Auto technician program shop-wide view

Automotive Mechanics Lower Division Certificate Program in Columbia

Want to build a career working with cars? The Lincoln Tech Automotive Service Technology Certificate Program in Columbia, MD provides the hands-on training and diagnostic skills you need to work on today’s high-tech vehicles. From engine performance and electrical systems to diagnostics and drivetrain repair, you learn to maintain, troubleshoot and repair automotive systems using industry-standard tools and techniques. You training prepares you to enter an automotive field in Maryland that is growing at more than twice the national average1.

Train to service the vehicles that keep America moving. Enroll in the Automotive Service Technology Certificate Program at our Columbia, Maryland campus today.

Automotive Service Technology Certificate Program Delivery

Hands-on instruction is provided on-campus, with some coursework delivered online. Lincoln Tech also utilizes animations and simulations so you can experience interactive learning that enhances skill development, reinforces concepts, and allows you to practice troubleshooting in a risk-free environment.

Automotive Service Technology Certificate Program Length

  • Total Semester Credit Hours: 49.0
  • Instructional Hours: 1320
  • Completion Time: Approximately 58 weeks

Automotive Service Technology Certificate Program Classes and Curriculum

Developed in collaboration with experienced automotive industry educators, the Lincoln Tech academic approach ensures that our programs align with current employer requirements and technological advancements. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on training, your courses are designed to provide you with the entry-level automotive knowledge and skills. You learn how to test, diagnose, repair, and maintain mechanical, electrical, and computerized systems found in today’s cars and light trucks. And you gain invaluable skills in professionalism, customer service, and career success.

Automotive Service Technology Certificate Program Objectives

  • Diagnose, repair, and maintain internal combustion engine powered automobiles.
  • Use computerized diagnostic tools and equipment to troubleshoot vehicle issues.
  • Conduct routine vehicle inspections and preventive maintenance.
  • Follow manufacturer guidelines and industry repair procedures.
  • Diagnose, repair, and maintain automotive systems such as engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension, steering, and heating and air conditioning systems, and electrical components.
  • Perform alignments and tire services on front and rear wheel drive vehicles.
  • Communicate effectively with customers and colleagues about vehicle service and repairs.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, time management, and critical thinking in automotive service environments.
  • Follow industry safety standards to prevent accidents and injuries.

Automotive Service Technology Certificate Program Career Outcomes

As a graduate of the Automotive Service Technology Certificate Program in Columbia, you may find entry-level employment opportunities at:

  • Auto repair shops
  • Automotive dealerships
  • Fleet maintenance companies
  • Tire and lube service centers
  • Specialty or performance shops

Automotive Service Technology Opportunities near Columbia, MD

Students and graduates of the Automotive Service Technology Certificate program may qualify to work at a variety of area businesses including organizations2 such as:

 

Automotive Mechanics — Columbia

AUTO103LD — Lower Division Certificate Program

CIP Code: 47.0604

SOC Code: 49-3023

Day Programs

Total Semester Credit Hours 24.0
Instructional Hours 720
Weeks to Complete — Day Approximately 28 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks)

Program Objective

Provide the graduate with the entry-level knowledge and skills required to correctly test, replace, repair and adjust automobile: basic gasoline engines, electrical charging, starting and lighting systems, brake, steering, suspension, air conditioning, and electrical accessory systems. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be qualified for entry into the automotive service career field as a mechanic capable of performing most common service operations in the systems listed and with supervision may perform more complex tasks. Students will be required to complete out-of-class assignments in each course.

Foundation Courses

Lecture Hours 58
Lab / Shop Hours 62
Internship Hours 0
Total Hours 120
Total Credits 4.0
Prerequisites

IN102C must proceed all technical courses.

