Supercharge Your Career with NOVA’s Automotive Technology Program
Turn your passion for cars into a lifelong, fulfilling career in an automotive technology program at the center of Northern Virginia's automotive industry.
DEGREES & CERTIFICATES
Associate Degree in Automotive Technology
Get ready for full-time employment in the automotive industry with NOVA's Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Automotive Technology degree. You'll be well-trained for a variety of jobs, including line technician, new car make-ready worker, and customer service representative. You'll also be prepared to transfer to a four-year institution to earn your bachelor's degree.
- Length
- Two Years
- Credits
- 66-67
- Locations
- Alexandria, Manassas
Automotive Diagnosis and Repair Certificate
With NOVA's Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Automotive Diagnosis and Repair program, you'll be prepared to seamlessly transition into an apprentice role, entry-level technician position or other related jobs in the automotive industry.
- Length
- One Year
- Credits
- 29
- Locations
- Alexandria, Manassas
Collision Repair Technology Certificate
With NOVA's Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Collision Repair Technology program, you can become a collision repair technician with the knowledge and skills to evaluate, repair, and refinish automotive body damage.- Length
- One Year
- Credits
- 24
- Locations
- Alexandria
Diesel Basic Repair Certificate
With NOVA's Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Diesel Basic Repair program, you'll learn the basics of diesel equipment technology and repair. You'll split your time between the classroom and the shop so that you have hands-on experience in hydraulic and braking systems and diesel engines, including overhauling and tuning up engines. You'll also have the option to gain on-the-job experience through cooperative education. By earning your NOVA certificate, you'll be ready to work as a technician, supervisor, purchasing agent, or salesperson.
- Length
- One Semester
- Credits
- 16
- Locations
- Manassas
Diesel Preventative Maintenance Certificate
With NOVA's Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Diesel Preventative Maintenance program, you'll learn how to service and repair diesel engines, electrical systems, and transmissions, and how to conduct preventative maintenance inspection (PMI). You can also get hands-on experience through cooperative education. With your diesel preventative maintenance certificate, you'll have the background in advanced diesel equipment technology principles and business skills to work as a supervisor, purchasing agent, or salesperson.
- Length
- One Semester
- Credits
- 16
- Locations
- Manassas
Maintenance and Light Repair Certificate
This program is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment as light repair technicians in new car dealerships and after-market service outlets.
- Length
- One Year
- Credits
- 19
- Locations
- Alexandria, Manassas
Why Study Automotive Technology at NOVA?
Experienced Automotive Technology Faculty
You'll learn from NOVA automotive technology faculty highly experienced in the automotive field. They are also caring mentors who are committed to helping you succeed.
Hands-On Automotive Technology Courses
You'll be ready to work at dealerships, fleet services companies, and other settings, thanks to the automotive technology courses that include both classroom and shop time.
Affordable Automotive Technology Programs
You'll receive an affordable automotive technology education. You may even qualify for NOVA scholarships to help you pay for your associate degree or certificate.
Program Details
GM ASEP Program
General Motors, local GM dealers, and NOVA work together to provide students with the latest technical training in the classroom, hands-on experience at the dealership, and an Associate degree with 80% GM certifications. These qualifications turn our highly motivated GM ASEP students into highly paid technicians upon graduation in two years.
Our Faculty
Our instructors are dedicated to guiding you through an immersive educational journey that will prepare you for success in the automotive industry. Here's a glimpse of the qualifications our esteemed faculty members possess:
ASE Master Technician, L1 Advanced Engine Performance
- Certified Emissions Repair Technician
- Over 30 years of diverse industry experience, including fleet and general repair technician roles.
- General Motors Master Technician Certified
- Certified Emissions Repair Technician

Accreditations
Northern Virginia Community College's automotive technology program is accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation.
Credits and
Transfer Info
Credit for Prior Learning
Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.
Transferring
Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.