Automotive Collision Repair: Non-Structural Repair A.A.S.

Repairing cars to their former glory

Straighten things out

Under the guidance of expert instructors in state-of-the-art facilities at CLC, you learn the fundamentals of the collision repair industry, preparing you for employment as an entry-level non-structural repair technician working on any of today’s vehicles.

Our Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree incorporates a balance of lectures and hands-on labs in all the courses, and you will develop strong fundamental skills in the automotive collision repair industry. Courses include:

removal and installation of vehicle panels
dent repair and automotive welding on steel and aluminum
plastic welding and repair
damage estimating
automotive detailing

What can you do with an Automotive Collision Repair Non-Structural Repair Specialty A.A.S.?

Take your problem-solving and vehicle tinkering skills to the next level at CLC — one of the nation’s largest and most respected collision repair programs. After completing your first semester, you’ll be able to apply your skills as a:

non-structural repair technician
automotive detailer
damage estimator

Upon completion of the Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree you qualify to earn industry-leading I-CAR credentials in Pro-level 1 in Non-Structural Repair.

With this certificate, you can ladder up to complete one of two 62-hour Auto Collision Repair Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees in either Non-Structural Repair or Refinishing:
- Non-Structural Repair: You focus on repairing and replacing damaged vehicle components.
- Refinishing: You focus on the development and application of vehicle coatings.
Your degree can be completed (with full-time attendance) in 2 years or 4 semesters. And you can earn certificates while pursuing the A.A.S., or you can pursue them separately:
- After your second semester, you earn the Automotive Collision Repair Assistant certificate (19 hours).
- After your third semester, you earn two certificates: Automotive Collision Repair (25 hours) and Automotive Damage Analysis (14 hours).
- Upon graduating with your A.A.S., you earn either the Structural Repair Technician 25-hour certificate (if you pursued the Non-Structural Repair pathway) or the Refinishing Technician 24-hour certificate (if you pursued the Refinishing pathway).
Get hands-on skills in a 10,000-square-foot repair shop on our Grayslake Campus, located in Building G. You’ll learn on cutting-edge equipment like SimSpray®, virtual reality technology that lets you practice spray painting in a 3D-simulated environment.
A new asphalt paved vehicle staging area accommodating up to eight cars is behind the building. Shop equipment and features include:
- full-down draft and semi-down draft paint spray booths
- two paint mixing rooms
- integrated welding booth
- chief frame machine and mechanical service area and equipment
- one paint double prep station
- dust collection system
- vehicle exhaust system
Take a virtual tour of our state-of-the-art Automotive Technology building at the Grayslake campus

See what students love about the automotive collision repair program at CLC. Picture yourself here:

Vealo en español
Watch video on YouTube

Highlights

Internships Available

Learn and earn through structured on-the-job training.
I-CAR Credentials

Qualify to earn industry-leading Inter-Industry Conference for Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) credentials.
Stackable Credentials

Earn college credits and learn as you go with stackable credentials.
Career Degree

Gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills by earning an associate degree in 2 years.
Program Length: 2 Years

Finish in 2 years as a full-time student.

*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

Repair and refinish automotive vehicle bodies and straighten vehicle frames.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $28,166
  
  Median
  
  $50,146
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $82,950
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $13.54
  
  Median
  
  $24.11
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $39.87
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  65.34%
  
  Certificate
  
  34.65%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Replace or repair broken windshields and window glass in motor vehicles.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $34,945
  
  Median
  
  $46,551
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $77,167
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $16.79
  
  Median
  
  $22.37
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $37.09
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  98.62%
  
  Certificate
  
  1.37%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $31,546
  
  Median
  
  $51,646
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $87,599
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $15.16
  
  Median
  
  $24.82
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $42.11
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  42.6%
  
  Certificate
  
  50.25%
  
  Some college
  
  5.78%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  1.37%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Set up, operate, or tend spraying or rolling machines to coat or paint any of a wide variety of products, including glassware, cloth, ceramics, metal, plastic, paper, or wood, with lacquer, silver, copper, rubber, varnish, glaze, enamel, oil, or rust-proofing materials. Includes painters of transportation vehicles such as painters in auto body repair facilities.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $34,939
  
