Online HVAC Design Degree Program Information

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) design is part of the field of mechanical engineering. While an HVAC degree specifically for design is not available online, a 2-year upper-division bachelor's degree program in HVAC engineering technology can be earned online after completion of an associate's degree.

HVAC Related Online Bachelor's Degree

HVAC/R stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, with a qualification for refrigeration sometimes added. The field is related to architectural engineering and energy technology. Online degrees for HVAC design are unusual due to the hands-on nature of the work. Many programs require practice in an on-campus lab. An upper-division program resulting in a Bachelor of Science in HVAC Engineering Technology is available online. This program focuses on the development of HVAC systems and design of controls.

Program Information and Requirements

Students must first complete an HVACR technology program, such as an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), at an accredited school. Although the HVAC courses for this degree are available online, students must attend an on-campus orientation to be enrolled. Only one core class is offered each semester. The online upper-division sequence takes two and a half years to complete. Since the online program does not offer opportunities to practice in the field or lab, it is not recommended for students without previous experience with HVAC systems.
Most communication between instructors and students occurs through email. Lectures are recorded and available for students to view on their personal computer. Students must have computers with Internet access and the ability to play video.

List of Common HVAC Courses

Students learn to analyze the efficiency of heating, cooling and air conditioning systems. They identify problems and adjust performance. Most general education courses are available online, but are completed outside the upper-division HVAC program. Students must be proficient in algebra to fulfill requirements in pre-calculus, chemistry and physics.

Control Theory Course

Students learn about control loop theory, both in pneumatic and analog electronic systems. This course focuses on industrial and commercial applications.

Digital Control Course

This course covers direct digital electronic control of HVAC systems. It discusses how controls maximize or limit efficiency in conjunction with layout, programming and building operation.

Electricity-Circuits Course

HVAC design is dependent on electrical circuits in motors, controls, timers, relays and other devices. Students learn how to install, wire and analyze HVACR electrical components.

Career Information

Students who wish to train as HVACR installers or technicians, but do not need the expertise for design and engineering, should consider an online or on-campus professional certificate program. Some states require licensure for technicians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) most technicians worked for heating, plumbing and air-conditioning contractors in 2008. HVAC specialists also find employment in industries that rely on climate-control systems such as schools, government agencies, office buildings and hospitals. In 2008, the median hourly wage for a HVACR installer or mechanic was $19.08 (BLS).