Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology - AAS

If you’re interested in how cars and trucks run and how you can service and repair them, choose BTC’s automotive technician training program, which will help prepare you for top jobs in the automotive field.

Career choices are extensive in the field of automotive technology; you’ll be well-qualified for automotive technician or service technician jobs. Or you can work as a specialist in automatic transmission, brake, engine performance, or electrical systems. If you’re looking for an Automotive Technology associate degree program or certificate program that provides a wide range of high-demand skills sought by top employers (including automotive dealerships, auto rental companies, federal and local government repair shops, and fleet maintenance businesses), then check out the program at Bellingham Technical College.

Employment Information

Data are provided on a program (not credential) level

83% BTC graduate placement rate¹

$60,407 starting annual wage²
$73,720 average annual wage²
$93,169 potential annual wage²

Employment and Wage Data Sources

¹Employment data come from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and reflect WA/OR employment for students enrolled at BTC between 2017-18 and 2019-20. Students are included in the employment rate if they left with a credential. Rates are not shown for programs with fewer than 10 students meeting the above criteria.

²Whatcom County and WA State wage data come from Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) 2021 Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates and reflect 2018-21 employment. Wage data represent occupations that BTC faculty have identified as the most relevant career paths for program graduates. Note that these wages reflect employees with varying educational levels/credentials. For cases in which multiple occupations have been identified by faculty, a weighted percentile is calculated using each occupation’s percentile wage and employment size estimate. Wages are not shown for programs for which occupations do not meet the ESD’s minimum thresholds for publishing. If the program has wage data from the Washington SBCTC that involves shift work, these ESD wages reflect the same number of hours used in the annual wage calculation. Starting wage = 25th percentile, median wage = 50th percentile, wage potential = 75th percentile.

Estimated Program Costs
Estimated costs based on 7 quarters to complete this program
The first quarter of study will likely be more expensive as students pay for materials needed to start the program.
Average Tuition and Fees per Quarter: $2,800
Average cost per credit: $159
Total Tuition and Fees: $19,600
Total Tools: $600 - $9,000
Total Materials: $300 - $500
Total Clothing: $300 - $300
Average annual cost of living in Bellingham
Living expenses (housing and food): $16,512
Transportation: $1,935
Miscellaneous/Personal: $1,800
TOTAL: $20,247

Tuition Fees and Rates overview page

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

This program admits students once a year, in the fall quarter.

Additional Requirements:

Prior to enrolling in program classes, during the mandatory GET Started appointment, students will be required to present and attest the following to the Outreach, Advising, and Counseling Department:

Present your valid driver's license;
Attest that you presented a valid driver’s license to your program advisor and that you will notify your program faculty immediately if your driver’s license is suspended OR restricted for any reason.

Important Program Notes:

While it is not required to have a clean driving record to enter the program, some employers and internship providers in this field may only hire applicants who have a clean driving record;
All General Education courses must be completed prior to the beginning of the 2nd year of the program.

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

Admissions application and assessment testing in Reading, Math and Writing is required. Your score on the test and/or your previous transcripts will determine where you begin your course sequence. Contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at admissions@btc.edu for assistance with academic planning.

What are My Next Steps?

1. Apply to BTC and Financial Aid
2. Assess Your Starting Point
3. Advising & Registration
4. Prepare to Attend

Classes

Total Program Credits: 123

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes
You are now able to sign up for classes in ctcLink using the class list below. It requires certain steps to work smoothly. Please read and follow the instructions:
Once at the beginning of each session:
- Follow the link below which will open the ctcLink login screen in a new browser tab
- In the new tab login to ctcLink
- Return back to this tab
These steps log you into ctcLink and keep you logged in until you log out manually or close your browser. If you or a public computer it is good security practice to logout and close all browser windows when you are done.
Proceed to ctcLink login in new window
For each class:
- Click on the name of the class below to show future offerings
- Click the 'Find in ctcLink' button below the class you wish to find. (Button will only show if registration is open.)
- A new tab with the ctcLink Class Search tool will open
- Without changing any of the filter options, click the 'Search' button
- Only the specific class you selected will show. If logged in following the steps above, you will be able to register for the class.

