Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Technology (HVAC) Program

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Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Technology (HVAC)

Program Number: 106011

Your Degree: Associate Degree

Estimated Time to Complete: 65 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years

Delivery Method: Some Online/Some In Person

Area of Study: Construction, Manufacturing and Maintenance

Estimated Program Cost: $14,677.50

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Financial Aid Available

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Program Overview
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) equipment is essential in all aspects of modern society from your home to businesses like retail stores, restaurants, grocery stores and hospitals. HVAC/R equipment also is critical in the industrial manufacturing process. Knowing how to build, install, maintain and fix them is a critical skill that is in great demand by employers. As a student in the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology program, you will:
Learn skills necessary to program, assemble, install, troubleshoot, repair and modify machinery.
Receive hands-on training on residential and commercial (HVAC/R) systems.
Training in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).
Size and design HVAC/R systems used in residential and commercial applications.
Understand the applications of building automation systems.
Use a variety of computer and electronically controlled systems in both manufacturing and facilities environments.
Program Details
Students in the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology program can attend full or part time.
Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology classes are offered at our Madison Truax campus.
As an Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology student in the Associate Degree in Applied Science program, you will receive a required tool kit in the second year of the program that includes all equipment and supplies needed to complete this program. The kits will be covered by the second year course fees.
Careers
Earning your two-year Associate Degree in Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology at Madison College prepares you for valuable work as:
HVAC/R Service Technician
HVAC/R Systems Designer
HVAC/R Systems Installer
Building Automation / Controls Technician
Building Automations System Designer
Building Automations System Installer
Lead Facilities Mechanic
With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:
Facilities / Maintenance Manager
Mechanical Systems Engineer
HVAC/R Project Coordinator
Get In-demand Skills
Technology is changing and employers need skilled HVAC workers today.
Program Courses

Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester
10-449-100
Safety for Industry
This course reviews basic safety standards as outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Designed for workers going into industrial occupations, it focuses on the hazard recognition and control process. Those who successfully complete the requirements set forth by OSHA will receive an OSHA 10-Hour General Industry completion card. Students may still pass the class without earning an OSHA card.
1 credit
10-457-100
Metal Repair Techniques
This course covers safety, layout and measurement, grinding, drill press, lathe operation, filing, threading, properties of metals, oxy-acetylene welding, brazing and cutting, and SMAW, GMAW and FCAW.
2 credits
10-462-102
Introduction to Logic & Troubleshooting
The course introduces basic troubleshooting tools, methods and techniques. Students will learn about interpreting schematics, Boolean logic, truth tables, and number systems. The course uses software simulations and labs to introduce relays and relay ladder logic. Students apply common troubleshooting techniques and root cause analysis.
1 credit
10-462-321
DCAC 1 DC Theory
Introduces the practical DC concepts including electrical quantities and components and measurement instruments for DC circuits used in commercial, industrial, and sustainable energy fields. Students measure voltage, current, resistance and power for single and three phase DC sources. Also covers fundamentals of magnetism in electrical components, calculations of electrical components.
1 credit
10-462-323
Controls 1
Studies basic principles related to electro-mechanical systems as well as DC Controls. Introduce various electro-mechanical devices used in Industrial Control applications including Relay controls
2 credits
10-462-329
DCAC 2 AC Theory
Introduces the practical AC concepts including electrical quantities and components and measurement instruments for AC circuits used in commercial, industrial, and sustainable energy fields. Students measure voltage, current, resistance and power for single and three phase AC sources. Also covers fundamentals of magnetism in electrical components, calculations of electrical components.
1 credit
10-601-330
Refrigeration Fundamentals
This course is an introduction to basic refrigeration systems. Topics include terminology, the refrigeration cycle, safety, refrigerants, lubricants, and environmental issues. Presents applications of HVAC components, refrigeration controls, condensers, heat exchangers, dampers, blowers, and compressors. Use common and high tech tools of HVAC industry to aid in preventive maintenance/repair. Use of virtual interactive troubleshooting programs to reinforce troubleshooting skills. Reinforce documentation of work procedures and complete refrigerant tracking reports. Cover in depth existing and newly developed refrigerants. The learner will operate, evacuate, charge and repair basic refrigeration units.
2 credits
10-601-340
Forced Air Heating Systems
This course is an introduction to basic forced air heating systems. Topics include terminology, the forced air heating cycle, humidification, safety, fuels, maintenance, troubleshooting, and air distribution systems and applications. Hands on includes; assembly, disassembly, maintenance, and repair of Residential and commercial heating systems. Discuss and complete common documentation of work procedures.
2 credits
10-606-205
Print Reading for HVAC
Focuses on the basic principles of interpreting and working with commercial structure blueprints and shop drawings. Through interpretation and sketching, students learn to visualize HVAC components and how they interact with other building components during the installation and operational aspects of the structure. Students study isometric and orthographic views on a drawing. The student will also interpret hand sketched shop drawings used during the installation process.
1 credit
10-804-107
College Mathematics
This course reviews key math concepts in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, measurement, and data. Topics include simplifying algebraic expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities with one variable, proportions, and percent applications, and working with geometric figures. It covers the Pythagorean Theorem, trigonometric ratios, and unit conversions between U.S. customary and metric systems. Data analysis focuses on organizing and summarizing data, central tendency, and measures of dispersion. Emphasis is on problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.
3 credits
Second Semester
10-462-106
Mechanisms 1 for Industry
This course is an introduction to the mechanical systems, with lab exercises in safety procedures, Lock-out Tag-out (LOTO), key and setscrew fasteners, speed and torque measurements, efficiencies, shafts and pillow block, shaft alignment, flexible and rigid motor soft foot detection and correction. The course will survey precision measurement, lubrication, bearing types and applications, vibration analysis, and fasteners.
1 credit
10-462-109
Maintenance Operations 1
This course provides an understanding of how an organization or plant can improve how they do maintenance, how to keep their equipment running longer, and create a more efficient and streamlined structure so they can be competitive in today's market. Various case studies will be studied, showing the value of maintenance management within any size organization and the pitfalls that may be encountered during TPM implementation and how to avoid or correct these problems.
1 credit
10-462-325
Controls 2
Studies principles related to electro-mechanical systems as well as motors, transformers, frequency drives and various electro-mechanical devices to enhance AC power distribution and control systems. Introduces programmable logic controllers in the on/off mode.
2 credits
10-462-331
DCAC 3 Theory
Introduces the practical DC/AC concepts including electrical quantities and components and measurement instruments for AC and DC circuits used in commercial, industrial, and sustainable energy fields. Students measure voltage, current, resistance and power for single and three phase AC and DC sources. Also covers fundamentals of magnetism in electrical components, calculations of electrical components. Motor and Transformer Theory.
1 credit
10-601-304
Industrial Fluid Distribution Systems
Covers installation and repair of fluidic systems. Includes fittings, thread cutting, pipe sweating, roll grooving, solder, brazing, plastic cementing, repair equipment and tools. Pumps, valves, water supply systems, and fire protection distribution systems are covered.
2 credits
10-601-305
Fluid Distribution Systems Lab
Installation and repair of refrigeration piping. Become knowledgeable in piping, fittings, accessories, pipe brazing and repair, equipment and tool operation and maintenance. Practice heat shielding, and nitrogen purging techniques.
1 credit
10-601-331
HVAC Installation Basics
In this course you will practice pulling information out of Industry codes and standards to include local codes for HVAC to properly install common heating and air conditioning equipment in the residential and light commercial industries. You will become very familiar with common practices and various process in the installation aspect of the HVAC industry. You will also practice proper rigging and hoisting procedures during this course.
1 credit
10-601-332
Heating and Air Conditioning Advanced
