Automotive technician program curriculum

Our automotive technician program curriculum aligns with National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) standards, which means your lessons include current industry best practices for this high-tech trade. Gain marketable skills with these studies in engine performance/diagnostics and prep for ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians test A8-Engine Performance.

Curriculum Lessons

Orientation: Learning at Ashworth

In this course, you’ll examine the goals and values of Ashworth College, time management, creating a realistic weekly and monthly study schedule, the nature and purpose of assessments, how to study effectively to prepare for and take an online examination, and developing the skill sets necessary for success in the twenty-first century.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

Identify skills needed to be a confident and independent online learner.

Lesson Group 1: Foundation and Safety

In this course, you'll review safety practices in automotive repair. You'll also learn about the tools you'll use and preventive maintenance checks on vehicles.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

Analyze work safety and equipment use.
Apply preventive maintenance and service procedures.
Relate how scientific principles and math aid in auto repair.

Lesson Group 2: Engine Repair

In this course, you’ll learn about gasoline and diesel engine operations. You’ll also review engine issues as well as how to remove, disassemble, measure, repair, assemble, and install an internal combustion gasoline-fueled engine.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

Explain gasoline and diesel engine operation, including cooling and lubrication systems and intake and exhaust systems.
Define typical engine-related complaints and engine smoke diagnosis.
Identify the detailed process of removing disassembling, measuring, repairing, assembling, and installing an internal combustion gasoline-fueled engine.

Lesson Group 3: Engine Performance

In this course, you’ll cover details about gasoline, alternative fuels, and diesel fuels, along with the fundamentals, diagnosis, and service of ignition systems.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

Describe gasoline, alternative fuels, and diesel fuels along with the fundamentals, diagnosis, and service of engine ignition systems.
Define fuel systems operation, including computer operation fundamentals, input sensors, fuel supply systems, fuel delivery systems, and fuel system diagnosis.
Identify the many different systems used for engine emission control.
Explain onboard diagnostics generation II (OBD-II) and strategy-based diagnosis.

Program Description

The Automotive Engine Performance certificate program is designed to provide you with the knowledge of the safe foundations of engine service procedures, including engine repair and engine performance systems and diagnostics.

Program Objectives

After completing the Automotive Engine Performance certificate program, you’ll be able to do the following:

Identify the hand and power tools, lift equipment, and diagnostic equipment used to evaluate, repair, and maintain automobiles and explain the procedures required for the safe use of each item.
Describe the various engine types, body styles, and drive systems that are used to classify cars and light trucks.
Describe the process used to diagnose and repair computer control systems
Identify and describe the operation of diagnostic test equipment used to improve engine performance.
Understand the integration of engine ignition, fuel and electronic engine controls and how these systems interact to maximize engine performance
Outline common diagnostic practices and repair procedures required for ignition, fuel, emissions control and electronic engine controls.
Understand the theory and operation of alternative engine types such as two-stroke, diesel, and rotary engine systems.

Revving up job opportunities

You'll gain job skills from every lesson in the Automotive Engine Performance Career Certificate course and prep for your job search at the same time. The online tools available through the Ashworth College Central Network are integrated into your studies so you'll be ready to deliver a polished presentation of your qualifications to potential employers as soon as you graduate. You'll also be able to revisit the Ashworth College Central Network whenever you need to after you've earned your certificate. Learn more about it at the Ashworth College Career Services page.