HVACR Technology

Are you a hands-on problem solver? Do you like the idea of working to create and fix systems that make life safe and comfortable for everyone? Imagine yourself in a well-paying field that is vital to our health and security, from preserving our food to making sure our homes, hotels, hospitals and offices stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Earn a certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) Technology at OCC and start a career that your family – and everyone else’s – will thank you for. Skilled HVACR technicians are in high demand throughout the state. Heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers in California earn a median income of about $51,700 annually, and self-employed business owners in this field can earn upwards of $100,000 per year. Read on to learn more about how OCC can help you start or advance in your career in this high-wage, high-demand field.

A sampling of courses for these careers

Basic Electrical for HVAC-R
Building Automation
Ice Machine Service & Repair

Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Principles
Pneumatic Controls
Air Balance

see course catalog

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Did you know?

The energy sector is facing significant workforce shortages — an estimated 55 percent of the energy workforce may need to be replaced by 2023, according to the Association for Career Technical Education.

Program Details

Complete one of our certificate programs, and you’ll be well-prepared to enter a career in heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration, and earn an associate degree for even greater advancement opportunities.

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In less than 2 years
you can earn:
Certificate of Achievement

Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR)

Prepare for a career as a heating, ventilation and air-conditioning technician. Learn to install, service and maintain air-conditioning/refrigeration equipment in buildings. This program provides a background for more advanced studies in the design and installation of computerized building automation systems. View program detail in course catalog.

Build on your certificate
of achievement with a:
Certificate of Specialization

Or earn your
associate degree
in under 4 years

Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR)

Complete the Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning, Refrigeration (HVACR) Technology Certificate of Achievement and the Associate in Science graduation requirements to earn an associate degree. Learn to install, service and maintain air conditioning/refrigeration equipment in buildings. This program provides a background for more advanced studies in the design and installation of computerized building automation systems. View program detail in course catalog.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I enroll and register for classes?

To enroll in a Career Advantage program, you must first apply for admission to Orange Coast College. To apply, go to the Admissions Application Information webpage and review the information and requirements for admission. A link at the bottom of that page will take you to the CCCApply website, where you will be prompted to create an account so you can begin the application process.

How much does it cost?

Classes cost $46 per unit for residents of California. Classes vary in their unit value, but an average 3-unit class costs $138. There are additional fees required to register and additional costs associated with each program. Click here to view the estimated total costs of the program in this career cluster.

How long does it take?

View this chart for the length of the core program.

Are classes offered online, evenings and weekends?

This program offers online, evening and weekend courses. For details about offerings in this program, speak to a counselor or consult the class schedule. The class schedule tool searches through all Orange Coast College course offerings and includes a filter for online classes.

How can I talk with a counselor?

You can make an appointment in person, online or by phone. Click here for more information about Counseling Services and how to make an appointment.

I have more questions. Where can I get more information?

For general questions about enrollment, availability of classes and other services for prospective and current OCC students, call The Answer Center at 714-432-5772. For answers to specific questions you can speak to a counselor or to the faculty member listed on this program page.

Woman in a white shirt smiles while working on a HVAC system

Two HVAC systems with fans located outside

Two HVACR workers inspect an air-conditioning unit outside of a building

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Did you know?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who have a certificate as
their highest level of education earned, on average, 20 percent more than
those whose highest education level is a high school diploma.