Madison College offers a comprehensive automotive technology associate degree designed for students who want to enter the repair, diagnostics, and service sectors of the modern automotive industry. The curriculum blends classroom theory with laboratory work, allowing learners to master everything from engine fundamentals to electronic control systems. Upon admission, each student receives a personalized Degree Progress Report that maps out required prerequisites, credit totals, and semester sequencing, ensuring a clear path to graduation.
Program structure and core courses
The program is organized into a series of semester-long modules that total roughly 60 credits. Core subjects are grouped into three skill families: powertrain mechanics, electrical & climate control, and service management.
Fundamentals and powertrain
Students begin with Automotive Fundamentals (10-602-100) a 2-credit intro covering safety, tool usage, and basic under-hood service. This foundation leads to Automotive Service Procedures (10-602-101) and the more advanced Driveability 1 (10-602-166) and Driveability 2 (10-602-152) courses, which together explore engine breathing, ignition, fuel management, and emission controls across 10 credits. The Internal Combustion Engines (10-602-150) and Automatic Transmissions (10-602-154) labs provide hands-on disassembly, diagnosis, and rebuild experience, while Manual Drivetrains & Axles (10-602-155) teaches clutch, differential, and drivetrain theory.
Electrical, HVAC, and emerging technologies
A solid grounding in electricity begins with Automotive Electrical 1 (10-602-124) and progresses through Automotive Electrical 2 (10-602-126) and Automotive Electrical 3 (10-602-162) totaling eight credits of circuit analysis, battery systems, lighting, and computer-controlled modules. Climate control expertise is delivered in Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning Systems (10-602-156) a 2-credit course that also grants Wisconsin AG 136.09 certification. For future-oriented learners, Hybrid and Alternative Fueled Vehicles (10-602-115) introduces electric drivetrains, CNG, and fuel-cell basics.
Service management and business skills
Beyond the shop floor, the program incorporates Service Management (10-602-158) where students examine organizational structures, line-management techniques, and interview strategies. Complementary courses in Written Communication (10-801-195) and Oral/Interpersonal Communication (10-801-196) sharpen workplace writing and speaking, while Mathematical Reasoning (10-804-134) and Economics (10-809-195) provide the quantitative and macro-economic context needed for savvy technicians and future service managers.
How to apply and admission criteria
Prospective students must complete an online application, upload official transcripts, and meet Wisconsin residency rules. Admission requires either a high-school diploma/GED or at least 30 college credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Out-of-state applicants (except Minnesota residents) are placed on a waiting list, while in-state candidates are considered for the 80-seat fall cohort. The application window opens on October 15, 2026, and closes on August 31, 2027.
After submission, applicants receive a Degree Progress Report outlining required courses and any additional prerequisites. The program’s limited capacity means early submission maximizes the chance of enrollment; if the cohort fills, a waiting list is activated. Contact the Enrollment Center at [email protected] or call 608-246-6210 for assistance.
Career prospects and graduate success
Graduates enjoy strong employment outcomes. Survey data from -2025 shows a 90 % employment rate within the field, with an average monthly wage of $4,183 for full-time positions. Employers frequently cite graduates for roles such as automotive technician, fleet technician, and service specialist at regional dealers and municipal fleets. Transfer pathways also exist: credits can be applied toward bachelor’s programs at UW-Oshkosh, Lakeland College, MSOE, and Franklin University, expanding long-term career flexibility.
The program’s blend of technical rigor, business acumen, and emerging-technology exposure equips students to meet current industry demands and adapt to future propulsion trends. Whether you aim to join a dealership service department, specialize in hybrid diagnostics, or continue toward a four-year degree, Madison College’s automotive technology degree offers a clear, hands-on route to a rewarding automotive career.
