Automotive Restoration Technology Program

Program Purpose Statement & Goals

The department of technology commits itself to developing whole persons through experiential problem solving and the systematic study of automotive restoration technology.

The department achieves this purpose when its students:

Demonstrate awareness of how automotive and industrial technology changes and interacts with society.
Are prepared for a professional orientation for employment or advanced programs within the automotive field.
Acquire technical skills and craftsmanship through systematic study, experiences with technological artifacts, and the solving of technical problems.

Program Core Outcomes

Within the core classes of the Automotive Restoration Program, the department achieves its purposes when graduates:

Demonstrate an understanding of the major technological systems of the automobile.
Demonstrate an understanding of authentic antique automobile restoration materials, methods and techniques.
Demonstrate proficiency in the use of the materials and tools necessary to complete historically authentic automobile restoration work.

Technology Major

McPherson College offers a unique degree program of authentic automotive restoration technology emphasizing hands-on skills and historical research. This program results in a unique departmental blend of contemporary technology and traditional craftsmanship. The Bachelor of Science in Automotive Restoration Technology major has five different emphases from which to choose.

Program Requirements

In order for a student to enroll in an Automotive Restoration (technology) course, they must be a full-time (at least 12 hours) student at McPherson College in the Automotive Restoration Program.

Automotive Restoration Technology: History Emphasis

The goal of the Automotive Restoration Technology: History emphasis is to develop graduates who are prepared for professional pursuits in the area of automotive history and/or graduate study.

Emphasis Outcomes

This program achieves its purposes when graduates:

Demonstrate knowledge of historical automotive research material sources, methods and techniques necessary to complete historically accurate automotive restorations.
Demonstrate knowledge of the historical role of the automobile in society.
Demonstrate knowledge of the role of the automobile in the history of transportation, technology and science.

Requirements

Automotive Restoration Technology Core Courses

TE 100 Intro to Restoration (2 hours)
TE 141 Engine Rebuilding (4 hours)
TE 145 Drivetrain Restoration (3 hours)
TE 152 Sheet Metal Restoration (4 hours)
TE 162 Fundamentals of Woodworking (4 hours) (OR)
TE 262 Machining Technology (3 hours)
TE 200 AR Career Exploration (2 hours)
TE 202 Research & Documentation (2 hours)
TE 271 Chassis Restoration (4 hours)
TE 275 Automotive Paint Restoration (4 hours)
TE 281 Automotive Trim (4 hours)
TE 385 Restoration Assembly Processes (4 hours)
36 hours of core courses (or 37)

History Core Courses

G-HI 130 Introductory Methods for Historical Analysis (3 hours)
G-HI 205 Social History of the Automobile (3 hours)
*G-HI/TE 333 Technology & Society (3 hours)
*HI 410 Colloquium in Historiography (3 hours)
*HI 475 Senior Thesis (3 hours)
15 hours

History Electives

At least 6 credit hours drawn from the following list:
AR/HI 245 The History of Automotive Design (3 hours)
G-HI 150  American History since 1877 (3 hours)
G-HI 220  Modern Europe (3 hours)
G-HI 236  Topics in Social History (3 hours)
G-HI 237  Topics in Political History (3 hours)
HI 301 Advanced Topics in History (3 hours)
6 hours minimum

57 hours in major (or 58)

Automotive Restoration Technology: Management Emphasis

The goal of the Automotive Restoration Technology: Management emphasis is to develop graduates who are prepared for professional pursuits and/or graduate study.

Emphasis Outcomes

This emphasis achieves its purposes when its graduates:

Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, and application of the principles, concepts, and tools taught within the Management emphasis.
Perform research, analysis, and critical thinking necessary to integrate key content from various business disciplines.
Perform effectively in groups.
Persuasively communicate business-related ideas of a variety of media and settings.

