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Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology

Associate Degree

Associate in Arts Degree

Automotive Technology

Students may earn the above-named associate degree by completing a certificate of achievement and the general education courses required for MiraCosta College's Associate in Arts degree (see Associate Degrees). Students should meet with a MiraCosta counselor to identify required courses and to develop a written educational plan for the specific degree or certificate they wish to earn.

Certificates

Certificate of Achievement

Automotive Electronics, Computers, and Emissions and/or HVAC

The Automotive Electronics, Computers, Emissions/HVAC program includes course work in the theory and function of automotive electronics and computer systems. It emphasizes basic automotive electronics, diagnostics, drivability, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and/or emission controls, including smog-check procedures.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to synthesize knowledge of electrical systems and computer technology to diagnose, service, and repair electrical and computer communication circuits as they relate to automotive drive-train and accessory systems, with an emphasis in emissions and/or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 130Basic Engine Performance2
AUTO 135Auto Electronic Fundamentals4
AUTO 235Advanced Electronics and Electronic Engine Control Systems4
Select one of the following:3-6
CA Smog Technician Engine and Emission Control - Level 1
and Smog Check Training Inspection Procedures - Level 2
HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Total Units13-16

Certificate of Achievement

Automotive/Motorcycle Maintenance and Light Repair

This four course certificate of achievement is designed to serve students who wish to learn automotive, small engine, and motorcycle maintenance and light repair. It is designed to afford students with limited time and/or economic constraints the means to quickly enter the industry as an entry level lube tech, lot porter, detailer, parts counter salesperson, technician's assistant, or entrepreneur.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will be prepared to pass the G1 ASE examination.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 100Basic Motorcycle Maintenance and Small Engine Repair4
AUTO 102Preventive Maintenance and Engine Performance4
AUTO 105Automotive Reconditioning and Detailing4
AUTO 135Auto Electronic Fundamentals4
Total Units16

Certificate of Achievement

Automotive Technology

This certificate is designed to prepare students for entry-level auto mechanic positions at local dealerships and independent repair facilities. Courses are designed to prepare students for various state licenses and national certification. After completion of these courses, students are qualified to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) tests in engine performance, engine repair, brakes, and steering and suspension, and they will possess entry-level service and repair skills on hybrid and alternative-fuel powered vehicles. Students interested in the ASE Certificate as a Master Automobile Technician need to complete other specific courses listed in the catalog to prepare for the additional test areas. 

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform brake, suspension, engine, and electrical repair, service, and diagnostic procedures as an entry-level automotive technician.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 135Auto Electronic Fundamentals4
AUTO 140 Automotive Engine Technology4
AUTO 141Automotive Engine Performance and Drivability4
AUTO 160Automotive Suspension, Steering, and Alignment4
AUTO 161Automotive Brake Service and Repair4
AUTO 200Automotive Electric and Hybrid Vehicles4
Total Units24

Certificate of Achievement

California Smog Check Technician

The California Smog Check Technician certificate prepares students for the California Smog Technician Licensing Examination and entry-level positions as smog check technicians and positions in the automotive reconditioning field.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will possess the knowledge necessary to sit for the State of California Smog Technicians Examination and the skills necessary for entry-level employment as a smog technician in a state- approved smog test only or smog test and repair facility.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 102Preventive Maintenance and Engine Performance4
AUTO 125CA Smog Technician Engine and Emission Control - Level 14
AUTO 225Smog Check Training Inspection Procedures - Level 22
Please select one course from the following:3-4
Automotive Reconditioning and Detailing
Automotive Reconditioning and Paint Fundamentals
Personal Selling
Total Units13-14

Certificate of Achievement

Electric, Hybrid, and Alternative-Fuel Vehicle Technician

This certificate qualifies students for entry-level employment as electric, hybrid, and alternative-fuel vehicle technicians. Students learn the theory, safety, and hands-on procedures for maintenance, service, and repair of full electric, hybrid electric, hydrogen electric, and alternative-fuel powered vehicles. The certificate program requires basic courses in the automotive technologies utilized by all electric and hybrid vehicles, including automotive electrical, engine performance, alignment, suspension, and brakes. 