  Median
  
  $46,151
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $80,188
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $16.80
  
  Median
  
  $22.19
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $38.55
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  89.33%
  
  Certificate
  
  7.07%
  
  Some college
  
  3.6%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Install, adjust, or maintain mobile electronics communication equipment, including sound, sonar, security, navigation, and surveillance systems on trains, watercraft, or other mobile equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $66,965
  
  Median
  
  $85,730
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $103,451
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $32.19
  
  Median
  
  $41.21
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $49.73
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  28.33%
  
  Certificate
  
  47.69%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  9.63%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  14.35%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Install, diagnose, or repair communications, sound, security, or navigation equipment in motor vehicles.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $46,689
  
  Median
  
  $46,703
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $59,384
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $22.44
  
  Median
  
  $22.45
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $28.55
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  47.17%
  
  Certificate
  
  47.4%
  
  Some college
  
  1.12%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  4.31%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of mechanics, installers, and repairers. May also advise customers on recommended services. Excludes team or work leaders.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $55,270
  
  Median
  
  $89,426
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $135,311
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $26.57
  
  Median
  
  $42.99
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $65.05
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  57.2%
  
  Certificate
  
  13.08%
  
  Some college
  
  16.91%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  3.2%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  7.57%
  
  Doctorate
  
  2.05%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

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Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, see the CLC college catalog.

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Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
ACR 110	ACR 110 Introduction to Automotive Collision Repair Class Description This course provides the beginning automotive collision students with an introduction to careers in the Automotive Collision Repair (ACR) Industry, repair processes, collision shop equipment, tool safety and proper usage, personal protection equipment used in collision repair, and the design and construction of the modern automobile. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies. Recommended: ENG 109 or ELI 109	3	Dual credit options available
ACR 112	ACR 112 Non-Structural Repair I Class Description (Formerly ABR 110) This course will focus on the design and construction of the modern automobile. Students are introduced to theory and the fundamentals commonly used in sheet metal repair processes, chemical and plastic welding repair processes, along with removal, installation, and adjustment of moveable vehicle glass. Replacement of exterior bolted vehicle body panels including proper fitment and adjustment, and replacement of exterior lights and trim will also be covered. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.	5
ACR 131	ACR 131 Automotive Refinishing I Class Description (Formerly ABR 130) This course will introduce the students to theory and basic fundamentals of vehicle finishing processes. The course will focus on paint and finishing safety, environmental practices, vehicle masking and protection, and surface preparation for the first coat of the finishing process. The course will also cover identification, set-up, and break down of finishing equipment, proper mixing and application of primers, sealers, and single stage paints. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.	3
MTH 114	MTH 114 Applied Mathematics Class Description This course explores the basic principles of mathematics with an emphasis on career technical applications. Operations of signed numbers including integers fractions and decimals are studied. Further areas of study include ratios, proportions, percentages, measuring systems, unit conversions, precision, accuracy, scientific notation introductory algebra and practical geometry.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 110
Course Title	ACR 110 Introduction to Automotive Collision Repair Class Description This course provides the beginning automotive collision students with an introduction to careers in the Automotive Collision Repair (ACR) Industry, repair processes, collision shop equipment, tool safety and proper usage, personal protection equipment used in collision repair, and the design and construction of the modern automobile. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies. Recommended: ENG 109 or ELI 109
Credits	3
Dual credit options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 112
Course Title	ACR 112 Non-Structural Repair I Class Description (Formerly ABR 110) This course will focus on the design and construction of the modern automobile. Students are introduced to theory and the fundamentals commonly used in sheet metal repair processes, chemical and plastic welding repair processes, along with removal, installation, and adjustment of moveable vehicle glass. Replacement of exterior bolted vehicle body panels including proper fitment and adjustment, and replacement of exterior lights and trim will also be covered. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.
Credits	5

