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Auto Body Collision Technology

Auto body repair and refinishing technicians diagnose and repair vehicles damaged as a result of collisions, corrosion, and wear.

At Hennepin Technical College, students learn from instructors with real-world experience. Courses prepare students to work in auto body repair shops, collision centers, and dealerships in positions like paint repair technician, fabrication, panel beater, and auto collision technician.

Students are exposed to industry standards to repair structural damage and diagnose unibody and frame issues. Students will learn skills like metal fabrication, welding, painting, sanding, and masking techniques.

Courses focus on skills like how to estimate the cost of fixing damaged vehicles, how to use both power and manual tools to repair or replace damaged parts, and how to perform painting and finishing tasks with advanced technology.

Auto Body Collision Technicians are a vital part of the automotive industry. They work with mechanics, insurance companies, and other auto-collision repair professionals. Technicians can advance their education by gaining industry certifications like the I-CAR Gold Class designation.

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100% Online Program

Learn from anywhere on your schedule so you can balance school, work, and life.
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Real-World Accounting Skills

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Career-Ready Training

Graduate prepared for entry-level accounting jobs in business, non-profits, and government.
Car frames on an assembly line inside an automotive repair facility.
Overview
Class Time Day | Evening
Semester Fall | Spring
Campus Brooklyn Park | Eden Prairie
Awards

Custom Fabrication & Finishing Certificate

Non-Structural Repair Technician Assistant Certificate

Refinishing Technician Assistant Certificate

Structural Repair Finishing Assistant

Auto Body Technician Diploma

Auto Body Technician Associate of Applied Science

Tuition & Learning

Planning your investment is easy. Our program provides comprehensive training that prepares you for immediate entry into your chosen field. Below you'll find detailed information about program costs and required materials.

Tuition Estimates by Award

Costs below apply to each specific award option:

Certificates

Custom Fabrication & Finishing
$4,305
Occupational Certificate
Non-Structural Repair technician Assistant
$3,625
Occupational Certificate
Refinishing Technician Assistant
$3,625
Occupational Certificate
Structural Repair Technician Assistant
$4,758
Advanced Technical Certificate

Diplomas

Auto Body Technician
$12,914
Diploma

Associates Degrees

Auto Body Technician
$16,313
Associate of Applied Science
The tuition rate for 2025-2026 academic year is
$226.57 per credit

Required Tools & Equipment

A tool list will be provided on the first day of class and instructors will work with students to help them create an individualized tool purchasing plan. Various suppliers provide tools at a discounted price to students enrolled in the program and range between $500 - $5000.

Scholarships & Savings

Ready to turn your dreams into reality? At Hennepin Tech, we believe that nothing should stand in the way of your education. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of paying for college, so you can focus on what really matters – your future.

FAFSA

Your key to financial aid. The first step to unlocking financial assistance for college is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). By completing this form, you’ll qualify for a variety of federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities that can help offset the cost of tuition, books, and other expenses.

Not sure if you’re eligible? Don’t worry, our financial aid advisors are here to help, even if you have unique circumstances or are an undocumented individual.

Check out your first step to funding college

North Star Promise

If you’re a Minnesota resident who meets certain income criteria, you may also qualify for the North Star Promise, which provides additional financial support to cover the cost of tuition and fees. It’s another way we’re making college more accessible and affordable for students like you.

See if you qualify for free tuition

Foundation Scholarships

The Hennepin Tech Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to help students offset the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other expenses. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reduce your college expenses!

Explore scholarships just for our students

PSEO & Concurrent Enrollment

High school students can jumpstart their college education by participating in our Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) or Concurrent Enrollment programs. Earn college credits while still in high school and save on future tuition costs!

Discover how you can earn college credit in high school

VA Benefits

Veterans and their dependents may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits can help cover tuition, housing, and other costs associated with attending college. Contact our veterans services office for assistance in accessing and maximizing your VA benefits.

Maximize your military education benefits

Third-Party Payments

Did you know that some employers, organizations, or government agencies offer tuition assistance programs? If you’re eligible, you can use these funds to help cover your college expenses. Be sure to check with your employer or inquire about any available benefits.

Let a sponsor help fund your education

Transfer Credits

Transfer the credits you’ve already earned from previous colleges or programs to reduce the classes you need, helping you finish your degree faster and at a lower cost.

Make your hard work count twice

To maximize your savings, apply for FAFSA early, explore scholarships, and review your potential for credit through prior learning and transfer evaluations.

Accreditation & Recognition

Hennepin Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. In 2003, Hennepin Tech became a member of the HLC Academic Quality Improvement Program.

  • ASE education foundation
  • I-CAR
  • AASP
  • Sherwin Williams

Articulations

An articulation agreement between Hennepin Tech and Minnesota State University Moorhead will facilitate credit transfer of Hennepin Tech’s Auto Body Technician A.A.S. degree or diploma toward an Operations Management B.S. degree at Moorhead.

Industry Partners

Hennepin Tech has a respected advisory committee comprised of individuals involved with and working in the collision repair industry. Their input keeps the program up-to-date on the latest trends and technology so Hennepin Tech graduates have the skills employers require.

How to Apply

Ready to start your journey at Hennepin Tech? Learn the skills you’ll need to succeed and follow our simple application process to take the first step toward your career goals.

Application Process

Applying to Hennepin Tech is easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to get started on your educational journey:

  1. Submit Your Application
    Visit our Get Started page to complete your application online. As part of the application process, you will need to pay the application fee. This helps us process your materials quickly.

  2. Submit Transfer Requests (If Applicable)
    If you have previously completed college courses or earned a degree, you can save time and money by transferring your credits. Be sure to submit official transcripts or transfer requests from any previous colleges or high schools you attended. This allows us to evaluate your credits and apply them toward your new program.

  3. Receive Your Admission Decision
    Once your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive an official admission decision.

  4. Placement Testing for New Students
    If you are new to college, you will need to take a placement test after you have been accepted. The placement test helps identify your current skills in reading, writing, and math. It is used to determine if developmental courses are necessary before you start certain college-level classes. Please note that the placement test does not affect your admission status.

  5. Plan Your Courses
    Based on your placement test results and transfer credit evaluation, you will work with an advisor to select the right courses to ensure your success.

Special Admissions Processes

  • If you are an international student, please visit our international admissions page for specific instructions.

  • If you are a PSEO (Postsecondary Enrollment Options) student, please visit our PSEO admissions webpage for details on the application process.

If you have questions or need help during the application process, our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.

Faculty & Staff

David Duchene Auto Body Instructor Phone: 763-488-2473 E-mail: Dave.Duchene@HennepinTech.edu
Jason Worts Auto Body Faculty Phone: 763-488-2523 E-mail: Jason.Worts@HennepinTech.edu
Mike Janovsky Auto Body Faculty Phone: 952-995-1571 E-mail: Michael.Janovsky@HennepinTech.edu
Jon Leibel Auto Body Faculty Phone: 952-995-1622 E-mail: Jonathan.Leibel@HennepinTech.edu

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College Honors Adoptees

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

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Each November, National Adoption Month reminds us of the human need to belong.

$4.1M DEED Grant Received

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

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Hennepin Tech receives $4.1M from DEED to expand semiconductor training and grow Minnesota’s high-tech workforce.

Invitation to Vote on New Website Design Theme

Monday, October 20, 2025

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Help choose the new Hennepin Tech website design and score some swag! Vote now for your favorite theme before October 31.

Celebrating Manufacturing Month

Friday, October 3, 2025

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October is Manufacturing Month in Minnesota and across the nation.