Collision Repair Technology

9 Months – Total Clock Hours:  900

Starts: 8/26/2026

2026 2027 Tuitions Fees: $9,666

Admission Requirements

Application Fee, Application, Enrollment Agreement, High School Diploma, Transcript or GED, Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse Clearance, and FBI Fingerprinting.

Program Overview

The Collision Repair Program at Central PA Institute of Science and Technology (CPI) provides students with hands-on skills and technical knowledge needed for a successful career in the automotive collision repair industry. This 900-hour, 9-month program covers all aspects of collision repair, including non-structural and structural repairs, refinishing, welding, estimating, and shop management. Students will learn to assess vehicle damage, perform repairs using industry-standard tools and equipment, and apply refinishing techniques to restore vehicles to pre-accident condition.

Emphasizing both technical expertise and career readiness, the program includes I-CAR Certification Training, ensuring students meet industry safety and technical standards. Students will also gain experience with estimating software, insurance procedures, and customer service skills to prepare them for real-world collision repair environments. Graduates will be equipped for a variety of career opportunities, including positions as auto body technicians, refinishers, estimators, or shop managers. The program consists of 370 lecture hours and 530 lab hours, blending classroom instruction with hands-on application in a professional learning environment.

Courses In This Program Include:

Course Descriptions 

COLL 101: Collision Repair Fundamentals

In Collision Repair Fundamentals, students will learn the foundational skills necessary for working in the collision repair industry. This course covers shop safety, tool identification, personal protective equipment (PPE), and OSHA regulations. Students will be introduced to the basics of vehicle construction, measuring techniques, and minor bodywork. Hands-on training includes surface preparation and small panel repairs.  (50 lecture hours, 20 lab hours)

COLL-120: Disassembly and Assembly

In Disassembly and Assembly, students will develop skills in safely removing and reinstalling vehicle components, including bumpers, trim, lighting, and interior panels. The course covers proper documentation, fastener identification, and part alignment techniques. Hands-on training will focus on preserving undamaged components, ensuring proper fit, and reassembling vehicles to pre-repair condition.  (120 lecture hours, 130 lab hours)

COLL-128: Plastic Repair

In Plastic Repair, students will learn industry-approved techniques for repairing automotive plastics, including bumper covers, grilles, and interior panels. The course covers plastic identification, adhesive bonding, welding methods, and refinishing procedures. Students will complete hands-on repairs using plastic welding and chemical bonding techniques to restore parts to OEM specifications.  (40 lecture hours, 60 lab hours)

COLL-201: Aluminum and Steel Small Dent Removal

In Aluminum and Steel Small Dent Removal, students will develop skills in repairing minor dents and damage on both steel and aluminum vehicle panels. This course covers metal characteristics, proper tool selection, and repair techniques such as paintless dent removal (PDR) and traditional dent pulling. Hands-on training will focus on restoring panels with minimal filler use while maintaining structural integrity.  (60 lecture hours, 100 lab hours)

COLL-213: Preparation for Refinish

In Preparation for Refinish, students will learn the critical steps involved in preparing a vehicle for painting and refinishing. This course covers surface cleaning, sanding techniques, masking procedures, primer application, and defect prevention. Hands-on training includes proper spray gun setup, sealer application, and panel blending techniques to ensure a high-quality finish.  (50 lecture hours, 160 lab hours) 

COLL-250: Computerized Estimating

In the Computerized Estimating course, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to create accurate and professional collision repair estimates using industry-standard computerized estimating software. Students will learn to assess vehicle damage, interpret repair procedures, and generate detailed estimates that align with insurance and repair facility requirements.  Through hands-on training, students will gain proficiency in identifying and documenting vehicle damage, navigating computerized estimating software, understanding labor times, parts pricing, and repair methodologies, writing comprehensive estimates for insurance claims and customer repairs, and communicating effectively with customers, insurance adjusters, and repair technicians.  (50 lecture hours, 60 lab hours)