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 131
Course Title	ACR 131 Automotive Refinishing I Class Description (Formerly ABR 130) This course will introduce the students to theory and basic fundamentals of vehicle finishing processes. The course will focus on paint and finishing safety, environmental practices, vehicle masking and protection, and surface preparation for the first coat of the finishing process. The course will also cover identification, set-up, and break down of finishing equipment, proper mixing and application of primers, sealers, and single stage paints. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	MTH 114
Course Title	MTH 114 Applied Mathematics Class Description This course explores the basic principles of mathematics with an emphasis on career technical applications. Operations of signed numbers including integers fractions and decimals are studied. Further areas of study include ratios, proportions, percentages, measuring systems, unit conversions, precision, accuracy, scientific notation introductory algebra and practical geometry.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other higher level Math courses instead of MTH 114.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
ACR 115	ACR 115 Automotive Welding Class Description (Formerly ABR 115) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of common ferrous and non-ferrous metal welding processes used in the collision repair industry. The course will focus on welding safety, gas welding and cutting, electrical arc welding and cutting, both flat and out-of-position welding techniques, and the five most common weld joints used in automotive collision repair. Classroom discussions and in-lab hands-on welding will prepare the student to take the I-CAR Welding Qualification Exams.	5
ACR 119	ACR 119 Paintless Dent Removal Class Description This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of common Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) processes, along with tools and equipment used in the collision repair industry. The course will focus on: dent theory, vehicle inspection, dent identification, PDR tool identification and recommended application, PDR vocabulary, hand and eye coordination, dent access and repair set-up, and final clean up of vehicle finish. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.	3
ACR 215	ACR 215 Automotive Detailing Class Description (Formerly ABR 215) This course will introduce students to theory and the fundamentals of interior and exterior vehicle cleaning, and vehicle finish defect correction. The course will focus on: vehicle interior trim identification, soiled/stains identification, interior odor removal/neutralizing and interior cleaning processes. Exterior cleaning and correction processes including identification of vehicle finish defects and finish correction will be discussed. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.	3
ENG 120	ENG 120 Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition Class Description Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition is an introductory college level writing course for anyone interested in learning how to develop their professional writing skills for real world applications. Students will learn how to plan, draft, compose, and revise a variety of technical and professional documents common to the workplace. Writing clearly and succinctly for a defined target audience will be emphasized, as well as developing skills in document design and multimodal composition. Projects are based on practical situations within the student’s area of study.	3	Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 115
Course Title	ACR 115 Automotive Welding Class Description (Formerly ABR 115) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of common ferrous and non-ferrous metal welding processes used in the collision repair industry. The course will focus on welding safety, gas welding and cutting, electrical arc welding and cutting, both flat and out-of-position welding techniques, and the five most common weld joints used in automotive collision repair. Classroom discussions and in-lab hands-on welding will prepare the student to take the I-CAR Welding Qualification Exams.
Credits	5

