Associate of Occupational Studies (A.O.S.)
Automotive
Degrees and Certificates
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Automotive Technology, -
Automotive Technology, Certificate
Courses
AU 117: Gas and Diesel Engines
Semester Hours 4Operational principles of the internal combustion engine will be discussed and include gasoline and diesel units. Emphasis is placed on proper use of precision measuring equipment, specialty tools, manuals, and diagnostic evaluations. Location and interpretation of specifications are included. Alternate sources of fuel as well as nonpolluting power plants will be explored.
AU 128: Introduction to Automotive Repair
Semester Hours 4This course introduces the student to the field of automotive technology and to develop the basic skills, knowledge and professional ethics necessary as an entry-level technician in areas of automotive maintenance, service repair, parts and pre-delivery device. The objectives of this course are developed through classroom and laboratory activities. Personal and shop safety, and the proper utilization of service information are emphasized. This course is open to students who are not currently enrolled in the automotive technology program but would like to learn the basics of repair. A minimum set of tools is required only for students matriculated in an automotive technology program. See our website for the list.
AU 129: Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Semester Hours 3This course is designed to introduce the student to the theory of HVAC systems and to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to diagnose and service automotive heating and air conditioning systems, and environmental effects of chlorofluorocarbons on the earth’s atmosphere. Also included: principles of refrigeration, reclaiming, evacuation, recycling and recharging, and other diagnostic testing.
AU 130: Basic Steering, Suspension & Brakes
Semester Hours 4This course is intended to develop the skills, knowledge and professional ethics required to service general automotive steering, suspension and brake systems. The objectives of this course are developed through classroom and laboratory activities. Special emphasis is placed on personal and shop safety, component identification and inspection, proper use of service information, special service tools and equipment, interpretation of data and adjustment techniques.
AU 131: Work-Study I
Semester Hours 2Students completing their second semester in automotive technology must work at their sponsoring dealership or full-service independent repair facility for a 12-week period with a minimum of 30 hours per week. This hands-on job experience introduces students to actual work situations and reinforces skills learned during the year.
AU 132: Electricity and Electronics
Semester Hours 4Develops those skills needed by today’s technicians to diagnose, service, and repair the electrically and/or electronically operated systems of automobiles. Topics covered include basic electrical and electronic principles and components, electrical wiring diagrams, the battery, starting, and charging systems. Component location and system operation will be stressed.
AU 134: Engine Performance
Semester Hours 6This course is designed to provide those skills necessary for the diagnosis and repair of the engine’s ignition, fuel and emission systems. Emphasis will be placed on computer- controlled engine management, scan tool usage, and correct diagnostic philosophy. Optimum engine performance will be assured through classroom and laboratory study. This course will be taught from a general perspective.
AU 203: Advanced Automotive Operations
Semester Hours 4This course is intended to develop the skills, knowledge and professional ethics required to service and diagnose antilock braking systems, computer-controlled suspension systems, manual and automatic transmissions. Special emphasis is placed on personal and shop safety, component identification, use of service information, special service tools and equipment, and interpretation of data and specific diagnostic techniques.
AU 211: Manual Transmissions and Drivelines
Semester Hours 4Studies operation, diagnosis, and repair of clutches, standard transmissions, drivelines, differentials, front-wheel-drive, and four-wheel-drive units. Emphasis is placed on understanding the principles of speed reduction through the use of gearing.
AU 212: Automotive Diagnostics
Semester Hours 4This course is designed to develop those skills needed to successfully diagnose engine-, body- and chassis-related problems. Emphasis is placed on correct use of diagnostic equipment, proper procedures, use of specifications, and interpretation of test results to enable quick isolation of malfunctions of a particular system or component.
AU 213: Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles
Semester Hours 4Studies operation, diagnosis, maintenance, and overhaul procedures of automatic transmissions and transaxles. Emphasis is placed on automatic transmission hydraulic systems, principles of torque multiplication, and electronic control.
AU 215: Body Electrical and Electronics
Semester Hours 3This course is intended to develop the skills, knowledge and professional ethics required to service body electrical and electronics systems. The objectives of this course are developed through classroom and laboratory activities with special emphasis placed on personal and shop safety, component identification, testing and inspection, proper use of service information and wiring diagrams. The use of electronic diagnostic tools and equipment will be discussed also.
AU 231: Work-Study II
Semester Hours 2Students completing their fourth semester in automotive technology must work at their sponsoring dealership or full-service independent repair facility for a 12-week period with a minimum of 30 hours per week. This program is similar to AU 131; however, the breadth and depth of the work experience is expanded to include all areas instructed during the two-year program.