Architecture, Engineering & Construction

Designing, planning, managing, building and maintaining the built environment.

A white hammer and sickle symbol is outlined against a plain white background.

Four Year Plans

CGHS Construction Core 42 Four Year Plan with IKORCC Joint Apprenticeship

Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
English 9*	English 10*	English 11*	English 12*
Algebra*	Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2	Algebra II* or Business Math	Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Biology*	Science*	Science elective or STEM*	Personalized Elective*
World History*	Personalized Elective*	US History*	Gov't/Personalized Elective*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE	Health/ Personal Finance	Personalized Elective*	Personalized Elective, or IKORCC Apprenticeship
Principles of Construction*	Construction Trades: General Carpentry*	Construction Trades: Framing and Finishing*	Personalized Elective, or IKORCC Apprenticeship
World Language I	World Language II	Personalized Elective*	Personalized Elective, or IKORCC Apprenticeship
Study Hall	Study Hall	Study Hall	Study Hall

Grade 9

Grade 9
English 9*
Algebra*
Biology*
World History*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE
Principles of Construction*
World Language I
Study Hall

Grade 10

Grade 10
English 10*
Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2
Science*
Personalized Elective*
Health/ Personal Finance
Construction Trades: General Carpentry*
World Language II
Study Hall

Grade 11

Grade 11
English 11*
Algebra II* or Business Math
Science elective or STEM*
US History*
Personalized Elective*
Construction Trades: Framing and Finishing*
Personalized Elective*
Study Hall

Grade 12

Grade 12
English 12*
Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Personalized Elective*
Gov't/Personalized Elective*
Personalized Elective, or IKORCC Apprenticeship
Personalized Elective, or IKORCC Apprenticeship
Personalized Elective, or IKORCC Apprenticeship
Study Hall

Fashion Career Pathway Four Year Plan

Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
English 9*	English 10*	English 11*	English 12*
Algebra*	Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2	Algebra II* or Business Math	Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Biology*	Science*	Science elective or STEM*	Personalized Elective*
World History*	Personalized Elective*	US History*	Gov't/Personalized Elective*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE	Health/ Personal Finance	Personalized Elective*	WBL
Principles of Fashion	Textiles, Apparel and Merchandising	Advanced Textiles	WBL
World Language I	World Language II	Personalized Elective*	WBL
Study Hall	Study Hall	Study Hall	WBL

Grade 9

Grade 9
English 9*
Algebra*
Biology*
World History*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE
Principles of Fashion
World Language I
Study Hall

Grade 10

Grade 10
English 10*
Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2
Science*
Personalized Elective*
Health/ Personal Finance
Textiles, Apparel and Merchandising
World Language II
Study Hall

Grade 11

Grade 11
English 11*
Algebra II* or Business Math
Science elective or STEM*
US History*
Personalized Elective*
Advanced Textiles
Personalized Elective*
Study Hall

Grade 12

Grade 12
English 12*
Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Personalized Elective*
Gov't/Personalized Elective*
WBL
WBL
WBL
WBL

Housing and Interior Design Core 42 Four Year Plan

Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
English 9*	English 10*	English 11*	English 12*
Algebra*	Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2	Algebra II* or Business Math	Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Biology*	Science*	Science elective or STEM*	Personalized Elective*
World History*	Personalized Elective*	US History*	Gov't/Personalized Elective*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE	Health/ Personal Finance	Personalized Elective*	WBL
Principles of Interior Design	Interior Design Fundamentals	Materials, Finishes and Design	WBL
World Language I	World Language II	Personalized Elective*	WBL
Study Hall	Study Hall	Study Hall	WBL

Grade 9

Grade 9
English 9*
Algebra*
Biology*
World History*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE
Principles of Interior Design
World Language I
Study Hall

Grade 10

Grade 10
English 10*
Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2
Science*
Personalized Elective*
Health/ Personal Finance
Interior Design Fundamentals
World Language II
Study Hall

Grade 11

Grade 11
English 11*
Algebra II* or Business Math
Science elective or STEM*
US History*
Personalized Elective*
Materials, Finishes and Design
Personalized Elective*
Study Hall

Grade 12

Grade 12
English 12*
Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Personalized Elective*
Gov't/Personalized Elective*
WBL
WBL
WBL
WBL

