Automotive Maintenance Technician
45-credit Technical Diploma
Program Code 31-602-3
Automotive maintenance technicians use high-tech and traditional equipment to complete service work, replace worn parts and conduct diagnostic tests on vehicles. In this program, gain skills to work on engines, drive trains, brakes, electrical, steering and suspension systems. Develop knowledge of hybrid vehicle safety, advanced chassis systems, and transmissions and transaxles. Training combines classroom and lab instruction.
How Long It Will Take
Depending on course load, full-time students could complete this program in two years.
Start Date
You can begin this program in the fall semester.
How This Program Is Offered
This is offered on campus in a traditional classroom/lab setting during the day.
What Makes This Program Unique
- WCTC supplies all tools for this program.
- Gain hands-on learning in real-world settings through technical internship experiences.
- Advance your career by applying credits earned in this technical diploma to the Automotive Technology associate degree.
- Earn Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) student certifications in Electrical/Electronics; Automatic Transmissions; Manual Transmissions; and Engine Performance.
Courses You'll Take
For the courses you’ll take, semester sequence, pathways and course descriptions, view the program catalog page.
Credit for Prior Learning
You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired. Learn more about credit for prior learning.
How To Apply
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit official high school transcript.
- Complete placement assessment.
Still have questions? Visit the Admissions page or contact the Office of Admissions | 262.691.5200.
Deadlines To Know*
Fall 2021 Start
- Submit application by August 2, 2021
- Complete checklist items by August 9, 2021
Spring 2021 Start
- This program cannot be started in spring.
* Application deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.
Financial Aid Eligibility
As a program student, you are eligible to receive:
- Financial aid loans
- Scholarships
- Other forms of assistance
Learn more about financial aid.
Cost
The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive.
Learn more about tuition and fees.
Career Salaries
$22,000 – $39,000 annually
Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.
Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.
Potential Careers
If you like fixing cars and trucks, a career in the automotive field may be right for you. Those tasked with maintaining and repairing vehicles are mechanical problem solvers who enjoy working with their hands.
- Automotive Technician
- Service Technician
- Mechanic
- Express Technician
Transfer Options
Whether you're a high school student interested in earning college credits or a college student interested in transferring to a four-year university after graduation, our dual-enrollment and transfer-credit agreements will help you take the next step in your education and career.
High School Dual Credits
Dual enrollment offers high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields through earning college credits. Learn about the credit options.
Transfer Opportunities After WCTC
WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.
There are no credit transfer agreements for this program at this time. For more information, contact your academic advisor.
There are no credit transfer agreements for this program at this time. For more information, contact your academic advisor.
Transfer Tips
- Contact the school to which you'd like to transfer to make sure you understand its transfer policy.
- Talk to your WCTC program advisor about your intent to transfer so he/she can help you plan.
- If you're transferring within the University of Wisconsin (UW) System, contact your desired institution about its transfer policy and visit the UW System's transfer resource page.