B.S. Degree: Automotive Technology

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Bachelor's degree in two years and lists ONLY the course requirements specific to this Bachelor's Degree Program. Your path may vary based on your individual circumstances?for example, how many credits you have previously earned, if you attend part-time, or if you choose to take Intersession or Summer Session courses. You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan and ensure that you meet all Bachelor's degree requirements.

*Students enrolled in a SAC Bachelor's degree program must first earn an Associate's degree in a related field and must be accepted into the Bachelor's degree program.

The baccalaureate degree in Automotive Technology is designed to prepare students for employment at original equipment manufacturers (OEM), such as, but not limited to, Stellantis, General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Subaru, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Honda, Toyota, Cummins, International, and Volvo. Additionally, the program prepares students for other senior technical, leadership, and managerial opportunities at local dealerships, repair facilities, diagnostic tool companies, medium/heavy-duty maintenance repair facilities, and as educators in public or private sectors. Technical, hands-on instruction on modern automobiles and other vehicles is at the core of the program, accompanied by coursework to attain various skills required for employment at automobile manufacturer companies, dealerships, and other service/repair facilities.

Prerequisite:

Associate degree in automotive technology, diesel/heavy-duty technology, or an automotive manufacturer-specific program, such as Mopar CAP, Honda PACT, General Motors ASEP, Ford ASSET, Toyota T-TEN or other automotive manufacturer-specific program, from an accredited institution.

To complete the baccalaureate of science in Automotive Technology, students must complete the following: 

1. General Education Requirement: complete the Cal-GETC lower division general education pattern; OR complete the Santa Ana College Associate Degree General Education (GE) Requirements (Plan 1) with coursework completed from Plan 1 to total a minimum of 27 semester units (note that Plan 1 consists of a minimum of 24 units, so additional Plan 1 coursework may be needed to reach 27 units). 

2. Upper Division General Education Requirement: A minimum of 9 units of Upper Division Level General Education coursework as listed in program information.

3. Major Course Work: Complete all upper division major course requirements as listed in program information.

4. Major Requirement: Complete all upper division major course requirements with a grade of “C” or better or Pass ("P").

5. Complete any elective courses that are baccalaureate level for a minimum of 120 units.  Lower-division courses acceptable towards a baccalaureate degree are designated as CSU transferable or determined to be at the baccalaureate level. 

    a. Lower-division courses from other U.S. institutions with institutional accreditation (that meets district and program standards of rigor) will be reviewed by a counselor and graduation specialist to determine baccalaureate credit based on course description, comparable content, appropriate prerequisites, or C-ID number. 

6. Residence Requirement - at least 12 units of upper division coursework must be completed at Santa Ana College or Santiago Canyon College or a combination of the two. 

7. All lower-division requirements and pre-requisites must be met before the baccalaureate degree is granted.  

Students will demonstrate career and technical-based skills focused on advanced transportation technologies in preparation for employment at an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) facility or other transportation-related facility.

Students will demonstrate proficient knowledge of advanced mechanical and electrical systems found on modern automobiles and other vehicles as designated by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) standards and guidelines.

Students will explain the various career options found at original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), transportation repair facilities, or within education sectors and discuss the requirements and expectations needed for successful employment.

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

9 units
AUTO 340
Alternative Fuels (F1/H1)
This course introduces students to alternative fuel systems and how they are used in today’s light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles. Students will learn about ethanol, hydrogen, compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), biobutanol, dimethyl ether (DME), methanol, and renewable gasoline. The course explains how these fuels work with modern engines and diagnostic systems, as well as the infrastructure and rules needed to support them. Topics include emissions, safety, telematics, and legal requirements. Students will also study the roles of service advisors, fleet managers, and logistics coordinators in planning, decision-making, maintenance, fuel cost analysis, and facility compliance. This course also prepares students for the F1/H1 Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Field trips may be required.
*Fall Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.
AUTO 300
Introduction to Automotive Manufacturers
This course will cover the structure of automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEM) such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Subaru, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, etc. Additionally, the course will include topics related to manufacturer-specific vehicle design, company philosophy, global market outlook, and national company footprints. Vehicle inspections, component comparison, and documentation will be completed in the lab. Field trips may be required.
*Fall Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.
AUTO 440
Educators and Technical Trainers
This course will explore the opportunities, methods, and techniques used by automotive educators and trainers at community colleges, high schools, and vehicle manufacturer training centers. Career opportunities, pedagogues, and how manufacturer technical training is completed by original equipment manufacturers are implemented. Field trips may be required.
*Fall Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or a related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

Spring Intersession

3 units
AUTO 430
Dealership and Manufacturer Relationship
This course will cover the interactions, relationships, and communication required between original equipment manufacturers and dealership proprietors. Topics include the requirements manufacturers maintain for dealerships to operate, dealership requirements to keep and maintain access to manufacturer vehicles, service, and parts, and how these interactions need to maintain efficiency to be successful for both entities.
*Spring Intersession Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

Second Semester

14 units
AUTO 318
Advanced Engine Performance (L1)
This course covers advanced engine performance systems which include gasoline engine ignition, fuel, emissions, computer controls, sensors, and mechanical engine operation. Furthermore, diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting problems are covered throughout the course in lecture and lab. This course assists students with preparation for the L1 (Advanced Engine Performance) Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exam. Field trips may be required.
*Spring Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or a related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.
ENVR 370
Environmental Impacts of Industrial Development
This course will explore the environmental impacts of industrial technology starting with the industrial revolution of the late 19th century and concluding with modern times. Topics may include air pollution, water contamination and cleanup, physical changes to the landscape, changes to weather and climate over time, changes to plant and animal life over time, and technological changes invented regarding environmental impact.
Spring Course Only

Student must be admitted to an approved baccalaureate program at a California community college.