C9 Construction Core 42 Four Year Plan

Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
English 9*	English 10*	English 11*	English 12*
Algebra*	Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2	Algebra II* or Business Math	Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Biology*	Science*	Science elective or STEM*	Personalized Elective*
World History*	Personalized Elective*	US History*	Gov't/Personalized Elective*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE	Health/ Personal Finance	C9 Construction Trades I	C9 Constructions Trades II
Personalized Elective*	Personalized Elective*	C9 Construction Trades I	C9 Construction Trades I
World Language I	World Language II	C9 Construction Trades I	C9 Construction Trades I
Study Hall	Study Hall	C9 Construction Trades I	C9 Construction Trades I

Grade 9

Grade 9
English 9*
Algebra*
Biology*
World History*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE
Personalized Elective*
World Language I
Study Hall

Grade 10

Grade 10
English 10*
Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2
Science*
Personalized Elective*
Health/ Personal Finance
Personalized Elective*
World Language II
Study Hall

Grade 11

Grade 11
English 11*
Algebra II* or Business Math
Science elective or STEM*
US History*
C9 Construction Trades I
C9 Construction Trades I
C9 Construction Trades I
C9 Construction Trades I

Grade 12

Grade 12
English 12*
Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Personalized Elective*
Gov't/Personalized Elective*
C9 Constructions Trades II
C9 Construction Trades I
C9 Construction Trades I
C9 Construction Trades I

C9 Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Core 42 Four Year Plan

Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
English 9*	English 10*	English 11*	English 12*
Algebra*	Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2	Algebra II* or Business Math	Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Biology*	Science*	Science elective or STEM*	Personalized Elective*
World History*	Personalized Elective*	US History*	Gov't/Personalized Elective*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE	Health/ Personal Finance	HVAC I at C9	HVAC II at C9
Personalized Elective*	Personalized Elective*	HVAC I at C9	HVAC II at C9
World Language I	World Language II	HVAC I at C9	HVAC II at C9
Study Hall	Study Hall	HVAC I at C9	HVAC II at C9

Grade 9

Grade 9
English 9*
Algebra*
Biology*
World History*
PCC+ Computing Foundations/ PE
Personalized Elective*
World Language I
Study Hall

Grade 10

Grade 10
English 10*
Geometry* or Analytical Algebra 2
Science*
Personalized Elective*
Health/ Personal Finance
Personalized Elective*
World Language II
Study Hall

Grade 11

Grade 11
English 11*
Algebra II* or Business Math
Science elective or STEM*
US History*
HVAC I at C9
HVAC I at C9
HVAC I at C9
HVAC I at C9

Grade 12

Grade 12
English 12*
Pre-Cal/Trig or ACP Finite*
Personalized Elective*
Gov't/Personalized Elective*
HVAC II at C9
HVAC II at C9
HVAC II at C9
HVAC II at C9

Courses

Principles of Construction Trades

Description:

Principles of Construction Trades is the first level course which prepares students with the basic skills needed to continue in a construction trade field or simply learn more about the construction world. Topics will include an introduction to the types and uses for common hand and power tools, learn the types and basic terminology associated with construction drawings, and basic safety. Additionally, students will study the roles of individuals and companies within the construction industry and reinforce mathematical and communication skills necessary to be successful in the construction field. This course is the prerequisite for the construction trades pathway and follows the NCCER standards.

Requirements:

Dual Credit: Yes - IvyTech
Prerequisite(s): None
Weighted Course: No

General Carpentry

Description:

Construction Trades: General Carpentry is the second level course in the Construction Trades pathway. This course builds upon the skills learned in the Principles of Construction Trades or Introduction to Construction and examines the basics of framing. This includes studying the procedures for laying out and constructing floor systems, wall systems, ceiling joist | roof framing, and basic stair layout. Additionally, students will be introduced to building residential envelope systems. This is a dual college credit course and follows the NCCER standards.

