60 Credits DIP3472, Academic Catalog 2025-2026
Trained, highly skilled personnel are needed for the exciting new technological demands of the residential/commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration industry. Independent and critical thinking men and women instilled with troubleshooting and electrical control circuit skills are vital for the future installation and servicing of HVAC/R equipment. The HVAC/R program at SCC is designed to prepare these individuals for entry-level positions in the HVAC/R field. To participate in the program, individuals should have a strong mechanical aptitude, strong math skills and enjoy problem solving.
Campus: North Mankato
Program Start Semesters: Fall and Spring
Base estimate for 60 credit program
Tuition is paid on a semester by semester basis and will vary depending on the courses and total credits you take.
Tuition and Fees: $12,867
Tools and Equipment: $875 - $2,425
Total Estimated Cost: $13,742 - $15,292 *
Compare the costs and you'll see that tuition at South Central College is much more affordable than other institutions.
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees rates. Does not include extra expenses for online delivery, course fees, or course differential. Books, transportation, and living expenses also not included.
The course requirements listed below are specific to the current school year (noted above). If you need to view the program from previous years view our Catalog Archive.
Required Technical Courses (16 Courses)
Complete the following courses:
HVAC2000 Electrical Circuits (2 credits)
This is an introductory course designed to help students understand the relationships of electricity. Electrical units, terms. formulas, and electrical schematics are covered. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2010 IPH Motors and Auxiliary Controls (2 credits)
The course will introduce the student to the different types of single-phase and three phase AC motors used on HVAC/R equipment. Motor starting devices and motor protection devices for single-phase motors will also be covered in depth. From an electrical controls schematic the student will connect and wire motors in start-stop circuits, reversing circuits and three phase circuits. The student will learn to electrically troubleshoot motors and motor control circuits utilizing motor wiring schematics. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program and be in their second or third semester. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2100 Refrigeration Theory (2 credits)
This course introduces the students to the refrigeration system, how it works, and the relationship between pressure and temperatures. We will discuss the reasons for EPA testing, refrigeration terminology, troubleshooting, and the proper handling of refrigerants. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2110 Refrigeration Controls (2 credits)
This course covers controls found in both household and commercial refrigeration systems. The functions and operation of these controls will be discussed along with proper troubleshooting procedures. This course will be offered concurrently with refrigeration theory and electrical circuits. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2120 Testing Refrigeration Systems (2 credits)
This course will cover analyzing, troubleshooting and testing of both the electrical and refrigeration systems. Safety will be stressed throughout this course. This course will be offered concurrently with refrigeration controls. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2205 Coolers/Freezers Electrical Systems & Components (3 credits)
This course will cover both commercial coolers and freezers. The electrical components that are used in commercial coolers and freezers will be studied, analyzed, operated, and tested. A large portion of the class will be designated to the drawing and understanding of wiring schematics for the purpose of troubleshooting electrical failures. Proper safety and troubleshooting techniques will be followed. To be successful in this course, you should have knowledge in electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, and refrigeration controls. (Prerequisite: HVAC 2120)
HVAC2215 Coolers/Freezers Refrigeration Diagnostics & Operations (3 credits)
This course will cover both commercial coolers and freezers. We will discuss the operation of the refrigeration sealed system and analyze how to diagnose system failures and their causes. The student will learn the proper way to recover and charge a commercial refrigeration unit. The students will study and follow EPA regulations regarding the handling of refrigerants. Proper safety and troubleshooting techniques will be followed. To be successful in this course, you should have knowledge in electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, and controls. (Prerequisite: HVAC 2120)
HVAC2220 Commercial Ice Makers (3 credits)
This course covers commercial ice makers used in the industry today. The electrical, mechanical and water systems will be studied, analyzed, connected and operated. The students will study proper troubleshooting and safety procedures. The students will then apply this knowledge when testing the electrical, mechanical and water systems. To be successful in this course, you should have knowledge in electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls and refrigeration sealed systems. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2230 Commercial Alternative Systems (1 credits)
This course will take a look at commercial refrigeration systems found in the Mankato area, along with the companies that service them. The class will take field trips to local businesses and service companies to see how they operate. To be successful in this course, you should have an understanding of the refrigeration sealed system components and how they work. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2240 Central Air Conditioning (2 credits)
This course covers the different central air conditioning systems found in residential and light commercial applications today. The electrical and mechanical systems will be studied and analyzed along with troubleshooting and safety procedures. The students will then apply this knowledge by using proper troubleshooting techniques for testing electrical and mechanical operations in the lab. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program and be in their second or third semester. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2251 Brazing (2 credits)
This course covers brazing equipment and materials. Students will be introduced to the soldering and brazing process, terms, and personal safety. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2301 Indoor Air Quality (1 credits)
