2026-2027 Course Catalog
Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Technology, AAS
Location(s):
Ankeny
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 Return to: Programs Available 2026-2027
The Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Technology program provides the theory, knowledge and skills of refrigeration, air conditioning, heating and ventilation equipment for systems in residential and light commercial structures. Students in air conditioning and refrigeration are taught in the classroom and laboratory on models and equipment to prepare the student for satisfactory entrance and advancement in the HVAC-R field.
By completing the first three semesters, a student can receive a diploma. An AAS degree will be awarded upon completion of all five semesters.
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Students start Fall semester. Full-time, Daytime program only.
Graduation Requirements
To earn a Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Technology diploma or AAS degree, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. Option 1 - Select 3 Credits
Option 2 - Select 3 Credits
Total Credits Required to Complete the AAS Degree - 73
Fixed Costs
Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change. Varied Costs
| Costs | Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Semester 3 | Semester 4 | Semester 5 | | Books (approximate) | 500 | 400 | 200 | 200 | 200 | | Supplies | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | | Equipment-Tools | 1250 |
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| | Transportation to internship |
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| 200 |
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Approximate total for program: $18,745**
**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost. What Kind of Work Will You Do?
- Install, service and repair residential electric, gas and oil-fired furnaces and heat pumps.
- Install, service and repair many kinds of cooling equipment in residential and small commercial businesses.
- Work as a commercial mechanic, install, service and repair large air conditioning units such as those found in office buildings, department stores and other places of business.
- Put together and install ductwork and other parts.
- Connect motors, compressors, temperature and humidity controls and fans to control panels.
- Connect the control panel to the power source.
- Check the system to see that it is working properly.
- Most graduates become installation and service technicians, but some go into sales or start their own businesses.
What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?
- See details in objects and drawings.
- Do short math problems quickly.
- Read gauges and dials correctly.
- Mechanical ability and basic mechanical experience.
- Work thoroughly and accurately.
- Lift 100 pounds and carry 50 pounds.
- Climb and work safely on ladders, scaffolding and ramps.
- Work in cramped positions.
- Talk about and demonstrate your HVAC skills and knowledge.
What Else Should I Consider about this Degree program?
- There are chances for overtime work at a higher pay rate, as well as emergency calls at odd hours.
- You can start your own business.
- May be seasonal layoffs.
- There is a possibility of electrical shock and torch burns.
- Must furnish own hand tools.
- 2021 national estimate for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers is $54,690/year, $26.29/hour (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Program Competencies
- Demonstrate the ability to work safely when working on and around refrigeration, air conditioning, heating, electrical equipment and related tools.
- Troubleshoot residential and light commercial HVAC-R systems, controls, and equipment.
- Demonstrate the ability to correctly and responsibly recover, evacuate, leak check, and charge a refrigeration system.
- Repair mechanical and electrical malfunctions in refrigeration systems using manifold gauges, electric test meters, and physical observations.
- Adjust the operating and safety controls found in refrigeration and heating systems to achieve optimal performance.
- Demonstrate the ability to lay out and size the components of an HVAC duct system for proper air distribution.
- Interpret electrical, architectural, and mechanical drawings.
- Demonstrate workplace basic skills of communicating, computing, problem solving, accountability, and displaying a strong work ethic.
Nondiscrimination Statement
It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov (2026) |
Return to: Programs Available 2026-2027
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