Requirements

Automotive Restoration Technology Core Courses

G-HI 205 Social History of the Automobile (3 hours)
TE 100 Intro to Restoration (2 hours)
TE 162 Fundamentals of Woodworking (4 hours) (OR)
TE 262 Machining Technology (3 hours)
TE 141 Engine Rebuilding (4 hours)
TE 145 Drivetrain Restoration (3 hours)
TE 152 Sheet Metal Restoration (4 hours)
TE 200 AR Career Exploration (2 hours)
TE 202 Research & Documentation (2 hours)
TE 271 Chassis Restoration (4 hours)
TE 275 Automotive Paint Restoration (4 hours)
TE 281 Automotive Trim (4 hours)
TE 385 Restoration Assembly Processes (4 hours)
39 hours (or 40 hours)

Business Management Courses

G-BA 130 Principles of Business Management (3 hours)
EC 202 Survey of Economics (3 hours)
AC 202 Survey of Accounting (3 hours)
BA 215 Business Law (3 hours)
BA 221 Marketing (3 hours)
BA 235 Small Business Management (3 hours)
BA 325 Financial Management I (3 hours)
BA 339 Human Resources Management (3 hours)
*BA 475 Business Strategy and Policy (3 hours)
27 hours

66 hours in major (or 67 hours)

Automotive Restoration Technology: Communication Emphasis

The goal of the Automotive Restoration Technology: Communication emphasis is to develop graduates who have the skills and technical knowledge to communicate effectively in a variety of media to an audience focused on automotive issues.

Emphasis Outcomes

This emphasis achieves its purposes when its graduates:

Demonstrate knowledge of methods and techniques necessary to complete and document historically accurate automotive restorations.
Demonstrate knowledge of the historical role of the automobile in society and historical automotive research material sources.
Demonstrate visual, oral and written communication skills necessary to pursue a career in automotive communication, publishing or other media.
Understand the media of communication, including mass media and computer technologies.

Requirements

Automotive Restoration Technology Core Courses

Communication Core

G-CM 120 Intro to Human Communication (3 hours)
CM 135 Media Writing (3 hours)
G-CM 140 Public Speaking (3 hours)
CM 210 Podcasting (3 hours)
*G-CM 221 Intercultural Communication (3 hours)
CM 305  Editing, OR
CM 310  Public Relations and Social Media Campaigns (3 hours)
CM 315 Media Production (3 hours)
CM 375  Junior Seminar in Communication (1 hour)
CM 388  Career Conn. in Communication (OR)
TE 388  Career Conn. In Technology (3 hours)
*CM 475A  Senior Seminar in Service in the Community (2 hours)
*CM 475B Senior Seminar in Career Exploration (1 hour)
*EN 313  Expository Writing (OR)
EN 420  Creative Writing (3 hours)
31 hours

70 hours in major (or 71)

Automotive Restoration Technology: Art and Design Emphasis

The Automotive Restoration Technology: Art and Design emphasis is for the student who wishes to pursue a career in automotive art. This option will develop majors who possess the technical knowledge and artistic abilities necessary to execute a variety of art skills sensitively and intelligently, analyze and critique art, and relate the creative process to life in personally meaningful ways.

This degree option within the technology and art departments is oriented to meet the needs of students who (1) wish to develop and refine their aesthetic values (2) plan for careers as automotive artists (3) plan to further their art education in graduate school.

Emphasis Outcomes

This emphasis achieves its purposes when its graduates:

Demonstrate knowledge of history in automotive design.
Demonstrate the knowledge and skills to produce automotive art.
Demonstrate an understanding of design principles and elements.
Demonstrate a completed body of work in a senior exhibition.

Requirements

Automotive Restoration Technology Core Courses

G-HI 205 Social History of the Automobile (3 hours)
TE 100 Intro to Restoration (2 hours)
TE 110 Technical Drawing/CAD (3 hours)
TE 141 Engine Rebuilding (4 hours)
TE 145 Drivetrain Restoration (3 hours)
TE 152 Sheet Metal Restoration (4 hours)
TE 162 Fundamentals of Woodworking (4 hours) (OR)
TE 262 Machining Technology (3 hours)
TE 200 AR Career Exploration (2 hours)
TE 202 Research & Documentation (2 hours)
TE 271 Chassis Restoration (4 hours)
TE 275 Automotive Paint Restoration (4 hours)
TE 281 Automotive Trim (4 hours)
TE 385 Restoration Assembly Processes (4 hours)
42 hours (or 43 hours)

Art Core Courses

G-AR 101 Drawing I (2 hours)
G-AR 102 Painting I (3 hours)
AR 103  Elementary Design (3 hours)
AR 202 Painting II (2 hours)
AR 203  Photography I (2 hours)
G-AR 220  Graphic Design for Non-Art Majors (3 hours)
AR/HI 245 The History of Automotive Design (3 hours)
G-AR 311 Art History II (4 hours)
AR 312 Contemporary Themes in Art (3 hours)
AR 335 Design Software II (3 hours)
AR 475A/B Senior Show: Studio Arts (3 hours–2 hours in fall, 1 hour in spring)
31 hours

