The QCC HVAC/R program will provide successful graduates with the skills needed to enter the HVAC/R field as an entry-level technician who can install, maintain, and repair a wide variety of HVAC/R equipment. Graduates of the QCC Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning Certificate will also possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities that will ensure the safe and energy-efficient operation of HVAC/R equipment.

Program Overview

What Will You Learn?

Certificate

You will be able to safely wire and install electrical circuits and use electrical meters to make electrical measurements. You will be able to troubleshoot electrical problems, evacuate, charge, and recover refrigerant from air conditioning and refrigeration systems and troubleshoot air conditioning, refrigeration, or heating systems.

Cost

In-State Tuition: $227/credit

Out-of-State / International Tuition: $433/credit

Some programs have additional program fees

Timeline

2 Semesters

27 credits

Learn Online

  • This program may be completed less than 50% online.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

Locations

  • Classes are currently scheduled evenings only at Worcester Technical High School.

Curriculum

A foundation for success

Semester 1

This semester will explore introductory microcomputer applications, basic refrigeration systems and heat theory, electricity, and motors and motor controls.

Become an Expert

Semester 2

This semester will cover cooling systems, oil and gas heating.

See the full curriculum

Career Stats

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More Info
Course TitleCourse #Semester OfferedCreditsPrerequisites

Semester 1 (Fall)

  • Register for and successfully complete all courses to graduate in two semesters.
  • Create an account on the QCC job board to search for internships, co-ops and jobs.
Introduction to Microcomputer ApplicationsCIS 111F/S/SU3 
Basic Refrigeration Systems and Heat TheoryHVC 101F/S4Enrollment limited to HVC majors only, Coreq: HVC 102, HVC 108
Basic ElectricityHVC 102F/S4Enrollment limited to HVC majors only, Coreq: HVC 101, HVC 108
Motors and Motor ControlsHVC 108F/S4Enrollment limited to HVC majors only, Coreq: HVC 101, HVC 102
  Total15 

Semester 2 (Spring)

  • If seeking employment, meet with Career Services for career readiness preparation and to learn more about QCC’s job board.
  • Submit an Intent to Graduate Form, located on The Q.
Comfort Cooling SystemsHVC 107F/S4HVC 101, Enrollment limited to HVC majors only, Coreq: HVC 109, HVC 110
Oil Heating SystemsHVC 109F/S4HVC 101, Enrollment limited to HVC majors only, Coreq: HVC 107, HVC 110
Gas Heating SystemsHVC 110F/S4HVC 101, Enrollment limited to HVC majors only, Coreq: HVC 107, HVC 109
  Total12 
Total Credits Required:  27 

Program Goals:

The QCC HVAC/R program will provide successful graduates with the skills needed to enter the HVAC/R field as an entry-level technician who can install, maintain, and repair a wide variety of HVAC/R equipment. Graduates of the QCC Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning Certificate will also possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities that will ensure the safe and energy-efficient operation of HVAC/R equipment.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Solder, braze, and flare copper tubing.
  • Safely wire and install electrical circuits.
  • Use electrical meters to make electrical measurements.
  • Understand and interpret wiring schematics.
  • Troubleshoot electrical problems.
  • Evacuate, charge, and recover refrigerant from air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
  • Troubleshoot air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
  • Troubleshoot heating systems.

Admissions Process:

Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.

Program Admissions Requirements:

Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

CORI, SORI, Finger Printing & Drug Testing:

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks are not required. Fingerprinting and drug testing are not required.

Additional Cost:

See the Program Fees page.

  • Laptop Computer: Students enrolled in any HVC course may be required to bring their own computer to class; contact the Program Coordinator for minimum hardware and software requirements.
  • Hand Tools for Lab Use: Students enrolled in certain HVC courses may be required to purchase basic hand tools utilized in the laboratory; contact the Program Coordinator for a required tool list.

Technical Performance Standards:

See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).

Credit for Prior Learning:

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.

Career Outlook:

Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 47.0201.

Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:

Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.