About this program

  • Credential Awarded: 1 Year Certificate
  • Campus: Welland
  • Code: 0747 P0747
  • Delivery Length: 1 Year
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Overview

This program is an excellent starting point for entry into many areas of the automotive field.

Graduates will be able to enter directly into many entry level positions in the automotive sector including being set up with solid foundational skills that will help enable them to find an apprenticeship as an Automotive Service Technician.

Highlights
  • Program emphasizes hands-on learning.

  • State-of-the-art facilities for students' applied learning experiences.

  • Small class sizes where students receive individual attention from the professor.

  • More than 3 decades of apprenticeship in-school training experience.

  • Graduates who register as Automotive Service Technician apprentices can challenge the level one exam, which can shorten their apprenticeship training time.

Career Opportunities
  • Assistant service manager
  • Automotive appraiser
  • Automotive service technician
  • Automotive service writer
  • Lube technician
  • Parts person or parts installer
  • Technical salesperson

Please note that some courses in this program may be scheduled on weekends.

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Courses

Term one (2026 Winter)
Code Course Name Credits
AUTO1101 Vehicle Body and Structure 3
AUTO1102 Application Fundamentals 3
AUTO1103 Automotive Hydraulics 3
AUTO1104 Engines I 4
AUTO1120 Work Practices and Fabrication 3
AUTO1200 Computer Applications - Automotive 3
COMM1125 Essentials of Workplace Communication 3
MATH1207 Applied Technical Mathematics for Motive Power Technicians 3
Term two (2026 Spring)
Code Course Name Credits
AUTO1146 Gear Trains 3
AUTO1201 Automotive Electrical Principles I 4
AUTO1202 Suspension and Steering Systems 4
AUTO1203 Braking Systems I 3
AUTO1204 Materials Science 3
AUTO1221 Environmental Controls 3
AUTO1223 Customer Relations 3
Learning Outcomes Term: 1261
  1. Identify basic motive power system problems by using problem-solving and critical thinking skills and strategies and by applying fundamental knowledge of motor vehicle operation, components, and their interrelationships.

  2. Identify, inspect and test basic engine components and systems in compliance with manufacturers' recommendations.

  3. Identify, inspect and test basic electrical, electronic, personal safety, and emission components and systems in compliance with manufacturers' recommendations.

  4. Identify, inspect and test basic drive train components and systems in compliance with manufacturers' recommendations.

  5. Identify, inspect and test basic suspension, steering, and brake components and systems in compliance with manufacturers' recommendations.

  6. Disassemble and assemble components to required specifications by applying workshop skills and knowledge of basic shop practices.

  7. Select and use a variety of troubleshooting techniques and test equipment to assess electronic circuits, vehicle systems, and subsystems.

  8. Apply knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics to the testing and analysis of motive power systems and subsystems.

  9. Communicate information effectively, credibly, and accurately by producing supporting documentation to appropriate standards.

  10. Use information technology and computer skills to support work in a motive power environment.

  11. Prepare, support, maintain, and communicate data from log, record, and documentation systems.

  12. Apply business practices, project management skills, and communication skills to improve customer service.

  13. Assist in quality-control and quality-assurance programs and procedures.

  14. Develop and use personal and professional strategies and plans to improve professional growth, job performance, and work relationships.

  15. Complete all assigned work in compliance with occupational, health, safety, and environmental law; established policies and procedures; codes and regulations; and in accordance with ethical principles.

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Admission Requirements

    Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent including the following required course(s):
  • English – any Grade 12 (C), (U), or (E), or equivalent
  • Mathematics – any Grade 11 (C), (U), or (M), or equivalent
Recommended Courses and/or Skills:

These courses and skills may help you succeed academically in this program, but they are not required for admission.

  • College and Apprenticeship Mathematics – Grade 12 (C)
  • Physics – Grade 11 (U) or Grade 12 (C) or (U)
  • Transportation Technology – Grade 11 (C) or Grade 12 (C)
Selection and Ranking

Applications are evaluated based on the published admission requirements. When the applicant provides proof of meeting the requirements, an offer of admission can be issued, provided space is available in the program.

Learn more about admission decisions.

Computer Requirements

Students are responsible for ensuring that they have a Microsoft Windows-based desktop or laptop that meets or exceeds the following general requirements:

  • A desktop or laptop running on an updated Microsoft Windows operating system (Windows 11 recommended).
  • Minimum 256GB SSD storage and 8 GB memory (note that 16 GB memory is strongly recommended).
  • An integrated or peripheral video camera, microphone, and speaker system.
  • Reliable internet connectivity with Broadband capabilities. A minimum download speed of 10 – 50 Mbps is recommended.

Niagara College may not be able to provide support for systems different than the above specifications as provided software may not operate properly. Academic software for your courses will be made available for download and remote use. Access will also be provided to remote high performance computer labs if software downloads are not feasible.

Note: We do not provide support for Chromebooks or Apple products. (learn more)

Computer/technology requirements may be subject to change without notice.

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Availability

Domestic Applicants Apply
International Applicants Apply
Legendfor intake status table
Open

Accepting applications

Waitlisted

Eligible applications will be placed on a waiting list

Closed

Not accepting applications

Suspended

No longer offered this term

The College reserves the right to cancel or make changes to any course or program, fee, procedure, or campus location at any time.

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Tuition

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