Automotive Engineering is a branch of mechanical engineering that focuses on the design, development and manufacturing of motor vehicles such as cars, trucks and motorcycles.

Automotive engineering is important because it concerns the safety, quality and efficiency of motor systems on every street, highway and laneway. Good automotive engineering leads to more efficient vehicles, which translates to lower operation and maintenance costs for drivers, and safer vehicles giving drivers peace of mind when on the road.

A Diploma in Automotive Engineering will teach you the essentials of automotive engineering and its various standard procedures. You will learn how to design automotive components, solve complex motor system failure, produce automotive parts and utilise automotive production and assembly technology.

Automotive Technology is the study of the functions and processes of automotive components such as engines, braking systems, and sensors.

Automotive technology differs from automotive engineering by focusing on the repair and maintenance of vehicles. Automotive technology is important because every vehicle needs to be maintained at several points in its life cycle.

A Diploma in Automotive Technology will equip you with the essential knowledge of automotive processes and the required technical skills to solve motor system problems and find the best solutions.

A Diploma in Automotive Engineering requires at least 3 credits (C and above) at SPM, O-Level or equivalent. Certain institutions require a pass (or sometimes a credit) in English, Mathematics and a Science subject.

For UEC students, you will need to have a minimum of 3Bs including Mathematics and a Science subject, plus a pass in English.

A Diploma in Automotive Technology requires at least 3 credits (C and above) at SPM, O-Level or equivalent, including a pass in Mathematics.

To pursue a Diploma in Automotive Engineering & Technology, you need to have an SPM qualification or equivalent. You must also meet the minimum entry requirements of the college or university.

A Diploma in Automotive Engineering is typically 2 to 2.5 years long, whereas a Diploma in Automotive Technology is typically 2.5 to 3 years long.

Upon completing a Diploma in Automotive Engineering & Technology, you will have several options:

• Enter the workforce immediately; or
• Pursue a Degree in Automotive Engineering, entering in Year 2; or
• Pursue a Professional Engineer qualification after completing an accredited engineering degree and 3 years of work experience.

Once you complete a Diploma in Automotive Engineering, you can consider the following job options:

• Automotive Engineer
• Automotive Engineering Technician
• Technician
• Motorsport Technician

After completing a Diploma in Automotive Technology, you can consider the following job options:

• Automotive Technician
• Foreman
• Workshop Owner
• Motorsport Technician

Alternatively, you can also consider continuing your education by pursuing a Degree in Automotive Engineering.

Different students may have different preferences when it comes to choosing the right college or university. Here are some questions to consider when making a decision.

• Is the institution’s Diploma in Automotive Engineering & Technology accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)?
• Do you understand the fees of the course, and are the costs affordable to you?
• Are you comfortable with the location of the college or university?
• Have you visited the campus, and do you like the campus environment and facilities?
• What support services does the institution have to help you in and beyond college / university?

For more points to ponder, check out these 5 steps to finding the best college for you.

If you’re not sure whether studying a Diploma in Automotive Engineering & Technology is right for you, here are some articles that may help:

• Your Guide to Studying Automotive Technology in Malaysia
• 5 Practical Tips When Applying for College
• The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best College Programme (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3)

Not sure if you should study Diploma, A-Level, Foundation in Science, or some other Pre-University course? Take our Course Recommender Quiz and get a recommendation in 3 minutes!