Program Costs*
HVAC & Refrigeration Technology
Our Tuesday Info Session are now available both virtually and in-person.
| Awards | Credits | Course Delivery |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC & Refrigeration - A.A.S. Degree | 60 cr. | On Campus |
| HVAC & Refrigeration - Diploma | 39 cr. | On Campus |
| Program Datasheet: Download the HVAC & Refrigeration Technology Datasheet | ||
Employment of HVAC/R technicians is expected to increase faster than average for all occupations through the year 2022. The goal of DCTC’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Diploma program is to provide students with the entry level knowledge and skills required to safely install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair today’s technologically advanced HVAC/R systems. Through group discussions, lectures and hands-on laboratory experience with actual HVAC/R equipment, this program helps students become successful in this exciting and challenging industry career. Interested applicants should possess strong basic math skills and mechanical aptitude. Each student will be prepared and required to pass the EPA Section 608 refrigerant handling certification exam.
This program offers Credit for Prior Learning (CPL). Seek credit for life experience to accelerate your progress toward a degree, diploma, or certificate. Visit the Credit for Prior Learning page to learn more.
| HVAC & Refrigeration A.A.S. • 60 credits |
HVAC & Refrigeration Diploma • 39 credits |
|
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $191.90/cr. | $191.90/cr. |
| Student Fees | $27.35/cr. | $27.35/cr. |
| Textbooks | $1,400 | $1,100 |
| Course fee for Federal license exam for handling refrigeration | $25 | $25 |
| Course fee for Industry Comp Exam | $36 | $36 |
| Course fee for Sheet Metal | $21 | $21 |
| Tools | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Grand Total | $17,137 | $12,232.75 |
Each year, Dakota County Technical College and the DCTC Foundation make more than $200,000 in scholarships available to our students. Students are encouraged to create an account and apply for scholarships online.
Students looking for ways to help finance their college education can find part-time jobs on campus with various DCTC departments and programs. Deliver your completed Work-Study Application to the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid and search for openings on Handshake. For more information, you can review Work Study Procedure.
Step 1: Apply now for financial aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
DCTC's Federal School Code: 010402
Step 2: After receiving an official award letter from DCTC, you may apply online for a Federal Stafford Student Loan. Visit the Loans page for more information.
HVAC/R technicians must be able to work independently, in extreme conditions, at all hours of the day. From the cold of winter to the heat and humidity of summer, in attics, basements, crawl spaces and on roof tops. Occasional heavy lifting, working off ladders or scaffolding and being comfortable with heights are also potential requirements. HVAC/R technicians should expect to be on call and work after hours and some weekends.
According to CAREERwise Education, Minnesota's career, education and job resource, employment for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics is in very high demand. There will be a need for about 3,988 new Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers to meet market demand between 2020-2030. This includes the demand due to replacement (workers leaving the occupation or retiring) as well as growth. This is very high growth compared to other careers.
If you are looking to bring in any college credit, visit our Transfer To DCTC Resource Page and DCTC will help you through the process.
If you are looking to transfer to a 4-year institution after completing your degree, DCTC can help you through the process! Check out our Transfer From DCTC Resource Page.
Transferology is used to find out how your courses might transfer to DCTC and any of the participating schools in the Transferology network. Get an account for free and create a plan now!
The Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC/R) Technology program at DCTC is active throughout the year and makes headlines in college publications. Read about student field trips and competitions as well as the accomplishments of our instructors.
As a student in DCTC's Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC) Technology program, you have many opportunities to make connections in the electrical industry through your involvement in professional clubs and organizations.
DCTC features active, industry-relevant clubs for Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC) Technology students right on campus. Getting involved in these clubs allows you to make the most of your college experience and gives you an edge when seeking employment in the electrical construction field.
SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA is a national nonprofit organization for students at community and technical colleges across the U.S. The organization focuses on students in academic programs that lead to careers in the trade, industrial, technical and health care fields. Nearly 100 SkillsUSA competitions at the state and national levels relate to leadership skills or programs of study at DCTC.
In 2013, DCTC fielded 17 students at the nationals who ranked in the top 15 in the nation. For more information about the competition, read "DCTC Students Rock at SkillsUSA Nationals" on DCTC News.
