Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration
- Associate Degree
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
The job market is strong for technicians in the areas of air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration (also known as HVAC). This could be your area if you have mechanical skills as well as an interest in technology. Technicians in this field are involved in a number of areas, such as design, sales, installation, maintenance, and servicing of commercial heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment.
In today's environment, Western's program places special emphasis on air quality, energy conservation, and computerized temperature control. You'll gain expertise in selecting the most suitable heating and cooling systems for specific environments, optimizing system efficiency, and troubleshooting issues. Your training will include both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in Western's heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, electrical, and installation labs. Additionally, you'll have the valuable opportunity to shadow a technician at a local business, further enhancing your industry knowledge and skills.
To view the Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here [1].
Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 25 |
| Graduates Responding | 8 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 6 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 0 |
| Seeking Employment | 0 |
| Continuing Education | 1 |
| Not in Labor Market | 2 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 0 | 1 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 40 | |
| Average Hourly Wage | ||
| Hourly Wage Range | ||
| Average Annual Salary | $46,500 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Mechanical Engineering Designer, HVAC Technician, Ammonia service technician
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Install HVACR systems
- Service HVACR systems
- Troubleshoot HVACR systems
- Evaluate HVACR system designs
- Repair HVACR equipment
- Analyze HVACR systems
- Design HVACR systems
Admission Requirements:
College Requirements
Application:
Application Fee:
Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [2].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [3].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [4] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [5]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [6].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [7] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [8]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Accreditation
The Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration program is accredited by the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA [9]).
Career Pathways:
Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration
Prior Learning:
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more [10] about what may apply to this program.
Technical Diploma:
Associate Degree:
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [11] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [12] self-service portal for academic planning.