Credit Hours: 3.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Business English

ENG-110 Business English

This course emphasizes principles and techniques for organizing, writing, and revising documents for industry, business, and government. This course Includes grammar and writing mechanics. Resume writing and job interview techniques are taught and practiced

Credit Hours: 4.5
Prerequisite(s): None

Here’s what will you learn in the Automotive Technician Certificate program:

Automotive Service Practices & A/C Fundamentals

AUT-140 Automotive Service Practices & A/C Fundamentals

This course is designed to orient students to the automotive industry and repair environment. Students should apply the topics of this course to identify automotive systems, describe the diagnostic process, properly document a basic repair order, and demonstrate the navigation of a repair database. Student demonstration of shop and tool safety procedures, fluid and materials safety, as well as automotive Heating and A/C fundamentals. Students diagnose and service heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems.

Credit Hours: 7.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Automotive Electronics Fundamentals

AUT-141 Automotive Electronics

This course is designed to cover the fundamentals of the automotive electrical system and build a foundation for the student to draw from. Topics include basic electrical principles, electrical circuits and wiring diagrams, theories of magnetism, capacitance, induction, solid state electronics and semiconductors. Students also demonstrate the application of hands-on skills and diagnose the vehicle’s battery, starting, charging systems, and automotive lighting systems.

Credit Hours: 7.0
Prerequisite(s): None

Engine Design Fundamentals

AUT-142 Engine Design Fundamentals

After successful completion of this course, students should have a fundamental understanding of the inner working of the four stroke engine, tear down and reassembly procedures. Safety, cleaning, measurements, and proper procedures will be emphasized. Students apply knowledge in a lab setting using engines, engine sub-systems, components, fluids, and timing belt systems to demonstrate proper diagnostic and maintenance procedures.

Credit Hours: 7.0
Prerequisite(s): AUT-140, AUT-141

Transmission, Transaxles & Drivetrains

AUT-143 Transmission, Transaxles & Drivetrains

After successful completion of this course, students should have developed the skills necessary to properly identify and interpret drive train concerns, diagnose and repair clutch systems, diagnose and service automatic and standard transmission / transaxles, drive shaft, half shaft, CV joint, ring and pinion, differential case assembly, limited slip differential and four-wheel / all-wheel-drive systems.

Credit Hours: 7.0
Prerequisite(s): AUT-140, AUT-141

Brakes, Steering & Suspension Fundamentals

AUT-144 Brakes, Steering & Suspension Fundamentals

Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to identify, diagnose, repair, and service brake system concerns and suspension / steering concerns. Topics covered include hydraulic systems, drum brakes, disc brakes, power assist units, antilock brake systems, general suspension and steering systems, power assist steering, front suspension, rear suspension, wheels / tires, shock absorbers, alignment and traction control systems.

Credit Hours: 7.0
Prerequisite(s): AUT 140, AUT-141

Engine Performance & Hybrid

AUT-145 Engine Performance & Hybrid

This course provides a fundamental knowledge of on-board computerized engine control systems used on vehicles. Through classroom and practical lab training, students should be able to diagnose and service common input and output devices, ignition systems, fuel systems and emission systems. In addition, students should be able to demonstrate proper scanner usage to aid them in this diagnostic procedure. Hybrid vehicle systems and safety procedures will actively be practiced in a lab environment.

Credit Hours: 7.5
Prerequisite(s): AUT-140, AUT-141

Automotive Industry Preparation

AUT-146 Automotive Industry Preparation

This course provides the tools needed to succeed in the automotive field by offering the opportunity to set for MACS 609 A/C certification ASE A1, and A5 Tests, ASE practice tests, resume and interview skills building classes. Student will also be immersed in hands-on skills review and application covering all area previously covered along with automotive power accessories and air bag systems training.

Credit Hours: 7.5
Prerequisite(s): AUT-140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145