Automotive Electronics Training Courses

<h3 id="section---WhatKindOfAutomotiveElectronicsTrainingCoursesAreAvailable">What Kind of Automotive Electronics Training Courses Are Available?</h3> <p>Training programs in automotive electronics are generally certificates, completable in under a year, although in some cases it may be possible to bundle this certificate with other, related automotive certificate courses into an associate's degree. These programs are designed to help students acquire the knowledge they need to be able to repair and diagnose issues with the electronic systems that are prevalent in modern cars, and become qualified for jobs such as automotive electronics technician. Many of these programs will also prepare students for various certification and licensure exams, most commonly the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) electrical and electronic systems certification. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Automotive Electronics Programs</b></td><td> Certificate-level, duration of 1 year or less</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Courses Required</b></td><td> Intro to automotive systems, repairing automotive electronics, automotive engine diagnostics</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Certification Available</b></td><td> ASE's automobile &amp; light truck certification for electrical/electronic systems</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Associate's Degree Option</b></td><td> Courses from certificate program may transfer to a general automotive technology degree</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatTopicsAndCoursesAreCoveredInAutomotiveElectronicsTrainingPrograms">What Topics and Courses Are Covered in Automotive Electronics Training Programs?</h3> <p>Courses for automotive electronics are highly specialized, in keeping with most certificate programs. Expect to take classes with titles like intro to automotive systems, repairing or servicing automotive electronics, and automotive engine diagnostics. Courses will involve both classroom work and hands-on experience in automotive centers. While courses will primarily be focused on the electronics and electrical systems of automobiles, other systems within the vehicle are commonly included, such as brakes, climate control and refrigerant systems, and engines. The exact nature of these other courses can vary and may determine what other certifications or licenses, if any, the program will leave you eligible to obtain, so be sure to take these into consideration when applying. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCertificationsAndLicensureMightIBeAbleToObtainAfterReceivingMyCertificate">What Certifications and Licensure Might I Be Able to Obtain After Receiving My Certificate?</h3> <p>Many automotive electronics training programs are designed with the ASE's electrical and electronic systems certification exam in mind and may even be accredited by the National Automotive Technician's Education Foundation (NATEF), a part of the ASE. The certification exam is made to help repair technicians demonstrate their capabilities in a particular area, with the electrical and electronics systems certification one of eight tests needed to obtain master automobile technician status, which may open the door to greater responsibilities and higher pay. Certification on brakes and heating and air conditioning systems are also sometimes an additional option, depending on the program. </p> <h3 id="section---CanITurnMyAutomotiveElectronicsCertificateIntoAnAssociateSDegree">Can I Turn My Automotive Electronics Certificate into an Associate's Degree?</h3> <p>For colleges with a heavy mechanical focus, it may be an option to apply credits obtained during an automotive electronics certificate towards an associate's degree, should you choose to continue your education. These associate's degree programs will have a wider focus on automotive technology, such as chassis systems, engine performance, and powertrains. Particularly in-depth degree programs will be built such that all eight ASE certification exams can be attempted after graduation, making it possible to receive master automobile technician status in short order. They may also include topics such as interpersonal communication, technical mathematics, and professional or technical writing, to aid in the other aspects of business which a technician may be expected to handle. Carefully consider your goals and those of the program when considering whether to pursue a certificate or associate's degree.</p>