The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC&R) Associate of Applied Science degree prepares the individual for a technical service career in residential or light commercial/industrial environmental systems. The student will study the mechanical and electrical/electronic systems involved in contemporary environmental controls. The academic requirements of the program provide a foundation for continued studies should the student decide to pursue his or her education or training.

The HVAC&R program offers three levels of certification that build upon each other.

• The Occupational Entry Certificate is offered as a 16 week (single semester) fast track to prepare the student to enter the air conditioning service profession. This certification will focus on the basic knowledge and skills needed to gain entry level employment in the HVAC & R field.
• Upon completion of the Occupational Entry Certificate, the student is encouraged to progress into the Residential Servicing Certificate. This second level of certification will expose the student to a higher skill set, greater diversity of equipment applications and better prepare them for employment as a residential service technician.
• The Commercial Servicing Certification is a third level certification, achieved as a progression from the previous two levels of certification. The Commercial Servicing Certification adds those skills necessary to enter the profession of servicing larger and more complex processes of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment typically utilized in supermarkets, retail stores, restaurants, schools, hospitals and other commercial or industrial applications.

The general education core will transfer to a variety of colleges and universities. Contact a counselor or faculty member at any of the colleges for specific information and to obtain the recommended sequencing of courses.

The HVAC&R Occupational Certificate prepares an individual for basic entry level employment in the residential heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration service industry.  It is the ticket that can open doors to a new and exciting career.

For careers and median salaries, visit Career Star for more information.