Automotive Service Technology Diploma

In light of growing concerns about spreading incidents of COVID-19 (coronavirus) infection, Okanagan College has decided to postpone some 2020 Trades Foundation program intakes. Please check here to view up-to-date intake dates.

This two-year diploma program is designed for students who wish to obtain employment in the automotive industry as an Automotive Service Technician, or seek a management role in service, sales or operations. The program begins by providing the student with the first year of apprenticeship training followed by second-year courses in advanced level automotive service and repair with a focus on industry required skills in technical writing, business practices, office skills and management. This unique program provides training in technical areas that include automotive service and repair, technical writing and communication and business practices. Upon successful completion of the technical training, students will be eligible to write the provincial Industry Training Authority standardized examinations for AST HL1 and receive 450 hours of practical work based hours towards the AST HL1 certification.

Admission Requirements

B.C. secondary school graduation, or equivalent, or 19 years of age and out of secondary school for at least one year as of the first day of classes.

• English 11 with minimum 50% or alternatives.

A minimum of 50% in any of:

• Pre-calculus Grade 11
• Foundations of Mathematics Grade 11
• Apprenticeship and Workplace Mathematics Grade 11
• Workplace Mathematics 11
• Adult Basic Education MATH 011
• Adult Basic Education MATH 084 and MATH 085
• Adult Basic Education IALG 011

Or a minimum of 63% on the ABLE mathematics Test scores are only good for two (2) years.

Applicants who have not satisfied the Math requirement within the last seven (7) years must write the ABLE Mathematics test and must receive a minimum of 63%. 

Relevant trades experience may be assessed for entry into this program.

Year 2 Entry:

A student who has successfully completed the Automotive Service Technician Harmonized Foundation Program within the previous five years is also eligible for admittance into the second year of this diploma program.

Program Outline

Graduation Requirements

Graduates must complete the 26 courses with a minimum passing grade of 60% in each course. Students must achieve an average grade of no less than 70% in each year.