Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technology Program (T162)
Program Description
Program Overview
This three-year Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technology advanced diploma program provides you with an understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling, and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems. The first two years of the program will give you practical skills through hands-on projects in the shops. You'll work on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment, and other appliances in our labs. In the third year, you'll focus more on commercial systems, giving you a well-rounded knowledge-base to succeed in the HVAC industry.
Full Description
Rising fuel costs, indoor air quality, and climate change are all factors in raising awareness of the true cost of energy, plus the need for energy-efficient building environmental system design, construction, and maintenance.
The Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technology three-year advanced diploma program addresses the current and future needs of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. In the first two years, you'll learn about residential and some light commercial systems. In the third year, we'll hone in on your understanding of commercial systems.
This program covers the basics of air system and hydronic (water) system theory needed to design distribution systems, select suitable fans, pumps, heating and cooling systems, and controls for larger buildings.
The program follows industry-standard design practices for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient residential, commercial, and industrial systems, as established by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), and the Canada Green Building Council.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG 1086 | Building Science and Green Technologies |
| HVAC 1001 | Refrigeration Theory I |
| HVAC 1006 | Electrical Fundamentals for HVAC |
| HVAC 1018 | Gas Technician III |
| MATH 1145 | Math for HVAC 1 |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts** |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 1003 | Refrigeration Laboratory Applications |
| HVAC 1008 | Electrical Circuit Analysis for HVAC |
| HVAC 1016 | Gas Technician II (Part A) |
| HVAC 2003 | Refrigeration Theory II |
| HVAC 2013 | HVAC Computer Applications |
| MATH 1155 | Math for HVAC 2 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 1017 | Gas Technician II (Part B) |
| HVAC 1022 | Understanding Construction Drawings |
| HVAC 2012 | Air Conditioning Theory |
| HVAC 2014 | Building Code for HVAC |
| PORT 1001 | Portfolio |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 1021 | Gas Technician II (Part C) |
| HVAC 2001 | Residential HVAC System Design |
| HVAC 2006 | Air Conditioning Laboratory Applications |
| COMM 1113 | Professional Communications for Building Technologies |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG 3066 | Entrepreneurship and Business for HVAC |
| CADE 3012 | AutoCAD I |
| HVAC 3010 | Commercial Load Estimating |
| HVAC 3011 | Air Distribution Design |
| HVAC 3012 | Hydronic System Design |
| HVAC 3020 | Quantity Surveying |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BLDG 2022 | Law and Construction Contracts |
| HVAC 3013 | AutoCAD for HVAC |
| HVAC 3014 | Building Environment Systems Control Laboratory |
| HVAC 3015 | Commercial Refrigeration System Design |
| HVAC 3016 | Commercial/Industrial Ventilation System Design |
| HVAC 3017 | Mechanical Systems Estimating |
**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Relate effectively to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration supervisors, coworkers and customers.
- Comply with applicable acts, regulations, legislation and codes to maintain personal and public safety.
- Solve scientific, mathematical and engineering problems related to designing, operating and installing energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
- Prepare and analyze detailed drawings, and compile technical specifications for energy systems.
- Design, operate and install energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
- Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6711
Email: skilledtrades@georgebrown.ca
Office: Casa Loma Campus, Room E308
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus information session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.
Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technology Program (T162)
Program Description
Program Overview
This three-year HVAC advanced diploma program will provide you with an understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems. The first two years of the program will give you practical skills through hands-on projects in the shops. You will be working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs. In the third year, there is an additional focus on commercial systems.
Full Description
Rising fuel costs, indoor air quality and climate change are all factors in raising awareness of the true cost of energy, and the need for energy-efficient building environmental system design, construction and maintenance.
This HVAC program has been developed to address the current and future needs of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. In the first two years, you will study residential and some light commercial systems. In the third year, there is an additional focus on commercial systems.
You will develop a firm understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems for a wide variety of requirements.
The program covers the basics of air system and hydronic (water) system theory, required to design distribution systems and select appropriate fans, pumps, heating and cooling plants, and system controls for larger buildings.
The program follows industry-standard design practices for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient residential, commercial and industrial systems, as established by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Canada Green Building Council.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 1001 | Refrigeration Theory I |
| HVAC 1006 | Electrical Fundamentals for HVAC |
| HVAC 1018 | Gas Technician III |
| GSCI 1022 | Building Science and the Environment |
| MATH 1145 | Math for HVAC 1 |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts** |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 1003 | Refrigeration Laboratory Applications |
| HVAC 1008 | Electrical Circuit Analysis for HVAC |
| HVAC 1016 | Gas Technician II (Part A) |
| HVAC 1022 | Understanding Construction Drawings |
| HVAC 2003 | Refrigeration Theory II |
| MATH 1155 | Math for HVAC 2 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 1017 | Gas Technician II (Part B) |
| HVAC 2001 | Residential HVAC System Design |
| HVAC 2012 | Air Conditioning Theory |
| HVAC 2014 | Building Code for HVAC |
| PORT 1001 | Portfolio |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 1021 | Gas Technician II (Part C) |
| HVAC 2006 | Air Conditioning Laboratory Applications |
| HVAC 2013 | HVAC Computer Applications |
| COMM 1113 | Professional Communications for Building Technologies |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 3010 | Commercial Load Estimating |
| HVAC 3011 | Air Distribution Design |
| HVAC 3012 | Hydronic System Design |
| HVAC 3020 | Quantity Surveying |
| BLDG 3066 | Entrepreneurship & Business for HVAC |
| CADE 3012 | AutoCAD I |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HVAC 3013 | AutoCAD for HVAC |
| HVAC 3014 | Building Environment Systems Control Laboratory |
| HVAC 3015 | Commercial Refrigeration System Design |
| HVAC 3016 | Commercial/Industrial Ventilation System Design |
| HVAC 3017 | Mechanical Systems Estimating |
| BLDG 2022 | Law and Construction Contracts |
**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Relate effectively to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration supervisors, coworkers and customers.
- Comply with applicable acts, regulations, legislation and codes to maintain personal and public safety.
- Solve scientific, mathematical and engineering problems related to designing, operating and installing energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
- Prepare and analyze detailed drawings, and compile technical specifications for energy systems.
- Design, operate and install energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
- Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.
** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6711
Email: skilledtrades@georgebrown.ca
Office: Casa Loma Campus, Room E308
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus information session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.