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be prepared to pass the ASE A4, A5, A6, and L3 national examinations.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 130Basic Engine Performance2
AUTO 135Auto Electronic Fundamentals4
AUTO 160Automotive Suspension, Steering, and Alignment4
AUTO 161Automotive Brake Service and Repair4
AUTO 200Automotive Electric and Hybrid Vehicles4
AUTO 201Alternative Fuel Vehicles2
Total Units20

Certificate of Achievement

Master Technician

Students interested in the ASE Certificate as a Master Technician need to complete all of the required courses for the MiraCosta College Automotive Technology Certificate of Achievement as well as several other courses to prepare for the additional test areas. Students may earn the MiraCosta College Master Technician Certificate of Achievement by completing the following courses.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will be proficient in theory, practiced in hands-on service, and sufficiently prepared to pass the national ASE examination for each of the courses which make up the certificate of achievement.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 105Automotive Reconditioning and Detailing4
or AUTO 125 CA Smog Technician Engine and Emission Control - Level 1
AUTO 135Auto Electronic Fundamentals4
AUTO 140 Automotive Engine Technology4
AUTO 141Automotive Engine Performance and Drivability4
AUTO 155Manual Transmissions and Transaxles4
AUTO 156Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles4
AUTO 160Automotive Suspension, Steering, and Alignment4
AUTO 161Automotive Brake Service and Repair4
AUTO 200Automotive Electric and Hybrid Vehicles4
or AUTO 235 Advanced Electronics and Electronic Engine Control Systems
AUTO 205Automotive Reconditioning and Paint Fundamentals2-4
or AUTO 225 Smog Check Training Inspection Procedures - Level 2
AUTO 220HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning3
Total Units41-43

Certificate of Proficiency

Automotive Electronics

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6) examination as well as for entry-level employment in electrical and electronic areas of the automotive service industry.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will be proficient in the theory and application of Basic and Advanced automotive electrical systems.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 135Auto Electronic Fundamentals4
AUTO 235Advanced Electronics and Electronic Engine Control Systems4
Total Units8

Certificate of Proficiency

Automotive Quick Service Assistant

This certificate offers training in basic automotive service and maintenance along with the sales training needed for employment as a quick service technician.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will be proficient in basic automotive knowledge and relative business practices.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 102Preventive Maintenance and Engine Performance4
BUS 135Personal Selling3
Total Units7

Certificate of Proficiency

Automotive Repair: Drive-Train Specialist

This certificate prepares students for entry-level auto mechanic positions at local dealerships and independent repair facilities. The program focuses on diagnosis and repair of internal engine components for domestic and import vehicles. Students take apart engines and transmissions and put them back together from the ground up. This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) examinations for engine repair and automatic and manual transmissions.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will be proficient in the theory and practice of heavy line/drive-train service and repair.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 130Basic Engine Performance2
AUTO 140 Automotive Engine Technology4
AUTO 155Manual Transmissions and Transaxles4
AUTO 156Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles4
Total Units14

Certificate of Proficiency

Automotive Alignment, Brakes, and Suspension

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Suspension and Steering (A4) and Brakes (A5) examinations and for entry-level employment in the suspension and brake areas of the automotive service industry.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will be proficient in theory, practiced in hands-on service, and sufficiently prepared to pass the ASE examination in each of the courses which constitute the certificate of proficiency.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 160Automotive Suspension, Steering, and Alignment4
AUTO 161Automotive Brake Service and Repair4
Total Units8

Certificate of Proficiency

Basic Engine Performance

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Engine Performance (A8) examination and for entry-level employment in the engine performance area of the automotive service industry.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will be proficient in the theory and practice of engine repair and engine performance.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 140 Automotive Engine Technology4
AUTO 141Automotive Engine Performance and Drivability4
Total Units8

Certificate of Proficiency

Electric Vehicle, Hybrid Vehicle, and Engine Performance

This certificate prepares students for entry-level positions at automotive facilities that service and repair internal combustion, electric, and hybrid vehicles.