Requirements:

Dual Credit: Yes - IvyTech
Prerequisite(s): Principles of Construction Trades and teacher approval are required.
Weighted Course: No

Framing and Finishing

Description:

Construction Trades: Framing and Finishing is the third level course in the Construction Trades pathway. This course prepares students with advanced framing skills along with interior and exterior finishing techniques. Topics include roofing applications, thermal and moisture protection, exterior finishing, cold-formed steel framing, drywall installation and finishing, doors and door hardware, suspended ceilings, window, door, floor, and ceiling trim, and cabinet installation. This is a dual college credit course and follows the NCCER standards.Requirements:

Dual Credit: Yes - IvyTech
Prerequisite(s): Principles of Construction Trades, General Carpentry and teacher approval are required.
Weighted Course: No

Fashion Courses

Principles of Fashion

Description:

Do you want to learn the basics of sewing? Principles of Fashion and Textiles 1 is the first course in the Fashion pathway. This course will prepare students for occupations and higher education programs of study related to the entire spectrum of careers in the fashion industry. The course builds a foundation that prepares students for all aspects of the fashion creation process. Along with learning the basics of sewing, you will learn about the various dimensions of clothing and the core elements of the textile and apparel industry, from design to manufacturing as well as forecasting and trends. You will be responsible for the expense of fabric and notions.

Requirements:

Dual Credit: No
Prerequisite(s): None
Weighted Course: No

Textiles, Apparel, and Merchandising

Description:

Do you want to make your own clothing? The Textiles, Apparel and Merchandising course provides a comprehensive overview of the textiles, apparel and merchandising industry. Along with advancing your sewing skills you will learn about fashion related goods including the nature of fashion, raw materials and production, designers, retailers, and supporting services. In addition to sewing your own garments, you will learn about the core of customer service, the key components of fashion merchandising and the manufacturing of textiles and apparel. Students are responsible for the expense of their own patterns, fabric and notions.

Requirements:

Dual Credit: No
Prerequisite(s): Principles of Fashion
Weighted Course: No

Advanced Textiles

Description:

Would you like to design and create your own clothing? Advanced Textiles will focus on the study of textiles concerning fiber, yarn, fabric construction, and finishes which affect the selection, use and care of textiles. Along with designing and creating your own garments, you will study all aspects of textiles, fashion design, and the manufacturing and distribution of goods and fashion promotion. You will be responsible for the expense of fabric and notions.

Requirements:

Dual Credit: No
Prerequisite(s): Principles of Fashion and Textiles, Apparel, and Merchandising
Weighted Course: No

Housing and Interior Design Courses

Principles of Interior Design

Description:

Are you addicted to HGTV? Do you want to learn some of the techniques you see on TV? This is a great class to learn how to make the most out of your space, identify housing trends with a fun hands-on approach. In this class we create projects that help us learn the basics of what interior designers do. You will design your own home, make an interior design board for specific rooms, both using color theory, principles, and elements of design. Architectural history and styles are also included in the course content. You will learn a variety of things about being an entrepreneur in the business world using what you learned with elements and principles of design.

Requirements:

Dual Credit: No
Prerequisite(s): None
Weighted Course: No

Interior Design Fundamentals

Description:

Did you LOVE Intro to Housing and Interior Design? In this advanced class we do a wide variety of small projects. They include small scale space analysis and functional planning based on user needs, furniture arrangement and selection, materials and finish considerations as well as presentation techniques. Students will also learn basics regarding building practices, building structures, residential construction techniques, building materials and plan reading. We will also be working on how to best learn about clients' wants and needs to present the highest quality designs possible.

Requirements:

Dual Credit: No
Prerequisite(s): Principles of ECE
Weighted Course: No

Materials, Finishes & Design

Description:

After you learn about the ins and outs of design in Interior Design I & II, this class goes even further into the realm of interior design. We will look into and explore characteristics of furniture, materials, finishes, and architectural detailing. We will do projects that look into textiles, including fiber sources, identification and classifications. We will also learn about interior designers in practice, working with different materials and finishes. We will put all of our knowledge of design into practice with modeling houses and designing spaces for the specific needs of individuals. We will also discuss the environmental issues and problems in estimating and installing these materials. By the end of this pathway, you will be well prepared to become a successful and creative interior designer.

Requirements:

Dual Credit: No
Prerequisite(s): Principles of Interior Design and Interior Design Fundamentals
Weighted Course: No

C9 Construction Courses

Description:

This hands-on program includes both classroom and laboratory experiences. Specific skills include building, installing, & establishing buildings, homes, & other structures. The attainment of these skills is put to the test as students work to construct a house. Our students develop the skills and knowledge to become work-ready in various construction trades. Through these experiences, they’ll have opportunities to meet our local partners and community supporters while becoming OSHA certified. Done through the IKORCC.

