Automotive Technology

The Automotive Technology curriculum consists of eight areas of study as defined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and is certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). This non-profit corporation is dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair as well as assisting in training and program development throughout the nation. The eight content areas of study, along with the College’s general education requirements, are structured into four groups with all eight areas of study being offered during a two-year period. Successful completion of this program will enable students to enter the automotive job market.

Upon admission to the Automotive Program, students are required to purchase a tool set as outlined in the tool section of this catalog. Students are also required to purchase school-approved coveralls and red rags for use in the shops and are responsible for a cleaning fee each semester.

Gainful Employment

Automotive Technology
Associate of Applied Science

Career Outlook:   According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow 17 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

As the number of vehicles in use continues to grow, more entry-level service technicians will be needed to do basic maintenance and repair, such as brake pad replacements and oil changes. The increasing lifespan of late-model cars and light trucks will further increase demand for qualified workers.
However, continuing consolidation in the automotive industry may lessen the need for new mechanics.

Employment Opportunities with SOC Code:
Automotive Service Technician 49-3023.00
Automotive Specialty Technician 49-3023.02
Automotive Master Mechanics 49-3023.01
Career/ Technical Education Teachers 25-2032.00

Salary Forecast: MT CO
Automotive Service Tech 49-3023.00 35,520 41,360
Automotive Specialty Tech 49-3023.02 35,520 41,360
Automotive Master Mech 49-3023.01 35,520 41,360
Career/ Technical Education Teachers 25-2032.00 42,350 52,660

For the most current salary information please refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics “Occupational Outlook Handbook found at www.bls.gov/ooh/.

Program Cost:
Approximately $10, 800 



Associate of Applied Science

Automotive Technology


Length of Program: 4 Semesters
Type of Program: Associate of Applied Science
Semester of Entry: Fall and Spring. The suggested sequence in this catalog is for students entering in the fall semester.
Please see your advisor for a suggested spring entry sequence.

FIRST YEAR

Fall Semester

AST108  Automotive Manual Drive Trains 7
AST130  Introduction to Automotive Electronics 7
AUTO104 Automotive Mechanics  2
M111T  Technical Mathematics 3
Total Semester Credits 19

Spring Semester

AST160  Automotive Engine Repair 6
AST172  Automotive Heating/ Air Conditioning 5
AST230  Electric/Electronics Systems ll 4
HT100T Human Relations 2
Total Semester Credits 17

SECOND YEAR

Fall Semester

AST118  Brakes Chassis 7
AST262  Engine Performance l 8
WRIT121T Introduction to Technical Writing 3
Total Semester Credits 18

Spring Semester

AST264  Engine Performance ll 5
AST270  Automotive Transmissions/ Transaxles 7
AST280  Applied Laboratory Experience/ Light Repair 5
Total Semester Credits 17
TOTAL CREDITS 71

Upon their successful graduation in the Automotive Technology Program at Helena College, a 4-year B.S. degree in Automotive Technology is available through a partnership at Montana State University-Northern.



Certificate of Technical Studies

Hybrid Vehicle Service Technology


Type of Program: Certificate of Technical Studies
Semester of Entry: Fall and Spring.
The suggested sequence in this catalog is for students entering in the fall semester.
Please see your advisor for a suggested spring entry sequence.

Certificate of Technical Studies
Hybrid Vehicle Service Technology


The Hybrid Vehicle Service Technology Certificate prepares students for employment in automotive service technician occupations working with hybrid vehicle technologies such as:
  • Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Service Technician
  • Development Technician
  • Battery Service Technician
  • Electrical Test Technician
Courses in this certificate of technical studies emphasizes laboratory skills and a project-based experience.

FIRST YEAR

Fall Semester

AST130  Introduction to Automotive Electronics 7
AST160  Automotive Engine Repair 6
AST230 Electric/Electronics Systems ll 4
AST262 Engine Performance I 8
AST274 Introduction to Hybrid Vehicle Technology 3
Total Semester Credits 28