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Program Overview
The Automotive Technician program at Madison College is a two-year diploma that covers a wide range of mechanical systems found in automobiles.
Automotive Technical Training
Through the technical courses, you will use modern tools and equipment to develop skills in diagnosis, service, troubleshooting, testing, repair and overhaul, with a focus on electrical, mechanical and hydraulic systems. You will get hands-on experience with:
- automatic transmission/transaxles
- clutches
- manual transmissions/transaxle
- differentials
- four-wheel drive/all-wheel drive
- drive axles
- engine breathing
- ignition systems
- computer control and sensors
- fuel and air management
- emission systems
- lighting
- windshield wipers
- power windows
- instruments
- sound systems
- complete brake systems
- heating and air conditioning systems, including vacuum and electrical controls
- automatic temperature control systems
We strongly recommend that you work in the auto repair industry while in this program in order to gain additional hands-on experience.
Technical Diploma Program Details
Students in the Automotive Technician program can attend full or part time.
Automotive Technician program classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.
Earn Automotive Industry Certifications
EPA 609 Certification
You will be trained and test to receive the EPA 609 certification for Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning systems. This is required to service and repair automobile air conditioning systems.
ASE Certification
Completing the Automotive Technician program gives you one of the two years of technical experience required for the ASE Certification.
The Automotive Technology program is accredited through the ASE Education Foundation. Choose Automotive Technology at Madison College
The Automotive Technology program also offers an associate degree for those who want to take their career beyond technical work.
Learn more about our program options and why students choose Madison College to train for an automotive career.
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester10-602-100Automotive Fundamentals
Students are introduced to the automotive service industry and learn service information to perform basic under-hood and under-car services. This class also focuses on developing skills in the automotive profession, safety, and the use of basic and power tools and equipment in accordance with industry standards.2 credits10-602-101Automotive Service Procedures
Service Repair includes the theory, design and operation of the automobile engine, this course includes maintenance, light-duty repair and safety inspections. Engine lubrication, cooling and exhaust systems are also studied and serviced.3 credits10-602-124Automotive Electrical 1 (E1)
The automotive repair industry demands that technicians have a proficient understanding of the electrical systems which are at the heart of today's vehicles. Students are introduced to basic electricity fundamentals in accordance with industry standards and then apply the concepts to vehicle circuits and components.3 credits10-602-126Automotive Electrical 2 (E2)
This automotive course focuses on developing the skills needed to diagnose, service, and repair electrical and electronic systems, including batteries, starting and charging systems, lighting systems, horn and wiper systems, and introduction to computer control systems.2 credits10-602-166Driveability 1
All engine operating systems are studied: engine breathing, ignition systems, computer control and sensors, fuel and air management and emission systems. Students learn how these systems operate, how to test for proper operation of systems and components, and how to use test equipment.5 creditsSecond Semester10-457-100Metal Repair Techniques
This course covers safety, layout and measurement, grinding, drill press, lathe operation, filing, threading, properties of metals, oxy-acetylene welding, brazing and cutting, and SMAW, GMAW and FCAW.2 credits10-602-156Automotive Heating & Air Conditioning Systems
Study includes basic principles of refrigeration and air conditioning including the component parts that make up the A/C units on passenger cars and light trucks. Heating and automatic temperature controls are also studied. Students will receive State of Wisconsin AG 136.09 certification upon completion of this course.2 credits10-602-157Technical Braking Systems
Topics include principles of drum and disc brake designs, inspection and diagnosis. Covers wheel and tire diagnosis and repair. Steering and suspension safety inspection is covered. Lab experiences including inspecting, troubleshooting and the repair and replacement of defective or worn parts of the complete brake system. The use of correct procedure and tools is stressed.5 credits10-602-163Steering and Suspension Systems
Principles of suspension designs, wheel alignment angles, inspection procedures, parts replacement, steering systems, shock absorbers/struts, sway bars and frame design. On-the-job experiences include inspecting and correcting suspension angles, parts replacement, adjusting steering gears. Covers four-wheel alignment.5 creditsThird Semester10-602-115Hybrid and Alternative Fueled Vehicles
This course provides: a brief history of electric and hybrid electric vehicles, electric/hybrid electric vehicle safety procedures and equipment; components and current vehicle overview; hybrid electric vehicle components; current design configurations, current and near future vehicles; an introduction to electric/hybrid electric vehicle test equipment and procedures; and an introduction to electric/hybrid electric vehicle maintenance and trouble shooting. Also, Diesel, alternative fuel systems, including CNG and Fuel Cell, and related components are covered.2 credits10-602-154Automatic Transmissions
This automotive course focuses on developing the skills needed to diagnose, service and repair automatic transmissions/transaxles including overhaul procedures.5 credits10-602-158Service Management
The principles of various types of business organizations are examined and applied to automotive wholesale and retail businesses, ultimately focusing on the automobile as part of the service department. Service department operation is covered in detail and depth from large organizations to small organizations. The conventional line method of management is stressed. Employment possibilities and job interviewing techniques are discussed.2 credits10-602-155Manual Drivetrains & Axles
The operation and theory of clutches, transaxles, standard transmissions, drivelines and differentials are covered. Areas of emphasis include diagnosis, repair, testing and periodic maintenance as recommended by major manufacturers. Classroom and shop time is utilized to develop skills in diagnosis and repair of clutches, drivelines and differentials.5 creditsFourth Semester10-602-150Internal Combustion Engines
The internal combustion automotive engine is studied in detail by discussion, demonstration and laboratory experiments. The latest machining equipment is used to accurately diagnose, disassemble, repair and reassemble an automobile engine. Diagnosis of engine related mechanical problems is covered.5 credits10-602-152Driveability 2
Practical application of principles, concepts and diagnostic abilities covered in the 2 prerequisite courses. Advanced electrical/electronic diagnostic applications will reinforce prior competency development.5 credits10-602-162Automotive Electrical 3 (E3)
Examines equipment supplied by both major manufacturers of automobiles and after-market suppliers. Classroom and lab activities help students to understand basic electricity, electric circuits and use of test equipment to troubleshoot problems in circuits such as lighting, windshield wipers, power windows, instruments and cruise control.2 credits -
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Limited Seats Available!