Course Description

The overall goal of this course is to facilitate a smooth transition to school by engaging the student in curriculum focusing on academic, career, and life skills. Students will make connections with key personnel within the school that will assist with their questions and provide guidance throughout their education. The student will be introduced to automotive systems, industry certifications, and job opportunities. Students will learn essential skills for the vehicle technician including safety, equipment fundamentals, and the proper use of measurement tools such as dial indicators, micrometers, and calipers. The automotive content will be balanced by an emphasis on skills that will enable students to be successful in school and in life. These skills will include time management, financial management, goal setting, learning strategies, career planning, and critical thinking strategies.
Lecture Hours 38
Lab / Shop Hours 82
Internship Hours 0
Total Hours 120
Total Credits 4.0
Prerequisites

IN102C

Course Description

This course is designed to provide the student with a detailed study of the modern internal combustion gasoline engine from the basic principles of design and operation to inspection, precision measurement, fitting, and reconditioning, including cooling systems, coolants, lubricating systems, and engine lubricants. Students will learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Students will learn how to diagnose various engine concerns through visual and auditory inspection. Students will learn how to disassemble, measure, troubleshoot, service, and reassemble a gasoline powered internal combustion engine.
Lecture Hours 48
Lab / Shop Hours 72
Internship Hours 0
Total Hours 120
Total Credits 4.0
Prerequisites

IN102C

Course Description

This course is designed to provide the student with practical theory in basic and solid state circuitry, including body electrical systems, operation and service of automotive storage batteries, automobile charging systems, starting systems, and lighting systems. Students will evaluate components using both conventional and electronic diagnostic equipment. Students will learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Students will learn how to diagnose basic electrical, charging, starting, and lighting circuits through the use of diagnostic equipment to include test lights, multimeters, and continuity testers.
Lecture Hours 48
Lab / Shop Hours 72
Internship Hours 0
Total Hours 120
Total Credits 4.0
Prerequisites

IN102C

Course Description

This course is designed to provide the student with theory and application of automobile air conditioning and heating systems. Students will also be presented with the operation of various automobile accessories to include: power windows, door locks, and seats, and air bag operation and service. Students will learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Students will learn how to diagnose abnormal operation of air conditioning and heating systems, remove and replace air conditioning and heating system components, and evacuate and recharge automobile air conditioning systems.
Lecture Hours 38
Lab / Shop Hours 82
Internship Hours 0
Total Hours 120
Total Credits 4.0
Prerequisites

IN102C

Course Description

This course is designed to provide comprehensive coverage of design, operating principles, maintenance and service of the automotive brake systems and traction control. Emphasis is placed on diagnosis and service of rotors and drums with measuring and resurfacing included. Anti-lock braking is covered from operating principles through diagnosis and service. Students will learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Students will learn how to diagnose mechanical and hydraulic problems within the vehicle braking systems. Students will learn how to diagnose computer control problems within the anti-lock and traction control systems
Lecture Hours 34
Lab / Shop Hours 86
Internship Hours 0
Total Hours 120
Total Credits 4.0
Prerequisites

IN102C

Course Description

This course is designed to provide the student with detailed instruction of the design and operating principles, maintenance and service of automobile suspension and steering systems including steering geometry and alignment angles. Emphasis is placed on wheel alignment procedures, including computerized four-wheel alignment. Service and diagnostics are stressed including McPherson struts, rack and pinion steering systems, and tire design and applications. New technologies are covered to incorporate electronic steering, and in-depth coverage of computerized suspension systems. Students will learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Students will learn how to diagnose, inspect, and service steering system components using industry standard equipment. Students will learn how to diagnose inspect, remove and replace rear-wheel and front-wheel drive suspension component. Students will learn how to perform alignments on front and rear wheel drive vehicles.

Notes:

IN102C – Driving Your Performance must precede all courses.
Course numbers are for reference only. The sequence of course offerings may vary depending on scheduling needs.
 

1 O*Net Online, https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/49-3023.00?st=MD&g=Go, Retrieved on June 11, 2025.

2 These companies have hired one or more 2021 – 2024 Lincoln graduates to work in their field of study.

The listing of credits is not meant to imply that credits can be transferred into college or other private career school programs. Transfer credits are at the sole discretion of the receiving school.

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