Automotive Service Technology (AUTO), AAS

At Dunwoody College of Technology, the Automotive Service Technology program prepares graduates for a career as a technician in automotive repair facilities, such as independents, dealerships, fleets, or franchises. The program combines classroom, lab, and, in some cases, internship experiences in all aspects of automotive diagnosis and repair. Students use hands-on, applied learning with state-of-the-industry tools, equipment, and systems to acquire knowledge and skills, which foster the ability to continuously adapt to an ever-changing technology.

Arts & Sciences curriculum supports the technical skills students learn as well as enhances students’ oral and written communication skills and critical thinking ability.

All instructors are National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified technicians. The ASE Education Foundation (previously known as the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation or NATEF), which certifies and accredits automotive education programs has accredited Dunwoody’s Automotive Service Technology program in Master Automobile Service Technology — the highest level of achievement recognized by ASE.

Credential Earned: AAS
Length of Program: 2 years (4 semesters)
Classes Offered: Day
Available Starts: Fall Semester
Accreditation: ASE Education Foundation
Bachelor's Completion Option(s): Business Management Leadership (AMGT), Bachelor of Science
  • Identify and describe automobile components. 
  • Explain automotive systems' operations. 
  • Disassemble and assemble components. 
  • Diagnose vehicle conditions. 
  • Evaluate component condition and recommend action. 
  • Repair conditions and verify operation. 
  • Demonstrate effective customer satisfaction techniques. 
  • Demonstrate effective use of service information. 
General Requirements
Communications3
Humanities3
Natural Sciences/Mathematics3
Social Sciences3
General Electives3
Technical Requirements
AUTO1111Fundamentals of Automotive Service I6
AUTO1121Fundamentals of Automotive Service II6
AUTO1211HVAC/Advanced Electrical6
AUTO1221Chassis Systems6
AUTO2111Engine Performance/Engine Repair12
AUTO2212Transmissions/Driveline6
Technical Elective (Choose One Course):
AUTO1251Exploration of Automotive Systems1
or AUTO1252 Exploration of Audi Automotive Systems
or AUTO1253 Exploration of Mopar Automotive Systems
or AUTO1254 Exploration of Honda Automotive Systems
or AUTO1255 Exploration of Subaru Automotive Systems
or AUTO1256 Exploration of Mercedes Benz Systems
Experiential Learning (Choose One Course):
AUTO2252Hybrid/EV Technology & Production6
or AUTO2511 Internship
Total Credits64

The following sample academic plan demonstrates how a student's schedule might look on a semester-by-semester basis, including elective courses. Your actual degree plan may differ from this sequence, depending on whether you start in the fall or spring semester, what transfer credits you may have (if any), and which General Education courses and electives you take and when you take them.

The sample academic plan is for informational purposes only. To determine your academic plan, please meet with an academic advisor.

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallCredits
AUTO1111 Fundamentals of Automotive Service I 6
AUTO1121 Fundamentals of Automotive Service II 6
Natural Sciences/Mathematics 3
 Credits15
 Total Credits15
Plan of Study Grid
First Year
SpringCredits
AUTO1211 HVAC/Advanced Electrical 6
AUTO1221 Chassis Systems 6
AUTO1251
Exploration of Automotive Systems
or Exploration of Audi Automotive Systems
or Exploration of Mopar Automotive Systems
or Exploration of Honda Automotive Systems
or Exploration of Subaru Automotive Systems
or Exploration of Mercedes Benz Systems
1
Communications 3
Humanities 3
 Credits19
 Total Credits19
Plan of Study Grid
Second Year
FallCredits
AUTO2111 Engine Performance/Engine Repair 12
Social Sciences 3
 Credits15
 Total Credits15
Plan of Study Grid
Second Year
SpringCredits
AUTO2212 Transmissions/Driveline 6
AUTO2252
Hybrid/EV Technology & Production
or Internship
6
General Electives 3
 Credits15
 Total Credits15

Descriptions

AUTO1111 | Fundamentals of Automotive Service I | Lecture/Laboratory (6 Credits)

Introduction to automotive service, maintenance and repair, Part 1: Use of tools and measuring instruments. Identify fasteners and fittings. Removed damaged fasteners. Research service procedures using automotive information systems. Examine theory of design, principles of operation, and repair procedures of automotive chassis steering, suspension, and brake systems. Perform maintenance and service procedures in the following areas: tire/wheel service, four-wheel alignments, drivetrain inspection and fluid maintenance.

