Auto Mechanic Program

The auto mechanic program at Richland Community College prepares students for careers as department store service mechanics, auto part specialists, emissions inspectors, rental car fleet mechanic, specialty shop technicians, and car test driver/mechanic. The program focuses on applying technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. Program courses include: brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air conditioning systems. Get more details below including other Illinois colleges that offer auto mechanic program.

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Richland Community College

468 N Ken Gray Pkwy, Ina, IL

Richland Community College, located in Decatur, Illinois, was founded in 1972 when it was known as Decatur Community College. Originally operating out of a former bank building, the school quickly outgrew the location and at the same time had its service area expanded, resulting in a name change to Richland Community College and the start of construction of a new permanent home. The new campus was completed in 1988, though construction and expansion has continued in response to growing enrollment and community needs. The year following the turn of the century saw particularly large expansion through the addition of a health education center, technology center, an early childhood education academy among others.

Academics

Richland Community College offers a number of programs that result in certificates and associate degrees allowing students to pursue academic or career growth. Additionally, the school provides non-credit, adult education and continuing education courses to meet the needs of professionals and residents in their pursuit of personal or professional betterment.

Academic transfer programs allow students to fulfill lower division and general education requirements that are typically offered during the first two years of a four year education. Individuals will transfer their credits to a four year college or university upon completion of the program. Transfer to a public Illinois school will be facilitated through agreements, though students may choose to apply to private or out of state schools instead. Regardless of where the student chooses to apply, meeting with a counselor to outline a curriculum best suited for desired transfer locations is recommended.

Career programs prepare individuals with the skills and abilities necessary to operate in a given field. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in an associate degree or certificate. These programs provide career specific education, though degree programs will include general education courses. Graduates of these programs will be able to enter the workforce as professionals in their field of study and are able to immediately pursue entry level employment.

Programs offered include:

• Accounting
• Business
• Criminal Justice
• Dance
• Early Childhood Education

Admissions and Financial Aid

As an open enrollment institution, any individual meeting the minimum requirements for admission will be eligible for enrollment upon submission of an admissions application. Applicants must provide transcripts and test scores, and may be required to take a placement exam. Students should also participate in orientation and meet with a counselor prior to registration, which begins shortly before the start of each semester.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans and grants. Students in need of financial aid must complete of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which will be used to determine need, aid program eligibility, and monetary awards. Financial aid must be applied for prior to the start of each academic year and students may be asked to provide additional information prior to the disbursement of funds to verify the FAFSA's accuracy due to recently implemented federal regulations.

Students Enrolled in the Auto Mechanic Program

Get more details below regarding enrollment, academics, and school demographics. Richland Community College has offered the following academic levels for students:

• Less Than One Year Certificate
• Less Than Two-Year Award
• Associate's Degree

Students by Academic Level (2019)

Students by Gender (2019)

Students by Race (2019)

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

Career Options for Graduates

Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment

Description

Install, adjust, or maintain mobile electronics communication equipment, including sound, sonar, security, navigation, and surveillance systems on trains, watercraft, or other mobile equipment.

Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles

Description

Install, diagnose, or repair communications, sound, security, or navigation equipment in motor vehicles.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, electronic equipment installers and repairers, motor vehicles employment is expected to shrink at a rate of -50.0% from 2014 to 2024

Automotive Master Mechanics

Description

Repair automobiles, trucks, buses, and other vehicles. Master mechanics repair virtually any part on the vehicle or specialize in the transmission system.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, automotive master mechanics employment is expected to grow at a rate of 5.3% from 2014 to 2024

Source: Job descriptions, estimated salary and wages, and projected job growth are taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).