Overview
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Introduction to Automotive Technology
In the fast-paced world of automotive technology, today’s technicians are required to service and diagnose sophisticated systems. Manchester Community College’s Automotive Technology program isn’t just about keeping up with the technology, it’s about setting the pace. We’re constantly fine-tuning and elevating our program to meet ever-changing industry demands.
Our expert instructors are nationally recognized, master-certified and bring many years of real-world experience to the classroom. Training includes co-op placement with nationally recognized manufacturers and industry-leading auto companies. With co-op work experience as a required part of the program, you’ll advance your skills in the most efficient, hands-on way possible. While in your co-op work experience, you’ll be paid and work alongside seasoned technicians who will help guide you to success.
From mastering highly sophisticated systems to honing your skills in traditional mechanical areas, our curriculum is designed to suit your individual interests and aspirations.
Degree & Certificate Options
DEGREES
The Automotive Technology program offers an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree. While earning your degree you’ll have four areas of degree emphasis to choose from. Each one has options for co-op placement. Refer to the tabs above to learn more!
- Automotive Technology (A.A.S.)
Areas of Degree Emphasis:
- Ford ASSET / MLR (Maintenance & Light Repair)
- Global Manufacturers
- Independent Shops
- MCAP (MOPAR Career Automotive Program)
*Once a degree emphasis is selected, your Automotive Technology A.A.S. degree requirements will be met using specific courses that also provide training in that sub-specialty.
CERTIFICATES
The Automotive Technology program also offers the following certificates:
- Automotive Technology Certificate
- Automotive Technology Professional Certificate
- Power Sports Certificate
Program Goals
The Automotive Technology program provides a strong foundation for a successful and financially rewarding career in a very complex and diverse field.
Join Us for an Information Session!
If you’re ready to strive to become a master technician, please explore our offerings and join us at our next Automotive Technology Information Session to find out how.
Curriculum
Accreditation & Certification
- The Chrysler MCAP (Mopar Career Automotive Program) is accredited by the ASE Foundation.
- The Global Manufacturers pathway is accredited by the ASE Foundation.
- Specific manufacturer certifications are handled through MCC’s automotive partnerships.
Admission Requirements
In addition to the college-wide admissions requirements, the following items are required to apply to either the degree or the certificate programs:
- A valid driver’s license and a driving record that meets industry insurability standards (Copy of driving record is required for admission).
- College assessment results that indicate placement into College Composition I with Corequisite or College Composition I (ENGL110XM or ENGL110M) and college mathematics (100 level or higher).
- Attend an Automotive Technology Information Session.
Technical Standards
Students should also be aware of the following technical standards when applying to the degree or certificate programs:
- It is strongly recommended that students have driving experience with a manual transmission and have the strength to lift automotive parts and equipment and perform manual tasks.
Incoming Transfer Policy
Automotive coursework proposed for transfer must be completed no more than 10 years prior to acceptance into the program.
Co-Op Opportunities
To match your interest and specialization, many co-op opportunities are available. For co-op options please consult the tabs above to view potential placement lists for Global Manufacturers, MCAP, Independent Shops and Ford ASSET. Note! Some tabs may be hidden! Click on the blue arrow (top right) to reveal more.
Curriculum: Required Courses
Course Sequencing
Degree Program – First Year
Foreign Language/Humanities/Fine Arts Elective
Total Credits: 3
Foreign Language/Humanities Elective/Fine Arts Elective:
- Fine Arts Elective: any course with the academic subject code of ARTS and GDES114M, GDES115M GDES155M.
- Foreign Language Elective: ASL110M, ASL120M, FREN110M, SPAN110M, SPAN120M
- Humanities Elective: includes any course with the academic subject code of HUMA or PHIL as well as the following: HIST120M, HIST130M, ENGL113M, ENGL200M, ENGL200AM, ENGL201M, ENGL203M, ENGL204M, ENGL207M, ENGL208M, ENGL209M, ENGL210M, ENGL213M, ENGL214M, ENGL218M, ENGL220M, ENGL224M, ENGL227M, ENGL228M, ENGL229M, ENGL235M, ENGL248M, ENGL258M, ENGL288M
Math Elective
Total Credits: 3
(100 level or higher)
Social Science Elective
Total Credits: 3
(ANTH, ECON, GEOG, HIST, POLS, PSYC, SOCI)
Degree Program – Second Year
Science Elective (3 credits)
Total Credits: 3
(BIOL, CHEM, ENVS, ESCI, GEOL, PHYS)
Outcomes
MCC partners with dealerships and independent businesses to provide you with exceptional associate degree training and invaluable opportunities for full-time employment with companies who handle brands like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Subaru, Infinity, Ford, Lincoln, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, Chrysler, Fiat and more.
