Automotive Technology Major
Are you a strong investigator and problem-solver? Through the automotive technology program at PSU, gain advanced diagnostic skills needed to service the complex vehicles of today.7 Specialized Labs
Our students train on the newest tools and latest equipment found in the industry. Within the Department of Automotive Technology, there are 7 specialized lab spaces in auto technology, diesel vehicles, and collision repair.
Be Recruited by Leading Dealerships
Our graduates are recruited by leading dealerships and corporations. Through paid internship opportunities and networking events with national employers, you will easily find work as an auto technician, fleet equipment manager, auto shop owner, and more!
Nationally Accredited
Feel confident you are receiving the most current training. Unlike most mechanic trade schools, the Automotive Technology program is nationally accredited by the ASE foundation at its highest level, Master accreditation status.
Hands-on Experience
Break down and reassemble an engine in your first year! The interactive curriculum is designed so you roll up your sleeves in the classroom and in the shop.
Learn from the Best
With decades of experience teaching and working in the automotive industry, our faculty are world-renowned teachers and experts in their craft.
$500 Scholarship
Take a campus tour paired with an Automotive Technology academic appointment and earn a deduction to your first-semester tuition. Plus, we award 40K in departmental scholarships annually.
Student Experiences with Cutting-Edge Facilities
Work on either shop cars or your own vehicle. Learning is most effective when it's personalized, so you can bring in your own ride and apply your newfound skills directly to it.
98% - 99%
pass rate of Automotive Service Excellence exam
50+
donated vehicles ready to be worked on including cars, trucks, and SUVs.
1 of 3
Universities in the U.S. to offer a 4-year Automotive Technology degree.
96% - 100%
job placement rate among surveyed graduates over several years.
"There are so many options here — diesel, automotive tech, collision repair — all in one degree... This is the only school with the best equipment, best teachers, best resources, the best facility."
Patrick Murtland, Automotive Technology undergrad.
Automotive Technology Careers
In addition to technical skills, the Automotive Technology program trains students to succeed as leaders. Graduates are prepared to hold positions like:
- Auto Mechanic
- Auto Repair Shop Owners
- Field Service Engineers
- District Sales Managers
- Technical Specialists
- Dealership Service Managers
- Service Training Instructor
- Fleet Equipment Manager
- Technical Hotline
- Aftermarket Sales
- Writer/Literature Developer
- Insurance Claims Representative
- Automotive Part Store Manager and Sales Representative
Earning your bachelor's from PSU can provide more career opportunities than trade schools for automotive mechanics. Four years of advanced training in a specialized emphasis will distinguish you from others and improve your employability.
Emphases available
Learn to manage production processes and improve the efficiency of car manufacturing. Master techniques that streamline operations, reduce costs, enhance quality, and optimize production workflow.
Dive into three areas of diesel technology including agricultural equipment, construction equipment, and on-highway truck systems. Students in this emphasis go to work for Caterpillar, John Deere, and Cummins. Or, become a Fleet Manager for construction companies like Kiewit.
Gain strategic tools in automotive business management. This emphasis combines the Automotive Technology curriculum with courses from the Kelce College of Business.
Diagnose and repair damaged parts and bodies of cars and other vehicles that have experienced accidents, harsh weather, or other incidents. Be a client advocate for safe vehicle repair. This emphasis will prepare you to enter the automotive insurance industry as an adjustor.
This diverse emphasis includes a variety of technical classes in collision repair, diesel equipment, and automotive mechanical design. Receive a broad scope of training to enter any industry after you graduate.
Develop or improve motor vehicle structures, accessories, engines, and related systems. This emphasis merges Automotive Technology and Engineering Technology courses for students to excel in mechanical design.
Learn about specific systems in hybrid, electric, and fuel-cell vehicles. Diagnose and repair advanced technology systems, focusing on the latest in automotive propulsion.
Additional information
for the School of Automotive and Engineering Technology
Catalog – see program guides