In autumn 2014 a new degree program is beginning in Omnia, leading to the upper sec-ondary vocational car dealer program. The need for the development of this degree pro-gram is a current challenge according to the evaluation conducted by the board of edu-cation. The research serves the development of the curriculum of the car dealer program which aims for the automobile sector vocational program. The first objective is to find out the competence profile of a car dealer. The second objective is to find out how the car dealer program could be developed, in order to achieve the required competence in the future. The third objective is to find out what kind of environment would best sup-port the learning in the car dealer program.

The research is based on the general development and the future challenges, as well as on theoretical literature of the automobile sector. In the theoretical framework the com-petency model structuring professional competence is highlighted, as well as the exten-sion of theoretical understanding to factors which determine the development of the professional competence.

The research was conducted using qualitative research methods and its empirical data has been gathered through interviews. The themes of the interviews have been derived based on preliminary interviews. The preliminary interview material has been gathered from the education executive and teachers of the vocational school who represent the car dealer program. A broader interview material has been gathered from students in the car dealer program studying in the Helsinki metropolitan area. In addition, material has been gathered from car dealers, from a specialist from the automobile sector, as well as from a specialist from the board of education.

The research shows that in the competence profile of a car dealer the social and psycho-logical know-how is significant. The focus of the know-how in car technology is based on product knowledge. The main challenge of the development of education is the in-vesting in the teaching of languages, increasing selling techniques, as well as the need for integration of different subjects. The re-organizing of the development of the e-learning environment and the learning at work environment are seen as important. In addition, the diversified expertise of a car dealer is highlighted in the results of the re-search.

The results of the research will be utilized in the preparation of the curriculum for the car dealer program. A part of the results may be used also for other degree programs in the automobile sector in Omnia. The rapid changing of the automobile sector requires the clarification of skills needed for the planning of the degree program in the future. The results of the research will be evaluated by graduating students, as well as by their supervisors at their workplace.