Acquired Skills
- Safety and Compliance: Graduates will understand and adhere to safety protocols and regulations ensuring safety and compliance.
- Communication and Teamwork: Graduates will effectively communicate and collaborate in a professional manner.
- Proficiency in Automotive Technology: Graduates will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of automotive systems.
- Repair and Maintenance: Graduates will possess skills necessary to perform maintenance and complex repairs.
- Diagnostic Skills: Graduates will evaluate and correct mechanical and electrical issues using advanced diagnostic tools and techniques.
- Adaptability and Flexibility: Graduates will adapt to technological advancements, staying current with industry.
- Customer Service Skills: Graduates will demonstrate excellent customer service by addressing client needs ensuring satisfaction
- Advanced Training: Graduates will recognize the importance of professional development, actively seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills.
Employment Opportunities
Job placement for successful graduates begins with the co-op part of our program. Students often find full-time employment with their co-op sponsors. All students should acquire the personnel skills and experience to find successful employment in a new situation.
Students with an Automotive Technology A.S. degree typically work as a:
- Business Owner
- Certified Technician
- Line Technician
- Master Technician
- Parts Manager
- Service Advisor
- Service Manager
- Shop Foreman
Potential Salary*
There is a wide range of employment in the automotive industry. See below for the average annual salary range in central NH for an Automotive Technician in NH.
ENTRY-LEVEL | MID-RANGE | EXPERIENCED |
$65,811 | $83,200 | $120,000+ |
*Salary calculations are based on a combination of factors including setting realistic expectations. The above entry-level salary (indeed.com, 2024) is based on an hourly rate of $31.64/hr and assumes 40 hours per week without overtime.
Technicians with an Automotive Technology degree will generally command a 21.50% higher salary than those without a degree. As of February 2024, 50+ Automotive Technician jobs were posted with a salary of $40.00/hr or more ($83,200.00 annual). The lowest end of the salary range was $50,000 and the highest was at $180,000.
Outgoing Transfer Opportunities
Students enrolled in this program can transfer to…
- Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology
- Keene State College
- Southern New Hampshire University
- University of New Hampshire
- …and many more!
Ford ASSET / MLR
FORD ASSET / FORD MLR
MCC offers a great way to start your automotive career with the Ford ASSET or Ford MLR (Maintenance and Light Repair) programs. In collaboration with Ford Motor Company and Ford and Lincoln Dealers, this program is designed to develop skills and provide the opportunity to earn 100% of the Ford factory certifications. Ford Asset ourses are taught by certified instructors. And you won’t just be attending comprehensive courses at MCC, you’ll be earning as you learn! With our paid co-op program, you’ll gain valuable experience working at a Ford or Lincoln dealer mentored by master technicians. You’ll walk away with not only an associate degree but also priceless dealer real-world experience and factory certifications that puts you in the fast lane to success.
Our Ford MLR certificate program has much to offer as well. You could earn factory certification in electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, suspension and steering, and brakes.
To get started, complete your online application and then attend one of our monthly Automotive Technology Information Sessions.
