Diesel Mechanics
A.S. Degree Diesel Mechanics · College of Alameda · 2026-2027 Catalog
A Certificate of Achievement in Diesel Mechanics will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the major course requirements listed below. The AS degree will be awarded upon completion of the major course requirements listed below and the General Education requirements for the Associate in Science Degree listed in the Degrees and Programs section of this Catalog.
Helpful Qualities for Success in the Program • Proficiency in basic math, reading, communication and personal computers. • Experience in High School auto shop. • Self-discipline, Mechanical aptitude, and ability. • Good physical condition and coordination. • Commitment to continuing education in advancing technologies. Registered students will receive a list of required basic tools for classes to prepare them to enter the trade, adequately prepared upon graduating.
Previous description:
The Diesel Mechanics program in heavy duty truck and diesel mechanics prepares students to enter the job market as beginning mechanics or apprentices in this field, and allows students to continue their education toward the Baccalaureate degree in advanced schools of technology or as teachers in this field of specialization, or to broaden their skills in areas of management. Instruction includes the use of hand and power tools, elementary through advanced principles of diesel engines theory and operation; maintenance and repair of automotive and marine-type diesel engines and auxiliary equipment; and use of testing equipment.
Upon registering for a class in Diesel Mechanics, the student will receive a list of required basic tools. In addition, the student will be expected to provide tools that relate to the particular course in which he/she has enrolled. The purpose of this requirement is to assure that students graduating from the program possess tools in sufficient quantity to enter the trade adequately prepared.
A Certificate of Achievement in Diesel Mechanics will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the major course requirements listed below.
The AS degree will be awarded upon completion of the major course requirements listed below and the General Education requirements for the Associate in Science Degree listed in the Degrees, Programs & Transfer Requirements section of this Catalog.
Career Opportunities
The Diesel Mechanics program in heavy duty truck and diesel mechanics prepares students to enter the job market as beginning mechanics or apprentices in this field.
Learning Outcome(s)
- Apply safe work habits and practices.
- Troubleshoot and perform repairs in mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems.
- Use computers to diagnose equipment and research information.
- Perform preventative maintenance and inspections including engine tune-ups, front-end alignments, and brake service.
- Operate shop machinery and equipment including hoists, overhead cranes, forklifts, hydraulic jacks, steam cleaners, floor jacks, disassembly stands, grinders, drill presses, hydraulic presses, and bead blasters.
- Select and use precision tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, dial indicators, tap and dies, and bore gauges.
- Maintain professional attitude in challenging working conditions, develop self-confidence and pride in workmanship and think analytically and make professional decisions.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| FIRST SEMESTER | 10 | |
| DMECH 11 | Heavy-Duty Truck Chassis, Transmission, and Drive Axles | 4 |
| DMECH 22A | Truck Mechanics Chassis System I | 6 |
| SECOND SEMESTER | 12 | |
| DMECH 12 | Heavy-Duty Truck’s Electrical System and Brake System | 4 |
| DMECH 23A | Truck Mechanics Brake and Electrical Systems I | 6 |
| AUTOB 12 | Service Welding for Transportation Technology | 2 |
| THIRD SEMESTER | 14 | |
| DMECH 14 | DIESEL ENGINES | 4 |
| DMECH 21A | DIESEL ENGINES I | 6 |
| ATECH 023 | Automotive Air Conditioning | 4 |
| FOURTH SEMESTER | 10 | |
| DMECH 15 | DIESEL ENGINES II | 4 |
| DMECH 21B | DIESEL ENGINES II | 6 |
| G.E. Units Required (minimum) | 14 | |