Automotive Service Technician: Certificate (Foundation)

Description

This 30 week program prepares students for employment as an apprentice Automotive Service Technician. Students will develop practical skills by repairing customer vehicles in a fully operational auto repair shop on the Cloverdale campus. This training will enhance students' knowledge and skills in shop safety, inspection, diagnostics, repair and servicing of mechanical, electrical and electronic systems for automobiles and light trucks.

At the end of the Foundation program students will write the Auto Service Technician Level 1 Certificate of Qualification (COQ) exam. Students who complete the Foundation program and COQ exam are eligible for credit in Automotive Service Technician Level 1 apprenticeship program and 450 work-based training hours.

Taking a foundation program can build the skills that employers are looking for. To progress as an apprentice you will need to find an employer who will sponsor your apprenticeship and register with the Industry Training Authority (ITA). When you are ready for career advancement; KPU delivers Automotive Service Technician Apprentice in-school technical training levels 2, 3 and 4.

Details on program dates are available on Kwantlen Course Search.

Student Profile

This program is suited for individuals that have a mechanical aptitude, are detail oriented and enjoy problem solving. Physical demand can vary; there is a considerable amount of standing, reaching, lifting and need for steady hand-eye coordination to use hand tools. Additional information is available on our program website at: kpu.ca/trades/auto

Career Opportunities

This program prepares graduates for employment in motor vehicle dealers, garages, truck and trailer dealerships, fleet maintenance companies, service stations, automotive specialty shops, transportation companies and retail establishments which have automotive service shops.

Admission Requirements

In addition to KPU’s General university admission requirements, including the vocational-level English Proficiency Requirement, the following program admission requirements apply.

• English:
  • English 12 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or
  • Completion of KPU’s Trades reading test with a minimum score of 75%
• Mathematics:
  • Apprenticeship and Workplace Mathematics 11 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or
  • Foundations of Mathematics 11 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or
  • Pre-calculus 11 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or
  • KPU’s Trades Mathematics test with a minimum threshold percentage of 44%

Notes:

• Group information sessions are regularly scheduled at the Cloverdale campus, and participation is highly recommended. Please see kpu.ca/trades for schedule information.
• Completion of high school shop courses is an asset.
• International student Application for Admission requires approval of the Dean.

Satisfactory physical health is also recommended. Prior to applying, prospective students with mental or physical impairments, who may require program accommodations, should contact the Office of the Dean of Trades and Technology to discuss required skills and competencies, and a Disability Advisor at 604.599.3233 to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.

Curricular Requirements

• Measuring Instruments
• Shop Safety Practices
• Shop Tools and Equipment
• Fuel Systems
• Engine Theory and Repair
• The Drive Line
• Emission Control Systems
• Brakes and Tires
• Ignition Systems
• Steering Systems
• Electronic Engine Management
• Frame and Suspension Systems
• Standard Transmission and Differentials

Required Courses
	ASTA 1100	Safety, Communication, Tools and Fasteners	3 credits
	ASTA 1110	General Automotive Services	1.5 credits
	ASTA 1120	Electrical Fundamentals, Diagnosis and Repair	6.5 credits
	ASTA 1130	Steering, Frames, Suspension and Wheel Alignment	6.5 credits
	ASTA 1140	Automotive Braking Systems	5 credits
	ASTA 1150	Welding	1 credit
	ASTA 1160	The Internal Combustion Engine	1.5 credits
	ASTA 1170	Power Train Fundamentals	2.5 credits
	ASTA 1180	Engine Management and Control Systems	5 credits

Note: Students must achieve 70% (B-)or better in all practical exams and tests to graduate from this program.

Other Information

It is highly recommended that all applicants to the Foundation program enter with an 'N' endorsement on their driver's license. Students who have not achieved this standard prior to the first day of class should discuss their individual circumstances with the Instructor.

Special Equipment

Students will require appropriate steel-toed safety shoes or boots and safety glasses.

Foundation level service technician students must supply their own general hand tools complete with lockable toolbox; approximate cost is $750.00. The list will forwarded to the student on acceptance to the program. In addition, a $200.00 clothing fee will be assessed for coverall provision and cleaning.

Credential Awarded

Upon successful completion of this program, students are eligible to receive a Certificate in Automotive Service Technician.

KPU will report your in-school technical training completion information to the Industry Training Authority (ITA) in order for the ITA to determine credit towards your designated apprenticeship.