Cypress College
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Degree Programs Associate in Science Degree in Automotive Technology Our program is designed to prepare you to work as an automotive technician or in a related area of the automotive or transportation industry. In our state-of-the-art auto shop you will receive direct practical work in all areas of automotive maintenance and repair under simulated on-the-job conditions. Most of the courses prepare you for multiple ASE certifications. The program will provide you the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills demanded of the modern automotive technician.

To earn an Associate Degree (AS), you must complete:
  • All major course requirements with a minimum of "C"
  • 25 units of general education graduation requirements
  • Electives to complete a minimum of 60 units
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.0
  • At least 50% of all major course work must be completed at Cypress College
Major course requirements:

AT 120 C(Engine Repair & Machining) (12 units) Learn the practical skills needed for accurate internal combustion engine diagnosis and repair and all phases of engine rebuilding machine work. Engine theory, design, repair, practical and theoretical high performance modification are part of the course. Individualized instruction of automotive rebuilding tools and machinery is an integral part of this course. Prepare for ASE certification tests A1, MQ1, MG2, and MG3.

AT 130 C(Chassis & Brake) (12 units) Learn the operating principles, design, service, repair and diagnosis of chassis and brake systems of domestic and import vehicles. Major topics will include wheel alignment techniques, wheel balance, power steering systems, hydraulics, disc and drum brake systems, and power assisting systems. Prepare for ASE certification tests A4 and A5.

AT 140 C(Transmission & Drive train) (12 units) Learn operating principles, design, repair, overhaul and service procedures of automotive transmissions, 4 and 5 speed synchromesh transmissions, clutch assemblies, drive lines, final drive axles and trans-axle units. Special emphasis on procedures to industry standards.

AT 150 C(Performance & Driveability) (12 units) Learn operating principles, design, and repair procedures of automotive electrical and fuel systems. In addition, alternators, starters, batteries, ignition systems, computerized engine management systems, emission control systems, 5-gas analysis, ignition analyzer and scan tool use will be covered. Prepare for ASE certification tests A6 and A8.

AT 160 C(Basic Auto Electricity) (4 units) Introductory course in the concepts of electrical and electronic control of the automobile. Application in the use of test equipment on similar board and “on-car” diagnosis with electrical diagrams, charts, and schematics.


Soon to be offered...
Associate in Science Degree in Advanced Transportation Technology and Energy Alternative fuels are a growing aspect of everyday life for Southern Californians. We are committed to helping you gain the critical edge necessary to achieve success in this dynamic industry by providing you with the most practical and personalized education available at a low cost. In our state-of-the-art advanced transportation technology and energy (ATTE) lab you will receive direct practical training in all areas of ATTE under simulated on-the-job conditions. Most of the courses prepare you for multiple ASE certifications. The program will provide you the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills demanded of the ATTE professional.

To earn an Associate Degree (AS), you must complete:
  • All major course requirements with a minimum of "C"
  • 25 units of general education graduation requirements
  • Electives to complete a minimum of 60 units
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.0
  • At least 50% of all major course work must be completed at Cypress College
Major course requirements:

AT 150 C(Performance & Driveability) (12 units) Learn operating principles, design, and repair procedures of automotive electrical and fuel systems. In addition, alternators, starters, batteries, ignition systems, computerized engine management systems, emission control systems, 5-gas analysis, ignition analyzer and scan tool use will be covered. Prepare for ASE certification tests A6 and A8 will be covered.

AT 162 C(Diagnostics & Digital Scopes) (2 units) Learn advanced principles and procedures of power train control diagnosis. Work using digital storage oscilloscopes is included. Topics include lab scope functions, sensor evaluation and analysis, actuator diagnosis and circuit testing.

AT 163 C(Diagnostics & Scan-Tools) (2 units) Learn diagnostic strategies, repair and service of power-train control systems using scan tools. Topics include testing engine control systems, diagnostic trouble codes, data stream, OBD I and OBD II systems.

AT 164 C(Diagnostics & OBD) (2 units) Learn operating principles, diagnostic strategies and repair procedures of the OBD II system. This course meets Bureau of Automotive Repair requirements for smog check technician licensing.

AT 170 C(Basic Area Clean Air Car) (5 units) Prepare for the State of California Licensed Smog Check Mechanic Test. Modern diagnostic equipment including BAR 97 chassis dynamometer will be used. AT 171 C(Advanced Clean Air Car) (2 units) Learn operating procedures, diagnostic strategies, and repair procedures for loaded mode emissions testing. Course emphasizes baseline techniques, five gas analysis, and alb scope use. Course meets California BAR Smog Check licensing requirements.

AT 180 C(Introduction to Alternative Fuels) (3 units) This course is an introductory course on alternative fuels as used in the transportation industry. Various fuels will be compared with an emphasis on compressed natural gas. Topics include the theory, design, operation, conversion, diagnosis, and repair of gaseous fuel systems. Laboratory activities will emphasize skill competency in vehicle preparation, fuel system conversion and the diagnosis and repair of alternative fuel vehicles.

AT 181 C(Introduction to Electric/Hybrid vehicles) (2 units) This course is an introductory course in electric (EV) and electric/hybrid vehicles as used in the transportation industry. Topics include the theory, design, operation, maintenance, and repair of batteries, motors, controllers, chargers, and regenerative braking systems. Technician’s safety is also covered.

AT 200 C(Electronic/Electrical Diagnostics) (12 units) Advisory prerequisite: AT101 or AT110 or the equivalent of one year of automotive work experience. Learn operating principles, design, and repair procedures of automotive electrical/electronic systems. In addition, lighting system, power window, power door locks, under dash components, charging systems, starter, batteries, and computerized engine management systems will be covered. Modern test equipment such as engine analyzers will be used. Skill competency developed under shop conditions on OBD II and newer vehicles.