Quarter 1

AUTO 100

Introduction to Automotive Technology

8 CR

AUTO 102 Introduction to Automotive Technology Lab 4 CR
This course will familiarize the student with the shop, tools, and equipment within the Automotive Repair industry. Students will learn safe work and tool practices, thread repair techniques, and to demonstrate service repairs and inspections on various types of vehicles. Students will also perform hands-on tasks on various automotive components and systems, using technology on a regular basis to locate service information data, assignment results, and procedures. Corequisites: AUTO 100 and AUTO 113.
Current & Future Offerings:

or higher
Quarter 2
AUTO 150 Engines 6 CR
This course provides a detailed study of modern internal combustion engines. Coursework includes fundamental engine design and operation, component identification and related mechanical systems such as cooling and lubrication. An emphasis will be placed on the diagnosis and repair of customer concerns related to engine mechanical failures.
Prerequisites:
AUTO 100, AUTO 102, and AUTO 113, all with a D or higher OR DET 100, DET 102, and AUTO 113, all with a D or higher. Corequisites: AUTO 151 and AUTO 152.
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026 MTWTh 8:00 AM-9:30 AM Beeson Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
AUTO 151 Electricity/Electronics 2 CR
This course provides an introduction to electrical theory. An emphasis is placed on electrical behavior in automotive circuits, basic automotive wiring schematics and fundamental troubleshooting techniques.
Prerequisites:
AUTO 100, AUTO 102, and AUTO 113, all with a D or higher OR DET 100, DET 102, and AUTO 113, all with a D or higher. Corequisites: AUTO 150 and AUTO 152.
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026 F 8:00 AM-9:30 AM Beeson Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
AUTO 152 Engines Lab 8 CR
This course provides a thorough exploration into the repair of modern internal combustion engines. Practice includes on-vehicle and on-bench diagnosis and repairs of engine mechanical related components. An emphasis will be placed on professional documentation of customer concerns related to engine mechanical failures.
Prerequisites:
AUTO 100, AUTO 102, and AUTO 113, all with a D or higher OR DET 100, DET 102, and AUTO 113, all with a D or higher. Corequisites: AUTO 150 and AUTO 151.
Current & Future Offerings:

AMATH 100

Applied Occupational Math

5 CR

or higher
Quarter 3

AUTO 160

Chassis Systems

8 CR

AUTO 162 Chassis Systems Lab 8 CR
This course will provide the opportunity for the students to diagnose and repair automotive chassis systems. Students will be exposed to the operation and use of common industry service and repair tools used during the diagnosis, repair and replacement of failed steering & suspension components, drivetrain components and braking system components. Pre-requisites: AUTO 150, AUTO 151, and AUTO 152, all with a D or higher. Co-Requisites: AUTO 160
Current & Future Offerings:

CMST& 210

Interpersonal Communication

5 CR

Designed to introduce students to the application of basic interpersonal communication theory, with a focus on achieving success in the workplace. Topics explored include self-awareness, self-disclosure, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, assertiveness, teamwork and group dynamics, conflict management strategies, and communicating in a diverse world.
Prerequisites:
Placement into AENGL 100 or higher or completion of ENGL 095 with a C or higher.

Current & Future Offerings:

Spring 2025
04/08/2025-06/27/2025	TTh	10:10 AM-11:30 AM	Burns	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/08/2025-06/27/2025	MW	11:50 AM-1:10 PM	Burns	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/08/2025-06/27/2025			Zamora	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
04/08/2025-06/27/2025			Zamora	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
04/08/2025-06/27/2025	T	2:10 PM-4:20 PM	Burns	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/08/2025-06/27/2025			Waters	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Summer 2025
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Burns	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
07/08/2025-08/29/2025			Burns	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.