73 hours in major (or 74)

Automotive Restoration Design Major Internship/Field experience (recommended):

TE 295/495 Field Experience (work experience in automotive Art/Design) (OR) (1 – 4 hours)
TE 388 Career Connections (Internship in automotive Art/Design) (1 – 10 hours)
1-12 hours total

Automotive Restoration Technology Emphasis

The Automotive Restoration Technology emphasis is for the student who intends to pursue the authentic restoration of vintage and classic vehicles and develop values of craftsmanship, with attention to detail and an emphasis on authenticity. Graduates will be able to reference a wide variety of processes, methods and will have research capabilities. Graduates will be able to understand the automobile as a technological system and understand its development and role in society.

Emphasis Outcomes

This emphasis achieves its purposes when its graduates:

Possess knowledge of historical automotive research material sources, methods and techniques necessary to complete and document historically accurate automotive restorations.
Demonstrate proficiency in the use of the materials and tools necessary to complete authentic automobile restoration work.
Demonstrate the attitudes, knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a business career in antique automobile restoration.
Demonstrate knowledge of the historical role of the automobile in society.
Demonstrate knowledge of related and supporting scientific fields.

Requirements

Automotive Restoration Technology Core Courses

G-HI 205 Social History of the Automobile (3 hours)
TE 100 Intro to Restoration (2 hours)
TE 141 Engine Rebuilding (4 hours)
TE 145 Drive Train Restoration (3 hours)
TE 152 Sheet Metal Restoration (4 hours)
TE 162 Fundamentals of Woodworking (4 hours)
TE 200 AR Career Exploration (2 hours)
TE 202 Research & Documentation (2 hours)
TE 262 Machining Technology (3 hours)
TE 271 Chassis Restoration (4 hours)
TE 275 Automotive Paint Restoration (4 hours)
TE 281 Automotive Trim (4 hours)
TE 301 Materials and Processes (3 hours)
TE 360 Electrical & Electronic Systems (4 hours)
TE 385 Restoration Assembly Processes (4 hours)
TE 475A Technology Senior Project (2 hours)
TE475B Technology Senior Project (2 hours)
54 hours

6 credit hours from the following upper-level courses:

TE 341 Advanced Engine Rebuilding (3 hours)
TE 406 Woodworking in Automotive Coachwork (3 hours)
TE 414 Advanced Topics in Electrical and Electronic Systems (3 hours)
TE 452 Advanced Sheet Metal Restoration (3 hours)
TE 462 Advanced Manual Machining (3 hours)
TE 480 Advanced Automotive Paint Restoration (3 hours)
TE 481 Advanced Automotive Trim (3 hours)

3 credit hours from the following courses:

TE 252  Vintage Panel Restoration (3 hours)
TE 242  Re-Babbitting (spring – on demand) (3 hours)
TE 353  Finishing Touches (3 hours)
TE 380  Applied Diagnostics (3 hours)
TE 388  Internship (3 hours)

63 hours in major

Recommended Supporting Courses:

AR/HI 245 The History of Automotive Design (3 hours)
G-CH 101 Principles of General Chemistry (4 hours)
G-PH 215 General Physics (4 hours)
TE 110 Engineering Drawing/CAD (3 hours)

Special Course Options:

295/495 Field Experience (1-4 hours)
297 Study Abroad (12-16 hours)
299/499 Independent Study (1-4 hours)
388 Career Connections (3-10 hours)
445 Readings and Research (1-4 hours)

Auto Restoration Technology Course Descriptions

TE 100 Intro To Restoration

2 hours
A course designed to provide an overview of the restoration core courses, elective courses, general safety and shop knowledge. This course will provide historical information about the automotive industry, information about research, documentation and planning a restoration project. Prerequisites: None. Students must pass this course with a “C” or better to continue taking courses with TE 100 as a prerequisite. (Fall) Students in the Automotive Restoration Program will have a maximum of two attempts at TE 100. After failing to reach a “C” or better for the second time, they will no longer be allowed to continue in the program.