Potential Co-op Work Experience Dealers:
- AutoFair Ford – Manchester NH
- Berlin City Ford – Berlin NH
- Best Ford – Nashua NH
- Bill Dube Ford – Dover NH
- Ford of Claremont – Claremont NH
- Ford of Londonderry – Londonderry NH
- Grappone Ford – Bow NH
- Hampton Ford Inc – North Hampton NH
- Hillsboro Ford – Hillsboro NH
- Irwin Ford Laconia – Laconia NH
- Lebanon Ford – Lebanon NH
- MacDonald Motors Ford – Center Conway NH
- McFarland Ford – Exeter NH
- McFarland Ford of Rochester – Rochester NH
- Monadnock Ford -Swanzey NH
- North Country Motors Ford – Lancaster NH
- Nucar Ford of Plymouth – Plymouth NH
- Nucar Ford of Tilton – Tilton NH
- Portsmouth Ford – Portsmouth NH
- Salem Ford – Salem NH
- Unique Ford – Goffstown NH
- 24 Ford of Easton – South Easton MA
- Acton Ford – Acton MA
- AutoFair Ford of Haverhill – Haverhill MA
- Balise Ford – Hyannis MA
- Balise Ford of Wilbraham – Wilbraham MA
- Bonnell Ford – Winchester MA
- Chatham Ford – Chatham MA
- Colonial Ford – Plymouth MA
- Colonial Ford of Marlborough – Marlborough MA
- Danvers Ford – Danvers MA
- Don Allen Ford – Nantucket MA
- Empire Ford of New Bedford – New Bedford MA
- First Ford – Fall River MA
- Ford of Greenfield – Greenfield MA
- Ford of Northampton – Northampton MA
- Franklin Ford – Franklin MA
- Gervais Ford – Ayer MA
- Grieco Ford – Raynham MA
- Herb Chambers Ford – Braintree MA
- Herb Chambers Ford of Westborough – Westborough MA
- Imperial Ford – Mendon MA
- Ira Ford Auburn – Auburn Ma
- Jack Madden Ford – Norwood MA
- Jannell Motors – Hanover MA
- Johnson Ford – Pittsfield MA
- Kelly Ford – Beverly Ford
- Lamoureux Ford – East Brookfield MA
- Marcotte Ford – Holyoke MA
- Mathieu Ford – Winchendon MA
- McGovern Ford – Lowell MA
- McGovern Ford of Framingham – Framingham MA
- McGovern Ford of Saugus – Saugus MA
- Minuteman Ford – Walpole MA
- Place Motor Ford – Webster MA
- Quirk Ford – Quincy MA
- Rodman Ford – Foxboro MA
- Sarat Ford – Agawam MA
- Sentry Ford – Medford MA
- Stoneham Ford – Stoneham MA
- Sunnyside Motor Ford – Holden MA
- Tasca Ford – Seekonk MA
- Townsend Ford – Townsend MA
- Wall’s Ford – Salisbury MA
- Wareham Ford – Wareham MA
- Watertown Ford – Watertown MA
- Brattleboro Ford – Brattleboro Ford
- Coggins Ford of Bennington – Bennington VT
- E. J. Barrette & Sons Ford – Swanton VT
- Faith’s Ford Westminster – Westminster VT
- Formula Ford Rutland – Rutland VT
- G. Stone Motors Ford – Middlebury VT
- Hayes Ford – Newport VT
- Heritage Ford – South Burlington VT
- Lamoille Valley Ford – Hardwick VT
- McGee Ford of Montpelier – Montpelier VT
- Nucar Ford of Saint Albans – Saint Albans VT
- Ted Green Ford – Stockbridge VT
- Twin State Ford – Saint Johnsbury VT
- Arundel Ford – Arundel ME
- Key Auto Center Ford – York ME
Global Manufacturers
Join us for a study of global manufacturers including popular Asian, European and domestic makes or brands.
AUDI
Become an Expert-Level Audi-Certified Technician through the Audi Education Partnership (AEP). In collaboration with Audi of America and Audi dealerships, we provide comprehensive courses where you’ll gain knowledge in advanced systems, products and training while working toward your Audi technician certification.
During the program, you’ll complete AEP requirements alongside your college studies and web-based training. When not in class, you’ll gain practical experience at the dealership, mentored by experienced technicians, and earn a salary while you’re learning.
After completing your MCC training, you can enroll in the Audi apprenticeship at your dealership. Over the following 18 months, you’ll undergo specialized Audi training at the factory training center, paving your way to becoming a Master Technician.
To get started, complete your online application and then attend one of our monthly Automotive Technology Information Sessions.
Potential Co-op Work Experience Dealers:
- Audi Nashua – NH
- Audi Stratham – NH
- Audi Burlington – MA
- Audi Peabody – MA
- Audi Natick – MA
- Audi Westwood – MA
- Audi South Burlington – VT
- Audi Rutland -VT
- Audi at Morong Falmouth – ME
MB CAMPUS – MERCEDES-BENZ
Become a Mercedes-Benz Registered Technician through MCC’s MB Campus program. With MCC and MB Campus, you’ll experience the perfect blend of classroom, online learning, and hands-on training. From engine diagnostics to electronic systems, our courses are designed to equip you with the knowledge and expertise you need to succeed. Take advantage of the opportunity our program provides including a paid co-op work experience at a prestigious Mercedes-Benz dealership.
Upon graduation as a Mercedes-Benz Registered Technician, you’ll join a select group of technicians trusted with working on some of the most cutting-edge vehicles on the road.
To get started, complete your online application and then attend one of our monthly Automotive Technology Information Sessions.