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 119
Course Title	ACR 119 Paintless Dent Removal Class Description This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of common Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) processes, along with tools and equipment used in the collision repair industry. The course will focus on: dent theory, vehicle inspection, dent identification, PDR tool identification and recommended application, PDR vocabulary, hand and eye coordination, dent access and repair set-up, and final clean up of vehicle finish. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 215
Course Title	ACR 215 Automotive Detailing Class Description (Formerly ABR 215) This course will introduce students to theory and the fundamentals of interior and exterior vehicle cleaning, and vehicle finish defect correction. The course will focus on: vehicle interior trim identification, soiled/stains identification, interior odor removal/neutralizing and interior cleaning processes. Exterior cleaning and correction processes including identification of vehicle finish defects and finish correction will be discussed. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ENG 120
Course Title	ENG 120 Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition Class Description Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition is an introductory college level writing course for anyone interested in learning how to develop their professional writing skills for real world applications. Students will learn how to plan, draft, compose, and revise a variety of technical and professional documents common to the workplace. Writing clearly and succinctly for a defined target audience will be emphasized, as well as developing skills in document design and multimodal composition. Projects are based on practical situations within the student’s area of study.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose ENG 121 instead of ENG 120.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
ACR 138	ACR 138 Automotive Electrical Systems Class Description (Formerly ABR 138) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of the air conditioning systems, cooling systems, fuel and exhaust systems, and automotive electronic systems as they apply to a collision repair technician. The course will focus on identification, theories of operation, diagnosis, and repair procedures of vehicle electrical systems as a direct result of a vehicle collision. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.	5
ACR 212	ACR 212 Non-Structural Repair II Class Description (Formerly ABR 111) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of repairing non-bolted vehicle body panels. The course will focus on the removal of interior and exterior trim, hardware, removing and installing stationary glass, non-bolted body panel replacement using both chemical adhesion and fusion processes, proper alignment methods, and application of body seam sealers and foams. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies. NOTE: Work Experience may be considered to meet the prerequisite.	5
ACR 235	ACR 235 Damage Analysis and Shop Procedures Class Description (Formerly ABR 235) This course will introduce students to theory and the fundamentals of identifying types of vehicle damages post collision. The course will focus on the preparation of written damage analysis, computerized analysis systems, and training on body shop management and operation systems. The course is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career within the insurance industry as a damage analyzer, or a career as a collision shop manager/estimator. Customer relation skills and issues will be discussed. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.	3
ART 121	ART 121 Introduction to Art Class Description This course will introduce students to an appreciation of the visual arts through an intercultural, social/historical approach. The course will also emphasize the nature of the creative process, integrating a study of the conceptual principles, with methods and materials which influence artistic critical thinking, problem solving, exploration, and discovery. Note: A museum visit will be required during the semester at student expense. See course syllabus for approximate cost.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 138
Course Title	ACR 138 Automotive Electrical Systems Class Description (Formerly ABR 138) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of the air conditioning systems, cooling systems, fuel and exhaust systems, and automotive electronic systems as they apply to a collision repair technician. The course will focus on identification, theories of operation, diagnosis, and repair procedures of vehicle electrical systems as a direct result of a vehicle collision. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.
Credits	5

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 212
Course Title	ACR 212 Non-Structural Repair II Class Description (Formerly ABR 111) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of repairing non-bolted vehicle body panels. The course will focus on the removal of interior and exterior trim, hardware, removing and installing stationary glass, non-bolted body panel replacement using both chemical adhesion and fusion processes, proper alignment methods, and application of body seam sealers and foams. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies. NOTE: Work Experience may be considered to meet the prerequisite.
Credits	5

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 235
Course Title	ACR 235 Damage Analysis and Shop Procedures Class Description (Formerly ABR 235) This course will introduce students to theory and the fundamentals of identifying types of vehicle damages post collision. The course will focus on the preparation of written damage analysis, computerized analysis systems, and training on body shop management and operation systems. The course is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career within the insurance industry as a damage analyzer, or a career as a collision shop manager/estimator. Customer relation skills and issues will be discussed. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ART 121
Course Title	ART 121 Introduction to Art Class Description This course will introduce students to an appreciation of the visual arts through an intercultural, social/historical approach. The course will also emphasize the nature of the creative process, integrating a study of the conceptual principles, with methods and materials which influence artistic critical thinking, problem solving, exploration, and discovery. Note: A museum visit will be required during the semester at student expense. See course syllabus for approximate cost.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other Humanities or Fine Arts courses instead of ART 121.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
ACR 137	ACR 137 Automotive Mechanical Systems Class Description (Formerly ABR 137) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of the steering and suspension systems, drive trains, and braking systems as they apply to a collision repair technician. The course will focus on identification, theories of operation, diagnosis, and repair procedures of the vehicle's mechanical systems as a direct result of a vehicle collision. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.	5
ACR 230	ACR 230 Structural Repair Class Description (Formerly ABR 230) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of the vehicle's structural system. The course will focus on the identification and analysis of structural damage using both manual and computer measuring systems, determining correct repair procedures, and straightening of structural panels. Replacement or sectioning of structural panels, panel corrosion protection, and restraint system will also be covered. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.	5
CMM 111	CMM 111 Communication Skills Class Description For students in career programs or individuals interested in improving communication skills. Acquaints students with a variety of interpersonal communication concepts and theories designed to improve communication competence. The focus is on interpersonal communication but intrapersonal communication is also addressed. Topics include the communication process and factors influencing it, cultural influences, verbal and non-verbal messages, relational maintenance, and productive conflict strategies.	3	Online/Virtual options available
SOC 121	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 137
Course Title	ACR 137 Automotive Mechanical Systems Class Description (Formerly ABR 137) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of the steering and suspension systems, drive trains, and braking systems as they apply to a collision repair technician. The course will focus on identification, theories of operation, diagnosis, and repair procedures of the vehicle's mechanical systems as a direct result of a vehicle collision. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.
Credits	5

