Automotive Systems
Program Office: 403.320.3411 • tradeslc@lethbridgecollege.ca
If you feel your best working under the hood of a car, take your interest in vehicles into the Automotive Systems program. This one-year certificate program will prepare you for an in-demand career in automotive services shops and mechanical garages through a curriculum designed in consultation with industry members.
You’ll get lots of hands-on practice to develop your understanding of automotive technology, from simple components to advanced computerized vehicle systems. Our experienced instructors will work with you in our modern shops to help you understand what makes vehicles tick.
Your Investment
Program fees will vary. To view fee information for your program, go to lethbridgecollege.ca/programs and select your program.
Graduation
Upon successful completion of all program requirements, students are awarded an Automotive Systems certificate.
New applicants are accepted into the Automotive Systems program for the Fall term only with a late August program start date.
General Admissions Requirements
All applicants must meet the general admission requirements for Lethbridge College programs, as indicated in the Admission section of this calendar.
Academic Requirements
Applicants to this program do not require a high school diploma; however, they must satisfy the following specific course requirements (or equivalencies):
- Grade 11 English
- Grade 11 Math
The following courses or subjects are recommended for the best possible outcome in the Automotive Systems program:
- Physics, Chemistry, and Science
- Grade 12 Math and English
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Year 1 | ||
Term I | ||
AST-1116 | Introduction to Trade Practices | 1.5 |
AST-1119 | Basic Automotive Electrical I | 3 |
AST-1122 | Automotive Industry | 1.5 |
AST-1131 | Automotive Braking Systems | 3 |
AST-1133 | Automotive Drivelines | 3 |
AST-1134 | Auto Directional Control Systems | 3 |
AST-1135 | Basic Maintenance | 3 |
Credits | 18 | |
Term II | ||
AST-1138 | Automotive Electrical Systems II | 3 |
AST-1139 | Advanced Automotive Electrical Systems | 3 |
AST-1141 | Automotive Drivetrains | 3 |
AST-1142 | Automotive Engine Systems | 3 |
AST-1143 | Engine Fundamentals | 3 |
AST-1145 | Performance Projects | 3 |
FWK-1125 | Automotive Field Work | 1.5 |
Credits | 19.5 | |
Total Credits | 37.5 |
Special Note: Students who successfully complete the Automotive Systems one-year certificate program are eligible to write their first and second year apprenticeship exams and earn hours towards first period work experience and hours towards second period work experience of the Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship program.
Apprenticeship Pathway
Students who have successfully completed Lethbridge College's Automotive Systems Certificate program can continue to obtain their Journeyman Certification by registering with Apprenticeship Alberta. For more information about Alberta's apprenticeship requirements go to: https://tradesecrets.alberta.ca/
Practicum Experience Requirements
There is a required practicum component to this program. The College dictates the legal terms and conditions governing the practicum experience
Upon successful completion of the program, you'll be awarded a total of 600 hours of experience credit and be prepared to write first- and second-year Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship exams. Wherever your future takes you, you'll be able to drive away from Lethbridge College and into positions such as:
- Apprentice Automotive Service Technician
- Automotive Systems Certificate Instructor
- Equipment Salesperson
- Journeyman Automotive Service Technician
- Mobile Repair Service Technician
- Service Manager
- Shop Foreman
- Shop Owner