Work on customer vehicles, learn from expert technicians, and build your career in the automotive trade. Apprentices train on the job and return to VIU for seven weeks each year of technical instruction.
The automotive apprenticeship program consists of:
- 4 levels of technical training
- 6360 work-based training hours
- writing the Interprovincial (Red Seal) examination for journeyperson-certification. Learn more about the Application Process for Apprenticeship Technical Training.
Level 1 (7 weeks)
Level 1 is also covered in VIU’s Automotive Service Technician foundation program.
- auto shop safety and PPE
- use of tools and documentation
- introduction to driveline systems
- electrical systems and components, meter and wiring diagrams
- steering, suspension, braking, control systems, tires, wheels, hubs and wheel bearings
- restraint system safety, body and trim
- hybrid and EV vehicle safety
Level 2 (7 weeks)
- diagnosing and repairing engine systems
- driveline systems such as manual transmissions, clutches and differentials
- repair electrical systems, starters, alternators, electronic steering, suspension and braking systems
Level 3 (7 weeks)
- engine support systems, ignition systems, fuel delivery, engine management and emission devices
- vehicle networking systems
- electrical systems like power accessory systems
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Level 4 (7 weeks)
- communication and mentoring
- diesel engine systems
- vehicle networking systems
- driveline systems such as automatic transmissions and all-wheel drive systems
- electrical systems and components like infotainment systems
- heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and comfort control systems
- restraint systems, body and trim
- hybrid and EV vehicle repair
Upon successful completion of all 4 years of technical training, verification of work based training hours, successful completion of the Interprovincial Exam, students will receive their Automotive Service Technician Red Seal Certification.
Admission information
- successfully completed the previous apprenticeship level
- registered as an apprentice with SkilledTradesBC
- actively tracking work-based training hours with an employer sponsor
Tuition and Other Mandatory Student Fees include supply fees, student activity fee, student services fee and VIU Students’ Union fee.
Costs are for budgeting purposes only and will be confirmed when you register for the course.
| Apprenticeship Level | Tuition | Additional mandatory student fees | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 839.16 | 163.10 | 1,002.26 |
| Level 2 | 839.16 | 163.10 | 1,002.26 |
| Level 3 | 839.16 | 163.10 | 1,002.26 |
| Level 4 | 839.16 | 163.10 | 1,002.26 |
| Full program | 3,356.64 | 652.40 | 4,009.04 |
All fees are subject to change without prior notice and are expected to increase by 2% each year on April 1.
Start dates for all apprenticeship training in BC can be found on Trades Training BC. Apprenticeship training classes at Vancouver Island University fill on a first-come, first-registered basis. There are waiting lists for many trades and apprenticeship levels.
Please contact the Apprenticeship Admissions and Registration Assistant for seat availability and waitlist information:
Email: apprentice@viu.ca
Phone: 250.740.6227
An Apprenticeship Admissions and Registration Assistant can help with your questions:
- email apprentice@viu.ca
- call us at 250-740-6227.
- visit the Trades and Applied Technology office in Building 180, Room 110
- open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm
Help paying for school
Financial help for apprentices
There is WorkBC, Employment Insurance, Canada Apprentice Loans and tax credits to help
Financial Aid & Awards
The Financial Aid & Awards office can direct you to grants, student loans and more
