Effective Date
08/16/2026
Automotive Technology Certificate
Total Program Credits: 49
The Automotive Technology certificate curriculum is designed for learners who wish to concentrate solely on technically-related courses in the repair of today’s high-tech computerized automobile.
Upon completion of the program, the certificate holder will be able to seek employment as an automobile repair technician in a dealership or the aftermarket and can move into advanced automotive opportunities, such as service advising and manufacturer corporate positions.
Program is a National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF) division of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified.
Stackable Certificate:
Truck Brake and Suspension CertificateEngine Performance CertificateLight Vehicle Maintenance CertificateTransmission Repair Certificate
Program Learning Outcomes:
Upon the successful completion of the Automotive Technology Certificate, the graduate will be able to:
- Explain automotive service and repair procedures according to manufacturer specifications and ASE industry standards.
- Use appropriate diagnostic tools and manufacturer service information to identify root causes of vehicle system concerns.
- Integrate electronic control module programming and vehicle network diagnostics to restore proper multi-system vehicle operation.
- Model professional workplace readiness through the use of safety protocols and technical communication standards.
- Justify repair decisions using diagnostic evidence and manufacturer specifications across conventional, hybrid, and electric vehicle platform.
(Reviewed Spring 2026)
Placement Measures
Program Map for Students
NOTE: A MINIMUM GRADE OF ‘C’ IS REQUIRED FOR ALL AUT COURSES.
| AUT 161 (was 112) # ◊ Introduction to Automotive Service and Shop Practices | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 162 (was 240) # ◊ Steering, Suspension & Wheel Alignment Systems | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 164 (was 127) # ◊ Electrical Fundamentals: Circuits, Tools & Diagnostics | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 165 (was 136) # ◊ Brake Systems Fundamentals: Theory & Maintenance | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 171 (was 150) # ◊ Engine Fundamentals: Operation & Maintenance | Core Course | 3 |
| Total Semester Credits: | 15 |
Meet with your Academic Advisor to create an academic plan.
Explore stackable certificate(s)/degree(s) |
Light Vehicle Maintenance Certificate has been completed.
| AUT 172 (new) # Engine Fundamentals II: Advanced Service & Repair | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 174 (was 114) # ◊ Engine Performance I: Fuel, Ignition & OBD Systems | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 175 (was 129) # ◊ Advanced Electrical Systems: Starting, Charging & Lighting | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 196 (was 280) # ◊ Climate Control Systems: Fundamentals of Heating & Air Conditioning | Core Course | 2 |
| AUT 206 (was 282) # ◊ Climate Control Systems: Diagnostics & Service Procedures | Core Course | 2 |
| Total Semester Credits: | 13 |
Meet with your Academic Advisor to update your academic and transfer plan.
Create a Transferology account to explore how coursework transfers. Attend a Transfer 101 Workshop. (if applicable) |
Brake & Suspension Certificate has been completed.
| AUT 210 (was 275) # ◊ Manual Transmissions & Drivetrains: Service & Repair | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 212 (was 226) # ◊ Engine Performance II: Integration & Drivability Diagnostics | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 216 (new) # Electrical Systems Integration: Body Electronics & Module Networks | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 220 (was 277) # ◊ Automatic Transmissions & Transaxles: Service, Diagnostics & Repair | Core Course | 4 |
| Total Semester Credits: | 13 |
Meet with your Academic Advisor to update your academic (and transfer plan option).
Attend a Ready to Apply Workshop
|
Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Maintenance Technician Certificate has been completed.
| AUT 221 (was 230) # ◊ Vehicle Systems Analysis: Advanced Diagnostics & Repair | Core Course | 4 |
| AUT 222 (new) # Driveline Systems: Advanced Diagnostics & Troubleshooting | Core Course | 4 |
| Total Semester Credits: | 8 |
Meet with your Academic Advisor to finalize your academic plan for graduation and register for stackable certificate/degree (option).
Submit graduation petition by deadline (check for the specific date in catalog or syllabus.) |
Engine Performance and Transmission Repair Certificates have been completed.
Note: Hand tools are required for automotive courses that include lab time.
See AUT course descriptions.
Chairperson: Ken Davis, Ext. 3970, email: kennethdavis@triton.edu
KEY
(CERT) |
| General Education |
Communications, Fine Arts, Humanities, Life Science, Mathematics, Physical Science, Social and Behavioral Science (see individual degree requirements). |
| Core Course |
Course(s) listed in a semester the student is required to take. |
| Program Elective |
Course(s) that faculty recommend and are listed in the ‘Program Electives’ section (if any) for this program. |
If intending to transfer, choose courses accepted by your transfer institution. |
| General Elective |
Course(s) chosen by the student, if needed, above and beyond core courses and program electives (if any), to complete the Program Total Credits. |
| ◊ symbol |
This course is articulated. (course transfers to 3 or more Illinois State schools, as an elective or equal course-to-course) |
| # symbol |
This course has a prerequisite. (course(s) student takes prior to taking this course) |
Last Updated
6/15/2026 12:15:15 PM