Photograph of assorted CAT heavy diesel equipment.

Diesel & Heavy Equipment

Program Type: Certificate in Applied Science

Program Level: UG

Division: Career & Technical Education

Program Duration: 24 months

Program Contact: Keith Mckenzie

Credit Requirement: 31

Time: Day

Program overview

The Diesel and Heavy Equipment certificate program trains technicians to diagnose problems and to provide service and maintenance-related procedures to diesel and heavy equipment.

Courses Required

Semester 1

Diesel Engines I

Course Code: DHM-105

This course covers the basic study of diesel engine design and operating principles.


Electrical Systems I

Course Code: DHM-173

This course is a study of basic electrical theory as applied to truck and heavy equipment batteries, starters, and alternators.


Semester 2

Diesel Fuel Systems

Course Code: DHM-125

This course is a basic study of diesel engine fuel systems including pumps, governors, and injectors.


Electronic Fuel Systems

Course Code: DHM-225

This course covers the theory and practical application of electronic fuel power systems.


Semester 3

Diesel Engines II

Course Code: DHM-205

This course covers the practical application of diesel engine repair, including engine disassembly, unit repair, reassembly, and testing.


Semester 4

Diesel Equipment Service And Diagnosis

Course Code: DHM-107

This course is a study of heavy vehicle systems with emphasis on preventive maitenance, problem diagnosis, and repair procedures.


Hydraulic Systems

Course Code: DHM-265

This course is a study of the theory, application, testing, and repair of diesel and heavy equipment hydraulic systems.


Semester 5

Suspension and Steering

Course Code: DHM-251

This course is a study of steering systems, suspension systems, and basic front-end alignment techniques.


Air Brake Systems

Course Code: DHM-255

This course is a study of air compressors, valves, electrical controls and brake designs.


Semester 6

Drive Trains

Course Code: DHM-151

This course is a study of the theory and repair of drive train systems.


Entry Requirements

To see a list of entrance requirements for this program, please check the FDTC Course Catalog.

Download Catalog

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of safety and environmental requirements in the transportation repair industry.
  • Demonstrate understanding of air brake systems.
  • Demonstrate understanding of preventive maintenance.