This program consists of Foundation and Level 1 Automotive Service Technician Technical training as per the Skilled Trades BC prescribed curriculum. This program meets the Skilled Trades BC prerequisite for Level 2 technical training. Automotive Service Technician is a nationally designated trade under the Interprovincial Red Seal program.
Automotive Service Technicians examine, test and repair the parts and systems on cars and light trucks. They often use computerized diagnostic equipment to test, adjust and repair key vehicle components such as engines, steering systems, braking systems, drive trains, vehicle suspensions and electrical systems. The work of an Automotive Service Technician also involves reassembling and testing repaired items against manufacturers’ standards, as well as performing preventative maintenance such as wheel alignments, oil changes and tune-ups.
Successful completion of the Automotive Service Technician Foundation Program results in the student acquiring credit for Level 1 AST technical training and 450 work-based hours, and eligibility to move into Level 2 Apprenticeship training once they have a sponsor.
A Reading week included in this program that will occur in the last week of February of every year (exact dates will vary).
The information on this program page is a summary of the official Program Information and Completion Guide approved by NLC’s Education Council, effective September 2026. (Current Program Information and Completion Guide)
Career Prospects
Students can find employment as Automotive Service Technicians, Automotive Dealership Service Managers, Automotive Salespersons, or Automotive Business or Dealership Owners.
Details
Intakes
| Location | Starting | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dawson Creek (South Peace campus) | September | Cohort |
Length
990 hours; approximately 33 weeks long
Estimated Program Fees
Program fee type: Trades/Apprenticeship
Costs indicated are estimates for a full-time course load.
Book, instruments, supplies, uniforms/clothing and third-party fees are additional.
Domestic Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 3,524.40 | $ 166.53 | $ 493.30 | $ 4,184.23 |
International Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees | International Medical Insurance | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 13,790.70 | $ 175.92 | $ 537.67 | $ 289.80* | $ 14,794.09 |
*Per four months
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Admission Requirements
Complete either A, B, C or D:
A. English and Math
English Requirement
One of the following:
- BC Language Arts 10 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- BC Language Arts 11 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- BC Language Arts 12 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- ENGL 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
- IELTS score of 5.5 overall with no band less than 5.0 or equivalent English placement test and score.
Math Requirement
One of the following:
- BC Math 10 with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent
- BC Math 11 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
- BC Math 12 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
- MATH 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
B. ESTR 037
Complete:
- ESTR 037 – Essential Skills for Trades – Intermediate Level with a minimum final grade of 67%.
C. POWER
Complete:
- People Obtaining Workplace Employment Requirements (POWER) program
Post-Admission Requirements
NLC’s South Peace campus is connected to the Dawson Creek High school – South Peace Campus. Therefore the Criminal Records Review Act requires that all NLC students over the age of 19 must submit a clearance letter from the Criminal Records Review Program (CRRP) for a Schedule B Criminal Record Check (CRC): WORKS WITH children or WORKS WITH Children and Vulnerable Adults, before classes begin. The cleared CRC must be received by NLC one month prior to the start of the program. Failure to provide a cleared CRC by the deadline may result in dismissal from the program. For information and regulations, see Criminal Records Checks.
Important Notes
- The program is eligible for Canada Student Loans. Visit Student Aid BC to apply for financial assistance online. Note that dual credit students are not eligible for Student Aid.
- Students must provide personal protective equipment (safety glasses, steel-toed boots, gloves, coveralls, etc.). Students are required to have a computer (laptop or other mobile device) with minimum computer requirements.
- The program is affiliated with SkilledTradesBC and School District 59, 60, 81, and 87.
Program Requirements
| Residency Requirement | 100% of each level must be completed at Northern Lights College or by approval of the Dean |
|---|---|
| Minimum Grade Requirements | 70% minimum in all courses |
All of:
- ASTF 101 – Automotive Service Technician Foundation (910 contact hours)
- ASTF 150 – Automotive Service Technician Foundation Practicum (80 contact hours)
Credential
Certificate in Automotive Service Technician Foundation