Automotive

Learn what makes automobiles work, how and why they fail, and how to diagnose and repair defects effectively. Study and hone your skills in a beautiful lab with state-of-the-art industry equipment, guided by highly-qualified faculty in small class settings. Gain hands-on experience (and earn some cash) by working in the student-run auto shop, and earn a degree from a highly-ranked Adventist automotive program that will position you for success. Benefit from Walla Walla University partnerships with companies such as Snap-On and Matco to get quality professional tools at deeply discounted prices.

Discover our programs Meet our Faculty

A student in the auto shop inspects a car with a flashlight

Student Spotlight

Are you looking to hit the road with an automotive career? Check out how Josh, a senior automotive management major, learns hands-on skills by repairing cars as a student technician at University Auto.

Meet Josh

Three students work on an automotive assignment

College Experience

What will your college experience look like as an Automotive major?

High-level classes: We offer high-level classes not available at a community or technical college, such as: Advanced Engine Performance, Body Electronics and Computer Systems, Diesel Engine Performance, and Hybrids and Alternative Fuels.

Wide range of experience: You will see nearly every kind of vehicle come through our automotive lab for educational purposes; from Ford to Fiat, Aston Martin to Mercedes—we’ve seen it all. You will have near unrestricted access to our automotive lab and its equipment. And, our auto repair business allows you to make money while developing real-world skills.

Fun outside of class: Our University Auto club is a very active student club for anyone who loves cars. They participate in the alumni car show, do Cars and Coffee events, as well as organize other fun student gatherings such as camping, bowling, and scavenger hunts with their cars.

Career Path

What can your career path as a Automotive major look like?

WWU is one of only 15 schools in the United States that offer a bachelor’s degree in automotive technology or automotive management, and our graduates enjoy a 100% employment rate in a variety of companies and careers. Our students traditionally achieve very high scores on Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) exams, and are prepared to work as automotive technicians or engineers, research and development specialists, auto dealership managers, field service engineers, product engineers, and more.