Certificate of Proficiency (Untranscripted): Transit Bus Maintenance

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Certificate in a timely manner. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

The Transit Bus Maintenance Certificate is designed to train students in the field of transit bus service, repair, and troubleshooting. Completion of courses CERT1 through CERT10 prepares the student for industry. Safety, theory of operation, diagnosis, and service procedures are emphasized. The student must furnish approved safety equipment for the first meeting of the DETT 201 course. This equipment includes approved ANSI safety glasses, reflective safety vest, and steel-toed shoes.

Explain basic safety operation concerns when operating a transit bus on assigned route.

Explain proper steps in completing a transit bus pre-trip inspection.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

Comprehensive Education Plan: You are required to meet with a counselor for a comprehensive educational plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor in your first semester.

First Semester

0.3 units
DETT 201
Introduction to Transit Systems
This course will introduce students the bus transit systems, including tools, components, location of components, safety, regulations, and procedures. This course is meant for students working in a transit field as an entry-level technician.
*Fall Course Only
  • Prerequisite: Approved safety equipment is required for live shop instructor demonstrations on running transit buses.

Spring Intersession

2 units
DETT 207
Transit Vehicle Engines
This course will introduce students to the basic theory of operation of current transit bus engines. Diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques, repair, and service will be emphasized. This is the Certified Maintenance course - CERT7.
*Spring Intersession Course Only
  • Prerequisite: DETT 201

Second Semester

3 units
DETT 202
Transit Preventative Maintenance
This course provides students with an overview of the Certified Maintenance courses CERT1 through CERT10. Covers the ground rules and expectations of the program. Transit bus vehicle and shop safety training is highlighted. This safety training is required for participation in all CERT1 though CERT10 courses. Familiarizes students with the proper and safe use of hand tools and equipment. Includes an overview of the functions and procedures for preventive maintenance on current transit buses.
*Spring Course Only
  • Prerequisite: DETT 201
DETT 208
Transit Vehicle Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning
This course introduces the student to the basic theory of operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems used on current transit buses. Service, maintenance, and troubleshooting will be emphasized. This is the Certified Maintenance course - CERT8.
*Spring Course Only
  • Prerequisite: DETT 201
DETT 209
Transit Vehicle Drive Train Suspension
This course introduces students to the basic theory of operation of transit bus drive train and suspension systems. Diagnostic techniques, repair, and service of current transit bus drive train and suspension systems will be emphasized. This is the Certified Maintenance course - CERT9.
*Spring Course Only
  • Prerequisite: DETT 201
DETT 210
Transit Vehicle Wheelchair Lifts
This course introduces the student to the basic theory of operation of wheelchair lifts and ramps currently used on transit buses. Service, maintenance, and troubleshooting will be emphasized. This is the Certified Maintenance course - CERT10.
*Spring Course Only
  • Prerequisite: DETT 201

Third Semester

4.5 units
DETT 203
Transit Vehicle Electrical Systems
This course covers the functions and components of the electrical systems on current transit buses. Principles of electricity and safety are highlighted. An overview of troubleshooting techniques for both conventional and computer controlled buses are emphasized. This is the Certified Maintenance course CERT3.
*Fall Course Only
  • Prerequisite: DETT 201
DETT 205
Transit Vehicle Air Brake Systems
This course introduces the students to the operation of air brake systems found on current transit buses. Diagnosis, service, and repair procedures are emphasized. Principles of air supply and safety are also included. An overview of troubleshooting techniques for both conventional and computer controlled buses will be discussed. This is Certified Maintenance course CERT5.
*Fall Course Only
  • Prerequisite: DETT 201
DETT 206
Transit Vehicle Automatic Transmissions
This course introduces the students to the basic theory of operation of the automatic transmissions currently used on transit buses. Diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques, repair, and service will be emphasized. This is the Certified Maintenance course CERT6.
*Fall Course Only
  • Prerequisite: DETT 201