Program Student Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this program, students will qualify for entry level positions at automotive facilities that service and repair electric, hybrid, and alternative fuel vehicles.

Course Requirements
Required courses: 
AUTO 102Preventive Maintenance and Engine Performance4
AUTO 130Basic Engine Performance2
AUTO 200Automotive Electric and Hybrid Vehicles4
Total Units10

How to Read Course Descriptions

For more detailed information about a course, such as its content, objectives, and fulfillment of a degree, certificate, or general education requirement, please see the official course outline of record, available on the Courses and Programs webpage.

Courses

AUTO 100: Basic Motorcycle Maintenance and Small Engine Repair

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall

This introductory course combines theory with practical experience to provide students with the necessary skills to perform two- and four-cycle small engine maintenance, tune-up, and repair. The course covers the operation, maintenance, and repair of landscaping management equipment as well as an intensive study of the theory and repair of motorcycle systems. The course is designed for students without small engine experience and those who wish to acquire entry level skills in motorcycle maintenance and repair.

AUTO 102: Preventive Maintenance and Engine Performance

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, and Summer

Designed to develop an understanding of the operation, care, preventive maintenance, and light repair of the automobile, this course covers all major systems and components, including tires, wheels, brakes, suspensions, characteristics of fuel, oil, and lubricants; maintenance of smog devices; basic engine performance, automotive electronics procedures; and safety factors. Students apply hands-on service, diagnostic, and light repair procedures to prepare them for entry level positions in the automotive industry. C-ID AUTO-110X.

AUTO 105: Automotive Reconditioning and Detailing

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall

This course covers interior and exterior detailing processes, including identification of paint condition and types, use of car-care chemicals, machine polishing, maintenance of the paint surface, and customer communication. The course also covers inspection procedures for roadworthiness and safety, including an overview of the retail certification processes for used vehicles prior to sale.

AUTO 110: History of the Automobile

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall or Summer

This course surveys the history, culture, and societal impact of the automobile in the United States from the early twentieth century through present times. Students examine how the automobile has transformed American society and how it continues to influence social status, consumer purchasing, advertising, consumption, transportation choices, urban design, technological innovations, market competition, environmental concerns, and governmental regulations.

AUTO 111: Car Culture

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, and Summer

This course provides an overview of the far-reaching impact of automotive culture in America. It emphasizes the post-WWII era up to current times and the large-scale influence of car culture on social conditions, style, commerce, the environment, and imposed adaptations on society.

AUTO 125: CA Smog Technician Engine and Emission Control - Level 1

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Spring

This course (plus other requirements and course work) prepares students to qualify for the California Smog Check Technician Examination using Nissan and other Asian manufacturer-specific and standard Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) materials. The course covers the following BAR-certified course: Engine and Emission Control Training Level 1 (formerly known as the Clean Air Car course).

AUTO 130: Basic Engine Performance

Units: 2
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1.50 hours, laboratory 1.50 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, and Summer

This course introduces students to the theory and operation of the internal combustion engine. Topics include cooling, lubrication, ignition, fuel systems, and emission control systems, as well as maintenance and servicing procedures. It also introduces students to hybrid technology and computerized systems, and prepares them for AUTO 141 Automotive Engine Performance and Driveability.

AUTO 135: Auto Electronic Fundamentals

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

This course prepares students for the study of automotive electrical and electronic computer control systems. It covers the fundamentals of electricity, electromagnetism, electromagnetic induction, electronics, and D/C and A/C current theory. The course provides in-depth coverage of voltage, amperage, resistance, and Ohm's Law, and it emphasizes electronic principles and proper use of a Digital Volt Ohm Meter (DVOM). Topics include the overall theory, service, and testing of the battery, charging system, starter, and ignition. This class prepares students for the ASE A6 Exam and California State Headlight Adjusters license.

