Learn the latest tools and techniques in automotive diagnostics and repair including engines, fuel systems, tires, brakes, electronics, and transmissions.
What you will learn
Upon successful completion, students of the Automotive Service Technology Diploma will have acquired the skills and knowledge to:
- Practice safely including complying with WorkSafe BC and WHMIS regulations
- Apply employability and communication skills while working in a businesslike manner
- Utilize hand, measuring, and power tools and equipment safely and effectively
- Provide general automotive maintenance services including lubrication and fluids, belts and hoses, exterior lamps, body trim and hardware, tires and wheels, non-friction bearings and spindles and hubs
- Assess, diagnose and service hydraulic, drum brake, disc brake, power assist and anti-lock brake systems
- Assess, diagnose and service steering systems
- Assess, diagnose and service suspension systems
- Describe and diagnose electrical, electronic, and ignition systems
- Analyze and diagnose On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Data using advanced electrical test equipment including computer controls, multiplex and network systems
- Identify and service fuel delivery systems, fuel types, alternate fuels, and gasoline fuel injection components
- Describe and test engine management systems including input sensors and output actuators
- Describe new vehicle technology and hybrid systems
- Describe and service vehicle Pre and Post Combustion Systems, emissions, Test OBD-II Evaporative Emission System, and Perform exhaust gas analysis
What to expect
Students in the Automotive Service Technology Diploma will, throughout the 2 years, be working in a classroom and shop environment and will gain the theoretical knowledge and hands on experience to succeed in the automotive technology industry. The initial courses of study focus on students learning and practicing tool kit use, identifying tools, mechanical technology as used on the shop floor, as well as to understand and identify design structures of tools and technology. This will all be undertaken following the principles of safety and WHMIS. Once mastery of this is achieved, students will learn the theory and practice to the specific components of vehicle repairs.
Throughout the classroom experience students will learn through a variety of teaching and learning styles such as group work, presentations, lectures and examinations.
In the shop environment, students apply the theory they acquired in class to diagnose, service, and repair all components of vehicles through hands on projects, tasks and assessments.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- International students must have an English language level of IELTS 6.0 (no band less than 5.5) or equivalent.
- Students must possess a high-school graduation certificate or equivalent
- Apprentice and workplace Math 10 or equivalent
- Relevant trades experience can be assessed for entrance into the program.
General
- Seats are offered to applicants who have met all admission requirements, on a first-qualified, first-served basis.
- International applicants must be 17 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
- Applicants must submit official transcripts and educational documents as required by their course or program.
- All VCC applicants are required to function successfully in an English-speaking classroom. English requirements vary by program. For details, visit VCC International - English Requirements.
Recommended Characteristics
- Basic computer skills
- Good general health and respiratory condition
- Physical strength and stamina compatible with the handling of heavy parts and equipment as required by the program
- Ability to tolerate noise and vibration
- Mechanical aptitude and interest
- Good manual dexterity
- Good hand-eye co-ordination
- Good eyesight and normal colour vision
- Good line, form and depth perception
- Possession of valid driver's license
Courses
*Program general hours
Classes are generally held 4 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., depending on intakes. Class times are subject to change
| Term One | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| IAST 1010 | Automotive Safety | 2 |
| IAST 1015 | Communication and Business | 2 |
| IAST 1020 | Automotive Repair Tools | 4 |
| IAST 1023 | Automotive Electronics | 6 |
| Credits | 14 | |
| Term Two | ||
| IAST 1025 | Automotive Service | 7 |
| IAST 1030 | Automotive Methods | 4 |
| IAST 1035 | Hydraulic & Mechanical Brakes | 6 |
| Credits | 17 | |
| Term Three | ||
| IAST 2010 | Auto Frame & Body Support | 4 |
| IAST 2016 | Automotive Steering | 7 |
| IAST 2020 | Advanced Electric/Electronics | 5 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Term Four | ||
| IAST 2025 | Electronic Ignition Systems | 3 |
| IAST 2030 | Fuel Delivery Systems | 3 |
| IAST 2035 | Engine Management Systems | 4 |
| IAST 2040 | Emission Control Systems | 3 |
| Credits | 13 | |
| Total Credits | 60 | |
This guide is intended as a general guideline only. The college reserves the right to make changes as appropriate.
* This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Fees and other costs
*Tuition Deposit: $10,200
Tuition deposits are payable usually within two weeks after a Letter of Offer is issued.
| Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 145 | |
| Tuition | 32742 |
Tuition Breakdown
0 - 1
0 - 2
0 - 3
0 - 4
|
| Student union | 213 | |
| College initiative | 164 | |
| Materials | 578 | not including textbooks |
| Campus resource | 328 | |
| Laundry | 655 | |
| Tools (deposit) | 0 | |
| Coverall (deposit) | 85 | |
| Uniform (deposit) | 0 | |
| Medical & Dental | 550 | |
| U-PASS | 607 | |
| Graduation | 40 | |
| Program-specific extra fees | 905 | |
| Total |
This is an international cohort program. As international cohorts are exclusively for international students, international fees apply throughout the duration of the program
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable.
Fees listed are for international students. For domestic programs, visit vcc.ca.
Any refunds are issued according to VCC's international refund policy.
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