Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Technology Diploma

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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.

For more information about the Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Technology program, please visit our website at www.dmacc.edu/programs/hvac.

Location: Ankeny

Students start Fall semester.

Program Entry Requirements

Complete an application for admission.
Satisfy the assessment requirement.
Attend any required information/registration session.
Obtain a satisfactory score on a math proficiency assessment.

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.

Requirements for the Diploma

Semester 1

HCR 260 - HVAC Trade Skills I Credits: 3
HCR 307 - Fundamentals of Refrigeration Credits: 5
HCR 404 - Electricity Credits: 5
MAT 772 - Applied Math Credits: 3

Semester 2

Total Credits Required to Complete the Diploma - 41

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$147.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

	Semester 1	Semester 2	Semester 3
Books (approximate)	300	100
Supplies	20	20	20
Equipment-Tools	1250
Transportation to internship			200

Approximate total for program: $7,937*

* 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 Program or Career Choice?

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.
Average starting salary, diploma $26,000 (2008-2009 Placement Report); A.A.S. degree $32,752 (2010-2011 Placement Report).

Nondiscrimination Policy

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in employment, hiring practices or the provision of services, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator may be contacted at 515-964-6857. For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850. ₍₂₀₁₆₎