This course covers equipment that deals with today's problem with indoor air quality. Students will study, analyze the causes of poor IAQ in homes and the work place. Each student will give an oral report on a topic picked by the instructor. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2310 Hydronic Heat (2 credits)
This course covers systems that utilize fluid for the transfer of heat known as hydronic heating. The electrical and mechanical systems will be studied and analyzed along with troubleshooting system fluid problems, air infiltration and proper operating pressures. The students will identify fluid control components, and demonstrate knowledge of each component's purpose in the lab. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program and be in their second or third semester. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2320 Gas Heat (3 credits)
This course covers the forced air gas heating systems found in residential and light commercial applications. The electrical and mechanical systems will be studied and analyzed along with troubleshooting and safety procedures. The students will then apply this knowledge by using proper troubleshooting techniques for testing electrical and mechanical operations in the lab. To be successful in this class the student should take HVAC 2000 and HVAC 2100 before or concurrent. (Prerequisite: None)
HVAC2325 Commercial Package Heat/Cool Units (2 credits)
This course covers the different commercial packaged heating and cooling systems found in residential, commercial and industrial applications. The electrical, mechanical systems will be studied and analyzed along with troubleshooting and safety procedures. The principle and operation of economizers and their controls will be discussed in class. The student will then take this knowledge and apply it in the lab. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program and be in their second or third semester. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2340 Sheet Metal Ductwork Fabrication (3 credits)
The course will introduce the student to the layout and fabrication of sheet metal ductwork in both commercial and residential applications. The student will fabricate fittings including reducers, transitions, takeoffs, ogee offsets and radius elbows. Residential duct design and sizing methods will be discussed along with heat loss/heat gain calculations with related computer software applications. The student will be exposed to blue print reading and related specification books. (Prerequisites: None)
Technical Electives (19 Credits)
Complete 19 credits from the following courses:
HLTH1950 CPR (1 credits)
This course covers the skills of infant, child and adult single and two rescue CPR as well as relief of foreign body airway obstruction procedures for infant, child and adult. Automated external defibrillators, bag-valve-masks and pocket masks are also used. Signs and symptoms of vascular disease are discussed. This meets the current criteria of the American Heart Association guidelines. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2410 Advanced Central Air Conditioning Lab II (2 credits)
This course is designed to give the student a more hands on learner guided course work. The student will be required to work on additional lab projects provided by the instructor, industry or the student themselves. Manufacturer instillation guides will be studied and detailed final project will be handed in. The student will practice troubleshooting techniques and get involved in helping fellow students in the lab area to sharpen their communication skills. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program, be in their second or third semester and take HVAC 2240 before or concurrent. (Prerequisites: None) ,
HVAC2420 Air Conditioning Internship I (1 credits)
This course covers air conditioning work related experiences. Each student taking this course will be required to fill-out an internship experience worksheet. Students will be repairing equipment in the shop as well as in the customer's home. This is under the guidance of the employer. To be successful in this course, you must have knowledge in electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls, refrigeration sealed systems or concurrently taking HVAC 2240. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2430 Air Conditioning Internship II (2 credits)
This course covers air conditioning work related experiences. Each student taking this course will be required to fill-out an internship experience worksheet. Students will be repairing equipment in the shop as well as in the customer's home. This is under the guidance of the employer. To be successful in this course, you must have knowledge in electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls, refrigeration sealed systems or concurrently taking HVAC 2240. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2440 Advanced Refrigeration Lab I (1 credits)
This course covers all aspects of today's refrigeration systems. This course is designed for students who want more hands-on training. The students will repair, replace and troubleshoot different types of refrigeration systems. EPA regulations will be followed. To be successful in this course, you must be knowledgeable in the following areas: electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls, and sealed systems. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2450 Advanced Refrigeration Lab II (2 credits)
This course covers all aspects of today's refrigeration systems. This course is designed for students who want more hands-on training. The students will repair, replace and troubleshoot different types of refrigeration systems. EPA regulations will be followed. To be successful in this course, you must be knowledgeable in the following areas: electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls, and sealed systems. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2460 Refrigeration Internship I (1 credits)
This course covers household or commercial refrigeration work related experiences. Each student taking this course will be required to fill-out an internship experience worksheet. Students will be repairing equipment in the shop as well as in the customer's home. This is under the guidance of the employer. In order to be successful in this course, you must be knowledgeable in the areas of electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls, and sealed systems. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2470 Refrigeration Internship II (2 credits)
This course covers household or commercial refrigeration work related experiences. Each student taking this course will be required to fill-out an internship experience worksheet. Students will be repairing equipment in the shop as well as in the customer's home. This is under the guidance of the employer. In order to be successful in this course, you must be knowledgeable in the areas of electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls and sealed systems. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2500 Advance Heating Lab I (1 credits)
