Auto Body Repair and Refinishing Technology

Contact Information 

James Erdahl, program coordinator
James.Erdahl@ndscs.edu
701-671-2163
Ballweber Hall 207

Delivery Methods 

Face-to-Face: Wahpeton

The Auto Body Repair and Refinishing Technology curriculum is designed to provide students with the education and training to enter the collision repair industry. The comprehensive program enables students to gain entry-level employment and with additional field experience, they can enjoy lifetime employment in this lucrative industry. Most graduates start in collision repair shops; however, graduates find opportunities in related fields such as equipment and material representatives, insurance adjusters, industry technical trainers and shop managers.

I-CAR, an industry non-profit national training organization, estimates the collision industry is short 50,000 technicians in the United States at this time, providing a wonderful opportunity for graduates. There are usually four employers to each available graduate each year.

Students are trained hands-on with the latest equipment found in the industry. This includes computer estimating, computer measuring systems, computer paint mixing, wheel alignment, refinishing, spot repair and custom painting. All learning takes place primarily on live customer projects, with some classroom activities. Often students will bring their own vehicles to repair adding to their overall experience. 

The program is NATEF Certified and accredited through PPG Partners in Education™, an exclusive partnership that assures high standards for curriculum and faculty training.

The applicants must be high school graduates or equivalent. Students considered for acceptance must complete all admission requirements. 

Required minimum placement scores:

ACT

Reading – 15
English – 15

ACCUPLACER NEXT GENERATION

Reading – 240
Writing – 237

Or transfer equivalencies will apply as appropriate

Applicants not meeting the above requirements are encouraged to visit with the academic counselor at 701-671-2257 or the Auto Body Repair and Refinishing Technology program coordinator at 701-671-2163 for strategies to meet the admission requirements.

*Program Admission Requirements are subject to revision. Please check the department or program website under Program Admission Requirements for current information.

Award

Upon successful completion of the required courses, students will be awarded a diploma or Associate in Applied Science degree in Auto Body Repair and Refinishing Technology.