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If you’d like to learn more about the Automotive Technology-Comprehensive program, we’d love to talk with you.
We’re here to answer any questions and guide you through our application process step-by-step.
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Financial Aid Available-
Program Overview
Madison College’s Automotive Technology – Comprehensive associate degree combines the technical know-how learned in the technical diploma with general education courses that will make you more desirable to employers.
In addition, the associate degree is an excellent option if your future goals include owning your own business, becoming an instructor or earning a 4-year degree in engineering or related field.
Automotive Technical Training
While you’re working towards your Automotive Technology-Comprehensive associate degree, you’ll automatically earn the Automotive Technician technical diploma as soon as you finish the technical coursework.
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.
Associate Degree General Education Requirements
The associate degree requires five additional courses (15 credits) in math, economics, writing, communication and human relations.
These courses are designed to relate to the automotive workplace, helping you develop skills needed to advance to a supervisory position, including parts and labor cost estimation, customer service and shop management.
Program Details
Students in the Automotive Technology program can attend full or part time.
Automotive technical courses are offered at the Madison College Truax campus. The general education classes may be offered in-person at various campuses or online.
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 Technology Comprehensive 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
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 credits10-602-156Automotive Heating and 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 credits10-602-166Driveability 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 credits10-602-157Technical 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 credits10-602-158Service 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 credits10-602-163Steering 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 credits10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 creditsThird Semester10-602-154Automatic Transmissions
This automotive course focuses on developing the skills needed to diagnose, service and repair automatic transmissions/transaxles including overhaul procedures.5 credits10-602-155Manual 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 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 credits10-804-134Mathematical Reasoning
Making decisions about fiscal, environmental, and health issues requires using mathematical reasoning to solve complex problems. This course explores numerical and algebraic relationships, graphical data displays, statistical measures, proportional and algebraic reasoning, translating contexts to mathematical models, and solving using linear, exponential and other mathematic models. This course may be used as the first of a two-part sequence that ends with Quantitative Reasoning as the capstone general education math requirement.3 credits10-809-195Economics
This course is designed to give an overview of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international economics. Concepts include scarcity, resources, alternative economic systems, growth, supply and demand, monetary and fiscal policy, inflation, unemployment and global economic issues.3 creditsFourth 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 credits10-602-150Internal 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 credits10-801-196Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.3 credits10-809-199Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 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 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 Technology-Comprehensive 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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Transfer Opportunities
UW System Schools
The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higherWisconsin Private Schools
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree. -
Career Outcomes
Earning your two-year associates degree in the Automotive Technician 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 16 9 Number of Surveys Sent 11 16 9 Number of Surveys Returned 10 7 7 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 9 5 6 Percent Available for Employment 90.0% 71.4% 85.7% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 10.0% 14.3% 14.3% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 9 4 6 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 80.0% 100.0% Employed in Related Occupation 9 4 6 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0 0 0 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 1 0 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 20.0% 0.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.9 3.8 3.4 Number of Satisfaction Responses 10 6 7 Very Satisfied (4) 9 5 5 Percent Very Satisfied 90.0% 83.3% 71.4% Satisfied (3) 1 1 1 Percent Satisfied 10.0% 16.7% 14.3% Unsatisfied (2) 0 0 0 Percent Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 14.3% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 10 6 7 Preparation for Getting a Job 6 4 4 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 60.0% 66.7% 57.1% Career Change 2 1 0 Percent Career Change 20.0% 16.7% 0.0% Improvement of Existing Skills 2 1 2 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 20.0% 16.7% 28.6% Preparation for Further Education 0 0 1 Percent Preparation for Further Education 0.0% 0.0% 14.3% Personal Interest 0 0 0 Percent Personal Interest 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 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 4 6 Before Enrollment 0 2 2 Percent Before Enrollment 0.0% 50.0% 33.3% While Attending the College 4 1 4 Percent While Attending the College 44.4% 25.0% 66.7% After Training at the College 5 1 0 Percent After Training at the College 55.6% 25.0% 0.0% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 9 5 6 In College District 8 4 6 Percent In College District 88.9% 80.0% 100.0% In Wisconsin, Not in District 1 0 0 Percent of In Wisconsin 11.1% 0.0% 0.0% Outside of Wisconsin 0 0 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Employer Location Unknown 0 1 0 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% 20.0% 0.0% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 9 4 6 Average Monthly Wage $4,183 $3,920 $4,428 Average Hourly Wage $24.32 $22.79 $25.75 Average Work Hours per Week 41.6 41.3 43.0 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count Average Hourly Wage Average Work Hours per Week -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions Bergstrom Chevrolet-Cadillac-Oldsmobile Automotive Technician Middleton City of Madison Fleet Technician Don Miller Automotive Technician Wisconsin Aviation Automotive Technician Zimbrick Inc Automotive Service Technician 2 * - 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
