The QCC Ford Maintenance and Light Repair Certificate curriculum is designed by Ford Motor Company to prepare certified light line technicians for Ford/Lincoln dealerships. The program features hands-on training on late model vehicles, as well as classroom instruction.

Program Overview

What Will You Learn?

Certificate

You will learn to diagnose and repair systems such electrical, automotive engine, steering and suspension, hydraulic and anti-lock brake, and climate control. You will learn to adapt to new technology and service procedures as they are developed, and thus, build a professional foundation in all aspects of automotive systems and service techniques.

Cost

In-State Tuition: $223/credit

Out-of-State / International Tuition: $429/credit

Some programs have additional program fees

Timeline

3 Semesters

24 credits

Learn Online

This program may be completed less than 50% online.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

Locations

  • This program may be completed at QCC at Burncoat (the QCC Automotive Technology Laboratory located at Burncoat High School in Worcester).
  • This program may be completed face-to-face.

Connections

The following program(s) have connections that can be completed alongside or applied to this program:

Associate in Applied Science

Automotive Technology

The Automotive Technology associate degree program is designed to prepare students to become professional automotive technicians and fill the need of area dealerships and independent repair facilities. The program trains students in all eight areas of automotive repair to prepare students to become ASE Master Technicians. The program builds a foundation of knowledge allowing graduates to adapt to new technology and grow as an employee. The program also provides the opportunity to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program in a related field of study.

Career Stats

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More Info
Course TitleCourse #Semester OfferedCreditsPrerequisites

Semester 1 (Fall)

  • Register for and successfully complete all courses to graduate in three semesters.
  • Meet with Academic Advisor to discuss associate degree (Program Code: AT); or create an account on the QCC job board to search for internships, co-ops and jobs.
Fundamentals of Automotive ServiceAUT 102F3Coreq: AUT 111, AUT 131
Automotive Electrical SystemsAUT 111F4Coreq: AUT 102, AUT 131
Brake SystemsAUT 131F3Coreq: AUT 102, AUT 111
  Total10 

Semester 2 (Spring)

  • Apply to associate degree (Program Code: AT); or if seeking employment, meet with Career Services for career readiness preparation and to learn more about QCC’s job board.
Basic Gasoline EnginesAUT 121S4AUT 102, Coreq: AUT 125
Engine Testing/Performance AnalysisAUT 125S4AUT 102, AUT 111, Coreq: AUT 121
  Total8 

Semester 3 (Summer)

  • Submit an Intent to Graduate Form, located on The Q.
Suspension, Steering & AlignmentAUT 133SU3AUT 102, Coreq: AUT 141
Climate Control SystemAUT 141SU3AUT 121, Coreq: AUT 133
  Total6 
Total Credits Required:  24 

Program Goals:

The QCC Ford Maintenance and Light Repair Certificate curriculum is designed by Ford Motor Company to prepare certified light line technicians for Ford/Lincoln dealerships. The program features hands-on training on late model vehicles, as well as classroom instruction.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Perform tasks to diagnose and repair components of the electrical systems.
  • Diagnose and repair automotive engine systems.
  • Diagnose and repair components of the steering and suspension systems.
  • Diagnose and repair components of hydraulic and anti-lock brake systems.
  • Diagnose and repair components of the climate control system.
  • Sit for the ASE Technician certification examinations.
  • Adapt to new technology and service procedures as they are developed, and thus, build a professional foundation in all aspects of automotive systems and service techniques.
  • Grow as an automotive technician, moving up the career ladder.

Admissions Process:

Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.

  • Enrollment in Automotive Technology programs is restricted to 20 full-time students per academic year on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning each Fall semester.

Program Admissions Requirements:

Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

CORI, SORI, Finger Printing & Drug Testing:

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks are not required. Fingerprinting and drug testing are not required.

  • Applicants should be aware that some employers may require CORI/SORI checks, fingerprinting, and drug testing as part of the hiring process.

Additional Cost:

See the Program Fees page.

  • Students enrolled in AUT 299 may incur an additional expense for professional liability insurance.
  • Students are responsible for the purchase of tools prior to employment.

Technical Performance Standards:

See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).

Credit for Prior Learning:

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.

Career Outlook:

Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 47.0604.

Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:

Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.

Additional Information:

  • Applicants should be aware that some employers may require CORI/SORI checks, fingerprinting, and drug testing as part of the hiring process.
  • Applicants to this program must have a valid learner’s permit and a driving record that is suitable for prospective employer’s insurance requirements. A Request for Driving Record will be forwarded to the MA Department of Transportation on behalf of each student accepted to the program each Fall semester.
  • Students should note that a valid driver’s license will be required for employment in this field; individuals with driving and/or legal infractions should be aware that their actions may impact their employability.
  • Students may earn NC3: Multimeter Certification (EEDM504D).
  • Students may earn credits from Subaru University by completing online training.