Automotive Technology Engine Performance/Air Conditioning Program Certificate - 2nd Year is a Program Certificate program offered by Bismarck State College in Bismarck, ND.
Program Overview
Starting Fall 2026, the Automotive Technology program will be offered only as a certificate or associate degree. The diploma option will no longer be available. Degrees Offered: AAS, Program Certificate Limited Enrollment: Yes Program Begins: Fall Delivery Method: On Campus Phone: 701-224-2429 Email: bsc.cet@bismarckstate.edu The Automotive Technology program provides training in all eight Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) instructional areas and is Master Automobile Service Technology certified by the ASE Education Foundation. Certification is based on compliance with standards developed by the automotive industry. All BSC instructors have achieved Master ASE certification as experts in the field. Automotive Technology is a limited enrollment, two-year program that prepares graduates for entry-level jobs. Admission occurs in the Fall. Students are encouraged to apply early as openings are limited. Students use classroom and hands-on knowledge to learn how to repair automotive, mechanical, and electrical systems. Using the latest diagnostic technology, students work on training vehicles to develop skills. Study units include electronics, fuel delivery systems, transmissions, clutches, ignition systems, braking and steering systems, transaxles, drive trains, heating/air conditioning diagnosis, and emission control systems. The Automotive Technology Program Certificate is made up of two sections: Technicians need reading, mathematics, and computer skills to study technical manuals. Employers look for people with strong communication and analytical skills. Recommended high school courses include physics, chemistry, algebra, keyboarding, introduction to electricity, English, and business management. Prior automotive training is helpful. Continuing education after graduation is common to keep up with changes in technology and service procedures. Awareness of these technical standards may help students determine suitability for this career: Students who complete the curriculum requirements earn a Program Certificate in Electrical/Chassis Systems and/or Engine Performance/Air Conditioning Systems. Additional coursework may lead to a Diploma or Associate in Applied Science degree. Students must have a specified tool set, books, and sturdy work shoes. Toolboxes will be provided for student use through the Dean D. Gunsch Toolbox Program. Students will be required to purchase shop shirts. Credits from the Automotive Technology Associate in Applied Science may stack into the following Associate of Applied Science degree: The Associate in Applied Science degree may stack into the following Bachelor of Applied Science degree: BSC’s Automotive Technology program is vital for those planning to work as auto technicians but also valuable for those interested in auto sales and service, parts manufacturing and sales, or farming and ranching. Upon graduation, Automotive Technology students will be able to:
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide
Accreditations
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
Tuition and Fees
This award is 30 credits.
Bismarck State charges tuition by the SUBJECT of each course rather than by program, so a single price for the award would be misleading. The college's published 2026-2027 resident rates per credit are:
- General 100/200-level subjects (ENGL, MATH, BADM, CIS and similar) — $195.09
- Technical 100/200-level subjects (WELD, AUTO, HVAC, ELEC, CARP and similar) — $239.43
- Nursing (NURS) — $279.84
- Any 300/400-level course in a Bachelor of Applied Science — $251.68
Uncapped mandatory fees add $57.12 per credit plus a $7.15 technology fee. Connect ND and NDSA fees are capped at 12 credits a term. Because most awards mix general and technical subjects, the total depends on the specific courses taken.
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide