Diesel Equipment Technology

With coursework reviewed by regional industry leaders, you can be confident you’re learning the skills employers need most, no matter which one of this program’s degree or diploma options you choose. You’ll work side-by-side with expert instructors at our modern on-site lab to diagnose and repair diesel engines, clutches and transmissions, air-conditioning systems, electrical systems and more. About two-thirds of the instruction time is spent in the diesel lab working on live work and training models. You’ll learn to diagnose problems and disassemble, recondition and replace faulty parts. 

Our Diesel Equipment Technology program is the only one in the region that supplies the needed tools to all second-year students on campus, ensuring you’ll have the tools you need, both at school and on the job.

You get to choose your preferred emphasis: The associate degree program offers three possible tracks, including a general track, a truck-focused track and a sponsored track that features a supervised work experience with Case New Holland. Students in the sponsored track may receive partial reimbursement for tuition, tools and uniforms for school and work. There’s also a diploma program. All four options are certified by the Association Equipment Distributors Foundation.

No matter which emphasis you choose, you’ll learn about:

• Diesel engines
• Clutches and transmissions
• Starting and charging systems, suspension systems and wheel alignment
• Air-conditioning and refrigeration systems
• Drive lines
• Differentials
• Hydraulic and air brake systems
• Electrical systems
• Electronically controlled fuel systems and transmissions

Accreditation

See program accreditation details at Accreditation.

Related Programs

You may also be interested in our Diesel Equipment Technology or PowerSports Technology degree, diploma and certificate programs.

Our Associate of Applied Science degree programs make it possible for you to seamlessly transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue an advanced degree. There are many advantages of beginning your postsecondary studies at M State, including cost savings due to our low tuition rate and smaller class sizes with personalized instruction. Learn more about your transfer options at Transfer Programs and Pathways.

Technology and engineering educator (TEE) option

M State offers you a flexible, affordable path to a rewarding career in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education. With our Technology and Engineering Educator (TEE) option, you can start close to home and finish with a bachelor’s degree in technology and STEM education from Valley City State University (VCSU), all without relocating!

Here’s how it works:

1. Begin at M State in one of these hands-on, high-demand programs:
   • Construction Management
   • Automotive Service Technology
   • Diesel Equipment Technology
   • PowerSports Technology
2. Complete three years of immersive, skills-based learning at M State
3. Finish your final year online through VCSU — on your schedule, at home in your community

This partnership builds on your technical expertise so you're equipped to inspire students of any age as a STEM educator or trainer. Whether you want to teach in Minnesota or North Dakota, or continue your studies even further, your path to STEM teaching starts at M State.

Make Connections, Gain Experience

As a student in this program, you may benefit by participating in SkillsUSA competitions. M State Diesel students often perform well in these annual competitions, completing rigorous tests to showcase their talents and abilities; in 2024, Diesel student Cole Riegert was a bronze medalist at the national championships. 

Facilities

Explore 360 views of where you'd learn, study, test and practice in this M State program:

Fall application period

The fall application period opens Sept. 1 for the following academic year.

Admission details

Once you've applied to M State, please send copies of your high school transcript and any official college transcripts (if applicable) to records@minnesota.edu.

Acceptance to M State does NOT guarantee a seat in this program. Seats are limited and awarded on a first-come first-serve basis by registering for classes.