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Program Information
The HVAC/R Technology Diploma program of study provides all of the skills necessary to gain meaningful employment as an entry-level HVAC/R technician. The diploma program is designed to train students to be HVAC/R technicians in a real-world, hands- on environment. Students learn to troubleshoot, install, and maintain HVAC/R systems. This program is designed to meet the related technical instruction for some DOE apprenticeship programs.
Students who complete this diploma will have earned a HVAC/R Maintenance Certificate by completion. Graduates of this program are awarded a diploma.
Program Highlights
Extensive Hands-On Training: Gain real-world experience installing, troubleshooting, and servicing HVAC/R systems in laboratory environments.
Comprehensive HVAC/R Curriculum: Learn heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, electrical systems, electronic controls, air balancing, and mechanical code requirements.
Industry-Focused Instruction: Develop skills that align with current industry practices and employer expectations.
Internship Opportunities: Gain valuable real-world experience and build professional connections through industry internships.
Installation and Service Training: Develop expertise in both HVAC/R system installation and maintenance procedures.
Electronic Controls Experience: Learn to diagnose and troubleshoot modern electronic and automated HVAC/R control systems.
DOE Apprenticeship Pathway: Complete coursework designed to meet related technical instruction requirements for certain apprenticeship programs.
Industry-Standard Equipment: Train using tools, equipment, and technologies commonly used by HVAC/R professionals.
Small Class Sizes: Benefit from individualized instruction and one-on-one support from experienced faculty.
High-Demand Career Preparation: Prepare for employment in an industry experiencing strong workforce demand and long-term career opportunities.
Job Outlook
1,742 Jobs (2025)
+3.9% Change from 2024-2025
Wage and employment data are from Lightcast (Q2 2026 data set), timeframe 2024–2025.
What will you do
Graduates may:
- Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair residential and commercial HVAC/R systems.
- Diagnose electrical, mechanical, and control system issues.
- Service heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and refrigeration equipment.
- Install and troubleshoot electronic controls and building automation systems.
- Perform preventative maintenance inspections and repairs.
- Read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and mechanical schematics.
- Balance airflow systems and evaluate HVAC/R system performance.
- Apply mechanical codes and industry standards to installations and repairs.
- Utilize diagnostic tools and testing equipment to identify system failures.
- Communicate maintenance recommendations and repair options with customers and employers.
- Follow industry safety practices and professional standards.
- Prepare for advancement into specialized HVAC/R and refrigeration career pathways.
Wages
Entry: $23.66
Average: $29.83
Experienced: $34.58
Wage and employment data are from Lightcast (Q2 2026 data set), timeframe 2024–2025.
First Semester | ||||
| HCR 145 - Intro to Heating Systems | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 103 - Introduction to HVAC/R and Safety | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 201 - Applied Practices I: Repair and Service | 4.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 190 - Electrical for HVAC | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| MAT 743 - Technical Math | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 16.0 Credits | ||||
Second Semester | ||||
| HCR 220 - Coordinated HVAC/R Systems | 4.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 301 - Applied Practices II: Advanced Repair and Service | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 350 - Mechanical Code I | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 250 - Electronic Controls | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 245 - TroubleShooting Air Conditioning Systems | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
| MGT 195 - Workplace Empowerment | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 17.0 Credits | ||||
Summer | ||||
| HCR 402 - HVAC/R Internship | 4.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 448 - Applied Practices III: Installation | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 203 - Air Balancing | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 9.0 Credits | ||||
Total Semester Hours Required: 42.0 | ||||
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Program Outcomes
Upon the successful completion of the program students will:
- Execute mathematical processes using formulas necessary for design, evaluation, and installation of HVAC/R systems.
- Explain the different uses of HVAC/R materials, equipment, tools, and safety required for installation and diagnostic tasks.
- Explain the processes for evaluating and installing HVAC/R electrical systems and controls.
- Describe the refrigeration cycle, gas laws, and properties of refrigerants required for diagnostic and systems design.
- Identify drawings, technical diagrams, and specification charts required for installation and repair of HVAC/R systems.
- Recall information needed to pass the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirement test for certification.