# ADVANCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE TECHNICIAN (Associate in Science)

Cuesta College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Automotive Technology

Source: https://cuesta.curriqunet.com/catalog/iq/30065/30066/30067/30068/30076

This program is designed to prepare students for entry level employment as automotive technicians and in numerous other related areas of the automotive and transportation industry. Both theory and practical skills are emphasized. Directed practical work is given in all areas of automotive engine performance. Successful completion of course requirements prepares students for the examinations required for voluntary certification as a professional technician offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The course offerings address the areas of concentration needed by a technician to become certified as a “Master Automobile Technician”, and “Advanced Level Specialist”.

**Learning Outcome(s):**

1.  Demonstrate the necessary skill proficiency and the technical knowledge for success in the Automotive industry as evidenced by the continuation of NATEF Certification and completion of appropriate NATEF tasks for courses finished.
2.  Students will maintain persistence in the program as evidence by 30% of students who have completed 3 or more ATCH Courses earning and acquiring a Program Certificate or better.
3.  Students who complete the ATCH program (completers) will demonstrate academic proficiency by passing a minimum of 2 National ASE examinations (65% of program completers)
4.  Students that are considered a “persisting student” in the ATCH program will demonstrate professionalism and industry specific skills through the completion or the Student Exit Profile form to be completed by ATCH faculty.

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Required Courses (29.5 units)** | | 29.5 |
| ATCH 109 | INTRODUCTION TO AUTOMOTIVE COMPUTERS | 2.5 |
| ATCH 125 | ENGINE PERFORMANCE | 4 |
| ATCH 152 | INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES | 3 |
| ATCH 158 | AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRICITY AND ELECTRONICS | 4 |
| ATCH 160 | AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRICAL ACCESSORIES | 4 |
| ATCH 264 | EMISSION CONTROL/SMOG LICENSE PREPARATION | 6 |
| ATCH 168 | AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR BUSINESS | 3 |
| ATCH 188 | AUTOMOTIVE HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING | 3 |
| **Plus, pass a minimum of two certification tests for the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).** | |  |
| **Total** | | **29.5** |