Automotive Restoration (AAS)

Recognizing an industry demand for talented entry-level automotive restorers, the Automotive Restoration program prepares students for a career dedicated to the preservation and restoration of vintage cars. Students will benefit from the specialized program and have access to classic cars that have been restored to the highest standard.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree
Core Classes

This program is available on campus

AUT 140

Machining Technology and Visual Documentation Core/3

Precision measurement, visual documentation, and operating metal lathes and milling machines are all important skills. You'll use these skills to reproduce a component for a car, focusing on common industrial metals used in the machining process and machine tool maintenance.

AUT 159

Vintage Vehicle Disassembly Processes Core/3

There's nothing worse than having car parts left over. To get it back together properly, you'll do practical historical research, outline a restoration plan, disassemble, visual inspection, and written and photographic documentation to restore vintage automobiles.

AUT 160

Vintage Vehicle Electrical Systems Core/3

Study the electrical systems used in classic cars. You'll explore Ohm's law, electrical circuits, battery power, electrical circuit components restoration, and preservation strategies to diagnose, repair, and replace electrical components.

AUT 177

Vintage Vehicle Body Restoration Core/3

Learn metal body repairs and panel finishing. You'll evaluate body components, outline appropriate repair procedures, strip existing finishes, and repair them.

AUT 207

Vintage Vehicle Paint Restoration Core/3

Pull off a perfect paint job. You'll gain vintage vehicle paint restoration skills, focusing on panel preparation, paint systems, equipment care, application, documentation, and evaluation of surface faults. Plus, learn to correct painted surface faults.

AUT 280

Vintage Vehicle Restoration Assembly Core/3

Learn about the various tools, equipment, supplies, and subskills required to properly assemble a vehicle. Focus on understanding the many subsystems within a car and learning how to bring them all together properly.

IND 123

Computer Drafting Core/3

Develop skills in drafting and mechanical drawing to clearly communicate three-dimensional design ideas. Using industry-standard dimensioning principles and Autodesk Fusion, you’ll learn to translate concepts into precise visual representations.

IND 138

Model Making - Fall Core/3

The ability to communicate your design ideas in quick and accurate ways is a valuable skill. Through design and modeling projects, you will learn to make design models for industrial design evaluation.

JEM 275

Welding and Smithing Core/3

Gas. Arc. MIG. TIG. Working from maquettes, you'll use these welding techniques and combine them with smithing to create wearable forms, free-standing sculptures, or wall pieces.

Degree Requirements

Unit RequirementsUnits
Core24
Sophomore Portfolio3
Major15
Liberal Arts18
Total60

AAS AUTOMOTIVE RESTORATION DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum grade of C- in all major coursework
  • Minimum 2.0 GPA and the following general education requirements:
    1 Creative Communication course
    1 Automotive Design History course
    1 Quantitative Mechanics course
    1 Materials Science course
    1 Employment Communications and Practices course

After above general education requirements are met, take Liberal Arts electives as needed to fulfill the Liberal Arts unit requirement.

Additional Information

Program Learning Outcomes

Undergraduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

Automotive Restoration

  • Identify all major automotive components and systems and their functions
  • Conduct research to acquire relevant information for the restoration of vintage automobiles
  • Disassemble an automobile and produce detailed documentation of the processes and conditions of components
  • Create accurate technical diagrams
  • Restore or duplicate automotive woodwork
  • Restore or duplicate sheet metal by forming to specifications
  • Sculpt auto body panels to specifications
  • Paint auto body panels using industry standard equipment
  • Evaluate the condition of a damaged or deteriorated component to determine the steps to repair or fabricate the piece

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

    1. Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
    2. Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
    3. Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
    4. Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
    5. Use professional terminology to evaluate their work and work in the field.
    6. Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
    7. Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.
    8. Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, student interest clubs, and participation in collaborative, civic, and pro bono projects.

*Semester plans are subject to change at any time. Semester breakdowns displayed are suggested and additional options are available to help customize your educational experience. Speak to an admissions or student services representative for more information. Please see our catalog for more details at: https://catalog.academyart.edu