Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician
Cambridge Campus, Canada
Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician
Conestoga College
Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (HVAC/R)
Program Overview
The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician diploma at Conestoga College prepares students for in-demand roles in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, including homes, hospitals, supermarkets, and green buildings. This two-year program provides extensive theory and hands-on training in heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, along with foundational skills in natural gas and electrical systems.
Students train in Conestoga's state-of-the-art Skilled Trades Centre, gaining practical experience in a fully equipped HRAC shop. The program incorporates studies dealing with current HVAC topics including green technologies, ensuring graduates are prepared for a constantly evolving industry.
Graduates may qualify to write the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) G3 and G2 Gas Technician exams. Additionally, graduates may be exempt from Level 1 of the 313A and 313D trade school apprenticeship, giving them a significant head start in their careers.
Key Program Highlights
- Hands-on training in Conestoga's new state-of-the-art Skilled Trades Centre with a fully equipped HRAC shop
- Eligibility to write TSSA G3 and G2 Gas Technician certification exams upon completion
- Potential exemption from Level 1 of 313A and 313D trade school apprenticeship programs
- Focus on green technologies and sustainable HVAC solutions for modern buildings
Curriculum and Modules
The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program is structured across four semesters over two years. The curriculum combines theoretical instruction with extensive practical lab work, covering all core aspects of the HVAC/R trade to ensure graduates are job-ready.
Electrical Fundamentals for HRAC
CoreIntroduces basic electrical theory and test instruments used in the HRAC industry, including Ohm's and Watt's Law, electrical calculations, and troubleshooting electrical test boards and projects.
Heating Systems
CoreCovers the principles and practical application of residential and commercial heating systems, including natural gas and propane regulators, gas meters, and their associated operations.
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
CoreProvides comprehensive training in refrigeration theory, air conditioning system design, installation, servicing, and troubleshooting of cooling systems and associated components.
Blueprint Reading for HRAC
CoreStudents learn the basics of blueprint reading as it relates to the HRAC trade, including interpreting electrical, mechanical, and piping drawings used in industry.
Advanced Electrical and Motor Systems
CoreA continuation course focusing on HRAC motor systems, phase electrical motors, wiring configurations, schematic wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting control circuits containing relays, timers, and motor starters.
HRAC Service and Troubleshooting
CoreStudents complete troubleshooting and safe diagnosis exercises in a lab environment, replicating typical on-the-job work orders while applying appropriate customer service and safety skills.
General Education and Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program must meet specific academic and language requirements. All applications and inquiries should be directed through Uni4Edu for streamlined processing and personalized guidance.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary School DiplomaOntario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent international credential
- English RequirementGrade 12 compulsory English, C or U level, or equivalent
- Mathematics RequirementGrade 12 Mathematics, C or U level, or equivalent
- Mature Student StatusApplicants 19 years of age or older without an OSSD may apply as mature students
- International Credential EvaluationTranscripts from outside Canada require a course-by-course comprehensive credential evaluation (e.g., ICAS or WES)
English Language Proficiency Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall 6.0 (no band below 5.5) — Contact Uni4Edu to confirm current requirements
- TOEFL iBTOverall 80 (minimum 20 in each section) — Contact Uni4Edu to confirm current requirements
- Other TestsPTE Academic, CAEL, and other approved tests accepted — Contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Conestoga College offers various awards, scholarships, and bursaries to support students financially. Student Financial Services awarded more than 400 awards, scholarships, and bursaries in a recent year. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on funding opportunities available to you.
Conestoga College Entrance Scholarship
Merit-based entrance scholarships are available for students demonstrating strong academic achievement in their prior studies. Eligibility and amounts vary by program and intake.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
HVAC/R technicians are in strong demand across Canada, driven by ongoing construction, building maintenance needs, aging infrastructure, and the growing focus on energy efficiency and green technologies. Graduates of this program enter a field with excellent employment stability and competitive wages.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Conestoga College is recognized as a leading Canadian Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning. As a polytechnic institution focused on applied education, Conestoga holds strong national recognition for skilled trades training, research innovation, and graduate employment outcomes rather than traditional global university rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Trades Training | CourseCompare | #1 in Canada |
| Engineering Technology Schools | University Magazine | #6 in Canada |
| Co-op Programs | CourseCompare | #3 in Canada |
| Graduate Employment Rate | Conestoga College | 90%+ within 6 months |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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