Advanced environmental equipment installation, trouble shooting and maintenance course which puts theory into practice including commercial cooling application equipment such as chiller systems, heat pumps, heat recovery systems, geothermal, and air distribution systems. Discuss special work areas and considerations such as clean rooms and hospitals. Gain skills in using high tech diagnostic equipment such as inferred and laser alignment in order to trouble shoot or as a predictive maintenance process. Also covers indoor air quality guide lines and strategies.
3 credits
10-601-336
EPA 608 Training & Certification
This course covers review of the preparatory material, and includes the testing itself. According to the EPA clean air act, section 608, in regards to CFCs, in order to purchase refrigerant or handle or repair any refrigeration system, you must take and pass the EPA certification exam. Students also complete R410 safety training.
1 credit
10-601-342
Hydronic and Steam Systems
Participants will design hot water steam systems, select circulating pumps and other accessories used for proper operation and balancing of hydronic systems. Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting boilers efficiently and safely will be emphasized.
3 credits
Third Semester (Summer)
10-601-162
HVAC Internship
This course provides the opportunity for students to apply classroom theory and skills in an industry environment. Activities may include use of tools, troubleshooting techniques, and working with customers and staff in the field. Students learn useful skills based on field experience.
2 credits
Fourth Semester
10-601-334
Commercial Refrigeration Systems
Students will learn how to operate troubleshoot and maintain refrigeration equipment used in commercial applications like ice machines, rack style parallel refrigeration equipment used in grocery store applications, walk in and reach in coolers and freezers, specialty equipment such as refrigerated trucking equipment.
3 credits
10-601-370
Building Automations 1
This course will assist the student in developing the skills required to analyze, modify and calibrate HVAC control systems. The fundamentals of control systems will be studied and applied to common control strategies most often found in commercial HVAC systems. Studies computer-based energy and building control systems in detail to include wireless technology. Students will perform control system install using industry accepted practices. Will set up inputs and outputs and perform a proper commissioning on all hardware.
3 credits
10-601-410
Load Calculations, Sizing, and Layout for HVAC
Students will learn to calculate heat and cooling loads for commercial buildings. Design and document heating and air conditioning systems for commercial buildings. To include boiler and forced air systems. Design and document a refrigeration system for product storage. Computer programs will be used in component selection and system design.
3 credits
10-801-195
Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
3 credits
10-809-166
Introduction to Ethics: Theory and Application
This course provides a basic understanding of the theoretical foundations of ethical thought. Diverse ethical perspectives will be used to analyze and compare relevant issues. Students will critically evaluate individual, social and/or professional standards of behavior, and apply a systematic decision-making process to these situations.
3 credits
Fifth Semester
10-462-209
Maintenance Operations 2
This course continues the understanding of how an organization or plant can improve how they do maintenance, how to keep their equipment running longer, and create a more efficient and streamlined structure. Emphasis is placed on learning the methods of deploying and using a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
1 credit
10-601-362
Industry Competencies
Students will practice necessary customer service skills, such as communication, listening and conflict management, complete project work that will allow them a hands-on means to put all they have learned into practice.
2 credits
10-601-372
Building Automations 2
Students learn how to analyze and develop control strategies taking in account efficiency, security / safety, comfort as well as indoor air quality guide lines and strategies. Students will write sequence of operations for control strategies used in typical commercial applications. Students will learn how to program and commission control systems for several commonly used automation platforms such as tritium etc.
3 credits
10-606-120
2-D CAD (Computer Aided Drafting)
Introduces the basic capabilities of the current version of 2D CAD software as it applies to mechanical design. Emphasis is placed on basic commands and input required for their application in creating two-dimensional mechanical working drawings.
1 credit
10-606-121
CAD for MEP Systems
Design mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) system projects, select components, and documental commercial MEP systems with the use of computer-aided design software (CAD). Build off of the Introduction to CAD course by practicing what has been learned in CAD projects focused on the MEP industries.
1 credit
10-606-122
Introduction to 3D Modeling with REVIT
Design mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) system projects, select components, and document commercial MEP systems with the use of 3D modeling software (REVIT). Learn the basics in 3D design with the use of REVIT after which you will build off of the CAD for MEP Systems course by transferring over projects on the MEP industries into this 3D modeling program.
2 credits
10-801-196
Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
3 credits
10-809-199
Psychology of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.
3 credits
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Limited Seats Available!
This program has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
Program capacity: 30 spots each Fall. It shares this capacity with other programs that have similar curriculum.
Estimated Wait Time: No estimated wait time
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the program reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.
Learn more in the After You Apply section on this page.
Application Dates
Fall 2027
Application available on October 15, 2026
Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
GED/HSED completion
College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
3. Residency Requirement
Per Wisconsin Statute TCS-10 because this program has a limited capacity:
Non-district state residents
May only be considered after January 1 for the upcoming fall term
*Minnesota residents are considered non-district state residents for admission purposes
Out-of-state residents (except Minnesota residents*) are offered a place in the program after district and state residents, if there are still spots available. Acceptance into the program is on hold until a month before the semester begins to determine if there is space in the program. Out-of-state residents are not eligible for admission to a program that has a waiting list.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Technology (HVAC) career.
It's Free to Apply
After You Apply
This program uses a waiting list to manage program admission due to capacity limitations and high program demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the program.
A waiting list helps us manage applications in a way that is fair and transparent.
Students on the waiting list receive priority in future terms based on the date they complete all application requirements.
Priority does not guarantee a spot in the program.
You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Learn more about waiting lists and Admission to Programs with Limited Capacity.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Transfer Opportunities

