Need a quick snapshot of what our HVAC/R programs offer? Check out our FAQs below.
Qualified HVAC/R technicians are in high-demand and the job opportunities continue to grow. Getting started at NCC is a cost-effective way to maximize your potential in the field. If you're unsure if this is the path for you, check out some of our frequently asked questions below to get more information surrounding the degrees and certificates we offer, career outlook, articulation agreements and program requirments. If you have more questions, or would like to visit our site, please call 610-332-6262; M-F. 8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., or email our Program Manager, Dan Philipps, at dphilipps@northampton.edu. We look forward to working together!
Is the program offered full-time and part-time, and can I start in either the Fall or Spring?
The program can be full or part-time. Students can start in either semester, but advising is important to ensure timely and sequential progress.
Are there industry certifications students can obtain as part of the program?
Courses prepare students to sit for the E.P.A. Refrigerant Usage Certification (offered here twice a year through our Non-Credit platform) and are planned to coincide with classroom/lab instruction to aid in successful certification.
What is the difference between a Specialized Diploma, Certificate, and Associate's in Applied Science?
A Specialized Diploma is a two-semester program; the Certificate is a three-semester program ( HVAC/R – the cert can be three semesters in some rare cases – but is really a four-semester sequence – many times the last two semesters are part-time as students may have already been employed). The Associates in Applied Science is a four-semester program. Each program is stackable, which means you can complete one program and transfer the credits into the next program in sequence. Wages would increase based on the program completed.
What is the average starting salary?
- Specialized Diploma - $13-15 hr.
- Certificate - $15-17 hr.
- Associates in Applied Science - $15-20 hr. (with a greater chance for rapid advancement and higher pay ranges - $23-30 hr.).
What are the physical requirements with this career choice?
Worksites may be very hot or cold because the heating and cooling systems they must repair may not be working properly and because some parts of these systems are located outdoors. Ladders and carrying heavy tools, etc., are common. Working in cramped spaces and during irregular hours is also common.
How much hands-on exposure is there?
Tech classes at NCC usually offer at least half (or more) of the instruction in hands-on lab activities.
What are the career opportunities for this major?
- Specialized Diploma - HVAC Installers and Maintenance Technicians, HVAC Supply Services Staff
- Certificate - HVAC and Commercial Refrigeration Service Technicians, Facilities Maintenance Technicians
- Associates in Applied Science - HVAC and Commercial Refrigeration Service Technicians, Building Automation Technicians, advancement to working Service Managers and Business Owners is likely as field experience is gained.
What is the career placement percentage?
According to our First Destinations Survey Report from the class of 2019, HVAC/R is one of the Applied Technology & Industry degree programs with 100% job placement. Additionally, based on data compiled by the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Coproration (LVEDC), HVAC Technicians are one of the Hot Careers in the Valley right now with continued projected growth over the next several years.
Are there online course options within this program?
- HVAC SD and HVAC/R Cert – Only a few courses (MATH103, CISC101, and ENGL101) are offered online. The remaining Tech courses require hands-on applications.
- HVAC AAS – Only the previously mentioned courses and most (if not all) of the remaining Gen-Ed course offerings are available online.
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