Automotive Service Technology

Start your automotive career

If you want to go beyond the basics and train for a full career in automotive repair, Riverland's Automotive Service Technology diploma gives you in-depth, hands-on training on modern vehicles and current systems, including electric vehicles. The program is based in Albert Lea, with some coursework offered online.

Over four semesters (69 credits) you'll build advanced skills, from engine and transmission diagnosis to electrical and drivability work, and you can earn industry certifications along the way. Whether you're coming straight from high school or changing careers, there's a place for you here.

Have a question before you apply? We're here to help. Contact Admissions ›

Career outlook

Cars and trucks always need service, and trained technicians stay in demand. Across the U.S., about 70,000 automotive service technician jobs open each year as vehicles stay on the road longer, advanced systems need skilled repair, and experienced workers retire.² The deeper training in this diploma prepares you for the diagnostic and electronic work employers value most. Locally, employers like Dave Syverson Auto Center, Austin Ford, and Sanco hire service technicians, so your diploma can put you to work close to home. As you add experience and certifications, your earning potential climbs, with the top technicians earning more than $80,850 a year.¹

¹ Median and top-decile annual wages, automotive service technicians and mechanics, United States, May 2024. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
² U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, 2024 to 2034 projections.

Program highlights

• Hands-on training: Work directly on modern vehicles and current systems, including electric vehicles, in a well-equipped shop with small class sizes
• Tools and vehicles included: Riverland provides tools and vehicles at no extra cost, and you can build your own set at a discount through the Snap-on Student Excellence Program
• Ford Tech | ACE partnership: Earn factory-level Ford and Lincoln training through Riverland's partnership with Dave Syverson Auto Center
• Flexible delivery: Based in Albert Lea, with some coursework offered online
• ASE accredited: Meets ASE Education Foundation Master Certified standards recognized by employers nationwide

What you'll learn

• Engine theory, diagnosis, and repair
• Automatic and manual transmissions, drivetrains, and rear axles
• Steering, suspension, and wheel alignment
• Brake systems
• Basic and advanced electrical and electronic systems
• Fuel systems, ignition, and drivability diagnosis
• Heating and air conditioning
• Automotive welding, preventive maintenance, and shop safety

See the full course list ›  |  View the four-semester course sequence ›

Where this can take you

As an automotive service technician, you could work at dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance operations, tire and service centers, or specialty diagnostic shops. With experience and certifications, you can move into lead technician, shop foreman, specialty diagnostic, or service manager roles.

A day on the job

Here's what the work often looks like:

• Diagnosing problems in engines, transmissions, brakes, and electrical systems
• Performing routine maintenance, inspections, and drivability checks
• Repairing or overhauling components and full systems
• Using diagnostic computers and shop tools
• Keeping accurate service records

Compare Riverland's automotive diplomas

Not sure which program fits? Here's how the two automotive diplomas compare.

Paying for your diploma

Riverland's tuition is among the lowest in Minnesota, and there are several ways to make it more affordable, including grants, scholarships, payment plans, and work-study jobs.

View current scholarships and deadlines ›