Course Highlights
Course Code	ACR 230
Course Title	ACR 230 Structural Repair Class Description (Formerly ABR 230) This course will introduce the students to theory and the fundamentals of the vehicle's structural system. The course will focus on the identification and analysis of structural damage using both manual and computer measuring systems, determining correct repair procedures, and straightening of structural panels. Replacement or sectioning of structural panels, panel corrosion protection, and restraint system will also be covered. Classroom discussions and hands-on labs utilizing live vehicles and training aids will be used to enhance proficiencies.
Credits	5

Course Highlights
Course Code	CMM 111
Course Title	CMM 111 Communication Skills Class Description For students in career programs or individuals interested in improving communication skills. Acquaints students with a variety of interpersonal communication concepts and theories designed to improve communication competence. The focus is on interpersonal communication but intrapersonal communication is also addressed. Topics include the communication process and factors influencing it, cultural influences, verbal and non-verbal messages, relational maintenance, and productive conflict strategies.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	SOC 121
Course Title	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other Social and Behavioral Science courses instead of SOC 121.

Total Credit Hours

62

Automotive Collision Repair at CLC

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This degree is just one possible way to study Automotive Collision Repair. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

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Frequently asked questions

This degree teaches you the basics of collision repair:
- Disassemble and reassemble exterior vehicle body panels
- Removal and installation of stationary and movable automotive glass
- Dents repair
- Plastic welding and repair
- Automotive welding and structural repair
You spend about 60% of your time in our state-of-the-art training lab, where you gain hands-on skill sets as you repair vehicles following Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) procedures. The rest of your time is spent in the classroom studying foundational repair theories and other important information.
We prepare you for an in-demand career. Our instructors are experts in automotive collision repair, and they love to share their knowledge and pass on their expertise and repair process skills. Because of our small class sizes, you get to know your instructors personally. These valuable relationships provide you with personalized learning opportunities and connect you to potential employers.
Plus, you’re able to attend on a part-time or full-time basis, and you save serious money with our low tuition costs.
Oh, and did we mention the internship pathway which gets you employed, by your ninth week of class and our state-of-the-art facilities?
Yes! After completing our A.A.S. program, you can earn I-CAR certification in Pro-Level 1 in Refinishing or Non-Structural Repair. I-CAR is respected throughout the automotive industry. Earning this certification shows off your skills and helps you stand out as a job applicant. It proves you have the highest level of training and are ready for excellence in every project.
No, due to the high lab content, all Automotive Collision Repair courses are in-person.
The estimated cost of this program appears at the top of this web page, under the program title.
The cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours. It includes in-district tuition and fees, such as for books and materials. It does not factor in financial aid (grants, loans, scholarships) that you may receive.
View current tuition and fees
Some courses in this program are subject to variable tuition and course fees because they provide specialized experiences, instruction or technology/equipment.
View courses with variable tuition and fees
Many opportunities exist at CLC to get financial assistance. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

Path to a satisfying career and secure future

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Repairing cars to their former glory

Straighten things out

What can you do with an Automotive Collision Repair Non-Structural Repair Specialty A.A.S.?

Stackable certificates

Learn in a state-of-the-art auto body shop

Highlights

Internships Available

I-CAR Credentials

Stackable Credentials

Career Degree

Program Length: 2 Years

Career Outlook

Automotive Body and Related Repairers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

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Recommended Pathway

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Semester 1 16 Credits

Semester 2 14 Credits

Semester 3 16 Credits

Semester 4 16 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Automotive Collision Repair at CLC

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Frequently asked questions

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