Parts Sales & Inventory
Learn the ropes of Part Sales and Inventory Control while earning a diploma in our three-term program. Prepare for a career as a parts salesman, stock clerk or wholesale/manufacturing sales representative while receiving computer training and business practicum.
Develop computer skills that will ensure your success working in parts houses with sophisticated inventory access and control systems. Whether you choose to pursue a career in an automotive parts department at an automobile dealership, a marine engine repair shop or auto supplies store, you’ll establish the foundational skills and experience needed to thrive right here at Iowa Lakes.
Faculty Contact
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Denise Reimer Professor | Sales & Marketing Management 712-852-5258 | dreimer@iowalakes.educreate new email |
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Gavin Illg Parts Department Coordinator 712-852-5205 | gfillg@iowalakes.educreate new email |

Program Details
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Curriculum
Term 1
CSC 110 – Intro to Computers
CSC-110 is an introductory course that surveys a variety of topics to include history, hardware, software, terminology, communications, computer ethics, and societal impact of computers. In addition to computer literacy, students will complete hands-on modules using operating systems, word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software; such as Microsoft Office programs.
MAT 772 – Applied Math
A course in elementary mathematical skills for technicians. Topics covered include fundamental operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals and signed numbers; percents; geometric figures and basic constructions; area and volume formulas; English/Metric systems; measurements; and basic algebraic equations and applications.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score
MKT 140 – Principles of Selling
Studies the concepts of selling. Includes an understanding of the customer; realizing the importance of product knowledge; securing and conducting sales presentations, analyzing and handling different types of customers; steps in selling; and the importance of maintaining good will.Personality development and principles of selling are stressed.
PAR 113 – Parts Catalog + Lab
This course is an overview of major automotive parts systems, the reading of parts lists, catalogs, price sheets and exploded views will be covered. Identification of manufacturer and their products. Students will gain hands-on experience in cataloging parts. Lecture and laboratory.
PAR 123 – Parts System + Lab
This course develops skills in the operation of a parts store or automotive dealership parts department. Emphasis is on jobber catalogs, use of computer cataloging, invoice processing, and parts sales. Students learn to handle purchase orders, repair requests, and monthly statements. Lecture and laboratory.
Term 2
ACC 111 – Intro to Accounting
Introduces the basic principles of accounting and the recoding of simple business transactions using the double entry system. Includes the accounting procedures of journalizing transactions, posting to the ledger, making a trial balance, creating receipt and disbursement of cash.
BUS 161 – Human Relations†
Students are given the opportunity to apply human relations concepts and evaluate experience and observations. Social skills required in various occupational settings will be developed, emphasizing how appropriate personal attitudes lead to social and business success.
COM 725 – Workplace Communications Essentials
Refining of skills in reading, writing and listening as they apply to the student’s vocational needs.
MGT 101 – Principles of Management†
Principles of Management provides the student with a conceptual framework for understanding the basic theories of management. Emphasis is placed on the internal and external environment, ethics, planning, goal setting, decision making, organizational structure, motivation and group dynamics, and effective control mechanisms for establishing and accomplishing business objectives.
MKT 150 – Principles of Advertising
Fundamentals and principles of advertising as they pertain to the marketing process. Understanding consumer motivation, identifying the target market, types of media and creation of ads are included.
PAR 124 – Inventory Control & Lab
A study of various inventory control systems used by the aftermarket industry. Emphasis is on the use of state-of-the-art computer inventory system. Students learn to check inventory, determine slow moving stock, ordering new stock, and arrangement of stock. Lecture and laboratory.
Term 3
BUS 932 – Internship
To give the student hands on experience in a business related occupation and to apply what they have learned in class to real life situation. It also will introduce them to some business activities that will be or have been covered in class.
† indicates a course that fulfills the diversity requirement. This course may also fulfill another general AA requirement.