HVAC/R Technology Diploma

Academic Programs

Career Path

Industrial Technology

Start Term

Program Options

Degree, Certificate or Diploma

Locations

Council Bluffs Campus

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.

Career Examples

HVAC Service Technician
HVAC Installer
HVAC/R Technician
Commercial Refrigeration Technician
HVAC Controls Technician
Facilities Maintenance Technician
Building Maintenance Technician
Mechanical Systems Technician
Refrigeration Technician
HVAC Mechanic
Preventative Maintenance Technician
Controls Technician
Residential HVAC Technician
Commercial HVAC Technician
Energy Management Technician
Sales and Service Representative
Mechanical Equipment Technician

Advancement Opportunities (with experience and additional licensing)

Lead HVAC Technician
HVAC Supervisor
Building Automation Specialist
Energy Auditor
HVAC Project Manager
Mechanical Systems Designer
Specialized Refrigeration Technician
Service Manager
HVAC Business Owner

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

Notes:





Additional Information

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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.

Program Disclaimers