This program has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
- Program capacity: 80 students each Fall. It shares capacity with other programs that have a similar curriculum.
- Estimated Wait Time: 0-1 year
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the program reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.
Learn more in the After You Apply section on this page.
Application Dates
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
3. Residency Requirement
Per Wisconsin Statute TCS-10 because this program has a waitlist:
- Out-of-state residents (except Minnesota residents*) are not eligible for admission consideration to this program
- Non-district state residents
- May only be considered after January 1 for the upcoming fall term
- *Minnesota residents are considered non-district state residents for admission purposes
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program..
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Automotive Technician career.
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After You Apply
This program uses a waiting list to manage program admission due to capacity limitations and high program demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the program.
A waiting list helps us manage applications in a way that is fair and transparent.
- Students on the waiting list receive priority in future terms based on the date they complete all application requirements.
- Priority does not guarantee a spot in the program.
- You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Learn more about waiting lists and Admission to Programs with Limited Capacity.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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Career Outcomes
Earning your two-year Technical Diploma in the Automotive Technology program at Madison College prepares you for valuable work as:
- Automotive Service Technician
- Auto Electronics Specialist
- Transmission and Drive Train Specialist
- Alignment Specialist
- Automotive Machine Specialist
- Service Manager or Assistant Service Manager
- Service Writer
- Parts and Sales Specialists
The skills you’ll gain in this program are versatile and can be applied to careers beyond automotive technician. You’ll also be prepared for employment in other industries such as:
- Forklift Service
- Small Engine
- Industrial Equipment Repair
- Manufacturing
- Engineering
- Automotive Tools and Equipment Sales
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 11 44 44 Number of Surveys Sent 11 44 44 Number of Surveys Returned 10 27 21 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 9 24 21 Percent Available for Employment 90.0% 88.9% 100.0% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 10.0% 7.4% 0.0% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 9 23 21 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 95.8% 100.0% Employed in Related Occupation 8 20 19 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 88.9% 87.0% 90.5% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 1 2 2 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 11.1% 8.7% 9.5% Employed - No Response 0 1 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 4.3% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 1 0 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 4.2% 0.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.4 3.5 3.8 Number of Satisfaction Responses 10 26 21 Very Satisfied (4) 4 15 16 Percent Very Satisfied 40.0% 57.7% 76.2% Satisfied (3) 6 10 5 Percent Satisfied 60.0% 38.5% 23.8% Unsatisfied (2) 0 1 0 Percent Unsatisfied 0.0% 3.8% 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 10 26 21 Preparation for Getting a Job 6 14 8 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 60.0% 53.8% 38.1% Career Change 1 2 2 Percent Career Change 10.0% 7.7% 9.5% Improvement of Existing Skills 2 9 6 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 20.0% 34.6% 28.6% Preparation for Further Education 0 0 1 Percent Preparation for Further Education 0.0% 0.0% 4.8% Personal Interest 1 1 4 Percent Personal Interest 10.0% 3.8% 19.0% Other 0 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 9 22 21 Before Enrollment 5 7 11 Percent Before Enrollment 55.6% 31.8% 52.4% While Attending the College 1 12 6 Percent While Attending the College 11.1% 54.5% 28.6% After Training at the College 3 3 4 Percent After Training at the College 33.3% 13.6% 19.0% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 9 24 21 In College District 8 21 21 Percent In College District 88.9% 87.5% 100.0% In Wisconsin, Not in District 1 0 0 Percent of In Wisconsin 11.1% 0.0% 0.0% Outside of Wisconsin 0 1 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin 0.0% 4.2% 0.0% Employer Location Unknown 0 2 0 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% 8.3% 0.0% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 7 17 18 Average Monthly Wage $3,845 $4,048 $3,655 Average Hourly Wage $22.36 $23.53 $21.25 Average Work Hours per Week 44.6 42.4 42.4 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count 1 1 Average Hourly Wage $17.50 $18.00 Average Work Hours per Week 9.0 15.0 -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions Bergstrom Chevrolet-Cadillac-Oldsmobile Automotive Technician Middleton 3 Camperland RV Technician/Sales Don Miller Automotive Technician Gary Wille's Auto Service & Tire Center Automotive Mechanic Oregon Kayser Automotive Group Technician Apprentice Sauk City Kearns Motor Car Co Automotive Technician Johnson Creek Parks' Automotive Automotive Technician DeForest Russ Darrow Lube Technician Smart Motors Automotive Technician Smart Motors Automotive Maintenance Technician Smart Motors Automotive Mechanic Wal-Mart Automotive Technician Zimbrick Inc Automotive Service Technician 4 Zimbrick Inc Automotive Service Technician Sun Prairie * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu
