HVAC/Refrigeration - Certificate Program
Want to develop valuable skills in a reliable trade? Eastern Florida's Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning /Refrigeration (HVAC/R) Career and Technical Certificate (CTC) program can help you to achieve that goal. This program is designed to prepare you for entry-level positions in the HVAC/R field.
You'll be part of a group of students who will progress together through a career-specific curriculum totaling 1,350 clock hours over a one-year period. The training covers various aspects, such as basic refrigeration, residential systems, electrical circuitry, load calculations, installation, system service, repair, and more. By the end of the program, you'll have gained knowledge and hands-on experience in these areas.
Additionally, you'll be eligible to take the EPA certification exam, which is a crucial industry-standard requirement for all HVAC/R professionals.
HVAC/R Certificate - Course Curriculum
Eastern Florida's HVAC/R training program is a full-time program. Beginning with the cohort that will start August 19, 2024 and end in July 2025, it will take about one year to complete, instead of the previous 18 months, which had included a summer break. It consists of three sets of clock-hour courses, with each set lasting 450 clock-hours. All classes for this certificate are held in person on EFSC's Cocoa Campus with a class schedule that runs from Monday to Friday, starting at 7:30 AM and concluding at 3:30 PM. Note the addition of Friday class hours starting with the Fall 2024 cohort.
HVAC/Refrigeration - Certificate Program
Program Overview
- Certificate Type
- Career and Technical Certificate (CTC)
- Delivery Method
- On-Campus
- Location
- Cocoa
- Total Clock Hours
- 1350
- Academic Community
- Industry/Manufacturing & Construction
- Contact Information
-
Delisa Layne, Advisor
Email Program Advisor
321-433-5771
HVAC Career and Technical Certificate - Admissions Information
Annual Application Deadline: June 30th for a Fall Term start on August 19, 2024
Eastern Florida's HVAC/R CTC program is a limited-access program, which means there's a special application process. Your admission into the program will be evaluated based on a criteria point system, and you must meet all the program's entrance requirements. Applicants with the highest total number of points will have the best chance of being accepted. If you're not selected for the program, don't worry — you can re-apply for the next term.
For HVAC/R transfer students coming from other colleges or vocational-technical centers, evaluation will be made on a case-by-case basis. We understand that everyone's situation is unique, and we'll consider your individual circumstances.
Explore the drop-down menu below for detailed steps in the application process.
How to Apply for the HVAC/R Program
The annual application deadline to start in Fall Term is June 30th.
Space is limited, so well before this date, request the HVAC/R Information Package, which contains the selection criteria and point system, plus details about the program.
Request HVAC/R Information Package
Because this is a limited access program with a special application process, it's crucial for prospective students to get answers for any questions from the program advisor.
Delisa Layne, Advisor
Email Program Advisor
321-433-5771
This step is specifically for students who are not currently enrolled at EFSC.
To begin the application process, you should complete and submit the online application for general admission to EFSC. Please keep in mind that there's a $30 non-refundable fee that needs to be paid at the time of application.
Please note that application processing can take up to 14 days due to the current volume of applications. Check your email frequently for your acceptance letter.
If you were previously a student but have not taken any courses in the past year, you'll need to reapply online as a returning/readmit student. You will not be charged the application fee.
To ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements for general admission, it's essential to closely collaborate with the main EFSC Admissions Office. They'll guide you through the process and provide you with valuable information and instructions.
If you're a new EFSC student, the general admissions acceptance letter and email you receive will include a list of requirements that you need to fulfill. These requirements include submitting your placement test scores, providing your high school and college transcripts, applying for financial aid (if desired), declaring your residency for tuition purposes, and more.
By completing these tasks, you'll prevent any account holds that could potentially hinder your registration process if you're accepted into the HVAC/R program. It's also crucial for current EFSC students to verify that they don't have any holds that might interfere with course registration. Learn how to access the Student Message Center to check for and clear holds.
