Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing
The Program
Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing technicians repair damaged vehicle bodies and body parts from complete body off-frame repair to the smallest door dent in the body and then refinish the color to make it look new again.
We examine vehicles to determine type and extent of the damage by analyzing the best way to repair the damage. We teach the removal of all types of interior and exterior trim so we may either repair or replace any panel on the vehicle, as well as grills, bumpers, both steel and soft cover. We remove and replace all types of weld-on panels and bolt-on panels, repair breaks in metal using primarily M.I.G. welding with oxyacetylene for cutting, heating, etc. We straighten frames and align bodies for proper fit of connecting panels with hydraulic jack and frame machines, both portable and dedicated machines on racks for complete accuracy and safety. We teach both metal finishing and the use of body fillers, air and electric power sanders. We teach corrosion control and prevention in all collision and refinishing.
Refinishing starts by feather-edging of paint and then priming with a good corrosion and rust inhibiting material; filling of micro low areas; blocking, masking, sealing and then top-coating with a quality, single-stage or using a two-stage base coat paint followed by a high gloss clear coat. The ultimate finish is a tri-coat, pearl type paint that is very popular in this day of high-tech products. We also repair and refinish by blending paints of all colors. We mix our own paint.
Chrome In The Dome
Our students teamed up with the Marketing students and the Automotive
Technology students to put this car and bike show together. It was a phenomenal
success. Not only did we raise some money but our students got 
to interact
with other programs to reach a common goal. Join our program and you have
the chance to help with this annual event. Check the Chrome In The Dome
website!
Helpful High School Courses
Automotive Body Repair, Body Refinishing, Basic Mathematics, Automobile Mechanics, Machine Shop, Sheet Metal, Welding
Graduation Diploma
Technical Certificate Automotive Collision Repair Automotive Refinishing Advanced Technical Certificate Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing Associate of Applied Science degree Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing
Program Information (.pdf)
Program begins in August and January
Program length is 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 semesters
Admits 18 students each year
Typical classroom hours are from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 days per week
Summer Session - none
Books, Tools, Supplies
Estimate (entire program) - $1,900
Registration Fees
Fees apply to the current Idaho State University fee schedule which includes mandatory student health insurance.
Paying for College
You may apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans to help finance your college education. When you pay registration fees, you are a student of Idaho State University with the privileges and responsibilities of a college student.
Entrance Information
Admission requirements:
Application for Admission
Application fee
High school transcript or GED
COMPASS Placement Test or ACT scores
Register early - admission is based on space availability.
Job Opportunities
82% of students reporting are employed or continuing their education.
All AAS degrees will articulate into the Bachelor of Applied Technology.