Requirements:

Strong foundation in basic math skills with the ability to use a tape measure
Experience in geometry preferred
Ability to handle quick-paced, high-pressure situations in a high-risk environment that is often loud
Ability to work in both team and independent environments
No more than three discipline referrals and no out-of-school suspensions
No more than ten absences per year

Possible Expenses: $200+

SkillsUSA membership ($17)
Personal hand tools & safety gear (approx. $145)
T-shirts and sweatshirt ($38)

C9 HVAC Courses

Description:

Includes classroom and laboratory experiences focused on basic heating, ventilation, and cooling/refrigeration systems.
This program introduces scientific and mathematical principles applicable to the installation, operation, &
maintenance of HVAC systems. Additionally, students have the opportunity to earn an EPA certification. Done through Ivy Tech Community College. Students can complete Graduation Pathway requirements in one year.
Internship opportunities are available for second-year students.

Requirements:

C or higher in Algebra I and Geometry
Ability to comprehend college-level text
No more than three discipline referrals and no out-of-school suspensions
No more than ten absences per year
Vehicle & driver's license required for internship
Must be able to handle a very structured environment (rules, policies, procedures)

Possible Expenses: $170+

OSHA 10 course ($25)
EPA testing ($25)
Coveralls or work shirt(approx. $40)
PPE (approx. $80)

Sample Careers

Construction

Construction Manager
- Construction managers oversee the entire construction process for building projects, from planning and budgeting to coordinating teams and ensuring that timelines and safety standards are met. They often act as the liaison between clients, contractors, and workers.
Civil Engineer
- Civil engineers design, plan, and supervise the construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems. They ensure that the structures are safe, functional, and compliant with regulations.
Carpenter
- Carpenters specialize in the construction, installation, and repair of wooden structures. This includes framing buildings, installing cabinets, doors, windows, and other wood-based elements within both residential and commercial projects.
Electrician
- Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in buildings. This includes wiring, circuit installations, and ensuring that all electrical components function properly and comply with safety codes.
Construction Laborer
- Construction laborers perform a variety of physical tasks on construction sites, such as digging trenches, operating machinery, mixing materials like cement, and assisting other skilled tradespeople. Their work is essential in supporting the progress of a project.
Building Inspector
- Building inspectors assess the quality and safety of construction projects. They ensure that buildings meet local, state, and national codes and regulations before and during construction, and they issue permits and conduct inspections during the process.

Fashion

Fashion Designer
- Fashion designers create original clothing and accessories. They work with sketches, fabrics, and patterns to design apparel for different markets, such as ready-to-wear, haute couture, or sportswear.
Textile Designer
- Textile designers focus on creating patterns, prints, and fabrics used in fashion. They work closely with manufacturers to develop unique textiles that suit specific garments or collections.
Costume Designer
- Costume designers create outfits for theater, film, television, or other performance arts. They design costumes that reflect the characters, time periods, and settings of the production while maintaining aesthetic coherence.
Footwear Designer
- Footwear designers specialize in designing shoes, boots, sandals, and other types of footwear. They focus on blending functionality with style, ensuring comfort and durability while reflecting fashion trends.
Fashion Illustrator
- Fashion illustrators create drawings or digital renderings of clothing designs. Their work helps designers visualize their ideas, and they may also create concept art for fashion collections or advertising campaigns.
Fashion Merchandiser
- Fashion merchandisers bridge the gap between design and retail. They analyze market trends, consumer preferences, and sales data to help fashion brands develop products that will succeed in the market, ensuring proper positioning and pricing.

Housing and Interior Design

Interior Designer
- Interior designers work with clients to create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. They handle everything from layout planning to selecting colors, materials, and furniture.
Residential Designer
- A residential designer focuses on designing homes, from single-family houses to apartment interiors. They work to make sure the space is both functional and reflective of the client's style preferences.
Commercial Designer
- Commercial interior designers work on spaces like offices, restaurants, hotels, and retail stores. They focus on creating environments that align with the brand and purpose of the business while ensuring efficiency and comfort.
Lighting Designer
- Lighting designers specialize in planning and designing the lighting systems in a space. They consider aesthetics, functionality, and energy efficiency when selecting and positioning lights.
Kitchen and Bath Designer
- These designers focus specifically on the design of kitchens and bathrooms, choosing layouts, fixtures, finishes, and storage solutions that combine functionality with style.
Sustainable or Green Designer
- Sustainable interior designers focus on creating eco-friendly spaces, utilizing energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and designs that reduce the environmental impact of the interiors.

