Automotive Technician

Automotive Technician

Students work on the underside of vehicles in an auto shop.
Degree Type Program Number Program Code Credits
Technical Diploma 324042 AUTC 55.00
Typical Start Learning Format Financial Aid Estimated Cost Location Area of Interest
Fall In-Person Available 9723 La Crosse Transportation

Mechanically inclined? Like solving problems? If so, you might find a career as an automotive technician challenging as well as rewarding. With a focus on hands-on experiences in this technical diploma program, you'll learn to diagnose and repair problems in engines, drive trains, brakes, electrical systems, steering, suspension, transmission systems, as well as hybrid and alternative fuel systems. Coursework covers the basics of operating an automotive repair business. You'll learn skills that will help you communicate with customers and gain valuable experience by making repairs on student and faculty vehicles in an actual shop.

The program prepares you for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Graduates find jobs in car dealerships, independent repair shops, and other related areas.

Classes are held at Western's state-of-the-art Automotive Center, located in La Crosse's industrial park, 2721 Larson Street. Check our interactive map for specific location information.

Program instructors accept vehicle work from the public that fits with the topic they are covering in class. To apply for this service, complete the Automotive Repair Request Form.

Admissions Requirements

Career Opportunities

Automotive Service Technician

Automotive Mechanic

Fleet Maintenance Mechanic

Service Manager

ASE - Automotive Specialist

Certified Master Technician

Program Outcomes

  • Demonstrate professionalism appropriate for the auto service industry
  • Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive internal combustion engines
  • Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive automatic transmission/transaxle systems
  • Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive manual drive train and axles systems
  • Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive steering and suspension systems
  • Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive brake systems
  • Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive electrical & electronic systems
  • Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive heating and air conditioning systems
  • Perform diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive engine performance systems

Accreditation

The Automotive Technician program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation.

Image
ASE Education Foundation logo.

Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025

Graduates 37
Graduates Responding 15
Employed In Related Occupation 12
Employed In Non-related Occupations 1
Seeking Employment 0
Continuing Education 2
Not In Labor Market 0
Graduates Responding Employed Part Time in Related Occupation 0
Graduates Responding Employed Full Time in Related Occupation 10
FT Average Hours per Week 43
FT Median Hourly Wage $23.00
FT Hourly Wage Range $22.00 - $24.00
FT Median Annual Salary $47,950
Related Occupations Auto Tech, Automotive Technician, Flat Rate Technician, Hop Technician, Main Shop Technician, Owner, Parts Associate, Upsell Technician

Software & Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

  • Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
  • Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
  • Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

  • Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Career Pathways

This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.

Prior Learning

Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.

Certificates

There are currently no certificates associated with this pathway.

Technical Diplomas

Automotive Maintenance & Light Repair Technician - Level 1
Automotive Service Technician - Level 2
Automotive Technician

Associate Degrees

There are currently no associate degrees associated with this pathway.

University Transfer

Courses

Term 1
Course Credits
31890315 - Applied Career Skills 1.00
31801315 - Applied Communication for Transportation 1.00
32404304 - Basic Electrical Systems 3.00
32404313 - Basic Maintenance 3.00
32404302 - Intro to Auto Technology 3.00
31890300 - Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma) 1.00
Term 2
Course Credits
31804310 - Applied Math 1 - Transportation 1.00
31804312 - Applied Math 2-Transportation 1.00
32404326 - Automotive Brake Systems 3.00
32404334 - Engine Performance 1 3.00
32404322 - Steering and Suspensions 3.00
Term 3
Course Credits
32404382 - Automotive Climate Control 3.00
32404357 - Drive Systems 1 3.00
32404388 - Electrified Powertrains 3.00
Term 4
Course Credits
10404195 - Auto Occup & Bus Operations 3.00
32404366 - Automotive Trade Simulation 3.00
32404358 - Chassis Electrical & Elect Sys 3.00
32404367 - Drive Systems 2 3.00
Term 5
Course Credits
32404355 - Automatic Transmissions 3.00
32404362 - Engine Performance 2 3.00
32404353 - Engine Repair 3.00
32404372 - Internship - Automotive 2.00