The MiraCosta College Automotive Technology Program has been accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), a sought-after certification documenting the highest standard of quality for a curriculum that is training students for careers and career advancement in the field of automotive repair and maintenance.

“This major accomplishment will pave the way for new and advanced opportunities for our students and the program, including the possibility of strengthening our partnership with Nissan and/or developing partnerships with other manufacturers,” said Al Taccone, MiraCosta College’s dean of Career and Technical Education.

“ASE accreditation is extremely meaningful for the program because it sets a national standard for automotive technology instruction,” said Automotive Technology Instructor Steve Vail. “When you graduate from a program that is ASE accredited, it shows you are equipped to do all the tasks expected of a qualified, entry-level automotive technician. ASE accreditation also requires that every instructor maintain their ASE certifications in all areas they teach and that they complete 20 hours per year of professional training.”

Certificates and degrees under the MiraCosta College Automotive Technology umbrella include an associate of arts degree in automotive technology and certificates of proficiency in automotive alignment, brakes and suspension; drive train specialist; basic engine performance; and automotive quick service attendant. Certificates of achievement are available in automotive technology for California smog check technician; automotive/motorcycle maintenance and light repair; automotive electronics, computers, and emissions and/or HVAC; and master technician.

The program is in the process of developing another certificate of achievement in electric vehicle, hybrid, and alternative fuels.

More than 500 students enroll in the MiraCosta College Automotive Technology program annually.

The Automotive Service Excellence accreditation process included a thorough review of the program to ensure they are meeting industry standards. It involved an exhaustive self-evaluation, review and critique by industry representatives, and an ASE Education Foundation on-site evaluation.

The accreditation, which took effect May 1, is valid until May 1, 2026.

Space is still available in both the summer 2021 and fall 2021 automotive sections. To see the open courses, visit miracosta.edu/open.