TE 110 Engineering Drawing/CAD

3 hours
This course blends the art and science of freehand sketching and technical drafting as students are introduced to the graphic languages as a medium of technical communication. Topics include freehand (isometric) sketching and traditional (orthographic) drafting as well as an introduction to two and three dimensional CAD (Computer Assisted Drawing) tools and processes. Prerequisites: TE100. (Fall, even years)

TE 141 Engine Rebuilding

4 hours
A course designed to teach students the basics of automotive engine restoration. This course includes work in basic engine and related systems, operational theory, disassembly procedures, diagnosis of mechanical faults, evaluating engine condition, engine rebuilding techniques and engine machining processes. Students will work on vintage automobile engines, rebuilding engine components as determined by the instructor. Lab Fee. Prerequisite: TE 100, TE 262 taken concurrently or consent of the instructor. TE100 may be taken concurrently (Fall, Spring) Students must pass this course with a “C” or better in order to take TE 341.

TE 145 Drivetrain Restoration

3 hours
A course designed to teach students the basics of automotive drive train restoration. This course includes work in basic transmission and differential operational theory, disassembly procedures, diagnosis of mechanical faults and evaluating transmission and final drive condition, transmission and differential rebuilding techniques and procedures. Students will work on vintage automobile transmissions and differential assemblies as determined by the instructor. Lab Fee. TE 100 may be taken concurrently. (Fall, Spring)

TE 152 Sheet Metal Restoration

4 hours
A course designed to teach students the basics of welding and auto body panel fabrication as used in automobile restoration. This course includes work in basic welding processes, techniques, operational theory and related systems and basic auto body panel fabricating processes, techniques, tool operational theory and related fabrication systems, assembly procedures for auto body panels, and evaluating metal body component condition. Lab Fee. TE 100 may be taken concurrently. (Fall, Spring) Students must pass this course with a “C” or better in order to take TE 452.

TE 162 Fundamentals of Woodworking

4 hours
This course will introduce students to the concepts and practices of basic woodworking, including planning, fabrication and finishing, while stressing the safe operation of power tools used in basic woodworking. The course will also examine the history and evolution of the American automobile in general and automotive coach building in particular. TE 100 may be taken concurrently. Lab Fee. (Fall, Spring) Students must pass this course with a “C” or better in order to take TE 406.

TE 200 Automotive Restoration Career Exploration

2 hours
A career exploration course specifically designed for Automotive Restoration students. Students will learn about their individual strengths and how those strengths can be utilized to make the most of their abilities in the automotive restoration industry. Instruction will be given in the professional preparation of cover letters, resumes, and portfolios. A key focus will also be placed on using connections with automotive restoration industry leaders and using their expertise as guidance for students when preparing for job interviews and careers in the industry. Prerequisite: TE100 (Fall)

TE 202 Research & Documentation

2 hours
This course will introduce students to practical research, documentation and planning related to restoring antique automobiles. Prerequisite: TE100 (Spring)

TE 242 Re-Babbitting

3 hours
An intensive, lab-based course in the restoration and re-Babbitting of antique automotive engines and mechanical components. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 141, TE 262 (On Demand)

AR/HI 245 The History of Automotive Design

3 hours
Discover and examine the technological and stylistic evolution of automotive design. This course will explore ways in which automobiles, by way of their design, reflect the technology and communicate the values of the culture that produced them. Prerequisites: TE100 (Fall)

TE 252 Vintage Panel Restoration

3 hours
An intensive, lab-based course in the restoration or fabrication of antique auto body panel components (not applicable as an advanced course). Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 152. (Interterm)

TE 262 Machining Technology

3 hours
An introduction to machining technology. Students are introduced to blueprint reading, precision measurement, the theory and operation of machine tools, layout techniques and the use of layout tools, the characteristics of common industrial metals used in machining processes, machine maintenance, and nontraditional machining processes. Lab work required. Lab Fee. TE 100 may be taken concurrently (Fall, Spring) Students must pass this course with a “C” or better in order to take TE 462.