HVAC

HVAC Technician (Service Technician)
- HVAC technicians diagnose, repair, and maintain heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in residential and commercial settings. This is the most common entry-level role and provides a foundation for specialization in installation, service, or refrigeration work.
HVAC Installer
- Installers specialize in setting up new furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, ductwork, thermostats, and ventilation systems. They work on both residential and commercial projects and ensure systems are installed safely and efficiently.
Refrigeration Technician
- Refrigeration technicians service and repair commercial refrigeration equipment such as walk-in coolers, freezers, supermarket systems, and industrial chillers. This role requires additional training and certification to safely handle refrigerants.
HVAC Engineer
- HVAC engineers design heating, cooling, and ventilation systems for homes, businesses, and large commercial buildings. These roles typically require a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, and are common in construction, architecture, and industrial sectors.
Building Automation / Controls Technician
- Controls technicians install, maintain, and troubleshoot automated building systems including sensors, thermostats, and energy-management controls. They specialize in smart HVAC technologies and complex commercial building systems.
HVAC Sales or Project Manager
- Sales and project managers assist homeowners, builders, or contractors in choosing HVAC systems and provide cost estimates, scheduling, and project coordination. These roles often require a blend of technical HVAC knowledge, communication skills, and leadership experience.

Post-Secondary Examples

Construction

Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management
- A Bachelor's degree in Construction Management is one of the most popular pathways for those aiming for leadership roles in the construction industry. This degree covers topics like project management, construction methods, budgeting, contract management, and construction law. Graduates are prepared to manage large-scale construction projects from start to finish.
Associate's Degree in Construction Technology
- An Associate's degree in Construction Technology typically takes two years to complete and offers a more technical and hands-on approach to construction. It focuses on building systems, construction materials, safety protocols, and blueprint reading. This degree prepares graduates for technical positions, such as site supervisors, estimators, or field engineers.
Certificate in Construction Trades
- A certificate in construction trades provides specialized training in specific areas of construction, such as carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, or masonry. These programs are shorter (often 6 months to a year) and are ideal for those looking to enter the workforce quickly or specialize in a particular trade.
Apprenticeship Programs
- Apprenticeships are hands-on training programs where individuals learn a construction trade (like electrical work, plumbing, or welding) under the guidance of experienced professionals. These programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, leading to certification or journeyman status in a skilled trade. Apprenticeships are often available through unions, trade organizations, or construction companies.
Master's Degree in Construction Engineering
- For those who already have a background in civil engineering or a related field, a Master's degree in Construction Engineering is a way to further specialize in the technical and managerial aspects of construction. This program focuses on advanced topics like structural engineering, construction project management, and construction materials science.
Building and Construction Management Certification
- Professional certifications like the Project Management Professional (PMP) or certifications from organizations like the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) can enhance a construction manager's qualifications. These programs are great for individuals with some experience who want to formally credential their skills and gain expertise in managing complex construction projects.

Fashion

Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Design
- A Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design is one of the most common paths for aspiring designers. This program typically covers everything from garment construction, textiles, and pattern-making to fashion history, trend forecasting, and design principles. Many universities and specialized art schools offer these degrees.
Fashion Merchandising and Marketing Degree
- If you're interested in the business side of fashion, a Fashion Merchandising and Marketing degree can help you learn about product development, retail management, fashion buying, and brand marketing. While not strictly design-focused, it allows you to work closely with designers to bring fashion to market.
Associate's Degree in Fashion Design
- An Associate's degree in Fashion Design is a shorter, more focused program that typically takes two years to complete. It provides hands-on experience in garment construction, pattern making, and design software, offering a quick entry into the fashion industry, particularly in design or technical roles.
Fashion Technology Program
- A Fashion Technology program focuses on the technical aspects of fashion, such as garment production, textiles, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and industrial sewing techniques. This is ideal for those interested in the technical side of fashion design or working in fashion manufacturing.
Fashion Illustration Program
- For those with an artistic flair who want to specialize in the creative aspect of fashion design, a Fashion Illustration program teaches you to sketch, draw, and digitally create fashion designs. Strong illustration skills are vital for visualizing and communicating fashion ideas before they are made.
Internships and Apprenticeships in Fashion Houses
- Although not a formal academic option, internships or apprenticeships at established fashion houses or with individual designers are excellent post-secondary opportunities. These hands-on experiences allow you to work in the industry, build connections, and gain practical knowledge of fashion design in a real-world setting.

