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Auto Body Collision Technology
Credits: 72 | Degree Type: A.A.S. | Campus Offered: TRF
Program Specific Requirements

Students achieving assessment scores below the established minimums must register and successfully complete (with a grade of "C" or better) the required developmental courses in order to meet graduation requirements.
The college minimum scores for the Accuplacer Assessment test are as follows:
Reading Comprehension: 66
Sentence Skills: 78
Arithmetic: 50

Students entering the program should have good mechanical skills, communication skills, and the ability to follow instructions. This is a physical and sometimes dirty environment, so safety precautios are strictly enforced.

Attendance is critical due to the volume and specific information given to ensure the correct repair process. There is also a dress code requirement. Tools and safety equipment are required; a tool list is also available from an instructor.

Program Description

Formal training in Auto Body Collision Technology is highly desirable because advances in technology in recent years have greatly changed the structure, components, and even materials used in automobiles. This program is designed for entry level education in the Auto Body Collision Repair industry. The customized curriculum allows students time for more Liberal Arts classes, which are a part of the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum.

Auto Body Technicians replace or repair damaged portions of automobile bodies and frames using the latest tools and technology. They straighten bent frames, repair dents, replace body panels, and weld rust repair panels. They also replace broken glass, inspect drive train components, and perform electircal diagnostics including air bag component replacement.

Students will also sand, mask repair areas, and spray the latest automotive refinishing materials in a state of the art down draft bake booth. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification test after graduating and one year of training in a collision repair facility.

Employment Opportunities

1. Insurance Adjuster
2. Paint Manufacture Representative
3. After Market Parts Sales Person
4. Automobile Refinishing Technician
5. Auto Body Equipment Sales Person
6. Salvage Yard Manager
7. Auto Dealer Parts Counter Person/Parts Manager
8. Fram Rack Operator
9. Car Detailing

Student Placement

Accreditation

The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, (800) 621-7440, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504.

Course Listings

Semester order by campus: Thief River Falls

Course # Course Name Credits
Required
AUBO 1100 Intro to Auto Body 2
AUBO 1102 Off Car Repair 4
AUBO 1105 Plastic Welding 2
AUBO 1111.3 Auto Body Lab I 3
AUBO 1112.3 Auto Body Lab II 3
AUBO 1121 Auto Body Refinishing 6
AUBO 1123 Glass & Trim 2
AUBO 1131 Auto Body Welding I 2
AUBO 2201 Collision/Damage/Estimate 4
AUBO 2205 Unibody & Frame 4
AUBO 2207.3 Major Collision Lab 3
AUBO 2212.3 General Auto Body Lab 3
AUBO 2216 Shop Operations 2
AUBO 2221 Simulated Auto Body I 4
AUBO 2222 Simulated Auto Body II 2
AUBO 2225 Panel Replacement 2
AUBO 2228 Auto Body Mechanical 6
ENGL 1111 Composition I 3
  G4: Math/Logical Elective 3
  G5: History/Social Elec 3
  G6: Human/Fine Arts Elec 3
  MN Transfer Curriculum Electives 6
TOTAL CREDITS:    72
Program Learner Outcomes

1. Student will demonstrate professionalism including punctuality, attitudes, and workmanship expected in the Auto Body Collision industry.
2. Student will exhibit safety practices and procedures at all times.
3. Student will apply theory of metal straightening to a variety of shop projects.
4. Student will safely and properly operate Mig welding equipment.
5. Student will apply theory of automotive refinishing processes to shop projects according to industry standards.
6. Student will properly and safely operate and troubleshoot diagnostic equipment.
7. Student will perform vehicle structural component repair to industry standards.
8. Student will display managerial, organizational and customer service skills necessary to effectively manage a collision repair facility.
9. Student will exhibit effective written and verbal communication skills.