TE 271 Chassis Restoration

4 hours
A course designed to teach students the basics of automotive chassis restoration. This course includes restoration work in basic frame, suspension, wheel, brake and drive train components. Operational theory and other related chassis systems, disassembly procedures, diagnosis of mechanical faults, component condition, and brake systems machining processes are also included. Students will work on vintage automobile chassis and related components. Lab Fee. Prerequisite: TE 100, TE 141, TE 145. (Fall, Spring)

TE 275 Automotive Paint Restoration

4 hours
A course designed to teach students the basics of automotive paint restoration. This course emphasizes panel preparation, paint systems and paint application, disassembly and documentation procedures, diagnosis of auto body and interior painted surface faults and evaluating the auto body condition. Students will work on vintage automobile bodies and related components. Lab Fee. TE 100 may be taken concurrently (Fall, Spring) Students must pass this course with a “C” or better in order to take TE 480

TE 281 Automotive Trim

4 hours
A course designed to teach students the basics of automotive trim (upholstery) restoration. This course includes restoration work in basic automotive seats, interior panels, convertible and other top covering restoration. Also included are disassembly procedures, diagnosis of upholstery and trim and interior faults and evaluating the interior condition. Students will work on vintage automobile interiors and related components. Lab Fee. TE 100 may be taken concurrently (Fall, Spring) Students must pass this course with a “C” or better in order to take TE 481.

TE 301 Materials and Processes

3 hours
This course will explore the history and cultural impacts of the development of engineering materials and processes. Students will gain a working knowledge of the properties and strengths of materials and gain a working knowledge of classic industrial processes and be able to apply that knowledge to the restoration and preservation of antique automotive systems and structures. This class will include field trips to various industrial facilities.. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100 (Interterm)

TE 311 Advanced Topics in Engineering Drawing/CAD

4 hours
A continuation of TE 110. Includes revolutions, tolerance dimensioning, threads and fasteners, sections, working drawings, surface and solid generation. Prerequisite: TE 110 (On Demand)

G-TE/HI 333 Technology and Society

3 hours (Language Intensive)
An introduction to the historical development of technology as part of society and culture, exploring how society and culture constrain and stimulate technologies, and how technology then shapes society and culture. Does not require previous specialized technical knowledge. This course is designed for both majors and non-majors. Prerequisite: G-EN 111 or consent of the instructor. (Fall)

TE 341 Advanced Engine Rebuilding

3 hours
This course is designed to build on the skills and knowledge gained in TE 141. This class will focus on designs and construction techniques that apply specifically to vintage engines. This class will also explore the practical application of techniques gained in TE 141 to more complex and vintage engines. Repairing damaged or severely worn components will be the focus. Rebuilt engines will then be tested on a dynamometer to assess the rebuild. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 141, TE 262 with a C or better. (Fall, Spring)

TE 353 Finishing Touches

3 hours
A course designed to teach three skills needed for the restoration of early era vehicles. Students will learn to restore and polish hard trim moldings, restore wood grained interior moldings and the art of pinstriping. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 152, TE 275 or consent of the instructor. (On Demand)

TE 360 Electrical and Electronic Systems

4 hours
This course will address the characteristics and operations of electrical and electronic systems with special emphasis on their practical application in automotive systems. The course will introduce Ohm’s Law, electrical power, circuit elements and magnetism and induction in electrical circuits. Special emphasis is given to the use of this knowledge in the repair, restoration, and preservation of classic and antique automotive electrical systems. Prerequisite: TE 100. (Fall, Spring). Students must pass this course with a “C” or better in order to take TE 414.

TE 380 Applied Diagnostics

3 hours
An exploration of vintage automotive diagnostics, including a basic overview of automotive electrical systems, fuel and ignition systems, drive train and chassis systems. Basic failure modes of these systems will be explored and will be experienced in the laboratory. Integration of the theory and practice of diagnostics will be explored in a classroom and lab setting. Proper use of diagnostic tools, diagnostic literature and methodology will be taught. Students will work with vintage automobiles and related components. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 141, TE 145, TE 271, TE 360. (Fall, Spring)

TE 385 Restoration Assembly Processes

4 hours
A course designed to allow students to refine their skills from other courses in a comprehensive format. Students will work on vintage automobiles and their components, rebuilding and reassembling these components. Hard metal trim restoration and other specialized restoration processes may also be explored depending on project vehicles available. Lab Fee. Prerequisite: TE 100, TE 141, TE 145, TE 152, TE 162, TE 262, TE 271, TE 275, TE 281 or consent of the instructor. (Fall, Spring)