AUTO 140: Automotive Engine Technology

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

This course introduces students to automotive engine mechanical theory and repair. Topics include four-cycle engine theory and operation, lubrication and cooling system service and repair, and engine removal and installation. In the on ground or hybrid course students disassemble, inspect, and assemble engine blocks and cylinder heads to factory specifications. In the 'online only' course students perform the same lab tasks in a virtual environment. This course prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A1 Engine Repair examination.

AUTO 141: Automotive Engine Performance and Drivability

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

This engine performance course covers diagnostics, service, and repair of fuel, ignition, starting, charging, emission, and computer systems. Students use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and repair problems using proper repair techniques, automotive safety, and service protocol. This course helps prepare students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A8 Engine Performance examination and entry-level employment as engine performance technicians.

AUTO 155: Manual Transmissions and Transaxles

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall

This course introduces the theory, service, and repair of manual transmissions (RWD) and manual transaxles (FWD). Students learn to identify, evaluate, service, remove, and replace transmissions and transaxles. Topics include theory, service, and repair of manual and hydraulic clutch systems and driveline components. (Note: When the course is taught online, the lab tasks and instructor demonstration are performed in a virtual environment.) The course helps students prepare for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A3 Manual Transmission examination. C-ID AUTO-130X.

AUTO 156: Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Spring

This course introduces the theory, service, and repair of automatic transmissions (RWD) and automatic transaxles (FWD). Students learn to identify, evaluate, service, remove, and replace transmissions and transaxles. Topics include theory, service, and repair of electronic assist automatic transmission components and related driveline components. (Note: When the course is taught online, the lab tasks and instructor demonstration are performed in a virtual environment.) This course helps prepare students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A2 Automatic Transmission examination. C-ID AUTO-120X.

AUTO 160: Automotive Suspension, Steering, and Alignment

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

This course covers automotive passenger car and light truck alignment, steering, and suspension systems. It emphasizes the theory and function of modern front- and rear-wheel drive suspension systems and equipment, safety procedures, proper service techniques, component failure analysis, and repair. Students practice alignment procedures on state-of-the-art alignment equipment. This course prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A4 Suspension and Steering examination. Note: When the course is offered online, lab tasks and instructor demonstration are performed in a virtual environment.

AUTO 161: Automotive Brake Service and Repair

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

This course covers the theory, service, and repair of hydraulic brake, antilock brake, traction control, and regenerative brake systems. Students learn complete service and repair of front and rear brake systems. The course includes measuring and machining brake rotors and drums to factory specifications, using proper safety protocols, diagnostic strategies, and repair techniques. Students practice these techniques on state-of-the-art stationary and on-the-car brake lathe equipment. This course prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A5 Brakes examination.

AUTO 200: Automotive Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: AUTO 102 or AUTO 130.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3.50 hours, laboratory 1.50 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, and Summer

This course covers the theory, safety procedures, service, and repair of automotive hybrid, electric, and hydrogen powered vehicles. The course emphasizes design, specialized tools, equipment, and component failure analysis. Students learn the complex theories of high voltage DC electrical systems, AC synchronous traction motors, regenerative braking, hydrogen fuel cell technology, and the unique characteristics of hybrid internal combustion engines coupled with manufacturer-specific service and repair protocol. This course introduces students to existing and future alternative fuel technologies and prepares them for entry-level employment as electric and hybrid/electric vehicle technicians. C-ID ALTF-100X

AUTO 201: Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Units: 2
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1.50 hours, laboratory 1.50 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

This alternative fuel vehicles course emphasizes biodiesel, natural gas, propane, biofuels derived from algae, alcohol/ethanol products (cellulosic and crop-based), and new propulsion sources currently under development. Students learn basic diesel and biodiesel technology, including oil titration and biodiesel production. The course covers the properties of gasoline, alcohol, ethanol, methanol, pressurized fuels such as natural gas and propane, and how crude oil is derived from algae production for use as a carbon-neutral internal combustion alternative. It also examines the environmental, ethical, political, and geopolitical ramifications of the production of these fuels. This course prepares students for employment as entry-level alternative fuel specialists and fleet vehicle attendants.

