Programs of Study

Automotive Systems Technology AAS

Program Description

The Automotive Systems Technology curriculum prepares students for employment as automotive service technicians. The program introduces automotive careers and increases student awareness of the challenges associated with this fast-paced and ever-changing field. 

Classroom and lab experiences integrate technical and academic coursework. Emphasis is placed on automotive technology theory, servicing and operation of brakes, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, steering/suspension, automatic transmissions, transaxles, engine repair, climate control, and manual drive trains. 

Upon completion of this curriculum, students should be prepared to take the ASE exam and be ready for full-time employment in dealerships and repair facilities throughout the automotive service industry. This curriculum complies with the standard approved by the State Board of Community Colleges.

Admission Criteria

Admission to this program requires that students be high school graduates or have a recognized equivalency.  

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  • Follow recognized automotive industry standards to demonstrate proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing automotive transmissions, drivetrains, transaxles and axles.
  • Demonstrate the use of automotive industry standards for engine repair and performance.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of transportation technologies, to include climate control, electrical and electronic systems, and emerging technologies.
  • Diagnose and repair suspension/steering and brakes systems.

Career Opportunities

Upon completing the program; students may be hired by:

  • automobile dealership
  • automotive repair and maintenance facilities
  • automotive parts, accessories, and tire facilities
  • federal government
  • local government

Transfer Opportunities

While the AAS is a degree leading to immediate job placement upon graduation, Craven Community College has a special relationship for transfer to a BS degree in Industrial Technology with East Carolina University.

Contact Information

Executive Director of Career Programs
252-638-7372

Admissions Office
252-638-7430

Degree Requirements

The following suggested schedule is based on full-time enrollment. Part-Time Students begin with ACA 111, TRN-110, and TRN-120. Continue with sequence of required courses. General education courses may be taken at any time. For information about prerequisites and corequisites, please refer to the catalog.

Courses in this program

First Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 14

Second Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 15

Third Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 9

Fourth Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 13

Fifth Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 14

Major Elective

Contact an advisor for information on work based learning courses.