This course is designed to give the student a more hands on learner guided course work. The student will be required to work on additional lab projects provided by the instructor, industry or the student themselves. Manufacturer instillation guides will be studied and detailed final project will be handed in. The student will practice troubleshooting techniques and get involved in helping fellow students in the lab area to sharpen their communication skills. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program, be in their second or third semester and taken HVAC 2320. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2510 Advanced Heating Lab II (2 credits)
This course is designed to give the student a more hands on learner guided course work. The student will be required to work on additional lab projects provided by the instructor, industry or the student themselves. Manufacturer instillation guides will be studied and a detailed final project will be handed in. The student will practice troubleshooting techniques and get involved in helping fellow students in the lab area to sharpen their communication skills. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program, be in their second or third semester and have already taken HVAC 2320. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2520 Heating Internship I (1 credits)
This course covers heating work related experiences. Each student taking this course will be required to fill-out an internship experience worksheet. Students will be repairing equipment in the shop as well as in the customer's home. This is under the guidance of the employer. In order to be successful in this course, you must be knowledgeable in electrical circuits, controls or concurrently taking HVAC 2320. (Prerequisites: None)
HLTH1952 First Aid (1 credits)
This course includes emergency care training for initial treatment of illness and injury. Patient assessment, bleeding control, shock management, soft tissue injury, orthopedic injury, diabetic problems, seizures, poisons, heat exposure and cold exposure are some of the topics covered in the course. This course is appropriate for anyone who may need to render immediate care. The topics covered do meet the course requirements for OSHA and MSHA first aid training.
HVAC2530 Heating Internship II (2 credits)
This course covers heating work related experiences. Each student taking this course will be required to fill-out an internship experience worksheet. Students will be repairing equipment in the shop as well as in the customer's home. This is under the guidance of the employer. In order to be successful in this course, you must be knowledgeable in electrical circuits, controls or concurrently taking HVAC 2320. (Prerequisites: None)
HLTH1954 Safety (1 credits)
This course includes basic OSHA safety standards. Hearing protection, eye protection, back injuries, lockout/tagout procedures, Hazard Communication Standard, bloodborne pathogens and substance use and abuse in the workplace are examples of topics covered in the course. The consequences of disregarding safety practices are explored. (Prerequisites: None)
MKT1800 Introduction to Sales (3 credits)
This course serves as a foundation for future sales courses. The instructional approach combines both traditional and innovative presentations of course content that is dependent upon student involvement. The content covers the role of sales, steps of the selling process, the importance of communication skills and a positive attitude. In addition, special attention is devoted throughout the course on how the salesperson is viewed as an ambassador for the company that they represent. (Prerequisite: None)
OTEC2000 Employment Search Skills (2 credits)
This course introduces students to a process for developing self-awareness - considering career opportunities, constraints, choices, and consequences - identifying career related goals - and planning of work, education, and related experiences to attain specific career goals. Students will also create job search documents and develop interviewing skills. The students will develop an understanding of and appreciation for the job search process. Students will use Internet and library resources.
HVAC1000 Alternative Refrigeration Systems Lab I (1 credits)
This course covers all types of refrigeration systems, residential and commercial. The course is designed for the student who wants more hands-on training. The student will troubleshoot, repair, and replace refrigeration systems. To be successful in this course, you should have knowledge in electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls and refrigeration sealed systems. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC1200 Alternative Refrigeration Systems Lab II (2 credits)
This course covers all types of refrigeration systems, residential and commercial. The course is designed for the student who wants more hands-on training. The student will troubleshoot, repair, and replace refrigeration systems. To be successful in this course, you should have knowledge in electrical circuits, refrigeration theory, controls and refrigeration sealed systems. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2330 Alternative Heating Systems (2 credits)
This course covers a variety of alternative heating systems, some of the systems included will be oil heating systems, a variety of electrical heating systems, heat pump systems and alternative fuel sources will be discussed. Electrical and mechanical systems will be explored along with safety, troubleshooting and equipment performance. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program, be in their second or third semester and have already taken HVAC 2240, and HVAC 2320 or concurrent. (Prerequisites: None)
HVAC2400 Advance Central A/C Lab 1 (1 credits)
This course is designed to give the student a more hands on learner guided course work. The student will be required to work on additional lab projects provided by the instructor, industry or the student themselves. Manufacturer instillation guides will be studied and detailed final project will be handed in. The student will practice troubleshooting techniques and get involved in helping fellow students in the lab area to sharpen their communication skills. To be successful in this class the student will need to be enrolled in the HVAC program, be in their second or third semester and take HVAC 2240 before or concurrent. (Prerequisites: None)
Required Arts and Sciences (6 Credits)
To complete the Advanced Diploma, students must complete 6 MnTC credits from 2 of the 10 MnTC goal areas.
PLEASE NOTE: All program plans are preliminary and curriculum may change without notice. Your catalog of record may have different requirements.
