Automotive Applied Technology

Workforce Skills Award

Program Overview

The Automotive Applied Technology program offers intensive career preparation through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Manufacturers provide late model cars on which students can practice skills and ensure the automotive program teaches the last automotive technology.

The curriculum is updated frequently to reflect changing technology and equipment.

Automotive technology is rapidly increasing in sophistication, and most training authorities strongly recommend that persons seeking employment as automotive technicians complete a formal training program. The ability to diagnose the source of the problem quickly and accurately is one of the technician’s most valuable skills. It requires good reasoning ability and a thorough knowledge of automobiles. Many technicians consider diagnosing, “hard to find” troubles as one of their most challenging and satisfying duties.

Course offerings

Fall and Spring semesters (16-week sessions) and Summer (6-week session)

Course schedule

Receiving Academic Credit Hours

All courses in the Automotive Applied Technology Workforce Skills Award (WSA) program have the option to be converted to credit hours using a Petition to Record Credit form and all courses lead into the Del Mar College Architecture, Aviation and Automotive pathway including the Automotive Applied Technology, Associate in Applied Science. 

Admissions Requirements

• Students must be 18 years of age
• High school diploma/GED not required
• Recommended minimum of 9th grade level math and reading knowledge

Academic pathway

Architecture, Aviation, and Automotive
Architecture, Aviation, and Automotive Department
(361) 698-1767

Take the next step!

Upon completion, Del Mar College students can advance their skills by taking credit courses toward the following "stackable" credentials:

• Suspension, Driveline, Brake Specialist - Level I, Certificate
• Automotive Applied Technology - Level II, Certificate
• Automotive Applied Technology, Associate in Applied Science