Housing and Interior Design

Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design
- A Bachelor's degree in Interior Design is the most common and comprehensive option for those seeking a career in interior design. This program typically covers design theory, space planning, color theory, materials and finishes, lighting, furniture design, and CAD (computer-aided design) software. Many universities and specialized design schools offer this degree.
Associate's Degree in Interior Design
- An Associate's degree in Interior Design is a shorter, more affordable option that usually takes two years to complete. It covers essential design principles, drafting, and 3D design software, giving you the foundational knowledge needed to start working in entry-level interior design positions or continue your education at the bachelor's level.
Interior Design Certificate Program
- An Interior Design Certificate Program is ideal for individuals who already have a background in another field or those looking to quickly transition into interior design. These programs focus on practical design skills, such as space planning, color schemes, materials, and 3D modeling, and they can be completed in a year or less.
Master's Degree in Interior Design
- A Master's degree in Interior Design is suitable for those who already have a bachelor's degree (either in interior design or another related field) and want to deepen their knowledge and expertise. This advanced degree allows for specialization in areas like sustainable design, lighting design, or commercial interiors.
Internships and Apprenticeships
- While formal education is important, internships and apprenticeships offer hands-on experience in the interior design industry. Many students or recent graduates work alongside professional interior designers in residential, commercial, or corporate settings, gaining valuable skills in project management, client relations, and design implementation.
Interior Design Programs at Trade Schools or Art Institutes
- Some trade schools and art institutes offer specialized Interior Design programs that focus on practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge. These programs may be more intensive and hands-on, providing an opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain professional experience. They can be a great option for those who prefer a more focused and practical approach to their education.

HVAC

HVAC Technician Certificate Program
- Certificate programs generally take 6–12 months and offer the fastest entry into the field. Students learn the basics of heating and cooling systems, refrigeration fundamentals, electrical components, tools, safety, and troubleshooting. Graduates often become residential installers, maintenance technicians, or entry-level HVAC technicians.
HVAC Diploma Program
- Diploma programs last 9–18 months and provide more in-depth training than certificate programs. Coursework includes heat pump systems, commercial HVAC equipment, duct design, and environmental controls. Graduates can pursue roles as service technicians, commercial HVAC technicians, or refrigeration specialists.
Associate Degree in HVAC Technology (A.A.S.)
- This two-year degree combines general education with advanced HVAC coursework. Students gain skills in system diagnostics, load calculations, commercial and industrial HVAC, and system design. The degree supports long-term career growth and prepares graduates for advanced technician positions or supervisory roles.
Apprenticeship Programs (HVAC or HVAC-R)
- Apprenticeships typically last 3–5 years and allow students to earn while they learn. Programs often involve employer sponsorship or union partnerships and include over 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training plus classroom instruction. Graduates often become journeyman HVAC technicians, refrigeration mechanics, or commercial HVAC specialists.
Refrigeration & Cooling Specialist Programs
- These 6–18-month programs focus on commercial refrigeration systems used in grocery stores, restaurants, cold storage facilities, and industrial settings. Students learn freezer systems, ice machines, and cooling equipment specific to HVAC-R careers.
Engineering Degrees (for Design and Advanced Roles)
- A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, building systems engineering, or energy engineering is ideal for careers focused on HVAC design rather than field work. Graduates pursue roles such as HVAC system designer, building energy analyst, or project engineer.
Manufacturer Training & Continuing Education
- HVAC professionals often complete short courses through manufacturers or industry organizations. Training may include Carrier, Lennox, or Trane certifications; smart thermostat and controls courses; variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system instruction; and other technology updates.
Mandatory Certifications
- While not educational programs, certifications are essential in the HVAC field. Common credentials include EPA 608 Certification (required for handling refrigerants), NATE Certification (a respected industry credential), R-410A Safety Certification, and OSHA workplace safety training.