Des Moines Area Community College.

Diesel Technology - Required Courses

You can choose between three options in the Diesel Technology Program:

Below are the courses required for the AAS Degree. If you would like to find out when a course is offered, use our Search and Find tool under Courses and Programs on DMACC's main site. 

Diesel Technology - AAS Degree Courses

Course Credits
DSL356 Diesel Engines I 6
Description: Instruction provided in the technical and non-technical aspects of diesel engines. This information will give the students the basic understanding needed to continue in the Diesel Mechanic program.
DSL366 Diesel Engines II 6
Description: Instruction in diagnosing problems and the nature of repairs needed. Information on preventative measures to eliminate failures. Prerequisite: DSL356
MAT772* Applied Math I 3
Description: A course in elementary mathematical skills for technicians. Topics covered include fundamental operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and signed numbers; percents; geometric figures and basic constructions; area and volume formulas; English/Metric systems; measurements; and the interpretation of graphs and charts.
DSL546 Power Trains I 6
Description: Class and lab activities in the design and operation of drive train components including clutches, manual transmissions, drive lines, rear axles, and wheel bearings.
DSL605 Hydraulics and Brakes 5
Description: The study of basic mobile hydraulics. Introduces principles, components, fluid systems and circuits of hydraulic systems. Vehicle braking includes study of hydraulic and air brake systems.
DSL145 Basic Electricity 5
Description: An introduction to basic electricity and electronic principles that apply to diesel powered equipment. Systems and components covered include starting, charging, lighting and accessories.
DSL733 Air Conditioning 3
Description: A course on basic air conditioning theory and design. Emphasis will be placed on various system controls and on service operations.
DSL830 Operation and Maintenance 5
Description: Instruction in the proper methods of maintaining all equipment. Safety will be emphasized.
DSL555 Power Trains II 5
Description: Instruction will include the basics of automatic transmissions, power shift transmissions, final drives, and hydrostat drives. PREREQUISITE: DSL546, 605
DSL409 Diesel Electronics 5
Description: A study of electronic fundamentals, lab work with electronic components, and testing equipment. Diesel engines which are computer controlled are used in lab to demonstrate applications of electronics on diesel power which meet demands of the future. Prerequisite: DISL408
DSL155 Advanced Electricity 4
Description: The electrical circuitry on diesel powered equipment is covered. Included are troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repair procedures. Prerequisite: DSL145
AUT140* Welding for Automotive Mechanics 2
Description: Skills will be developed in oxy-acetylene fusion and braze welding, shielded metallic arc welding as well as oxy-fuel flame cutting. Safety is emphasized and basic welding theory is discussed. Warnings concerning the danger and liability involved in welding high strength steels will be stressed (i.e., auto body and chassis, etc.) Safety is emphasized.
COM703* Communication Skills 3
Description: Reading, writing, speaking, and listening are studied as methods of exploring and evaluating technological advances in trades and industry. Adapting communication for different audiences, evaluating industry-related literature, and basic business writing are emphasized.
PHY710* Applied Physics 3
Description: A physics course for students of technology. Topics include forces, work, energy, heat, electricity and magnetism with a strong emphasis on practical applications. Prerequisite: MATH410 or equivalent
MGT145 Human Relations in Business 3
Description: Emphasizes the importance of the development of proper attitudes toward self, others, and organizational settings. Stresses the development of a good self image and the relationship this has to energy levels, emotions, defensiveness, verbal and nonverbal communication.
DSL407 Diesel Fuel Systems 6
Description: The student will be introduced to basic fuel system principles and operational theory of some commonly used systems as well as general repair and diagnostic procedures. Prerequisite: DISL402
DSL845 Heavy Equipment Repair 5
Description: Instruction in the repair and service of equipment relating to the heavy equipment industry. This includes all phases normally done in a general repair shop. Instruction is given under structured lab and field conditions. Prerequisite: DISL402, 404, 406, 408
DSL855 Truck Repair 5
Description: Instruction in the repair and service of equipment relating to the trucking industry. This includes all phases normally done in a general repair shop. Instruction is given under structured lab and field conditions. Prerequisite: DISL402, 404, 406, 408
Total credits required to complete the AAS Degree: 80

View required courses for the Diesel Technology Diploma.