Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

Student working with equipment

Learn to Work on Complex HVAC-R Systems at NOVA

Help people stay comfortable and safe year-round in Virginia by earning a degree or certificate in air conditioning and refrigeration at NOVA.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

Associate Degree in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

Prepare for good-paying, stable jobs in the air conditioning and refrigeration field with NOVA's Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration degree. You'll develop the knowledge and skills - and meet the educational requirements -  you need to be a licensed Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) tradesperson in Virginia.

Length
Two Years
Credits
61-64
Locations
Woodbridge
Curriculum Details

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Certificate

In NOVA's Air Conditioning and Refrigeration certificate program, you'll learn how to service, maintain, repair and install air conditioning and refrigeration equipment so you're at the front of the line for jobs in the field.

Length
One Year
Credits
33-34
Locations
Woodbridge
Curriculum Details

HVAC-R and Facilities Services Technology Career Studies Certificate

In NOVA's Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in HVAC-R and Facilities Services Technology program, you'll be prepared for entry-level jobs in the air conditioning, refrigeration and facilities maintenance industry. You'll learn about the principles, service, maintenance, repair, and installation of air conditioning, refrigeration, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems.

Length
One Year
Credits
23
Locations
Woodbridge
Curriculum Details

Why Study Air Conditioning and Refrigeration at NOVA?

Experienced HVAC-R Instructors

You'll learn from NOVA air conditioning and refrigeration instructors who are deeply knowledgeable and experienced in the field. They're also dedicated to helping you succeed.

Relevant HVAC-R Courses

You'll take courses that cover all you need to know to work in the air conditioning and refrigeration field - including preparing you to become a certified HVAC-R tradesperson.

Affordable HVAC-R Programs

You'll receive an affordable air conditioning and refrigeration education. You may even qualify for NOVA scholarships and other aid that can offset the cost of tuition.

Program Details

Career Connection Job Board

Accreditations

Northern Virginia Community College's Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Associate of Applied Science program is accredited by HVAC Excellence, a standards organization dedicated to improving the quality of education in the industry. The date of NOVA's last review was 2010.

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Career Outcomes

At NOVA, you'll gain the knowledge and skills to work on increasingly complex HVAC-R systems in homes, schools, hospitals, office buildings, and factories. You'll also set yourself up to earn a good salary in a stable career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage in May 2022 for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers was $51,390. Employment is projected to grow 6% through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations, reports the BLS.

Credits and
Transfer Info

Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.

Transferring

Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.

Your Next Steps to NOVA