Potential Co-op Work Experience Dealers:
- Mercedes Benz Of Manchester – NH
- Mercedes-Benz of Portsmouth – Greenland NH
- Smith Motor Sales of Haverhill – Haverhill
- Mercedes-Benz of Burlington – Burlington
- Mercedes-Benz of Westwood – MA
- Mercedes-Benz of Scarborough – ME
- Mercedes-Benz of Shrewsbury MA
- Mercedes-Benz of Boston – MA
- Mercedes-Benz of Natick – MA
- Mercedes-Benz of Springfield – MA
- Flagship Motorcars of Lynnfield – MA
- The Automaster Mercedes-Benz – Shelburne VT
NISSAN TTA
MCC offers a program at the forefront of automotive training that can prepare you for a dynamic career as a factory-trained technician at a NISSAN or INFINITI dealership. Through MCC’s NTTA program, you’ll receive hands-on automotive diagnosis and repair training to develop your skills and help propel you toward success. Additionally, you’ll take part in MCC’s paid cooperative experience (co-op), where you’ll be mentored by master technicians while working with NISSAN or INFINITI vehicles at a dealership, gaining valuable experience along the way.
With a projected demand for thousands of technicians at NISSAN and INFINITI dealerships nationwide in the coming years, the future holds significant promise.
To get started, complete your online application and then attend one of our monthly Automotive Technology Information Sessions.
Potential Co-op Work Experience Dealers:
- NuCar Nissan of Tilton
- Concord Nissan – NH
- Team Nissan – Manchester
- Nissan of Lebanon – NH
- Berlin City Nissan – Gorham NH
- Somersworth Nissan – NH
- Port City Nissan – Portsmouth NH
- Patriot Nissan – Salem NH
- AutoFair Nissan of Stratham – NH
- Peters Nissan Of Nashua – NH
- NuCar Nissan of Keene – NH
- Freedom Nissan of South Burlington – VT
- Formula Nissan – Barre VT
- Garvey Nissan Clarendon VT
- Bennington Nissan – Bennington VT
- Nissan of Merrimack Valley – Chelmsford MA
- Kelly Nissan of Woburn – Ma
- Kelly Nissan of Lynnfield – MA
- Commonwealth Nissan – Lawrence MA
- Colonial Nissan of Medford – MA
- North Shore Nissan – Danvers MA
- Ron Bouchard Nissan – Lancaster MA
SUBARU UNIVERSITY
The Subaru University option represents a collaboration between Subaru of America, retailers and MCC. Our courses are taught by certified instructors, ready to guide you to success.
Subaru’s Web-Based Training is integrated into the MCC curriculum. Through the Subaru-University (Subaru-U) pathway, you’ll receive hands-on automotive diagnosis and repair training to develop your skills. Additionally, with Subaru-U, you have the opportunity to elevate your training credits beyond the basics through the Subaru Level 2 Instructor-Led Training Test-out. By enrolling in MCC’s Subaru-University program, you will participate in a paid co-op work gaining valuable real-world experience while completing your associate degree.
As vehicle technology progresses, the demand for technicians continues to rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a significant nationwide demand for qualified technicians. With a degree from MCC and Subaru-University credentials, you will be well-positioned to join Subaru’s skilled technicians.
To get started, complete your online application and then attend one of our monthly Automotive Technology Information Sessions.
Potential Co-op Work Experience Dealers:
- Granite Subaru – Hudson
- Exeter Subaru – Stratham
- Belknap Subaru – Tilton
- Milford Subaru – Milford
- Claremont Subaru – Claremont
- Tri-City Subaru – Somersworth
- Subaru of Keene – Keene
- McGovern Subaru – Newington
- Ira Subaru of Manchester – Manchester
- Capital City Subaru – Concord
- Profile Subaru – Conway
Independent Shops
If your sights are set on a manufacturer brand that MCC does not officially partner with, or a top-tier independent repair shop, we will work with you to find the area of emphasis of your choice.
With dealerships and independent shops actively searching for skilled technicians, there are many opportunities. And, if you earn nationally recognized Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification while completing your degree, you’ll be on the fast track to success.
MCC’s nationally recognized and certified instructors will guide the way, along with hands-on learning and paid co-op work experience, to advance your learning in the most efficient ways possible.
To get started, complete your online application and then attend one of our monthly Automotive Technology Information Sessions.