Wisconsin Private Schools
Lakeland University
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.
Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree.

Career Outcomes

Madison College Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology program graduates are prepared with the following skills:

Technical Skills

Assemble and install HVAC/Refrigeration components
Troubleshoot HVAC/Refrigeration systems
Service HVAC/Refrigeration systems
Evaluate HVAC/Refrigeration system designs
Implement safety and regulation codes
Practice job-site skills such as written and verbal communication to customers, co-workers, and supervisors

Graduate Summary

Graduate Report Summary Overview
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Program Graduates	4	3	3
Number of Surveys Sent	4	3	3
Number of Surveys Returned	2	3	2
Percent of Surveys Returned
Available for Employment	2	3	2
Percent Available for Employment	100.0%	100.0%	100.0%
Not in Labor Market
Percent Not in Labor Market	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

Available for Employment
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Graduates Employed	2	2	2
Percent of Graduates Employed	100.0%	66.7%	100.0%
Employed in Related Occupation	2	2	2
Percent Employed in Related Occupation	100.0%	100.0%	100.0%
Employed in Unrelated Occupation	0	0	0
Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Employed - No Response	0	0	0
Percent Employed - No Response	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Seeking Employment	0	1	0
Percent Seeking Employment	0.0%	33.3%	0.0%

Reaction To Training at Madison College
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4)	3	3.7	4
Number of Satisfaction Responses	2	3	2
Very Satisfied (4)	0	2	2
Percent Very Satisfied	0.0%	66.7%	100.0%
Satisfied (3)	2	1	0
Percent Satisfied	100.0%	33.3%	0.0%
Unsatisfied (2)	0	0	0
Percent Unsatisfied	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Very Unsatisfied (1)
Percent Very Unsatisfied	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Primary Reason Responses	2	3	2
Preparation for Getting a Job	2	1	1
Percent Preparation for Getting a Job	100.0%	33.3%	50.0%
Career Change	0	0	0
Percent Career Change	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Improvement of Existing Skills	0	2	1
Percent Improvement of Existing Skills	0.0%	66.7%	50.0%
Preparation for Further Education	0	0	0
Percent Preparation for Further Education	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Personal Interest	0	0	0
Percent Personal Interest	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Other	0	0	0
Percent Other	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

When Employment was Obtained
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of When Employment Obtained Responses	2	2	2
Before Enrollment	0	2	2
Percent Before Enrollment	0.0%	100.0%	100.0%
While Attending the College	0	0	0
Percent While Attending the College	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
After Training at the College	2	0	0
Percent After Training at the College	100.0%	0.0%	0.0%

Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Employment Location Responses	2	2	2
In College District	2	1	2
Percent In College District	100.0%	50.0%	100.0%
In Wisconsin, Not in District	0	1	0
Percent of In Wisconsin	0.0%	50.0%	0.0%
Outside of Wisconsin	0	0	0
Percent Outside Wisconsin	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Employer Location Unknown	0	0	0
Percent Location Unknown	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

Salary Trend
Salary Trend		2023	2024	2025
Full Time Employment (Related Job)	Full Time Salary Count	2	2	2
	Average Monthly Wage	$3,307	$4,049	$3,956
	Average Hourly Wage	$19.23	$23.54	$23.00
	Average Work Hours per Week	40.0	47.5	43.5
Part Time Employment (Related Job)	Part Time Salary Count
	Average Hourly Wage
	Average Work Hours per Week

Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025
Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions
Capitol Air Systems HVAC Technician Sun Prairie
North American Mechanical Inc HVAC Technician Windsor
* - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu