Studying HVAC and Refrigeration Technology: Degrees at a Glance
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Associate's and bachelor's degrees in HVAC technology should teach you how to design, install and repair these systems. Upon graduating, you'll be eligible to pursue certification or employment as an HVAC and refrigeration technician, electrical controls technician or HVAC sales representative. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in these positions is expected to increase 34% over the 2010-2020 decade, which is much faster than average.
Many states require HVAC and refrigeration technicians to be licensed. This process differs between states but will often require you to complete an educational program or apprenticeship as well as pass a competency exam. In addition to the state requirements, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires all individuals working with refrigerants to be certified in the proper handling of these substances. This certification process also involves passing a written exam.
| Associate's | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is this degree for? | Those interested in becoming HVAC and refrigeration technicians | Individuals interested in pursuing HVAC supervisory or engineering positions |
| Common Career Paths and Salary (approximate mean salary) | HVAC mechanics and installers ($46,000)* | Stationary engineers ($54,000) -First-line supervisors of equipment repairers ($62,000)* |
| Time to Completion | 2 years full time | 4 years full time |
| Common Graduation Requirements | Some programs require an internship | Internship |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or GED | Some programs require that you already have completed your HVAC associate's degree |
| Online Availability | Some courses might be available online. Completely online programs are extremely rare | Completely online programs are extremely rare |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures).
Associate's Degree in HVAC and Refrigeration Technology
These programs are designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of heating and cooling systems. You'll study topics such as the role and function of blowers, air purifiers and humidifiers, the construction and purpose of exhaust components such as chimneys and flues, and the methodology behind commercial refrigeration units. You'll also study the federal regulations that govern the maintenance and use of these systems. Some programs feature an internship or co-op work study program, in which you'll get valuable professional experience and course credit.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- If enrolled full-time, you can complete your studies in two years
- Many programs are offered at community colleges or trade schools, which generally feature affordable tuition
- According to the BLS, employment opportunities for HVAC technicians are expected to increase significantly between 2010 and 2020
Cons
- If you're going to specialize in HVAC system installation, you may face periodic unemployment due to the ebb and flow of new building construction
- HVAC mechanics and installers may occasionally have to work outdoors, even in inclement weather
- The BLS states that HVAC and refrigeration technicians face a higher-than-average injury and illness rate; potential dangers include electrical shock, burns and muscle strain
Courses and Requirements
Alongside your core HVAC courses, you'll also enroll in math, science and humanities electives. Traditional classroom instruction will be complemented by lab work, such as heat pump lab and fabrication lab. Below are listed some sample core course titles:
- Refrigeration fundamentals
- Residential heating
- Geothermal systems
- Working with sheet metal
Online Degree Options
While some programs may offer individual classes online, completely online HVAC and refrigeration programs are difficult to find. This is mostly because of the role of hands-on training that is necessarily part of these programs. Hands-on training also features as a requirement in the licensing requirements for many states.
Stand Out with This Degree
You may want to consider pursuing a subspecialty along with your HVAC and refrigeration degree. Some programs offer minor concentrations in areas such as residential or commercial installation or HVAC system manufacturing. You might also want to consider additional coursework in a computer-related field, such as computer engineering. The more complex these climate-control systems become, the more familiarity with computer technology can provide a leg up in the job market.
Bachelor's Degree in HVAC and Refrigeration Technology
These programs are designed to prepare you for managerial or supervisory roles in the HVAC and refrigeration industry. They are generally offered in two formats. Some programs require you to already have an associate's degree in HVAC. The other type of program is the traditional 4-year bachelor's degree. In these programs, you'll spend the first two years covering roughly the same ground as the associate's degree. In the third and fourth year, you'll study engineering topics and leadership techniques. You'll learn not only how to repair these systems but also how to design them from the ground up. Upon graduating, you'll be eligible to pursue positions such as stationary engineer, control systems manager, project manager or design superintendent.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Most programs feature a paid internship where you'll pick up valuable professional experience
- You'll be eligible for a broader range of positions than someone with an associate's degree
- Because HVAC systems are used everywhere, you can pursue jobs from coast to coast
Cons
- Depending on what jobs you pursue, you may end up applying for the same position as someone with an associate's degree
- Some positions may require evening, weekend or holiday hours
- According to the BLS, stationary engineers make only $9,000 more annually than HVAC technicians
Courses and Requirements
In addition to lectures, you'll also spend a fair amount of time in labs, working with the actual systems you'll encounter in the field. Liberal arts, science and math electives will round out your coursework. Below are listed some sample course topics:
- Load analysis
- Digital controls
- Duct and ventilation design
- HVAC environmental impact
Online Degree Options
HVAC and refrigeration degree programs that are offered completely online are extremely rare. A portion of the coursework for this degree is conducted in lab settings. It is difficult to reproduce this in a distance-learning format. You may find programs that offer some of the required courses online, particularly the liberal arts or humanities electives.
Stand Out with This Degree
There are several types of voluntary certification you can pursue after you graduate. Trade organizations such as the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute and the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society offer several levels of certification. The certification process generally consists of one or more competency exams. These certifications can be helpful in that they signal to a potential employer that you have the specific skills necessary for the job.
