Automotive Technology - Program Overview

Wrenches and laptops—tools of your trade

Gas, electric, hybrid, parking assist, lane drift warnings, adaptive cruise control—engines, suspension and electronics are intertwined in today’s cars. So, today’s mechanics change the oil, install brakes and manage all the sensors, wiring and cameras, too.

Learn the high-tech and the traditional in CLC’s Automotive Technology program. Establish basic skills then specialize for the career you choose in a repair shop or a car dealer’s service department.

Why study Automotive Technology with us?

CLC’s program is Master Certified (MAST) by the ASE Education Foundation. Depending on your preferences, you can advance in the field in several ways, becoming a master technician, service department supervisor or even the owner of your own shop.

You gain hands-on skills working with the eight defined systems:

  • engine repair
  • automatic transmission/transaxle
  • manual drive train and axles
  • suspension and steering
  • braking systems
  • electrical electronic systems
  • heating and air conditioning
  • engine performance

Your credits transfer toward a bachelor's degree under prearranged agreements with either Southern Illinois University or Ferris State University (in Michigan). Work with your Academic Success Advisor to plan your transfer to a 4-year institution.

Highlights

  • Recognized Automotive Service Excellence

    This program is Master Certified (MAST) by the ASE Education Foundation.

  • EV and Hybrid Training

    Electric Vehicles (EVs) & Hybrid servicing practices are integrated into our classes thanks to the Rev Up EV! Community College Initiative.

  • Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

    Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement).

  • Career Certificate

    Gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills by earning a certificate in less than 1 year.

  • Career Degree

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

  • Stackable Credentials

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

Career Degrees & Certificates

For degree-seeking students who want to start a new career or advance their current career.

Full-time students can earn an Associate Degree in Applied Science (A.A.S.) at CLC in two years. Gain job-ready skills from experienced instructors and work-based experience from apprenticeships and internships. Some of the courses can even earn college credits, which can transfer to a 4-year college or university to apply toward a bachelor's degree.

For certificate-seeking students who want to earn job skills for entry-level occupations or increase their career opportunities.

You can complete a certificate in less than two years. Many certificate programs include career degree courses, allowing you to stack certificates toward an A.A.S. degree.

Need help getting started?

Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:

  • complete the admission process
  • choose an academic program
  • enroll in first-semester classes
  • get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

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*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.

Courses in the program

Build your foundation with core automotive technology courses. Then, mix in some electives that match your interests and goals.

Design, build, diagnose, repair

Discover what you'll learn in the automotive technology program at CLC. Picture yourself here:

Path to a satisfying career and secure future

Meet Joe, a CLC graduate who followed his heart into a satisfying career and a secure future for his family. "Going to the College of Lake County is still the best decision I ever made." Watch the video:

Meet our instructors

Experience the benefit of small class sizes and personalized instruction from your CLC instructors.

Department chairs


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