Riverland Community College

This course introduces proven strategies and applications to help students achieve greater success in college and in life.  Topics include, but are not limited to, time management, goal setting, learning strategies, critical thinking, communication skills, diversity awareness, health and wellness, college and community resources, and financial planning.  This course introduces students to making choices that promote responsibility, motivation, interdependence, and self-awareness.  Recommended:  Score of 52 or above on test Accuplacer Reading Comprehension.
(1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

This course provides the knowledge and skills the student will need to start their career as an entry level general service professional automotive technician. The student’s ability to follow instructions, interpret and convert measurements and specifications are developed. Professional skills such as computer proficiency, work environments, and following diagnostic processes will begin to be developed. The student will also have gain proficiency in the writing of repair orders, parts requisitions, and the use of electronic service information systems. The student will also learn, in general terms, the correct procedures for general service of vehicles including precision measuring. The course covers procedures and safety in the automotive shop, the use of hand tools, power tools, hoists, jacks as well as other equipment used by automotive technicians. The proper use of various hand and power tools for the purpose of making various fastener and thread repairs is also taught. Minor automotive service and basic shop skills will be emphasized in the shop. (3 Cr – 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course includes principles, theory, service, and repair of complete brake systems, including anti-lock brake and traction control systems. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section V of the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation.

(4 Cr – 2 lect, 2 lab)

This course covers fundamental theory, design, diagnosis, and repair of electrical and electronic systems. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section VI of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) accreditation. (3 Cr – 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course covers the theory, diagnosis, and repair of electronic and conventional suspension and steering systems.  Wheel balance theory and operation are included.  This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section IV of the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation.

(3 Cr – 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course covers the theory and practice of alignment and adjustments used in various front and rear suspension systems to properly perform wheel alignments. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section IV (D) of the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation.

(2 Cr – 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course will give the student an overview of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and Autonomous Vehicle (AV). The student will understand how these new technologies impact auto service procedures. Prerequisite: AUTO 1431 Basic Automotive Electronics.

(1 Cr – .5 lect, .5 lab)

This course introduces students to a process of developing self-awareness when considering career opportunities and identifying career-related goals. Students conduct a job search, prepare a job application, resume, cover letter, a follow-up correspondence. The course includes preparation for job interviews.
(1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

This course covers basic mathematics and elements of algebra that will prepare students for success in their specific technical areas. Students will develop their problem-solving skills and master mathematical concepts. Students will receive a grade for this course. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement in course based on Multiple Measures for Course Placement – Math Decision Band Chart. (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

This course provides the entry level automotive welding knowledge and skills needed by a professional automotive technician.  The student’s ability to follow instructions and interpret measurements, will be developed.  The course emphasizes following safe practices, including the safe use of welding equipment and the proper selection and use of suitable personal protective equipment.

(2 Cr – 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers standard automotive and light truck clutches, manual transmissions and transaxles. Design, adjustment, and overhaul are included. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section III of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) accreditation. (1 Cr – 0 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers complete engine disassembly and reassembly, parts identification, wear locations and measurements.  Proper procedure for rebuilding cylinder heads, cylinder block assemblies, and the theory of operation of internal combustion engines are included.  This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section I of the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation.

(3 Cr – 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course covers performing engine diagnosis using commonly used diagnostic tools.  The focus of the course is to train students in diagnostic techniques used to find internal and external engine problems, such as noise problems, internal parts failures, low oil pressure, low compression, coolant leaks, oil leaks, and vacuum leaks.  This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section VIII of the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation.

         (2 Cr – 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers the fundamentals of theory, principles, diagnosis, adjustments, and repair of complete automotive fuel and emissions control systems. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section VIII of the National Automotive Technical Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation.

 (4 Cr – 2 lect, 2 lab)

This course will deepen the student’s understanding of electrical and electronic circuits, including data links and common sensors used in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems/Autonomous Vehicles (ADAS/AV). The student will use advanced training equipment such as Controller Area Network (CAN) trainers. Prerequisite: AUTO 1431 Basic Automotive Electronics.

(2 Cr – 1 lect, 1 lab)