Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Foundation
Overview
Get a full introduction to automotive service by learning to examine, test, and repair vehicles in VCC’s state-of-the-art automotive service shop.
| Tuition | $4,188 |
|---|---|
| Credential | Certificate |
| Length | 40 weeks |
| Hours | Full-time |
| Delivery | Class-based |
| Campus | Broadway |
What to expect
The Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Foundation Program is designed to meet the training needs of industry. Its content is closely monitored by a Program Advisory Committee, which suggests updating, or removal, of outdated material.
Instructional time is (approximately) 35% classroom and 65% practical activity. Classroom activities are lectures, demonstrations, audio-visual presentations and exercises. Practical experience takes place in an active shop setting dealing with real customers. The extensive workshop experience reinforces theoretical concepts and develops manual dexterity. The active shop also provides familiarity with repair procedures and electronic equipment standard safety procedures. All modules are designed to enable the student to work independently and in groups.
What you will learn
- Demonstrate safe working practices including compliance with Worksafe BC and WHMIS regulations.
- Demonstrate employability and communication skills and work in a businesslike manner.
- Utilize hand, measuring, and power tools and equipment safely and effectively.
- Provide general automotive maintenance services including lubrication and fluids, belts and hoses, exterior lamps, body trim and hardware, tires and wheels, non friction bearings, and spindles and hubs.
- Demonstrate general automotive practices including diagnostic procedures and basic welding.
- Assess, diagnose, and service basic electrical systems.
- Assess, diagnose, and service hydraulic, drum brake, disc brake, power assist, and anti-lock brake systems.
- Assess, diagnose, and service steering systems.
- Assess, diagnose, and service suspension systems.
- Assess, diagnose, and service front and rear wheel drive axle shafts and assemblies.
- Demonstrate safe working protocols for hybrid electric vehicles.
- Assess, diagnose, and service interior and exterior components and trim.
Program duration and maximum time for completion
The program is 40 weeks (1000 hours) in length. Students have a maximum of two (2) years to complete the program.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
English 11 or Communications 12 with a minimum ‘C-‘ grade, or equivalent;
AND Math 10 with a minimum ‘C-‘ grade, or MATH 0750 & MATH 0751 with a minimum ‘C-‘ grade, or equivalent
OR
Department Assessment of Mechanical Reasoning: If you are unable to provide either of the above, you can contact the Program Assistant to make an appointment for a department assessment.
Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended considerations
- Program tasks require extended periods of standing on concrete floors.
- Program tasks require precise hand-eye coordination and dexterity for handling tools, instruments, and performing detailed procedures.
- Program tasks require frequent lifting and moving of heavy parts and equipment.
- The program environment involves regular exposure to loud machinery noise, power tools, and equipment vibrations.
- The learning environment involves regular exposure to automotive chemicals, including fuels, oils, lubricants, coolants, and cleaning agents; as well as exposure to fumes, dust, and airborne particles from paints, solvents, and mechanical processes.
- A valid driver’s license is required for the program segments that involve driving cars to and from their proper spaces.
Program availability
Winter 2027 |
|
|---|---|
| Program start date | |
| Status | Open |
| Application opens | Feb 1, 2026 |
| Application deadline | Oct 1, 2026 |
Spring/Summer 2027 |
|
| Program start date | |
| Status | Open |
| Application opens | Jun 1, 2026 |
| Application deadline | Feb 1, 2027 |
Fall 2027 |
|
| Program start date | |
| Status | Open |
| Application opens | Oct 1, 2026 |
| Application deadline | Jun 1, 2027 |
Courses
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Term One | Credits | |
| AUTO 1130 | Workplace Safety | 1.5 |
| AUTO 1131 | Employability Skills | 1 |
| AUTO 1132 | Tools and Equipment | 5.5 |
| AUTO 1133 | General Automotive Maintenance | 3 |
| AUTO 1134 | General Automotive Practice | 3 |
| AUTO 1235 | Brake Systems | 6 |
| Credits | 20 | |
| Term Two | ||
| AUTO 1238 | Electrical-Electronic Systems | 7 |
| AUTO 1237 | Suspension Systems | 3.5 |
| AUTO 1236 | Steering Systems | 6.5 |
| AUTO 1239 | Drive-line Systems | 2 |
| AUTO 1240 | Body Components, Accessories and Trim | 1 |
| Credits | 20 | |
| Total Credits | 40 | |
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.
Fees and costs
| Application fee | $35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition / Term | $4,188 |
Term 1 - $2,094 Term 2 - $2,094 |
| Student union | $145 | |
| College initiative | $121 | |
| Materials | $433 | not including textbooks |
| Campus resource | $167 | |
| Laundry | $481 | |
| Medical and dental | $285 | Explore medical insurance options |
| U-Pass | $469 | Get your student transit pass |
| Graduation | $45 | |
| Coverall deposit | $85 | |
| Other fees | $298 | |
| Total | $6,756 |
Books and Supplies
Textbooks or other supplies may be required for this program. Visit the VCC Bookstore for more information.
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a non-refundable deposit.
Refund policies vary for domestic and international students. Review the applicable policy for eligibility, deadlines, and refund amounts.
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Technical requirement
How to apply
Youth applications (high school students in grade 10 and 11):
Applicants do not apply to VCC directly. Interested students, teachers and counsellors should contact the Career Program Coordinator or Administrator for their school district. The Program Coordinator and applicant complete the Youth in Trades Application and return to [email protected].
See the SkilledTradesBC Youth in Trades program website for details.
Adult applications: see below.
Ready to apply?
Online
You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.
Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5
International students
Apply to VCC international programs online. Check the availability status for your desired program and intake before applying.
Contact us
Advising services
Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: [email protected]
Advising services for International students
Do you have any questions?