Associate Degree in Automotive Technology

As a National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) certified school, Gateway Technical College is recognized as upholding the highest quality training for an Automotive Technician program. The Automotive Maintenance Technician technical diploma and the Automotive Technology associate degree program provide the hands-on training and education you need for a successful career in an automotive repair facility or retail service center. Gateway's automotive training programs are taught at the Horizon Center for Transportation Technology. The state-of-the-art facility houses the latest in automotive training equipment and serves as a strategic hub for the Midwest’s transportation industry.

The 70 credit Automotive Technology associate degree program will prepare students for a career as an automotive line technician. The line technician can diagnose, repair and perform complex maintenance on automobiles and light trucks. The technician requires customer service skills as well as mechanical, electrical and professional skills to work on today’s hottest vehicles. Graduates can also obtain positions as parts and sales suppliers, testing technicians for manufacturers, manufacturer sales representatives, manufacturer trainers or a manager within a transportation-related field. During the program, students will become knowledgeable in engine performance, engine repair, manual and automatic drivelines, transmissions and transaxles, electrical systems and electronics. Graduates are prepared to take the Master ASE certification exam. The Master ASE certification shows potential employers and consumers that the technician is knowledgeable in the field of certification including the areas of the engine performance, light vehicle diesel engines and automatic transmission.

Learning By Doing

Gateway’s automotive classrooms and lab have the latest instructional technology, including LJ Create- an automotive training resource, which is specifically designed for teaching the skills needed for the next generation of vehicle technicians.

The automotive lab at the Horizon Center is a fully equipped auto repair shop, featuring lifts, state-of-the-art vehicle diagnostic, and repair equipment. Through a strong partnership with Snap-on Incorporated, the automotive lab houses the most up to date Snap-on equipment. Students will learn how to use the newest Snap-on diagnostic devices and obtain Snap-on certifications as well. Certifications include DVOM Meter, Ethos, Solus Pro, Vantage Pro, and Verus. These certifications will make students more marketable to potential employers.

Students are encouraged to join the Automotive club. This club provides students opportunities including; attending the Chicago Auto Show, creating their own auto show and attending several other student-run events. Students can also participate in community service projects and have the opportunity to act as mentors, guides, and judges at state and local automotive competitions held at Gateway.

Graduation Requirements

1. Minimum 64 credits with an average of 2.0 or above.
2. *Average of 2.0 (“C”) or above for these major courses.

For a complete list of Graduation Requirements, check the Student Handbook.

Program Offerings