Best HVAC Associate Degree Programs

Students who are interested in how heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems work may decide to pursue an associate degree in the field. Although certificate programs are available in different aspects of HVAC, an associate degree program helps provide students with the advanced knowledge in the field that is needed to pass industry certifications and begin their career. Students who pursue a degree in HVAC likely enjoy working with their hands, solving problems, and communicating with customers. Associate degree programs in HVAC help equip students with the skills to install HVAC equipment, troubleshoot any issues that arise, assemble parts as needed, calculate heating and cooling loads, and handle refrigerants properly. Graduates with an associate degree in HVAC may stand out to employers for their education and hands-on training, especially if it is received from an accredited program. Knowledgeable HVAC technicians are also usually in demand and will continue to be needed as long as people utilize heating and cooling systems.

There are many different factors that students need to consider when choosing an HVAC associate degree program, including personal preferences, needs, and career goals. In the case of HVAC programs, many students go on to begin their career in the field, and therefore, may look for a program that focuses more on career preparedness than transferring to a four-year school. For instance, students could begin their school search by finding HVAC programs that provide plenty of hands-on learning experiences and describe the specific industry-related certifications that they prepare students for. In addition to training aids and simulations, some programs also provide unique practical experience through a required internship or volunteer experiences, such as working with Habitat for Humanity to install heating and cooling systems. Accreditation is another important factor to examine.

Other factors to consider may be more school-based, rather than program-based. For example, students who plan to live at home or continue working a particular job may need to find an HVAC program that is close to home. Many students may need to carefully compare the cost of tuition and living expenses between schools to find one that fits their budget. Additionally, many students may be more concerned about other campus opportunities, such as available clubs or access to campus amenities.

Application and Admissions for HVAC Associate Degree Programs

The application and admissions process for associate degree programs in HVAC vary by school, but usually students wishing to apply to these programs do not need any specific qualifications. The admissions process usually varies by the type of student. High school seniors and transfer students, for example, will likely see two very different admissions processes. In general, those planning on attending college for the first time need to fill out the appropriate application and can work with an admissions counselor if needed. Applications can often be completed online, in-person, or mailed to the school, and must include official or copies of transcripts. Once applications are reviewed, students can typically earn either full admittance or conditional admittance. A conditional admittance usually means that the student must meet specific conditions to earn full admittance, such as making specific grades in their courses. Additionally, each school typically has its own list of requirements for enrollment, like records of vaccinations, Title IX training, and more.

HVAC associate degree programs are designed to be completed in two years, but some programs may allow students to finish in as little as 16 months. Most of these associate degree programs require at least 60 credits of coursework and spread the coursework out evenly over four semesters. Programs that include internship experiences typically include the internship in the two-year degree plan and place this experience during students' last semester. Factors such as transfer credit and course load can also affect the time to degree completion.

The cost to earn an associate degree in HVAC varies greatly from institution to institution. Usually, schools have a per credit tuition rate, but this rate can vary based on factors such as the specific degree program or student type. For instance, some schools charge different rates for online and on-campus learning, or in-state and out-of-state residents. Many schools also have various fees that are charged in addition to tuition. These fees may include general fees, graduation fees, the cost of exit exams, and more. Students must also consider the cost of textbooks and any additional materials that their courses may require as they calculate the total cost of a program.

In addition to some general education courses in areas such as mathematics, fine arts, social/behavioral science, and English, students in HVAC associate degree programs take a range of technical courses in the field. These courses generally cover heating and cooling systems for residential and commercial areas. Many programs conclude with an internship, optional practicum, or co-op experience as an elective. Some examples of typical core HVAC courses include:

• Electricity for HVAC
• Refrigeration principles
• Air conditioning control principles
• Heating systems
• Welding and sheet metal fabrication
• Hydronics
• Heat pump application
• Heat load/duct design
• Solar and wind powered technology

Those who work with HVAC systems go by many different names and may have slightly different job duties. For example, graduates with an associate degree in HVAC can work as an HVAC field technician, HVAC controls technician, or HVAC service specialists. There are also similar positions available, such as an electrician, though there are differences between the duties of an electrician and an HVAC technician. Factors like job title, experience, location, and employer can affect how much graduates with an associate degree in HVAC can earn. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the median pay for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC) mechanics and installers was $50,590 in 2020. Those in more advanced leadership or management positions, such as HVAC service managers or facilities managers, however, may make considerably more than the median.

Begin a Career as a Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic or Installer

Becoming an HVAC technologist, technician, mechanic, or installer generally requires postsecondary education. This advanced education is needed as heating and cooling systems continue to grow in complexity. Sometimes, in place of earning a certificate or associate degree in HVAC, students can complete an apprenticeship to gain the necessary hands-on training. Once hired, these professionals typically need to complete some on-the-job training with an experienced technician to move on to more difficult tasks. Depending on the state, HVAC technicians may need to be licensed, but all professionals who handle or work with refrigerants need to be certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

HVAC mechanics and installers are responsible for installing, inspecting, and repairing heating and cooling systems in homes or businesses. HVAC mechanics and installers made a median annual salary of $50,590 in 2020 (BLS).

