Academic Catalogs

Automotive: Chassis and Drivetrain Specialist, Associate in Arts Degree

Banner Code: 2_AA_ATCD

Control Number: 11432

Financial Aid Eligible


Students are given two options in order to prepare for a specialized field of study within the Automotive Technology program, the Chassis and Drivetrain option and the Engine Performance and Emissions option. New students entering either option are encouraged to consider taking preparation classes in automotive theory and computer skills before enrolling in the regular required courses for the certificate. This is intended to ensure successful performance in the required courses unless students have received prior training or education related to the recommended courses that would fulfill preparation expectations. These courses may normally be available in sequential patterns that would allow completion of the certificates within a two-year time frame.

Students will be responsible for providing their own textbooks, personal safety equipment, protective clothing, a basic hand tool set, and project related materials. The cost of these items will vary according to the place of purchase.

Program Level Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Measure and convert assigned unit pieces to interpret the appropriate SAE and metric unit. (Celsius to Fahrenheit and inches to millimeters).
  2. Identify a fault (ac no air) and will perform a (repair) to then evaluate a successful (fix) in a lab situation.
  3. Analyze and diagnose automotive engines and related components for correct system operation.
  4. Demonstrate mastery of diagnostic tools and equipment used for automotive repair.

Review Graduation Requirements and General Education.

Course Title Units
Required Courses
AUTO G120Electrical/Electronic Systems: Introductory5
AUTO G140Automotive Chassis: Brakes5
AUTO G150Manual Drive Trains & Axles4
AUTO G141Automotive Chassis: Steering & Suspension4.5
AUTO G151Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles4
Major Total22.5
GE Pattern (Local, CSU GE-Breadth, or IGETC)18-39
Total Units60

Recommended Program Sequence

These sequences are general course maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, completion of short-term certificates, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. However, this may not be an appropriate path for all students.  The two-year sequence is based on English and Math placement and meeting other course prerequisites. Students are advised to meet with a GWC Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.

Year 1:

Course Title Units
Semester 1
AUTO G120Electrical/Electronic Systems: Introductory5
AUTO G140Automotive Chassis: Brakes5
ENGL G100Freshman Composition ^4
Area E: Lifelong Understanding and Self-Development or any additional course from Area A-D3
Units17
Course Title Units
Semester 2
AUTO G151Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles4
AUTO G141Automotive Chassis: Steering & Suspension4.5
CS G130Survey Of Computer Science/Information Technology (recommended)4
Area D: Social & Behavioral Sciences course3
Units15.5

Year 2:

Course Title Units
Semester 3
AUTO G150Manual Drive Trains & Axles4
Area C: Arts & Humanities course3
Math Competency3
If Mathematics is satisfied by competency, select Area A2: Communication and Analytical Thinking course
Elective coursework for a total of 3 units3
Units13-15
Course Title Units
Semester 4
Area B: Natural Sciences course3
Ethnic Studies Competency3
Elective coursework to reach a minimum of 60 units6.5-8.5
Units12.5-14.5
Total Degree Units60
^

Program sequence may not be recommended for students who self-place into ENGL G100S. Students should see a Counselor for appropriate advisement.