If you're enrolling in a program that involves 450 or more clock-hours, you'll need to meet the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) Testing requirement.
By taking the TABE, you'll earn admissions points that boost your chances of getting into limited-access programs like HVAC/R. Additionally, to graduate from many career programs, you must achieve the state-required basic skill level on the TABE (unless you qualify for an exemption). It's an important step to ensure your success in this program, so be sure to fulfill this requirement.
Only proceed to this step once you've received your acceptance letter from EFSC Admissions (or if you're already a student at EFSC).
Your general admissions acceptance letter will include a Titan student email address and Titan Single Sign-On (SSO) credentials, which you will need to access the myEFSC student portal.
After you receive these credentials, log in to your myEFSC account to submit the HVAC/R application. Remember, this application is in addition to the general application and must be correctly submitted before the application deadline.
Submit the Career & Technical/Trades Application
If you require any assistance during the application process, don't hesitate to reach out to the program advisor. They'll be able to provide guidance and support to ensure that your application is completed successfully!
Brief Costs and Financial Aid Eligibility
If you're considering the HVAC/R program at Eastern Florida, it's important to know about the costs involved. The in-state tuition for this program is around $3,460. However, please note that there might be additional fees for things like course materials, labs, or equipment.
There are various financial assistance options available to help you manage these costs. Depending on your eligibility, you may qualify for Federal financial aid, scholarships, payment plans, or Veterans Educational Benefits. These resources can help reduce the amount of money you need to pay out of your own pocket. The Financial Aid Office is a good resource as you explore your options.
College Courses You Would Take
During interactive instruction, you can expect to learn important techniques, such as using test gauges correctly, understanding different types and uses of electricity related to HVAC/R, mastering soldering and brazing techniques safely, handling refrigerant recovery systems properly, identifying materials needed for copper tubing connection, troubleshooting common HVAC/R issues, and much more.
If you've recently completed AC Refrigeration and Heating Technology courses through Brevard Public Schools, you may be eligible to receive free college credit for these classes through advanced standing credit. If this applies to you, reach out to the program advisor.
Here are some of the courses required for EFSC's HVAC/R program:
Learn system charging, instrument calibration, hands-on compressor work, and more in this practical HVAC/R course covering the major components of AC and refrigeration systems.
Analyze controls, troubleshoot circuits, identify components, and use motors as you receive hands-on instruction in wiring and equipment.
Explores troubleshooting, commercial refrigeration, chilled water AC, and rooftop units. Includes EPA and ICE exam prep, plus hands-on training in labs and simulations.
Covers refrigeration systems like ice machines, freezers, chill water systems, cooling towers, and pumps, including hands-on training in maintenance and computer simulations.
Why Study HVAC at Eastern Florida?
HVAC/R Professionals are In-Demand
As an HVAC/R professional, you'll find opportunities in installation, service, and repair, working with mechanical and refrigeration contractors in residential, commercial, and industrial settings across Florida and the entire country. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 15% growth in demand for qualified technicians in the next decade.
It's More Than Just Air-Conditioning
HVAC/R goes beyond just air-conditioning! Refrigeration mechanics handle commercial refrigeration systems in various places like supermarkets, warehouses, cruise lines, and shipping vehicles. Furnace installers work on heating systems in homes, businesses, and industries. At EFSC, you'll learn the skills to work with AC, refrigeration, and furnaces. Get ready to expand your knowledge and excel in the diverse field of HVAC/R.
Learn From Experienced Instructors
At Eastern Florida, you'll have skilled HVAC/R instructors, who will guide you in gaining experience and confidence. They provide hands-on training using modern equipment and simulations. With personalized instruction, you'll develop effective work habits. Safety is a top priority, with OSHA industry standards emphasized in the HVAC/R lab and throughout the program.
Related Career Tech Programs
If you're considering the HVAC/R Certificate at EFSC, there are other programs you might also find interesting. EFSC offers various certificate and degree programs in hands-on trades and complementary career fields.