AUTO 205: Automotive Reconditioning and Paint Fundamentals

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Spring

This course covers procedures for automotive reconditioning and paint refinishing fundamentals. Topics include exterior and interior cosmetic reconditioning processes consisting of paint touch-up, bumper repair, interior surface repair, rotary polishing, and introduction to paintless dent removal (PDR). The course also covers automotive business start-up procedures.

AUTO 220: HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1.50 hours, laboratory 4.50 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Summer

This course covers the fundamental theories, diagnosis, service, and repair practices of automotive air conditioning and heating systems. Topics include the procedures of recovering the refrigerant, replacing parts, evacuating, charging the air conditioning units, retrofitting, and computer-controlled climate control systems. This course helps prepare students to pass the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A7 heating, ventilation, and air conditioning test. C-ID AUTO-170X.

AUTO 225: Smog Check Training Inspection Procedures - Level 2

Units: 2
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1.50 hours, laboratory 1.50 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Spring

This course (plus other requirements and course work) prepares students to qualify for the California Smog Check Technician Examination using Nissan and other Asian manufacturer-specific and standard Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) materials. The course covers the Smog Check Training Inspection Procedures Level 2 BAR-certified course.

AUTO 235: Advanced Electronics and Electronic Engine Control Systems

Units: 4
Prerequisites: AUTO 135.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Spring even years

This course covers advanced automotive electrical systems and computerized engine control systems as they relate to fuel/air management, ignition, emission controls, and accessory electronics. It provides in-depth coverage of engine management sensors, actuators, and transaxle electronic controls, and it emphasizes OBD II systems and computerized CAN BUS communications. The course includes infotainment systems and hybrid/EV safety, and it prepares students for the ASE A6 certifiction exam in automotive electrical and electronic systems.

AUTO 292: Internship Studies

Units: 0.5-14
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Complete 54 hours of work per unit, paid or unpaid.
Enrollment Limitation: Instructor, dept chair, and Career Center approval. Fourteen unit maximum in any combination of work experience education and/or internship studies per semester.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, and Summer

This course provides students the opportunity to apply the theories and techniques of their discipline in an internship position in a professional setting under the instruction of a faculty-mentor and site supervisor. It introduces students to aspects of the roles and responsibilities of professionals employed in the field of study. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students must develop new learning objectives and/or work/intern at a new site upon each enrollment.

AUTO 296: Topics in Automotive Technology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: To be arranged

This course gives students an opportunity to study topics in Automotive Technology that are not included in regular course offerings. Each Topics course is announced, described, and given its own title and 296 number designation in the class schedule.

AUTO 299: Occupational Work Experience Education

Units: 0.5-14
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Complete 54 hours of work per unit, paid or unpaid.
Enrollment Limitation: Career Center approval. Fourteen unit maximum in any combination of work experience education and/or internship studies per semester.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, and Summer

This course is intended for students who are employed in a job directly related to their major or career area of interest. It allows such students the opportunity to apply the theories and skills of their discipline to their position and to undertake new responsibilities and learn new skills at work. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students must develop new learning objectives and/or work/intern at a new site upon each enrollment.

Campus Locations

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1831 Mission Avenue
Oceanside, CA 92058
760.795.8710
888.201.8480
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MiraCosta Oceanside Campus Building

1 Barnard Drive
Oceanside, CA 92056
760.757.2121
888.201.8480
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MiraCosta San Elijo Campus

3333 Manchester Avenue
Cardiff, CA 92007
760.944.4449
888.201.8480
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MiraCosta Technology Career Institute Building

2075 Las Palmas Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92011
760.795.6820
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