Complete the majority of your automotive service technician apprenticeship training in a flexible, collaborative, online environment, while working your way up to a B.C. trade certificate.
What you will learn
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- How to inspect, diagnose and service cars and light trucks.
- How to repair engines, steering systems, braking systems, vehicle suspensions, electrical systems and more.
- How to use computerized diagnostic equipment to test and adjust key vehicle components.
- How to perform preventative maintenance, including wheel alignments, oil changes and tune-ups.
What to expect
Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion
The technical training (28 weeks) generally takes 4 years to complete, alongside 6360 hours of work-based training. There is no maximum time to completion.
- This program is offered in on-campus and hybrid formats.
- On-campus option: You will attend classes face-to-face for 7 weeks
- Hybrid option: You will attend classes online for 13 weeks, then full-time face-to-face on campus for 2 weeks. Note: You must have access to an internet-equipped computer and the ability to operate Zoom using a webcam and headset microphone.
- ?Each level must be completed in the format you registered for, but you may switch formats when starting a new level.
- This program is designed for apprentices currently working in the automotive service industry.
- Automotive Service Technician apprentice training at VCC is designed to meet the needs of both the apprentice and industry by providing a valuable and up-to-date experience.
- Upon completion, apprentices return to industry with an increased comprehensive skill set.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- A valid SkilledTradesBC ID number
- A current employer and sponsor. Note: Every registered apprentice has both an employer and a sponsor. The employer hires you and pays for your work; the sponsor commits to helping you get opportunities to learn on the job and reports on your progress. In most cases, the employer and sponsor are the same person or organization.
General
- This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Program options for international students can be found at VCC International.
- Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
- Applicants must be 16 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
- Applicants must submit official transcripts and educational documents as required by their course or program.
- Before applying to VCC, you will need an official apprenticeship number with SkilledTradesBC. Use this ID number when enrolling at VCC.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended Characteristics
- Analytical
- Coordinated
- Resourceful
- Systematic
Courses *
Prior learning assessment and recognition
Applicants who have relevant work experience (in B.C. or elsewhere) or previous trades training may be eligible to write challenge exams for levels of technical training through SkilledTrades BC.
Option 1: On campus
On campus courses are offered face-to-face for 7 weeks.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ATAP 1011 | Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Apprentice Level 1 | 9 |
| ATAP 2011 | Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Apprentice Level 2 | 9 |
| ATAP 3011 | Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Apprentice Level 3 | 9 |
| ATAP 4011 | Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Apprentice Level 4 | 9 |
Option 2: Online/On-campus blended
Hybrid courses are offered online for 13 weeks, then full-time face-to-face on campus for 2 weeks.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ATAP 1011 | Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Apprentice Level 1 | 9 |
| ATAP 2011 | Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Apprentice Level 2 | 9 |
| ATAP 3011 | Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Apprentice Level 3 | 9 |
| ATAP 4011 | Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Apprentice Level 4 | 9 |
* This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
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Open Studies lets you take courses from credit programs without having to be accepted into one. Based on availability, you can sample different courses, earn credits, and build new skills.
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All apprentice training is open for applications. Go to EducationPlanner BC and apply for the term that is open. You will be able to register in courses starting that term and future terms.
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