The Stark State College 1-Year Automotive Technology Certificate contains the core automotive courses that are in the automotive technology associate degree program and are structured to quickly prepare students for a productive career in the automotive service and repair industry.
In our two state-of-the-art automotive facilities, students use the latest tools and diagnostic equipment to apply practical service techniques to our fleet of late-model vehicles. This builds hands-on skills that can be applied immediately upon graduation.
The curriculum is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) preparing students to pursue Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Students successfully completing this course of study will receive a 1-Year Automotive Technology Certificate from Stark State College.
Students desiring to obtain an associate’s degree can choose to add the academic courses that are listed on the Automotive Technology Program (2250) advising sheet.
Major code: 2256 Business, Engineering, and Information Technologies Division Automotive, Transportation, and CDL Technologies Department
The catalog in force is assigned to students based on the academic year they first applied to the college, and changes only when students change their major or request the change in writing. Refer to Policy No. 3357:15-13-28.
2026-27 Catalog
Effective Summer 2026
Some courses listed within the program may require a prerequisite or co-requisite.
Pre/Co-requisites will be listed within each course hyperlink below.
Refer to Policy No. 3357:15-13-04 and 3357:15-13-05
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | ||
| SSC101 | Student Success Seminar | 1 |
| AUT121 | Automotive Technical Skills | 2 |
| AUT122 | Automotive Systems and Engine Technology | 4 |
| AUT123 | Engine Diagnosis and Major Service | 4 |
| AUT124 | Vehicle Chassis Systems | 4 |
| AUT125 | Automotive Electrical and Accessory Systems | 4 |
| AUT126 | Automotive HVAC Systems | 2 |
| AUT221 | Fuel and Emissions Management Systems | 3 |
| AUT222 | Engine System Performance Diagnosis | 3 |
| AUT223 | Advanced Automotive Electronics | 3 |
| AUT225 | Automotive Drivetrain 1 | 3 |
| AUT226 | Automotive Drivetrain 2 | 3 |
| AUT227 | Computerized Vehicle Control | 3 |
| AUT233 | Automotive Diagnostic Applications | 2 |
| Total Hours | 41 | |
Full-Time Student Advising Notes
Academic Advising
Students should make an appointment to see their advisor before registering for classes each semester. They should have prepared a completed registration form, including courses they wish to take, prior to this meeting.
Course Sequence
The semester-by-semester listing below provides the normal scheduling option for students seeking a one-year certificate.
| First Semester | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| SSC101 | Student Success Seminar | 1 |
| AUT121 | Automotive Technical Skills | 2 |
| AUT122 | Automotive Systems and Engine Technology | 4 |
| AUT123 | Engine Diagnosis and Major Service | 4 |
| AUT125 | Automotive Electrical and Accessory Systems | 4 |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| AUT124 | Vehicle Chassis Systems | 4 |
| AUT126 | Automotive HVAC Systems | 2 |
| AUT223 | Advanced Automotive Electronics | 3 |
| AUT225 | Automotive Drivetrain 1 | 3 |
| AUT226 | Automotive Drivetrain 2 | 3 |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Third Semester | ||
| AUT221 | Fuel and Emissions Management Systems | 3 |
| AUT222 | Engine System Performance Diagnosis | 3 |
| AUT227 | Computerized Vehicle Control | 3 |
| AUT233 | Automotive Diagnostic Applications | 2 |
| Hours | 11 | |
| Total Hours | 41 | |
Program Learning Outcomes
This program is designed to prepare students to demonstrate the following learning outcomes:
- Graduates will demonstrate the ability to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to diagnose automotive issues across various systems, including engine performance, electrical systems, brakes, and heating and air conditioning, in accordance with ASE standards.
- Graduates will possess a comprehensive understanding of automotive technology, including the principles of engine repair, transmission systems, and suspension and steering, enabling them to perform repairs and maintenance consistent with ASE certification requirements.
- Graduates will identify and implement safety protocols and environmentally responsible practices in automotive service and repair, adhering to industry regulations and standards as outlined by ASE certifications.
- Graduates will exhibit effective communication skills and professionalism when interacting with clients and colleagues, ensuring clear explanations of automotive issues and recommendations for service, aligned with the expectations of the automotive service industry.