Automotive Technology A.A.S.

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Train for a career in automotive technology with direct experience diagnosing, repairing and maintaining vehicles on the road today.

Moraine Valley’s Automotive Technology Program offers impactful training you need to diagnose and repair today’s vehicles. Our program has achieved Master Automobile Service Technology (MAST) accreditation by the ASE Education Foundation, a nationally recognized accrediting organization and division of .

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Fuel Your Future

The A.A.S. degree in Automotive Technology lets you build a career with strong earning potential in the automotive industry.

An A.A.S. in Automotive Technology can lead to a wide range of careers in the automotive repair industry and related technical fields, with strong earning potential and opportunities to grow your skills over time. Whether you want to work in a dealership, independent shop or specialize in advanced diagnostics, this degree prepares you for roles always in demand.

If you’re looking to continue your education, Moraine Valley has transfer agreements with Southern Illinois University and Ferris State University. Graduates can complete two additional years to earn a bachelor’s degree in Automotive Technology.

The Automotive Technology Program at Moraine Valley is designed to be completed in about two years.

The Automotive Technology A.A.S. degree can typically be completed in about two years when attending full time. Your timeline may vary based on your schedule and course load. Throughout the program, you’ll learn how modern vehicle systems operate and gain experience diagnosing and repairing today’s increasingly complex automotive technology.

Proficiency Credit (PC) allows students to earn college credit by demonstrating knowledge attained outside of the traditional college classroom setting.

Here’s the list of approved certifications/noncredit and corresponding Moraine Valley courses for the Automotive Technology Program.

To begin the process of converting certifications/noncredit training to college credit, submit a completed Proficiency Credit form.

More information about the process of converting certifications to college credit can be found here.

Contact the Academic Outreach Department at if you have any questions.

Academic Outreach Office
708-974-5710
Building L, Room L244
academicoutreach@morainevalley.edu

Potential Careers in Automotive Technology

Moraine Valley’s Automotive Technology Program prepares students and graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in the automotive repair industry. The program allows you to work with ASE-certified instructors who incorporate a wealth of real-world experience into the classroom and lab. Faculty members are dedicated to helping students reach their career goals.

Automotive Service Technician
Automotive Diagnostic Technician
Brake & Suspension Technician
Drivability Technician
Service Advisor
Shop Foreman
Automotive Mechanic

Employment Outlook

Develop practical, industry-focused skills and experience that lead to strong opportunities in today’s growing automotive workforce.

About 70,000 openings for automotive service technicians and mechanics are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$23.88

Median Hourly Pay

$49,670

Median Annual Salary

Source:

Explore our Programs

Explore focused certificate pathways that align with your interests and career goals. Each certificate builds specialized skills and can be earned as a stand-alone certificate or applied toward the A.A.S. degree, helping you make progress while gaining experience.

Mopar CAP Academy

Moraine Valley is the only institution in Illinois to offer the MOPAR Career Automotive Program (Mopar CAP), providing valuable internship experience and manufacturer-specific training. Mopar CAP students benefit from real-world experience while working at a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat or Maserati dealership. Upon completion of the program, Mopar CAP graduates can earn an associate degree in Automotive Technology and a Mopar CAP diploma. Class size is limited to maintain a low instructor-to-student ratio. The program begins once a year during the fall semester. Mopar CAP students pay in-district rates, regardless of their place of residence.

Moraine Valley is the only institution in Illinois to offer the MOPAR Career Automotive Program (Mopar CAP), providing valuable internship experience and manufacturer-specific training.

The college offers MCAP, a full-time apprenticeship program with a similar course structure as the college’s general automotive A.A.S. degree program. The difference with MCAP is that it focuses on course information and hands-on activities using products and procedures from Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram. As a student, you’ll also work at an approved dealer or Chrysler fleet location as an entry-level technician during the internship period. Students completing the A.A.S. degree with the MCAP option also will receive a certificate from the Chrysler Group.

To join Mopar CAP, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record and a drug test, which is required by dealerships. After applying, you’ll be contacted for an interview.

The cost of the two-year associate degree program is approximately $11,800, including tuition, fees, books and a basic toolset. Mopar CAP students who reside outside of ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉú’s district receive a waiver that allows them to pay in-district fees. The price is based on 2025 costs and is subject to change.

Students who complete the program will have a solid foundation for a career at a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or RAM dealership. The training gives you hands-on experience with Mopar tools and software so you’re prepared to work in a dealership or certified repair shop.

Program Highlights
  • Training in Moraine Valley’s state-of-the-art automotive labs
  • Specialized coursework aligned with Stellantis standards
  • Flexible schedules designed for working technicians
  • Learn from factory-trained instructors and network with industry professionals
  • Pathway to ASE certifications and MOPAR Level 2 Technician status

Real stories of success.

Not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Many Moraine Valley students begin by exploring their options and discovering what fits. Along the way, they build skills, gain direction and create a plan for what comes next.

Get started today, find ways to pay for college and see how other students turned their first step into something bigger.

Faculty with real-world experience.

Your instructors don’t just teach the material; they’ve worked in the field. With experience in vehicle systems, repair technologies and training, they bring real examples and practical knowledge into every class. You’ll learn what to expect and how to prepare for your first role in the field.

Apply now and get started

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Program Details

View the catalog to explore program requirements, a suggested course sequence and prerequisite information.

ProgramType of CredentialCurriculum CodeDepartment or Division
A.A.S.1277Mechanical Technologies
A.A.S.1277Mechanical Technologies

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