College of Technology - Building Unlimited Career Opportunities
Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing
Program Options & Length:
- 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
Program Description
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.
Certificates & Degrees
- 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
Admission Steps
- Complete an application for admission and pay fees online. Be sure to click on the Professional Technical Application and select your program choice. * If you are applying for the Associate Degree Registered Nurse program, the Respiratory Therapy program or a bachelor's degree offered through the College of Technology, go to the Undergraduate Application.
- High school graduation or GED is required. Submit an official copy of your high school transcript or GED scores (Not required if you have submitted proof of 14 or more academic credits from an accredited institution of higher education).
- Submit an official college transcript from each accredited institution of higher education that you have attended.
- Either COMPASS or ACT scores.
- Complete the COMPASS placement test. This test enables us to place
you in the appropriate classes to enhance your success in college.
or - Submit ACT scores, (valid for seven years from date of testing).
- Complete the COMPASS placement test. This test enables us to place
you in the appropriate classes to enhance your success in college.
- Meet with one of the College of Technology advisors to finalize your acceptance. To make an appointment, call (208)282-2622.
- Apply for Financial Aid if needed. Questions — call (208)282-2756.
Note: Some programs have additional admission criteria. Contact Student Services at 208-282-2622 for assistance.
Career Opportunities
80% of 2009 graduates were employed in related jobs.
- Auto body repair shops
- Motor vehicle manufacturers
- Motor vehicle dealers
- Ship and boat manufacturers and repairers
- Idaho median income is $30,705 in this field*
- About 1,020 auto repairers and refinishers work in this occupation in Idaho*
* Idaho Career Information Systems data
Cost of Attendance
Fees apply to the current Idaho State University fee schedule which includes mandatory student health insurance. Students with existing health insurance coverage may waive student health insurance. Waivers are available at http://www.isu.edu/stuhlth/insurance/.
Additional program, equipment, and book costs are listed here.
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.
Affirmative Action, ADA & Equal Employment Opportunity at ISU
Idaho State University subscribes to the principles and laws of the State of Idaho and the federal government, including applicable executive orders
pertaining to civil rights. All rights, privileges, and activities of the University are made available without regard to race, creed, color, sex, age, disability, national origin or veteran status. The University is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. Evidence of practices that are not consistent with such a policy should be reported to:
Joyce Hammond-Perry J.D.
Affirmative Action Director
Rendezvous Complex 157 Stop 8315
(208) 282-3973
ADA Policy Statement
Idaho State University is committed to equal opportunity in education for all students, including those with documented disabilities. If you have a diagnosed disability or if you believe that you have a disability that might require reasonable accomodation, please contact:
Dennis J. Toney,
ADA Disabilities and Resource Center Director
Graveley Hall 123 Box 8121
E-mail tonedenn@isu.edu
208-282-3599
