Overview

Limited Entry Program

See Department website and program contacts here

The Automotive Technology: Ford ASSET (AAS) degree is designed for students seeking careers as automotive service technicians specializing in Ford and Lincoln vehicles. The curriculum combines classroom instruction, hands-on technical training, and paid dealership work experience to prepare students for employment in dealership service and repair environments.

The Ford Automotive Student Service Educational Training (ASSET) program is a partnership between Mt. Hood Community College and participating Ford and Lincoln dealerships. Students complete training using current industry equipment and technologies while gaining real-world experience at a sponsoring dealership throughout the program.

The ASSET program is completed over two years, including fall, winter, spring, and summer terms. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science degree along with dealership experience that supports transition into full-time employment in the automotive industry.

Ford and Lincoln dealerships sponsor selected students in the program and provide opportunities for students to gain practical experience while completing their training. Students in the ASSET program learn from Ford master-certified instructors and train using industry-standard equipment and technologies.

Because this is a limited entry program, students should review application requirements carefully and work with program advisors regarding eligibility, dealership sponsorship, and program planning.

Refer to the tabs above for additional information about:

• Education Plan – provides a sample term-by-term sequence of courses
• How to Apply – details the steps required to apply to the program
• Career Info – includes information on potential occupations, employment trends, and earnings

Program Learning Objectives

At the completion of this program, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate safe shop practices and hazardous material handling
• Diagnose and repair electrical systems
• Diagnose and repair engine performance systems
• Diagnose and repair emission systems
• Diagnose and repair internal combustion engine systems
• Diagnose and repair automatic transmission and transaxles systems
• Diagnose and repair manual drive train and axles systems
• Diagnose and repair brakes systems
• Diagnose and repair automotive steering and suspension systems
• Diagnose and repair automotive heating and air conditioning systems
• Perform minor vehicle services

Education Plan

This sample Education Plan illustrates one possible course sequence. Students should consult an advisor to create a personalized plan.

Cohort Start Term(s): Cohorts begin in fall term for odd years and summer term for even years.

General education courses (such as math, writing, health, etc.) can be taken during any term, or before starting the program. 

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Based on availability of sponsorship.

Awarding Requirements

The following requirement(s) must be fulfilled to be awarded the AAS in Automotive Technology: Ford ASSET degree:

• All core program courses (AM) must be completed with a grade of "D" or higher.
• All core program courses (AM) must be completed within five (5) years of starting the program.

How to Apply

The Ford Automotive Student Service Educational Training (ASSET) program is a limited-entry program. The program admits approximately 24 students each fall term on alternating enrollment cycles. Because space is limited, students must meet specific eligibility requirements before applying.

View current admissions requirements, deadlines, and application information

Application Steps

Step 1: Apply to MHCC

Students new to MHCC, or students who have not attended within the past four terms, should apply for admission to Mt. Hood Community College and select General Studies as their major.

Step 2: Complete Placement or Transcript Evaluation

Students must complete placement testing or submit qualifying transcripts to demonstrate eligibility in reading, writing, and mathematics.

Step 3: Submit the Limited Entry Program Application

Students must submit all required application materials during the published application period.

Step 4: Secure a Dealership Sponsor

Students are responsible for obtaining sponsorship from a participating Ford or Lincoln dealership. Students currently employed by a dealership are encouraged to speak with their service manager or service director regarding sponsorship opportunities.

Application Eligibility

The eligibility requirements below are based on current application requirements and may change in future admission cycles.

• Must be at least 18 years old by the start of the program
• Must possess a valid driver’s license prior to program entry
• Must maintain a safe driving record
• Must meet reading, writing, and mathematics eligibility requirements through placement scores or qualifying coursework

Additional Information

Admission to Mt. Hood Community College does not guarantee admission to the Ford ASSET program. MHCC reserves the right to modify admission requirements and selection processes.

Students of all races, ethnicities, ages, genders, religions, sexual orientations, socio-economic statuses, nationalities, physical abilities, and cognitive differences are encouraged to apply.

Career Information

Explore potential careers related to this program, including typical job roles, employment trends, and projected growth. This information can help you better understand how your education may align with future career opportunities.