Automotive Transportation Technology
Automotive Transportation Certificates
Take a deep dive on each of these certificates to see if it's a right fit for you!
Students must pass the following course:
- VAUTO 668: Introduction to Automotive Vehicle Systems
This class is held at the Lincoln Education Center in Garden Grove. After completing the above course, you can transition to Santa Ana College's Automotive Technology Certificate Program.
Students must also pass one of the following courses:
- VBUS 243: Introduction to Customer Service Skills
- VBUS 400: Employability Skills
- ESL 520: English for Work 2
- HSMTH 190: Math for College and Career Readiness*
*You must meet with a counselor before enrolling in HSMTH 190.
If you pass VAUTO 668 with a grade of B or higher, you can earn credit for AUTO 102 Introduction to Automotive through the credit-by-exam process. Credits from VAUTO 668 can count towards an automotive technology certificate or degree at Santa Ana College. There is no tuition cost for VAUTO 668.
Looking to transfer to Santa Ana College's Automotive Technology Program? Wanting to start an automotive technology job? Learn the primary automotive systems, such as electrical, ignition, fuel, and braking. Practice engine tear-down, assembly, diagnosis, measurement, and repair of engines. Get equipped with skills and theory to maintain modern vehicle systems and repair engines.
The High School Math 190 Math course helps you with basic math skills for an auto technology job. Other courses teach soft skills that you need in any auto technology environment.
Students must pass all of the following courses:
- VAUTO 668: Introduction to Automotive Vehicle Systems
- VAUTO 672: Engine Repair
Students must also pass one of the following courses:
- VBUS 243: Introduction to Customer Service Skills
- VBUS 400: Employability Skills
- ESL 520: English for Work 2
- HSMTH 190: Math for College and Career Readiness*
*You must meet with a counselor before enrolling in HSMTH 190.
If you pass VAUTO 668 and VAUTO 672 with a grade of B or higher, you can earn credit for AUTO 102 Introduction to Automotive and AUTO 111 Engine Repair through the credit-by-exam process. Credits from VAUTO 668 and 672 can count towards an automotive technology certificate or degree at Santa Ana College. There is no tuition cost for VAUTO 668 and 672.
The Automotive Technology program prepares students for transfer to Santa Ana College or entry-level employment in the automotive field. Students learn how modern vehicles work through hands-on training and practical instruction.
The program covers major automotive systems, including engines, electrical, fuel, ignition, braking, transmissions, and drivetrains. Students practice engine repair, diagnostics, and service procedures while building the math and workplace skills needed for success in an automotive career.
Students must pass all of the following courses:
- VAUTO 668: Introduction to Automotive Vehicle Systems
- VAUTO 672: Engine Repair
- VAUTO 676: Automatic and Manual Transmissions & Transaxles
Students must also pass one of the following courses:
- VBUS 243: Introduction to Customer Service Skills
- VBUS 400: Employability Skills
- ESL 520: English for Work 2
- HSMTH 190: Math for College and Career Readiness*
*You must meet with a counselor before enrolling in HSMTH 190.
If you pass VAUTO 668, 672, & 676 with a grade of B or higher, you can earn credit for AUTO 102 Introduction to Automotive, AUTO 111 Engine Repair, and AUTO 112 Automotive Transmissions and Transaxles through the credit-by-exam process. Credits from VAUTO 668, 672, & 676 can count towards an automotive technology certificate or degree at Santa Ana College. There is no tuition cost for VAUTO 668, 672, or 676.
In this course, you will learn how to drive OCTA buses. You will learn how to do a
pre-trip inspection, follow safety procedures, and get behind-the-wheel training.
We will help you with commercial permit preparation and fill out OCTA forms. You will
also learn study tips for the permit test and how to give good customer service.
Become part of the team that helps Orange County move.
Note: You do not have to work for OCTA after you finish this course.
Students must pass all of the following courses:
- VBUS 340: Career Exploration (Bus Operator/Driver Program Orientation)
- VAUTO 674: Bus Operator/Driver Training
- Be 18 or older
- Have a valid CA Driver's License
- No points on driving record in the last 3 years
- Attend orientation
This training program prepares you for Santa Ana College's Diesel and Heavy Equipment Program. Get ready for entry-level employment in diesel and heavy equipment. Learn basic skills in light, medium, and heavy-duty truck maintenance. We emphasize safety, inspections, and hands-on practice.
Take High School Math 190 for College and Career Readiness. This will help you learn and apply basic math skills in the context of diesel. Take VBUS 400 Employability Skills or ESL 520 English for Work 2. These teach you soft skills that help working in any diesel job.
Once you finish this certificate, continue your training at Santa Ana College's Diesel and Heavy Equipment Program. There you can obtain a more advanced certificate and/or degree.
Students must pass all of the following courses:
- VAUTO 670: Preventative Maintenance Inspection
- HSMTH 190: Math for College and Career Readiness*
*You must meet with a counselor before enrolling in HSMTH 190.
Students must also pass one of the following courses:
- VBUS 400: Employability Skills
- ESL 520: English for Work 2
If you pass VAUTO 670 with a grade of B or higher, you can earn credit for DETT 181 Introduction to Preventative Maintenance Inspection through the credit-by-exam process. Credits from VAUTO 670 can count towards a diesel technology certificate or degree at Santa Ana College. There is no tuition cost for VAUTO 670.
Students must meet with the Continuing Education Counseling Department before enrollment in this certificate.