Hot Careers, Cool Skills

Master the essential skills for today's in-demand heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration and plumbing careers. Our hands-on program teaches you to design, install, maintain and repair heating, cooling and plumbing systems for both homes and businesses. You'll learn industry codes, blueprint reading and proper tool usage while gaining real-world experience on campus projects. HVAC technicians and plumbers enjoy excellent job security and competitive salaries. Whether specializing in refrigeration technology or focusing on plumbing certification, you'll be prepared to solve problems and create comfortable environments that people depend on every day.

PROGRAM GOALS


Master Technical Installation and Repair

Learn to install, diagnose, service and repair heating, cooling and refrigeration equipment for both homes and businesses. You'll gain skills in sheet metal fabrication, pipe fitting and system troubleshooting to handle everything from basic maintenance to complex repairs.


Develop Blueprint Reading and Code Knowledge

Learn to read and interpret blueprints while understanding the Uniform Plumbing Code and mechanical requirements. You'll master how to properly measure, cut, solder and connect piping systems that meet all safety and regulatory standards.


Apply Electrical and Mechanical Principles

Understand the basic electrical concepts essential for both HVAC and plumbing work. You'll learn how various systems operate, from furnaces and central air conditioning to water heaters and complex commercial refrigeration units.

 

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology

A.A.S. / Diploma

Locations: Milford

The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology focus trains students on the technical aspects of HVAC systems. This includes designing, installing, maintaining and repairing HVAC and refrigeration systems for residential and commercial buildings

ESTIMATED TUITION

$12,035 (A.A.S.) / $6,348 (Diploma)

CREDIT HOURS

60 (A.A.S.) / 25 (Diploma)

PROGRAM LENGTH

4 Terms (A.A.S.) / 2 Terms (Diploma)

SCHEDULE

Full-Time / Part-Time

STARTING TERM

Fall

A.A.S. Program Costs
Tuition
$12,035
Supplies/Fees
$435
Books
$2,000
Tools
$2,100
Total
$16,570
Avg. Annual Salary
$49,088*

 

Plumbing Technology

Diploma

Locations: Milford

The Plumbing Technology focus equips students with the technical skills to design, install and repair residential and commercial plumbing systems according to industry codes and standards.

ESTIMATED TUITION

$6,110

CREDIT HOURS

30

PROGRAM LENGTH

2 terms

SCHEDULE

Full-Time / Part-Time

STARTING TERM

Fall

Diploma Program Costs
Tuition
$6,110
Supplies/Fees
$30
Books
$1,780
Tools
$550
Total
$8,470
Avg. Annual Salary
$41,392*

 

Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning

A.A.S.

Locations: Milford

The Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning focus integrates training in both water and climate control systems, preparing students to design, install and repair plumbing fixtures, heating equipment and cooling systems in residential and commercial settings.

ESTIMATED TUITION

$12,665

CREDIT HOURS

60

PROGRAM LENGTH

4 Terms

SCHEDULE

Full-Time / Part-Time

STARTING TERM

Fall

A.A.S. Program Costs
Tuition
$12,665
Books
$2,765
Tools
$2,400
Total
$17,830
Avg. Annual Salary
$52,000*

 

WHY SCC?

What makes SCC's HVAC & Plumbing program stand out from others?


We work closely with local employers to design hands-on training that prepares you to make an immediate impact in the workforce. Our program offers specializations in HVAC/Refrigeration Technology, Plumbing Technology, and combined Plumbing/HVAC and were created based on industry demand.

How much hands-on experience will I get during my training?


You will spend 50% of your time in labs that mimic residential settings. In addition, you'll work on various heating and cooling systems and help plumb the student-built house on campus. Associate degree students complete a paid 240-hour cooperative experience in their final semester, often leading to full-time job offers.

Will this program count toward my apprenticeship requirements?


Our graduates earn one year of the required experience toward apprenticeship. This gives you a significant head start, as four years of apprenticeship are needed before testing for journeyman status.

How do SCC instructors help students succeed?


Our faculty bring years of industry experience and valuable employer connections. They work with industry leaders to help place our students in cooperative experiences. These connections provide access to experiences that match your career goals and provide insight for future job opportunities.

 

CAREER OUTCOMES

HVAC Technician

Install, maintain and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems in homes and commercial buildings. You'll diagnose problems, replace parts, and ensure systems operate efficiently while following safety regulations.

Plumber

Design, install and repair water supply, drainage and gas systems in residential and commercial buildings. You'll work with pipes, fixtures and appliances while ensuring compliance with plumbing codes.

Refrigeration Specialist

Focus on installing and servicing commercial refrigeration systems in restaurants, grocery stores and industrial settings. You'll work with specialized cooling equipment and refrigerants while maintaining proper temperatures for food safety and industrial processes. This specialized role requires EPA certification.

 

Next Steps

Program Chair
Mike Roth
Instructor HVAC & Refrigeration Technology
mroth@southeast.edu

 

Additional Resources

* Avg. Annual Salary is based on reported data from SCC graduates and calculated in accordance with the methods found in the latest SCC Graduate Report