Begin a Career as a General Maintenance and Repair Worker

Some graduates with an associate degree in HVAC may go on to work as general maintenance and repair workers. These workers may have some postsecondary education, but typically are only required to have a high school diploma. They often learn on-the-job through observation and working with more experienced workers. Depending on their state and specific job duties, licensure may be required. Some maintenance and repair workers may eventually advance their careers to work as an HVAC mechanic, electrician, or plumber.

General maintenance and repair workers often act as a "jack of all trades" and perform a wide range of job duties. For example, some days they could be painting and cleaning, while other days they may work on plumbing or HVAC systems. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for general maintenance and repair workers was $40,850 in May 2020.

HVAC mechanics and installers must be certified by the EPA if they buy, work with, or handle refrigerant. Typically, associate degree programs in HVAC help prepare students for the EPA Refrigerant Handling Requirements Section 608 and Section 609. Other licensure and certification requirements vary by state, locality, and employer. Organizations such as the Air Conditioning Refrigeration Institute provide a range of industry competency exams for professionals to demonstrate their expertise. Depending on the associate degree program, graduates could be prepared to take exams such as the Industry Competency Exam (ICE), North American Technician Excellence (NATE) Certification, or the Universal R-410A Safety Certification. Even if a specific state does not require these professionals to be licensed or certified, some may choose to pursue certification to appeal to potential customers and employers.

Regional accreditation is common for schools that offer associate degree programs in HVAC. This means that schools have met general academic standards set by organizations, such as the Higher Learning Commission, to help ensure the quality of education. Some HVAC programs have an additional level of accreditation from HVAC-related organizations. This helps students and future employers know that graduates have earned a degree that aligns with industry standards and aims to best prepare students for a career in the field. HVAC associate degree programs could be accredited by groups such as HVAC Excellence or the Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA).

Undergraduate degree programs in HVAC are most common and typically an associate degree in the field can act as a terminal degree. While there are some HVAC bachelor's degree programs available, usually graduate programs are not specifically focused on HVAC. At the graduate level, students may begin to pursue more specialized and complex training in related areas, such as engineering. Some students may even decide to further develop their leadership or business skills to own their own HVAC company. Explore some of the other degree options here.

Bachelor's Degrees in HVAC

Bachelor's degree programs are available in HVAC or HVAC design technology and are most commonly offered as a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Some of these programs are specifically designed for students who already hold an AAS in HVAC and allow them to earn their bachelor's degree in as little as two years. These programs usually have transfer agreements with local schools that offer associate degree programs in the field. Programs in design can help prepare students for more advanced careers, such as applications or design engineering.

Master's Degrees in HVAC

While HVAC master's degree programs are not common, students can still pursue related master's degree programs in areas such as mechanical engineering. Typically offered as Master of Science (MS) degrees, master's programs in mechanical engineering can help prepare graduates to apply their advanced skills in the HVAC industry, as well as other areas including the aerospace, robotics, and automotive industries. Some master's programs in mechanical engineering are even available online.

Doctoral Degrees in HVAC

Similar to master's degree programs, HVAC-focused programs at the doctoral level are uncommon, but students can pursue related degrees in areas such as mechanical engineering. These programs usually award a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Engineering Science degree. Students are required to complete a dissertation and these programs are more research-focused to prepare students for careers in research and academia. Many doctoral degree programs in mechanical engineering are available on-campus, due to the research and hands-on nature of the field.

Certificate Programs in HVAC

Certificate programs in HVAC are usually only available at the undergraduate level and can still qualify students for industry certifications. These programs are shorter in nature than associate degree programs and do not include general education courses. Students will focus on technical HVAC-related courses, and can typically earn their certificate in one year or less. Depending on the program, it may be recommended that students interested in the certificate have previous HVAC experience or hold a bachelor's degree in engineering.

While the cost of earning an associate degree in HVAC varies from school to school, there are different ways students can help lower the cost that they have to pay themselves for their education. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is usually the first step in the financial aid process. This generates a Student Aid Report (SAR) that must be verified and then students can apply for loans or accept grants that they may qualify for through the federal or state government. Students can also search for available scholarships through schools, professional organizations, clubs, local businesses, and more. Depending on the school, students may be able to apply for school-sponsored scholarships for a wide range of reasons. For example, Pittsburgh Technical College offers an associate degree in HVAC and has grants and scholarships available, such as the $1,000 Inspiration Scholarship or the $5,000 Early Application Essay Scholarship.