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From welding to philosophy, FRCC has a program for you.

Is a bachelor's degree your goal? Our two-year associate degrees (A.A., A.S.) are guaranteed to transfer to four-year public schools in Colorado.

Need skills? Our technical degrees (A.A.S.) and certificates launch you into a career. Some certificates can be completed in just one semester!

Select a campus to see what programs are offered there.  Click on a program name for required classes, contacts, starting salaries, and more.

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Auto Mechanic Program

Offered at: Larimer, Westminster

The Automotive Technology program prepares students for entry-level positions/careers in the automotive repair industry, students will demonstrate the ability to meet recognized automotive industry standards upon completion of the mechanic certification program.

A.A.S. in
Automotive Technology

71 credits
(4 semesters)

This A.A.S. Automotive Technology degree provides students with entry-level technical skills to test, diagnose and repair the complex mechanical, chemical, and electronic equipment found in today’s automobiles. This includes an understanding of the principles associated with engines and drive trains, brakes and alignment, and fuel and emission controls.

Auto-ASE-natefOur program is ASE and NATEF certified.

You may complete a certificate, enter the workforce and then return at any time either to complete the Automotive Technology program or to upgrade specific skills.

Automotive Technology degree: See required courses and descriptions.

Automotive Certificates

Automatic Transmission/
Transaxle

11 credits
(2 semesters)

This transmission certificate program studies the operating principles and repair procedures relating to axle-shaft and universal joints, automotive differentials, and four-wheel and all-wheel drive units. Students will perform minor adjustments on an automatic transmission and transaxle. They will learn diagnosis, principles of hydraulics, principles of electronic components, power flow, theory of operation, removal of transmission/transaxle, tear down, replacement of components, measurement and subsequent adjustment of components and replacement of transmission/transaxle.

Transmission certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

Brakes

10 credits
(1 semester)

This brakes certificate program covers the basic operation of automotive braking systems, including the operation, diagnosis and basic repair of disc brakes, drum brakes, and basic hydraulic systems. Students will be prepared to work on modern automotive braking systems, including operation, diagnosis, service and repair of the anti-lock braking systems, power assist units and machine operations.

Brakes certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

Automotive Electrical/ Electronic Systems

12 credits
(1 semester)

This electrical automotive certificate program teaches students the operation, testing and servicing of vehicle battery, starting, charging systems, generators and the diagnosis, service, adjustments and repair of various automotive ignition systems and vehicle accessories. Typical computerized engine control systems are inspected and tested.

Electrical Systems certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

Engine Performance

16 credits
(2 semesters)

This engine certificate program provides students with an overview of electrical systems, general engine diagnosis, ignition systems diagnosis and repair, emissions systems, fuel injection and exhaust systems. Students use diagnostic scan tools, oscilloscopes, lab scopes, multi-meters and gas analyzers to diagnose live vehicle drivability problems.

Engine Performance certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

Engine Repair

14 credits
(2 semesters)

This engine repair certificate program focuses on the removal and installation procedures of the automotive engine from and into front-wheel and rear-wheel drive vehicles. Students will disassemble, diagnosis and reassemble an automotive engine. Topics include the diagnostic and repair procedures for the engine block and head assemblies.

Engine Repair certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

General Automotive Maintenance & Repair

10 credits
(1 semester)

 This general certificate program provides students with safety instruction in the shop and on the automobile, and an overview of automotive brakes, electrical, suspension and steering, and engine systems. Students learn to diagnosis and repair common problems and receive the theoretical background and practical experience to attain entry-level employment.

General Automotive Maintenance & Repair certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

Automotive Heating & A/C

8 credits
(2 semesters)

This heating and A/C certificate program prepares students to diagnose and service vehicle heating and air conditioning systems and their components.

Automotive Heating & A/C certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

Manual Drivetrain & Axles

11 credits
(1 semester)

This drivetrain and axle certificate program introduces students to U-joint and axle shaft service, manual transmissions/transaxles and clutches, differentials and four-wheel and all-wheel-drive service.

Manual Transmission certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

Suspension &
Steering

11 credits
(1 semester)

This suspension and steering certificate program prepares students to diagnose and service suspensions and steering systems and their component, including electronic suspensions and steering systems.

Suspension & Steering certificate: See required courses and descriptions.
 

What You Will Learn

Upon completion of the program, you will be able to:

  1. Test, diagnose, and repair complex mechanical, chemical, and electronic equipment found in today's automobiles.
  2. Demonstrate required shop and personal safety during shop/lab activities.
  3. Demonstrate proper use and cleaning of tools and equipment.
  4. Prepare vehicles for service.
  5. Prepare vehicles for the customer.
  6. Comply with workplace policies and laws.
  7. Communicate effectively with customers and coworkers both in writing and verbally.
  8. Demonstrate the use of scientific, technical, engineering and mathematics principles and reasoning to accomplish assigned tasks.
  9. Demonstrate appropriate work-ethic traits through personal conduct and effective teamwork.
  10. Demonstrate critical thinking skills by analyzing and resolving problems encountered in the field.

Auto Mechanic Salary

Jobs Entry Average Experienced
Automotive Service Technician
 $31,625
 $50,996 $60,681
Colorado Dept. of Labor & Employment
Occupational Employment Statistics Survey (2021)

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