AUTO1121 | Fundamentals of Automotive Service II | Lecture/Laboratory (6 Credits)

Introduction to automotive service, maintenance and repair, Part 2: Research service procedures using automotive information systems. Disassemble, assemble component engines. Describe engine parts, systems, and operation. Perform vehicle oil changes and vehicle inspections. Identify HVAC system components. Perform OBD II code scan. Examine electrical systems. Introduction to Ohm's Law, theory and principles, circuits, magnetism, electromagnetism, induction, and basic electronics including semiconductors. Test batteries, test and replace starters. Practice use of digital multimeters and wiring schematics to trace, test, and diagnose circuits.

AUTO1211 | HVAC/Advanced Electrical | Lecture/Laboratory (6 Credits)

Apply Ohm's Law theory and principles. Explore electrical circuit principles, batteries, cranking motors, charging systems, in addition to accessory operation, lighting system design, and instrumentation. Use digital multimeters and wiring schematics to trace, test, and diagnose circuits. Inspect, test starters and alternators. On vehicle diagnosis of body electrical systems, including diagnosis of battery, starting, and charging systems; heating/air conditioning component operation and physics. Control system diagnosis, service, repair procedures, and pressure diagnosis. On vehicle procedures for recovery/recycling equipment.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111 And AUTO1121

AUTO1221 | Chassis Systems | Lecture/Laboratory (6 Credits)

Examine theory of design and principles of operation, diagnosis, and repair procedures of automotive brake, steering and suspension systems. Practice performing service procedures, four-wheel alignments.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111 And AUTO1121

AUTO1251 | Exploration of Automotive Systems | Lecture (1 Credit)

Explore a variety of automotive mechanical and electrical systems through discussion and online training, using a variety of manufacturer and alternative resources.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111 And AUTO1121

AUTO1252 | Exploration of Audi Automotive Systems | Lecture (1 Credit)

Explore Audi mechanical and electrical systems through discussion and online self-studies, using Audi specific resources.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111 And AUTO1121

AUTO1253 | Exploration of Mopar Automotive Systems | Lecture (1 Credit)

Explore Mopar (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, and Fiat) systems through discussion and online self-studies, using Mopar specific resources.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111 And AUTO1121

AUTO1254 | Exploration of Honda Automotive Systems | Lecture (1 Credit)

Explore Honda/Acura mechanical and electrical systems through discussion and online self-studies, using Honda/Acura PACT specific resources.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111 And AUTO1121

AUTO1255 | Exploration of Subaru Automotive Systems | Lecture (1 Credit)

Explore Subaru shop operations, vehicle telematics, and hybrid systems through discussion and online self-studies, using Subaru specific resources.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111 And AUTO1121

AUTO2111 | Engine Performance/Engine Repair | Lecture/Laboratory (12 Credits)

Analyze theory of operation, design, diagnosis, and repair procedures of engines, in addition to computerized engine control systems, electrical and electronic devices. Examine emerging engine performance and vehicle propulsion technology. Use standard and computerized test equipment on OBDII equipped vehicles to make a complete performance analysis and/or diagnose specific problems to determine work needed on vehicles. Make repairs to restore vehicle performance, emissions, and fuel economy to as near as possible to original factory and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111, AUTO1121, AUTO1211, And AUTO1221

AUTO2211 | Transmissions/Driveline | Lecture/Laboratory (4 Credits)

Theory and operation of gears, controls, and components relating to transmissions, transfer case, and differentials. Explain the operation, diagnosis, disassembly, reassembly, and power flow of driveline components, as well as testing of hydraulic and electronic controls using service information. Explain the operation, theory and repair of constant velocity and variable velocity joints. Examine the principles of NVH (noise, velocity, and harshness).

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111, AUTO1121, AUTO1211, And AUTO1221

AUTO2251 | Production | Lecture/Laboratory (8 Credits)

Practical shop experience in all aspects of automotive repair on customer's vehicle. Fundamentals of shop management, repair order writing, parts procurement, and customer relations.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111, AUTO1121, AUTO1211, And AUTO1221

AUTO2510 | Internship | Internship (8 Credits)

Perform a paid internship at a sponsoring repair facility. Work under the supervision of service management. Student must secure their own employment. A Dunwoody Automotive faculty will oversee the internship. Need department director approval and must meet acceptance criteria. Application must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to the start of the internship. Must follow approved guidelines listed in the internship packet. This course can be taken in lieu of AUTO2251 Production.

Prerequisite(s): AUTO1111, AUTO1121, AUTO1211, And AUTO1221