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General Motors (ASEP)
Chrysler Corporation (CAP)
Nissan (Nissan)
Program Description

The General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP), the Chrysler College Apprenticeship Program (CAP), and the Nissan Denver Technician Apprenticeship Program (Nissan) are designed to provide competent automotive technicians for dealerships. The curriculum for these programs was designed in conjunction with dealership representatives and the faculty of the Automotive Department at Arapahoe Community College and approved by the advisory committee and in compliance with the National Automotive Technical Education Foundation (NATEF). To ensure its effectiveness, this curriculum is reviewed each year by the corporations and the Automotive Advisory Committee, and every 5 years by NATEF and The State Board of Community Colleges.

The entire program is two years in length with approximately 50 weeks of technical and academic training at Arapahoe Community College. The remaining time is allocated for on-the-job training at sponsoring dealerships. Each semester of training at ACC is followed by dealer work experience to reinforce the technical curriculum.

Because the dealership work experience is approximately 50 percent of the students training, a necessary requirement is that each student have a sponsoring General Motors, Chrysler, or Nissan dealership. The main responsibility of the dealer-sponsor is to provide training-related employment for the student during his/her work experience periods.

Common Questions About ASEP, CAP & Nissan

Q. Why should I choose Arapahoe Community College over other general automotive training programs?
A. Our program offers you something you cannot get from general training programs, which is experience in a dealership. You can't learn the tricks of the trade from a textbook, a classroom or even a school shop. The real-world experience you'll receive from your dealer internship will put you far ahead of others with only classroom experience.

Q. I know that automobiles these days are sophisticated. How much do I need to know about cars before I enter this program?
A. While it is useful to have a background in auto mechanics, it is not essential. Our job is to give you that background - with excellent instruction, the latest equipment, and a curriculum designed to take you from the beginning and lead you through the intricacies of the automobile. And because we limit the size of our classes, our instructors have the time to work with you individually, and give you the attention you need.

Q. What are some of the benefits I will receive from attending ACC Auto Tech?

1. Becoming a certified service technician within a two year period by participating in the GM, Chrysler, Nissan or ATEC (general auto) program. Another plus is working on the latest model vehicles from these manufacturers and using the newest dealer specific scantools.
   
2. Increasing job opportunities by earning an associate degree in automotive service technology and an additional certificate in automotive service management (with the addition of one extra class).
   
3. Earn as you learn as a paid employee at a dealership or independent shop while establishing a solid foundation for the development of skills and knowledge.
   
4. You can become a highly specialized technician, which are in great demand. There is currently a nationwide shortage of approximately 35, 000 qualified automobile technicians.

Q. How much does it cost to attend the ACC Automotive Technology Program?
A. A student can expect to pay between *$90 and $100 per credit hour, including all fees (2006-07 prices, subject to change). This is a striking difference in cost between the auto program at ACC and private auto training institutions in the Denver area. In general the full two-year program at ACC will cost between $7,000 and $8,000 compared to $25,000-$30,000 at private colleges.

Q. Why is it less expensive to attend ACC?
A. Because we are a state sponsored program your tax dollars are supplementing your “out-of-pocket” costs, making your education much more affordable.

Q. Is it necessary to complete an associate degree to be hired in the automotive industry? What if I add the service manager certificate?
A. Depending upon your goals, an associate degree will help you to obtain a better position in the auto industry. You will receive specialized training that will put you ahead of the non-schooled competition. Because of the added management class, the service manager certificate may help you to obtain a service manager position at a dealership or independent shop.

*Student must sign up for Colorado Opportunity Fund to receive stipend.

Call 303.797.5846 for advising or E-mail Automotive Technology.

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