TE 406 Woodworking in Automotive Coachwork

3 hours
A course designed to allow students to study intermediate woodworking techniques and processes, project planning, parts fabrication, wood finishing, and safety in the wood shop. This course covers materials and processes used in industry, both now and historically. It is the goal of this course that upon completion, students will have a working knowledge of various woodworking materials and processes and will be able to apply that knowledge to the field of automotive restoration. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 162 with a C or better. Lab fee. (Spring, odd years)

TE 414 Advanced Electrical & Electronic Systems

3 hours
A student-guided study of the design, operation, and characteristics of specialized automotive electrical systems including gauges and instruments, clocks and radios, lighting and accessory systems, and specialized ignition systems. This course will address reading and interpreting automotive wiring diagrams and will include design and construction of authentic wiring looms and harnesses. Special emphasis is given in this course to the repair, restoration and preservation of classic and antique automobile electrical systems. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 360 with a C or better. (Spring)

TE 452 Advanced Sheet Metal Restoration

3 hours
A study of special sheet metal restoration techniques, including the use of power tools in fabrication, creating complex compound curves, repairing extremely damaged components and the craft of creating custom tooling. Students will build experience and confidence in their skills in the laboratory. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 152 with a C or better. (Spring)

TE 462 Advanced Manual Machining

3 hours
This course provides the next level in blueprint reading, precision measurement, and most importantly the operation and theory of manual machine tools. There will be several specific processes that will be introduced in this course that are new and more advanced than the content of skills covered in TE262. The main topics/skills introduced in this course will include: boring on a vertical milling machine, cutting left-hand threads on a lathe, heat treating, honing, and precision measuring with Jo blocks. Prerequisites: TE100, TE262. (Fall, odd years)

*TE 475A & TE475B Technology Senior Project (Automotive Restoration Technology emphasis only)

2 hours each (Language Intensive)
Seniors have a maximum of two semesters to complete TE475A and TE475B. This course is designed to be an intensive experience combining the implementation of technical skills, research techniques, and learning to manage restoration work on one of many college-owned vintage cars or projects related to their study. The scope of each project would be described as “a significant body of work” or “a capstone experience.” Prerequisite: TE 100, TE141, TE145, TE152, TE200. (Fall, Spring)

TE 476 Automotive Restoration Comprehensive Exam

1 hour
This course will provide a review of the foundational material covered within the core courses of the Automotive Restoration Program. Every student in the AR Program, regardless of emphasis, will take TE476 during their senior year. Assessment of the review material provided in the course will be administered by a written comprehensive exam. Hands-on assessment of the skills taught within the core classes will also be included via performance evaluations.

TE 480 Advanced Automotive Paint Restoration

3 hours
This course will build on concepts introduced in TE 275. Safety issues related to painting, paint history, special painting techniques and proper documentation of vehicle components will be a major emphasis. Students will work to increase their painting skills through practical experience. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 275 with a C or better. (Fall, Spring)

TE 481 Advanced Automotive Trim

3 hours
This course builds on the concepts introduced in TE 281. Deeper instruction will be given in automotive trim areas such as organization and setup, button tufting, leather, pattern making, and custom seat construction. Measuring, documenting, and estimating of materials to replace/restore an automotive interior will also be emphasized. Lab Fee. Prerequisites: TE 100, TE 281 with a C or better. (Fall, Spring)

Special Course Options
295/495 Field Experience (1-4 hours)
297 Study Abroad (12-16 hours)
*299/499 Independent Study (1-4 hours)
388 Career Connections (3-10 hours)
*445 Readings and Research (1-4 hours)

* Prerequisite Policy: (TE 299/499 and TE 445)
The student must submit to the appropriate instructor a written proposal of study, prior to enrollment in the course, including the following components:

statement of the student’s acceptance of the goals of topics courses: to provide the opportunity for specialized unit shop teaching endorsements, the study of advanced content, and the development of teaching and training skills;
goals, project plans, and a detailed weekly schedule, consistent with the course syllabus;
evidence of academic maturity, self-motivation, and desire to serve as an appropriate role model for students in lower-level classes in similar content area;
agreement to schedule the lab time of the topics course at the same time the lower-level course is offered; and
evidence that the student has completed all lower-level course(s) in the corresponding content area with a minimum B (3.0) average and a minimum B (3.0) overall college grade point average; or permission of the instructor to waive the grade

Upon instructor approval of the proposal, an interview will be scheduled with the student to discuss the arrangement and any further details prior to granting final permission for the student to enroll in the course.