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Certificate of Achievement
Automotive/Alternative Fuels & Advanced Transportation Technology

This certificate of achievement is designed to prepare students and incumbent employees as alternative fuels and advanced transportation technology specialists. Training takes up theory and practical skills. Directed practical work is assigned in all fuel areas, compressed and biodiesel, under simulated on-the-job conditions. The program will provide students an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and hand skills demanded of modern transportation specialists. The sequence in which courses are taken may be modified to meet individual needs.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

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Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2023-2024 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
AUTO 106 - Automotive Electrical Tools and Diagnostic ProceduresM3.0
Notes:
(Pre-requisite for AUTO 150)

AUTO 106 - Automotive Electrical Tools and Diagnostic Procedures (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This is an introductory course designed to provide the student with the fundamentals of the electrical systems of the modern automobile. Emphasis will be placed on electrical fundamentals, symbols and circuit diagrams, batteries, starting, charging, ignition, and lighting systems. Students will learn the proper use of automotive electrical tools and equipment, and how to safely perform basic vehicle electrical repair and maintenance operations. Students will have the opportunity to perform minor repair work on their own vehicles to complete required tasks. This course is designed to be a companion course to AUTO 101 and AUTO 103, and is one of the three prerequisite courses for AUTO 107. Students are encouraged to complete all three courses in order to obtain a firm foundation in this subject, and it is required for the General Service Technician Certificate Program.

AUTO 144 - Alternative Fuels TechnicianM3.0
AUTO 144 - Alternative Fuels Technician (3.0 units)

It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course covers gaseous alternative fuels as they pertain to modern vehicles. Various alternative fuels (e.g., compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), hydrogen, and biofuels) are examined and compared; and the operation, system components, and safe handling of these fuels is discussed. Students will develop skills in the areas of vehicle preparation, system component identification, and repair procedures related to alternative fuel vehicles. The course is designed for students and technicians working on stationary power engines, transportation, and clean fuels who seek to improve skills related to the maintenance and repair of gaseous fuels; and will provide students with information related to Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) F1 or H1 test preparation.

Total Semester Units:6.0 
2nd Semester
AUTO 157 - Automotive Specialized Electronics TrainingM4.0
AUTO 157 - Automotive Specialized Electronics Training (4.0 units)

Prerequisite:AUTO 106
Transfers to:CSU

This course provides an overview of the principles of automotive electronics. Topics covered include electrical theory, fundamentals of circuit construction, computers, semiconductors, microprocessors, integrated circuits (IC), types of output signals, wire repair techniques, meter usage and strategy based diagnostics. A demonstration General Motors circuit board will be used to illustrate circuit board function. This course is designed for entry level technicians or students who need an understanding of the basics of automotive electronics.

AUTO 150 - Engine Electrical SystemsM4.0
AUTO 150 - Engine Electrical Systems (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: AUTO 106
Advisory: AUTO 102
Transfers to: CSU

This course provides an overview of the modern automobile’s electrical system as related to the engine and engine-related systems. The theory of operation, operational characteristics, methods of problem diagnosis, and repair of the following systems are included: electronic ignition, electronic fuel injection, engine management, emission control, charging, cooling and starting. This course prepares the student for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A8 Engine Performance test and is intended for automotive majors. Students with permission from the division may re-enroll only one time for certification and licensure standards.

Total Semester Units:8.0 
3rd Semester
AUTO 147 - Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle TechnologyM3.0
AUTO 147 - Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: AUTO 157
Transfers to:CSU

This course explores the use of hybrid and electric power for vehicle transportation. Topics will include safety when using high voltage, maintenance, drivability, inverter power transfer, battery technologies, hydrogen electric power, and fuel cell technology. The physics of battery storage, hybrid generation systems, and electric vehicle applications and their integrated systems from various manufacturers will be discussed. This course is suitable for students entering into the alternative fuels or power generation and energy technology fields.

Total Semester Units:3.0 
Total Units for Automotive/Alternative Fuels & Advanced Transportation Technology COA program 17.0 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

1

Students who complete the career path cartographically examine and assemble information for a target audience who might use the alternative fuel types.


2

Regardless of career path (private, government, or fleet) the Alternative Fuels AS Degree or CoA student obtains transferable credit to a university and points towards qualifying as a certified CSA Fuel Tank Inspector.


3

Students are capable of describing applications in all nine alternative fuel areas (compressed, liquid, generated electrical, and biodiesel).


4

Students will access legal rules and regulations from a variety of resources (state and federal), providing the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and hand skills demanded of modern transportation specialists.


5

Students will be able to pass the safety requirements with complete knowledge of NFPA, CSA, CGA 6.4, and OSHA standards.


About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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