Automotive Service Technician Certificate

Program Description 

The Peninsula College Automotive Service Technician Certificate is a 6-month hands-on program designed to prepare students for employment in the Automotive Industry. Coursework includes automotive repair, electrical vehicle repair, gas and diesel vehicles, diagnostics, and preventative maintenance and repair. The program emphasizes student success through equity-minded educational experiences that engage students from entry to attainment of high-demand automotive careers. The curriculum aligns with standards set forth by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Educational Foundation, employer input, and best practices in automotive service education.  The courses were designed to develop competent entry level Auto Service Technicians who are familiar with a variety of common automotive servicing and repair skills. 

Program Length: 2 Quarters
Program Code: AUMASC20

Career Opportunities and Earnings

There is a growing demand for Automotive Service Technicians. Graduates may find positions with a variety of automotive service shops and dealerships. 

For current employment and wage estimates, please visit and search for the relevant occupational term: bls.gov/oes. 

Program Outcomes 

• Recognize unsafe situations that may occur in an automotive repair shop; identify the safety precautions that should be taken; relate the proper application of safety procedures; demonstrate safe operation of available equipment 
• Identify electrical/electronic system components and configurations 
• Using standard diagnostic equipment, swiftly diagnose common automotive issues and recommend/perform proper repairs 
• Research vehicle service information such as fluid type, internal combustion engine operation, vehicle service history, service precautions, technical service bulletins, and recalls including vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) 
• Demonstrate basic understanding of how to service, diagnose and repair hybrid-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles, and battery-electric vehicles 

Special Features 

• Curriculum combines theory and hands-on experience with the technical and interpersonal skills necessary to be a productive member of the automotive industry workforce 
• Inclusive curriculum that accommodates the needs of all students   
• Collaborative learning that ensures all students are part of shared learning experiences and receive equal opportunities regardless of learner differences   
• Short two quarter certificate provides training for students to quicky step into a high demand career field with skills employers are looking for   
• Free academic and tutoring support from the Peninsula College Center for Equity, Teaching, and Learning   
• Workforce program funding for tuition, books, class materials, and childcare is available to eligible students  
• Course includes curriculum in soft skills and opportunities for manufacturer specific training as well as intern opportunities with local employers 

Program Goals   

• Ready students for a career in the automotive service industry 
• Prepare students for certain components of ASE certification 
• Foster equity and inclusion by removing barriers to underrepresented students pursuing careers in the automotive industry   
• Provide local employers with work-ready auto technicians in a high demand career field 

Approximate Additional Costs

• Tuition and fees: $3,601.90 total based on 2024-25 WA resident tuition rates (additional fees may apply)
  • First quarter (15 credits): $1,800.95
  • Second quarter (15 credits): $1,800.95

Sample Schedule  

This sample schedule is provided as a guide for a full-time student starting in fall quarter whose goal is to earn a certificate. The typical student schedule is based on entering the program during the fall quarter, however some programs allow students to enter in the winter or spring as well. Since not all do, please confirm with an advisor whether this program must be started during a specific quarter or not.