Potential Co-op Work Experience Sites:
- Allegiance Trucks Manchester- NH
- Automotive Repair Custom Fabrication – Hudson NH
- Auto Service Solutions – Manchester NH
- AutoFair Honda – Manchester NH
- AutoFair Hyundai – Manchester NH
- AutoFair Volkswagen – Nashua NH
- Banks Chevrolet – Concord NH
- Betley Chevrolet – Derry NH
- BMW of Stratham – NH
- Charlie’s Auto Service – Amherst NH
- Clark’s Car Care – Hudson NH
- Classic Auto Services – New Boston NH
- Custom Car Care – Salem NH
- Danny’s Automotive Service center – Henniker NH
- Dave’s Body and Fender – Concord NH
- Dube’s Tire – Keene NH
- Exeter Motor Works – Exeter NH
- Firestone Complete Auto Care – Nashua NH
- Garry’s Service Center – Concord NH
- Genesse Auto Repair – Salem NH
- German Autowerks – Concord NH
- Grappone Honda – Concord NH
- Grappone Mazda – Concord NH
- Groundhog Landscaping – Derry NH
- Gurney’s Automotive – Nashua NH
- Ira Toyota – Manchester NH
- Irwin Toyota – Laconia NH
- J.M. Hayden Equipment LLC – Newfields NH
- Jiffy Lube – Seabrook NH
- JJM Auto & Fleet Service – Salem NH
- Kidder’s Repair Service – Barnstead NH
- KTM Auto – Plymouth NH
- Londonderry BP – Londonderry NH
- MacMulkin Chevrolet & Cadillac – Nashua NH
- McGee Toyota – Epping NH
- Merchants Auto – Manchester NH
- Morin’s Service Center – Manchester NH
- Next Level Automotive – Concord NH
- O’Reilly Auto Parts – Manchester NH
- Pittsfield Garage – Pittsfield NH
- Porsche of Nashua – NH
- Precision BMW Repair – Brentwood NH
- Precision Imports – Manchester NH
- Prime Acura North – North Hampton NH
- Quirk Chevrolet – Manchester NH
- Quirk Volkswagen – Manchester NH
- Rockingham Toyota – Salem NH
- Ron’s Toy Shop – Manchester NH
- Seacoast Volkswagen – Greenland NH
- South Elm Auto – Manchester NH
- Synergy Auto Lab – Londonderry NH
- Tim’s Truck Capital – Epsom NH
- Town Fair Tire – Manchester NH
- Toyota of Keene – NH
- Toyota of Portsmouth – NH
- Tulley BMW – Manchester NH
- Tulley BMW – Nashua NH
- Tulley GM – Nashua NH
- Valvoline – Concord NH
MCAP
MOPAR® CAREER AUTOMOTIVE PROGRAM
The Mopar® Career Automotive Program (MCAP) offers a curriculum with the potential to turn your passion for MOPAR into a promising career. You’ll receive essential training and knowledge to work on top vehicles like Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, Chrysler, FIAT® and Alfa Romeo brands.
Becoming a Mopar CAP certified technician gives you a competitive edge, showing you have the skills and knowledge needed to excel as a trained technician. Instructed by master-certified instructors, Mopar CAP combines hands-on experience, classroom learning and paid co-op work experience.
There is high demand for MOPAR technicians at dealerships across New England and beyond.
To get started, complete your online application and then attend one of our monthly Automotive Technology Information Sessions.
Potential Co-op Work Experience Dealers:
- Bonneville & Son Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram – Manchester NH
- Bob Mariano Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram – Concord NH
- Crest Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT – Center Conway NH
- Keene Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram – Keene NH
- Crosstown Motors Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat – Littleton NH
- Berlin City Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM – Berlin NH
- Allen Mello Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram – Nashua NH
- Tri-City Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram – Somersworth NH
- Key Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rochester NH
- Nucar Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram – Tilton NH
- Key Chrysler Dodge Ram of Portsmouth NH
- Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Claremont NH
- Hillsboro CDJR, LLC – Dodge Jeep Ram – Hillsboro NH
- Walker Motor Sales Inc Jeep – Haverhill NH
- Bournival Jeep – Portsmouth NH
- Contemporary Automotive – Milford NH
- Foss Motors Inc – Exeter NH
- McGovern Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram – Acton MA
- 495 Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram – Lowell MA
Certificates
In addition to the degree, the Automotive Technology program offers these certificate training options.
Automotive Technology Certificate
In the Automotive Technology Certificate program, students learn the skills necessary for an entry-level technician’s position. The program combines classroom and practical training.
Automotive Technology Professional Certificate
In the Professional Certificate program, you’ll learn the skills necessary to become a “B” level technician by becoming familiar with the latest technology, earning a professional certificate and working as an apprentice technician.
Power Sports Certificate
Using a well-developed balance of classroom instruction in specialized targeted courses, industry-relevant hands-on training, on-the-job work experience and on-line training, the Power Sports program is designed to cultivate highly skilled work-ready technicians.