Introduction to Sociology

5 CR

Quarter 4
AUTO 219 Field-Based Experience I 12 CR
This is the first in a series of four internships for the program. Students interview for, obtain and maintain an internship experience at an automotive repair (or related industry) business. The student is normally working under the direct supervision of an experienced, journeyman-level technician. The student will report weekly via a blog post that includes personal reflection. The internship site is a real-world extension of the classroom and the student will be able to apply knowledge gained previously in the program to an actual workplace environment. Student work will be monitored by an instructor from BTC who will visit the work site periodically.
Prerequisites:
(AUTO 107, AUTO 113, AUTO 122, and AUTO 161, all with a D or higher.) OR (AUTO 160 and AUTO 162, both with a D or higher.) AND AENGL 100 or higher, AMATH 100 or higher, and CMST& 210, all with a D or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Summer 2025
07/08/2025-08/29/2025 Beeson Hybrid Asynchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Quarter 5
AUTO 220 Electricity/Electronics 2 6 CR
This course provides a detailed study of electrical/electronic systems found in a modern vehicle. In depth use of wiring diagrams and a wide variety of diagnostic techniques and tools will be explored. Coursework includes low voltage battery/starting/charging including start-stop, lighting, comfort, convenience, access, safety systems, ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) and communication networks. Pre-requisites: (AUTO 107, AUTO 113, AUTO 122, and AUTO 161, all with a D or higher.) OR (AUTO 160 and AUTO 162, both with a D or higher.) AND AENGL 100 or higher, AMATH 100 or higher, and CMST& 210, all with a D or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025 MTWThF 8:00 AM-9:15 AM Beeson Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
AUTO 222 Electricity/Electronics 2 Lab 6 CR
This course provides for the application of a variety of diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques relating to electrical/electronic systems. Students will practice using wiring diagrams and/or component analysis to diagnose a variety of customer concerns relating to electrical and electronic systems. An emphasis will be placed on professional documentation of customer concerns related to electrical and electronic systems failures.
Current & Future Offerings:
AUTO 229 Field-Based Experience II 4 CR
This is the second in a series of internships required by the program and builds on the industry skills and experience acquired in the first internship (AUTO 219). Students interview for, obtain and maintain an internship experience at an automotive repair (or related industry) business. The student is normally working under the direct supervision of an experienced, journeyman-level technician. The student will report weekly via blog post that includes personal reflection. The internship site is a real-world extension of the classroom and the student will be able to apply knowledge gained previously in the program to an actual workplace environment. Student work will be monitored by an instructor from BTC who will visit the work site periodically. Co-Requisite: AUTO 220
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025 Beeson Hybrid Asynchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Quarter 6
AUTO 230 Transmission Systems 8 CR
This course will focus on the theory, description and operation of automatic and manual transmission drive systems. The course content will include gear basics, including the basics of spur and helical cut gears as well as the basics of the planetary gear system and how the necessary gear ratios are attained in order to keep the vehicles engine in operating rpm range. Pre-requisites: AUTO 220 and AUTO 222, both with a D or higher. Co-Requisites: AUTO 232 and AUTO 259
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026 MTWThF 8:00 AM-9:30 AM Lenn Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
AUTO 232 Transmission Systems Lab 4 CR
This course will provide the opportunity to remove and replace a manual transmission, including the clutch, and an automatic transmission. Students will also completely disassemble and reassemble a manual and an automatic transmission. Power-flow through the gear-train of a manual and an automatic transmission, including the torque converter, will be covered. Students will diagnose and trouble-shoot dry and wet clutches, hydraulic systems, electrical/electronic controls and mechanical systems. Pre-requisites: AUTO 220 and AUTO 222, both with a D or higher. Co-Requisites: AUTO 230 and& AUTO 259
Current & Future Offerings:
AUTO 259 Field-Based Experience III 4 CR
This is the third in a series of internships required by the program and builds on the industry skills and experience acquired in the first two internships. Students also continue to expand their classroom experience by applying skills learned in previous quarters to this internship. Students interview for, obtain and maintain an internship at an automotive repair (or related industry) business. The student is normally working under the direct supervision of an experienced, journeyman-level technician. The student will report weekly via a blog post that includes personal reflection. The internship site is a real-world extension of the classroom and the student will be able to apply knowledge gained previously in the program to an actual workplace environment. Student work will be monitored by an instructor from BTC who will visit the work site periodically.
Prerequisites:
AUTO 229 with a D or higher or instructor permission. CO-requisites: AUTO 230 and AUTO 232
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026 Beeson Hybrid Asynchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Quarter 7

