Essential Information
In a bachelor's program in automotive technology, students explore the research and design aspects of automobiles and vehicle systems. Students get hands-on workshop experience and training, as well as opportunities for automotive engineering internships. Common areas of study include automotive design, vehicular systems, calibration, development testing and automotive technology maintenance. The degree program can usually be completed within four years.
Prerequisites for an automotive technology bachelor's degree include a high school diploma that includes a strong background in math. Some programs may require an associate's degree.
Bachelor's Degree in Automotive Technology
A bachelor's degree program in automotive technology focuses on engineering technologies used in the modern automotive industry. To be successful in this program, it is helpful to have a strong aptitude for mathematics and hands-on activities. The curriculum typically covers the following topics:
- Automotive marketing and manufacturing
- Diesel and heavy equipment
- Automotive electronics
- Collision repair
- Fuel systems and emissions
- Suspension and alignment
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
The types of organizations that hire automotive technology graduates include service and parts management companies, automobile sales and marketing companies, advanced vehicle systems research facilities, collision repair service institutions and automotive insurance service companies. Graduates of bachelor's degree programs in automotive technology may be qualified for the following positions.
- Field product development engineer
- Warranty and service engineer
- Insurance claims adjuster
- Automotive management trainee
- Automotive technical writer
Graduates of automotive technology bachelor's programs can also find jobs as automotive technicians. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job openings for auto technicians were projected to have a 4% decline between 2019 and 2029. This rate is about average when compared to other job sectors, and technicians who complete postsecondary training programs are likely to have the best opportunities for employment. The median annual salary for these workers was $42,090 as of 2019, reports the BLS.
Aspiring automotive technicians with an aptitude for math and who enjoy working with their hands may find success in a bachelor's degree program in automotive technology. Graduates are prepared to enter the industry not only as automotive technicians, but also as automotive technical writers, insurance claims adjusters and product development engineers.
