Automotive Technology

Associate of Applied Science

Division: Business, Social and Behavioral Science, and Professional/Public Service

Division Chair: Kristie deRuiter, kderuite@sunyrockland.edu

Department Chair: Nicole Hanaburgh, nhanabur@sunyrockland.edu

Department Office: Technology Center, Room 8303, Phone: 845-574-4387

Why Study Automotive Technology?

The Automotive Technology curriculum, the only one of its kind in the Mid-Hudson Valley, prepares students for a career as an automotive technician. This curriculum develops an understanding of operational principles, service sequences and diagnostic techniques for the automobile. Upon completion of this curriculum, the graduate is prepared for entry-level positions in various areas of the automotive industry dealing with development, testing, diagnosis and service of mechanical, hydraulic, electrical and thermodynamic automotive systems.

Degrees Offered:

Occupational Objectives:

The AAS degree in Automotive Technology will provide students with the training needed to work as an entry level automotive technician in both privately owned businesses and large automotive companies. Students who decide to pursue additional education at the baccalaureate level can transfer to an automotive business management program. However, additional general education courses will need to be completed at the transferring institution.

5 Top Reasons

To Study Automotive Technology at RCC:

  1. VALUE: Affordable tuition, financial aid, scholarships.
  2. CAREER: A wide range of internships to provide real-world experience.
  3. FLEXIBILITY: Balance part-time study with work, family or other time commitments. On-campus childcare available.
  4. SUPPORT: Small class sizes, more individual attention, free tutoring.
  5. TRANSFER: Agreements with many four-year colleges for seamless transfer to pursue multiple bachelor degree options.

Opportunities at Rockland Community College:

There are more than 40 student clubs with special interest and socializing opportunities.  Activities include sports, student government, and clubs like Robotics, Video Game & Anime, Chess, Computers, Art, Christian Fellowship, Environment, Haitian, Habitat for Humanity, Hillel, and Outlook, the award-winning student newspaper.

Program Goals:

The degree will provide students with a rigorous and dynamic technology based program that will prepare them to become diagnostic leaders in the high-tech automotive industry. Students will enhance their professional and personal development; become leaders in the automotive service industry and develop the skills necessary for effective communication.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Develop and practice proper safety skills
  • Diagnose and repair automotive problems with a high tech vehicle
  • Develop critical thinking skills
  • Develop the skills necessary for effective written and oral communication