Automotive Specialist is a Certificate program offered by Center for Employment Training in San Jose, CA. The program takes 27 weeks (810 clock hours) to complete, with a total tuition of $14,221.
Program Overview
This program will prepare students to perform the duties and responsibilities required by entry-level positions in the automotive field, such as auto mechanic apprentice, brake repairer, front end mechanic, brake drum lathe operator, tire installer, and tune-up mechanic. Students will learn automotive theory, OSHA safety standards, auto-related math, including troubleshooting and repairing carburetor systems, emission control systems, and brake systems. Additionally, students will demonstrate proficiency in customer service, the use of the internet, and job search skills. Finally, students will become proficient in performing tune-ups and wheel alignment and balancing.
Admission Requirements & Process
CET uses an advisor-led process. After an initial inquiry, the prospective student attends a general information session with an Admissions Advisor, selects a program, and receives a formal program presentation from an Instructor/Advisor. The governing catalog says applicants may apply at a CET location during office hours or by appointment. CET publishes no self-service applicant account or blank online admissions application.
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.
School Information
Location
Accreditation & Approvals
CET is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and approved to operate in California by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).
Program Schedule
Class code(s): AS30. Published length: 27 weeks (810 clock hours).
Curriculum
- Automotive Related Math — 90 hours
- Shop Safety — 75 hours
- Automotive Theory — 95 hours
- Fuel Delivery Systems — 100 hours
- Emission Control Systems — 100 hours
- Diagnostics and Tune-Ups — 100 hours
- Brake Systems — 100 hours
- Steering and Suspension Systems — 100 hours
- Job Preparedness — 20 hours
- Customer Service Skills — 10 hours
- Basic Computer Skills — 20 hours
- Total Hours of Instruction — 810
All programs are open enrollment; competency completion varies among students.
Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid
The governing campus catalog publishes $14,221.00 as Total Charges and states that this is program tuition; no additional tuition is assessed for students completing within the stated window. Required books/e-books and specified uniforms or protective equipment are included, subject to the catalog's opt-out limits. CET participates in federal student-aid programs for eligible students.
Career Outcomes
Job Placement Assistance
CET job developers work with students to prepare them to obtain jobs through the preparation of resumes, applications, and mock interviews. Career Service Specialists work with local industry to match CET trainees to available jobs. CET does not guarantee job placement, but does actively help job-ready individuals to find training-related jobs, follows up on students who leave the program and continues to offer additional placement assistance to those in need. In addition, CET prepares students to identify job opportunities and to compete in the job market on their own.
Job Retention Follow-Up
It is the policy of CET to maintain records of graduates and withdrawals from the program and provide post-training follow-up services to all former students. Follow-up activities include assistance primarily to ensure job procurement; employment retention, and gathering of employment data of former students; and dissemination of information on opportunities for further education. Each of CET's programs prepares the students for occupations that are in demand in the local labor market. The programs are designed in close cooperation with local employers to ensure that CET graduates fill industry needs.
What to Expect as a CET Student
Holistic Approach
Since inception, CET's fundamental purpose was to develop and implement an effective method for training a diverse and needy population. The program therefore is designed as holistic, comprehensive, individualized, and adaptable to each person's needs.
Technical Skill Training
CET offers its students an open-entry, open-exit, competency-based employment training program. All instruction is in English. The program is individualized and covers the learning necessary for the desired occupational goals. A student advances along his/her/their own individual training plan, moving through academic and technical competencies, as he/she/they demonstrate the required mastery. The training includes a strong hands-on component using tools and equipment similar to those found in industry. CET promotes good work habits through simulation of a business environment. Attendance and punctuality are always required in recognition of their importance on the job.
Integrated Basic Skills & Human Development
CET provides contextualized academic instruction to all students. Vocational English and foundational education are systematically integrated into the skill training curriculum and are delivered within the framework of the specific occupational program in which the student is enrolled. Students' work habits, behavioral patterns, and communication skills often have as much impact on job success as does technical knowledge. In order to prepare students for the demands of the world of work, CET provides a Human Development component, with instruction in life skills, communication strategies, situations on the job, and informational sessions by professionals on topics such as general health, parenting, and budgeting.
School Information
Location
Accreditation & Approvals
CET is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and approved to operate in California by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).