Program at a glance
Credential
Certificate
Work experience
None
Study options
Full-time
Open to International
No
Area of study
Length
30 weeks
Fundamental training
Start in February or August
The Automotive Service Technician program prepares you for entry into the automotive mechanical repair trade and provides possible accreditation towards Year 1 Apprenticeship training.

Fuelling your future
This Foundation program covers general automotive practices, fuel and electrical/electronic systems, engine performance and repair. In only 30 weeks, you will graduate with the skills and knowledge that make you highly employable within many areas of the automotive industry, including lube technician, tire repair technician, brake & muffler installer, parts person, and a broad range of other positions.
As a graduate of this program, you'll be ready to start your future employment with credit for 450 hours toward the 1,500 hours required for Level 1 AST apprenticeship.
Next up: apprenticeship
As an apprentice, you will continue to build on your skills in your speciality and gain the practical experience necessary to become fully qualified through Levels 2, 3 and 4 to get your journeyperson certificate of qualification. After Level 4 you will be eligible to write the inter-provincial Red Seal exam.
For more details regarding the Industry Training Program apprenticeship, please review the skilledtradesbc Accredited Program profiles for Automotive Service Technician Certification. Apprentice training
Check it out:
Virtual Trades Information Session
Program outline
For more details, including courses, please see the program outline in the Academic Calendar.

Current and future students
Current and future students can browse current and upcoming courses using the myCamosun course catalogue.
What to expect
Located at our Interurban campus, this 30 week program is designed to prepare you for entry into the Automotive Service Technician trade. You will learn automotive tools and equipment, general automotive maintenance and practices, electrical/electronic systems, brakes, steering and suspension service, as well as engine performance and repair. Upon completion of the program, you will be prepared for entry into many areas of the automotive industry, including as a lube technician, tire repair technician, brake and muffler installer, or parts person.
You'll be exposed to on-the-job conditions so be prepared to work outdoors regardless of the weather. You should be in good physical health and have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
All trades programs have a mandatory attendance requirement. If you miss three days in a class, you may be required to withdraw from the course. (Exemptions may be made in exceptional circumstances, at the discretion of the Dean.)
Tuition and fees
Effective from September 1, 2023, to August 31, 2024
Estimated tuition
Tuition estimates are for the entire program
Automotive Service Technician Foundation, Certificate
$3,270 (domestic)
Domestic tuition fees vary depending on the individual course fees for the classes you select.
Student fees
In addition to tuition estimates, student fees are calculated based on your enrolment. Refer to: Student Fees.
Financial assistance
You may need to find more than one source of funding to help pay for your education and living costs while attending college. Check out sources of money you don't need to pay back as well as those that need to be repaid.
Curriculum & courses
Admission requirements
One of: And one of: Note: If you don't have one of the preferred math requirements the college will accept a C or higher in Foundations of Math 11 and Pre-calculus 11, or Principles of Math 11, or Applications of Math 11, or
When you apply you will need to submit proof that you meet the program admission requirements listed above. Where a letter grade is specified, you must have proof of that grade or higher.
For more details, including courses, please see the program outline in the Academic Calendar: Loading...
Start in September or March
Missing admission requirements?
You may be able to take an assessment or upgrade with us.
Need help applying?
Find out more on How to Apply or speak to an Admissions Advisor.
Contact us
If you have admissions questions contact the Admissions office.
For questions about the program contact 250-370-3856, tradesinfo@camosun.ca or the Department Chair.
Faculty/staff profile

Kyle Broad
Chair, Motor Vehicle and Metal Trades
broadk@camosun.ca
250–370–3786
Centre for Trades Education and Innovation (CTEI)
Full bio
Faculty/staff profile

Michael Bocsik
Instructor, Automotive Service Technician Apprentice and Foundation
bocsikm@camosun.ca
250-370-3811
Full bio
Faculty/staff profile

Andrew Bullen
Toolroom Attendant, Automotive Service Technician
bullena@camosun.ca
250-370-3810
Full bio
Faculty/staff profile

Patrick Jones
Instructor and Program Leader, Automotive Service Technician
jonesp@camosun.ca
250–370–3812
Full bio
Faculty/staff profile

James Gough
Instructor, Automotive Service Technician Apprentice and Foundation
goughj@camosun.ca
250-370-3813
Full bio

Specialty programs
Camosun offers specialty programs to support trades education for Women and Indigenous people.
Contact information
Trades Apprenticeship Office
Campus location
Centre for Trades Education and Innovation (CTEI), room 102
Location link
Admissions questions: