Refrigeration, Air Conditioning & Heating Service Technician
28-credit Technical Diploma
Program Code 31-401-1
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems are critical in residential, commercial and industrial settings, and this field is one of the fastest-growing skilled trades. In this program, learn to safely install, maintain and service HVAC equipment. Also get an introduction to alternative energy systems such as photovoltaic, wind and hydroelectric.
How Long It Will Take
Depending on course load, full-time daytime students could complete this program in one year. Full-time evening students could complete this program in three semesters.
Start Date
You can begin this program in the fall or spring semester.
How This Program Is Offered
This is offered on campus in a traditional classroom/lab setting. Fall semester classes are primarily offered during the day; spring semester classes are primarily offered in the evening.
What Makes This Program Unique
- As a program student, you will have the opportunity to earn the EPA 608 Refrigeration Certificate.
- Two-thirds of this program is dedicated to hands-on lab work, while one-third features classroom learning.
- Job placement rates are high for program graduates; many opportunities exist for careers in residential and commercial settings.
Courses You'll Take
For the courses you’ll take, semester sequence, pathways and course descriptions, view the program catalog page.
Credit for Prior Learning
You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired. Learn more about credit for prior learning.
How To Apply
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit official high school transcript.
Still have questions? Visit the Admissions page or contact the Office of Admissions | 262.691.5200.
Deadlines To Know*
Fall 2020 Start
- Submit application by August 3, 2020
- Complete checklist items by August 10, 2020
Spring 2021 Start
- Submit application by January 5, 2021
- Complete checklist items by January 11, 2021
* Application deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.
Financial Aid Eligibility
As a program student, you are eligible to receive:
- Financial aid loans
- Scholarships
- Other forms of assistance
Learn more about financial aid.
Cost
The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive.
Learn more about tuition and fees.
Career Salaries
$43,000 – $68,000 annually
Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.
Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.
Potential Careers
Those working in HVAC are troubleshooting masters. They often receive calls about heating/cooling issues and, based on limited information, try to determine what the problem may be in advance of checking out the system. If you possess strong mechanical and problem-solving skills, this may be a career for you.
- HVAC Service Technician
- HVAC Service Mechanic
- Install Service Technician
- Air Conditioning Technician
- Refrigeration Technician
Transfer Options
Whether you're a high school student interested in earning college credits or a college student interested in transferring to a four-year university after graduation, our dual-enrollment and transfer-credit agreements will help you take the next step in your education and career.
High School Dual Credits
Dual enrollment offers high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields through earning college credits. Learn about the credit options.
Transfer Opportunities After WCTC
WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.
There are no credit transfer agreements for this program at this time. For more information, contact your academic advisor.
There are no credit transfer agreements for this program at this time. For more information, contact your academic advisor.
Transfer Tips
- Contact the school to which you'd like to transfer to make sure you understand its transfer policy.
- Talk to your WCTC program advisor about your intent to transfer so he/she can help you plan.
- If you're transferring within the University of Wisconsin (UW) System, contact your desired institution about its transfer policy and visit the UW System's transfer resource page.