AUTO 279

Field-Based Experience IV

AUTO 282 Engine Performance Lab 6 CR
This course provides an opportunity for the application of a variety of diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques relating to engine performance and emission control systems. Students will practice the diagnosis and repair of modern fuel systems, ignition systems and emission control systems found in modern gasoline and light duty diesel engines. An emphasis will be placed on professional documentation of customer concerns related to the engine performance and emission control systems. Pre-requisites: AUTO 230 and AUTO 232, both with a D or higher. Co-Requisites: AUTO 279, AUTO 280, and AUTO 290,
Current & Future Offerings:

AUTO 290

Alternative Energy and Emerging Technology

2 CR

View past class requirements for this program.
Select the year you started or the closest prior:

Program Outcomes

After successfully completing the AAS degree, students will be able to:

Comply with personal and environmental safety practices specific to the automotive industry.
Perform advanced maintenance and light repairs on various automotive systems.
Diagnose and repair electrical and electronic systems.
Provide critical thinking skills while utilizing technical information and testing procedures to diagnose customer concerns.
Communicate work performed using trade specific language while documenting critical aspects clearly and concisely.
Demonstrate positive work traits and excellent customer service skills.
Research and identify emerging automotive related technologies.
Model teamwork that is reflective of a diverse work environment.

Employment Outlook

Approximately 78% of students in the automotive technology program at Bellingham Technical College are employed within nine months of graduation. The average annual income in the automotive technology field is $46,675, with an earning potential of about $60,299 per year.*

BTC’s General Automotive Repair and Vehicle Service Technician certificates prepare graduates for entry-level jobs at muffler repair shops, tire stores, and oil change service centers.

Most program graduates work as automotive service technicians. In larger shops, positions have become increasingly specialized. Opportunities for specialty positions include automatic transmission specialist, brake specialist, engine performance specialist, front end specialist and electrical specialist.

Potential places of employment include automotive dealerships, independent service garages, federal and local government repair shops, rental industry, service stations, specialty shops, tire and service industry, and fleet maintenance.

Faculty & Support

Daniel Beeson

Automotive Technology

Personal Bio
Dan Beeson has been an Automotive Technology instructor at Bellingham Technical College since 1996. He has more than a decade of hands-on experience as an Automotive Technician and is currently an ASE Certified Master Automotive Technician with an Advanced Engine Performance Specialist certification. Dan received his apprenticeship training in the San Jose, California area and became a journeyman automotive technician in 1988. He worked primarily for GM dealerships in California and Washington, eventually reaching the level of Chevrolet Master Technician specializing in drivability, fuel injection, and electronics troubleshooting. In addition, Dan has worked as a trainer with Snap-On Training and Clark College.

Degrees and Credentials
Certificate, ASE Master Automobile Technician
Certificate, Certified Journeyman Automotive Technician
Certificate, ASE Advanced Engine Performance Specialist Certified
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State

Nick Lenn

Automotive Technology

Degrees and Credentials
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State

Contacts

If you have questions about this program or want help with the admissions steps to Bellingham Technical College, please email outreach@btc.edu.

Current students wanting academic planning and support, can connect with the program Instructor(s) or email TransportationNav@btc.edu

Fall 2025
09/17/2025-12/05/2025	MTWTh	8:00 AM-10:00 AM	Lenn	Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.

Winter 2026
01/06/2026-03/27/2026	MTWTh	8:00 AM-9:30 AM	Beeson	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.

Spring 2025
04/08/2025-06/27/2025	MTWThF	8:00 AM-9:30 AM	Lenn	Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026	MTWThF	8:00 AM-9:30 AM	Lenn	Face to Face
This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.

Spring 2025
04/08/2025-06/27/2025	Pollard	Online Asynchronous
The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.

Spring 2025
04/08/2025-06/27/2025	F	8:00 AM-9:00 AM	Beeson	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
Spring 2026
04/07/2026-06/25/2026	F	8:00 AM-10:00 AM	Beeson	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.

Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology - AAS

Employment Information

Employment and Wage Data Sources

Estimated Program Costs

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

What are My Next Steps?

Classes

Total Program Credits: 123

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

Quarter 4

Quarter 5

Quarter 6

Quarter 7

View past class requirements for this program.

Program Outcomes

Employment Outlook

Faculty & Support

Daniel Beeson

Personal Bio

Degrees and Credentials

Nick Lenn

Degrees and Credentials

Contacts