  • Prerequisite: Student must be admitted to the Automotive Technology baccalaureate degree program at Santa Ana College.
AUTO 410
Transportation Supply Chain
This course will cover the role and importance of transportation in a supply chain. Topics include transportation processes essential to global economic development, quality of life improvement, and enterprise success. Emphasis will be placed on the different modes of transportation, transportation risk, and transportation technologies. Field trips may be required.
*Spring Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.
AUTO 399
Automotive Work Experience - Technical Skills
This work experience course of supervised employment assists students to acquire desirable work habits, attitudes, and skills in transportation mechanical and electrical repair, diagnostic testing, supervision and management, service consulting, parts distribution, and various employment occupations within the transportation industry. This course will focus on improving a student's skills within a technical environment. A student can earn 0.5 to 4 units per semester, up to a maximum of 14 units total. Additionally, students must work 54 hours to earn 1 unit. Students will develop objectives in consultation with the professor and work supervisor. Course repetition is allowed per Title 5, Section 55253.

Students must be accepted into the Automotive Technology bachelor's degree program.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Student must be admitted to the Automotive Technology baccalaureate program.

Summer

4 units
AUTO 320
Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis (L2)
This course will cover diesel engine electronics and how to diagnose electrical, sensor, and emission-related faults. The content of the course will also help students prepare for the L2 Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Topics include diesel mechanical engine operation, diesel electrical sensors, computer diagnosis of diesel engines, and troubleshooting methods to find various diesel electrical-related faults. Field trips may be required.
*Summer Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

Third Semester

14 units
CMST 310
Communication and Conflict Resolution
This course is designed to examine the causes and structure of conflict, communication strategies exhibited in conflict, and intervention principles for conflict management. An emphasis on the role of communication in the decision-making process of negotiation and bargaining will be explored.
  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Students must be admitted to a baccalaureate degree program at Santa Ana College.
AUTO 350
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (L4)
This course will focus on the driver aids found on modern vehicles, such as collision avoidance, automatic braking, autopilot, lidar, radar, camera systems, GPS, and proximity sensors. Operation, design, function, and required parameters of these systems will be included in the course content. This course will also assist with preparation for the L4 Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Field trips may be required.
*Fall Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.
AUTO 400
Transportation Leadership and Management
Students completing this course will focus on leadership and management in an automotive or other transportation company and how to apply each method. Topics will include different theories of leadership, management practices and best practices, and working with individuals from various backgrounds. Emphasis will be placed on learning techniques and methodologies that will enhance leadership and management skills within the transportation industry. Field trips may be required.
*Fall Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or a related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.
AUTO 499
Automotive Work Experience - Leadership Skills
This work experience course of supervised employment assists students to acquire desirable work habits, attitudes, and skills in automotive related to leadership, management, interacting with colleagues, maintaining a professional environment, maintaining high ethical standards, and working in the automotive industry as a professional. This course will focus on improving the student's leadership skills. A student can earn 0.5 to 4 units per semester, up to a maximum of 14 units total. Additionally, students must work 54 hours to earn 1 unit. Students will develop student outcomes in consultation with the professor. Course repetition is allowed per Title 5, Section 55253.
*Fall Course Only

Students must be accepted into the Automotive Technology bachelor's degree program.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Student must be admitted to the Automotive Technology baccalaureate program.

Spring Intersession

3 units
AUTO 330
Automobile Service Consultant (C1)
This course will cover the career, expectations, and duties of an automotive service advisor. Topics include customer service, the three Cs, completing repair order procedures, writing skills, and effective communication with internal and external customers. Additionally, the course will include customer service methods, techniques, and best practices. Also, this course will assist with preparation for the C1 Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Field trips may be required.
*Spring Intersession Course Only

Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

Fourth Semester

13 units
CMPR 380
SQL Technology
This course is designed to equip automotive students, engineers, and professionals with the essential SQL skills needed to manage, analyze, and leverage data in the rapidly evolving automotive sector. Students will learn to build databases, perform predictive maintenance analysis, use the SQL tool to extract customed data, and more. Students will enhance data skills and empower to drive innovation and efficiency in the automotive industry through the power of SQL.

Student must be admitted to an approved baccalaureate program at a California community college.

    AUTO 360
    Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicles (L3)
    This course will assist students with preparation for the L3 (Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle) Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) exam. The course curriculum focuses on theory, operation, function, diagnosis, and service of modern hybrid and electric vehicles. Additionally, students will work with and examine various high-voltage systems, learning how to safely work with these systems. Electric motors, lithium-ion batteries, hybrid transaxles, and electric inverters/converters will be covered. Field trips may be required.
    *Spring Course Only

    Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or a related field.

    • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.
    AUTO 420
    Transportation Ethics
    This course will cover professional ethics in the transportation industry. Topics include problem solving, conflict resolution, and daily activities related to service, repair, parts, and sales, examined from the perspective of the employee, manager, and organization. The course also explores the ethical implications of emerging transportation technologies and their environmental and societal impacts. Field trips may be required.
    *Spring Course Only

    Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.

    • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.
    AUTO 495
    Automotive Technology Capstone
    This capstone course is designed to integrate all prior coursework with real-world experience and research. The course includes preparation of a research project in which the student will demonstrate applicable skills within an automotive/transportation industry setting. The research project will be determined in conjunction with the professor. Students will complete a research project or senior thesis by the conclusion of the course, which may require field research.
    *Spring Course Only

    Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or a related field.

    • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Must be accepted into the Automotive Technology Bachelor's degree, which requires completion of an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Mopar Automotive Technician, or related field.