The Automotive Repair and Refinishing program at Vancouver Community College (VCC) is an ideal choice for students who enjoy working with their hands and want to build a career in the fast-paced automotive industry. This practical and comprehensive program combines two major skill areas: auto body repair and automotive refinishing (painting). Students learn how to restore vehicles that have been damaged in accidents and give them a brand-new finish using industry techniques and equipment.
With hands-on training and guidance from experienced instructors, students gain real-world skills that employers are looking for. Whether you want to work at an auto body shop or eventually run your own business, this program provides the essential foundation to get started in the trades.
Program Structure
Over the span of 10 months, this full-time program blends classroom instruction with hands-on training in VCC’s professional auto shop. Students work on real vehicles, learning both collision repair and refinishing skills.
Key learning areas include:
Automotive body repair and panel replacement
Sanding, masking, and painting techniques
Frame straightening and alignment
Estimating damage and cost
Safe use of tools and industry-standard equipment
Program Option:
This program includes preparation for Level 1 apprenticeship certification in British Columbia.
Featured Experiences
Train in a real auto shop with up-to-date equipment
Learn from certified instructors with industry experience
Work on real vehicle projects from start to finish
Connect with employers through VCC’s industry partnerships
Pathway to apprenticeship and Red Seal Certification
Career Options
Graduates of this program can pursue roles such as:
Auto Body Repair Technician
Automotive Refinishing Technician (Painter)
Collision Estimator
Shop Assistant / Apprentice
Insurance Claims Adjuster (with experience)
Auto Shop Owner (with further experience)
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
English 10 with a passing grade or Academic IELTS 5.0 overall (no band less than 4.5) or TOEFL iBT 60 or equivalent
Apprentice and Workplace Math 10 or equivalent
or
Department Leader approval based on relevant trade experience.
Note:
Applicants must have minimum basic computer skills and access to an internet-connected computer/mobile device.
General
Seats are offered to applicants who have met all Academic Requirements, on a first-qualified, first-served basis.
International applicants must be 17 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
Applicants must submit official transcripts and educational documents as required by their course or program.
Language Requirements
Acceptable English proficiency evidence includes:
English Grade
IELTS Academic
Duolingo English Test
TOEFL iBT
English 10
Overall: 5.5
with no band less than 5.0
Overall: 95
Overall: 50
English 11
Overall: 6.0
with no band less than 5.5
Overall: 105
Overall: 70
Communications 12
English 12 C-
English 12 C
English 12 C+
Overall: 6.5
with no band less than 6.0
Overall: 115
Overall: 80
English 12 B
Overall: 6.5
Listening: 6.0
Speaking: 6.5
Reading: 6.0
Writing: 6.5
Overall: 120
Overall: 90
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.
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