HVAC Schools in Massachusetts: The Ultimate Guide

Accredited Massachusetts HVAC Training Programs

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “Because HVACR systems have become increasingly complex, employers generally prefer applicants with post-secondary education or those who have completed an apprenticeship.” Also, some craft workers enter apprenticeship programs after working as a helper.

Formal education is not required by law in Massachusetts for entry-level HVAC or refrigeration workers, but it can help you land that first job in the field. There is licensing for industrial refrigeration and formal education can also be used in place of part of the experience requirement for licensing. In general, there’s a direct correlation between a degree and higher long-term earnings, so though it’s not required to go to HVAC school to get started, it could pay off in the long run. 

Massachusetts has a few programs accredited by either of the two main organizations that approve HVAC programs and schools nationwide: HVAC Excellence and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA). These organizations evaluate the programs based on the facilities, the faculty, and whether the curriculum meets or exceeds industry standards.

HVAC Excellence has not accredited any programs in Massachusetts. PAHRA has accredited two high school programs but no post-secondary ones currently. The two for high school students are:

• Cape Cod Regional Technical High School in Harwich

• Shawsheen Valley Technical High School in Billerica

There are many other post-secondary programs in HVAC and refrigeration. The Office of Public Safety and Inspection (OSPI) has a list of approved refrigeration programs on the state website.

HVACR Degrees & Certificates

As you weigh the benefit of getting some formal training at a technical or community college, you may want to speak with people in the field in your state. The licensing requirements vary from state to state, and some insist on a minimum amount of education. Other states, like Massachusetts, don’t have educational requirements to become licensed. If the return on investment is not there in your state, it may make more sense to simply get an entry-level position and get on-the-job training.  

Regardless of the educational requirements by state, anyone who maintains, services, repairs, or disposes of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere needs Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification. More on that later.

In terms of college education for HVACR techs, typically you’ll have a range of degree and certificate programs from which to choose. The time it takes to complete them and the cost of each are the most significant differences. The most common HVAC programs are:

• Certificate Program – three to six months

• Diploma Program – one year

• Associates Degree – two years

• Bachelor’s Degree – four years

Obviously, the longer the program, the more it costs. Most HVAC professionals have some post-secondary training because the systems used to regulate our homes and businesses are becoming increasingly complex and technical. However, very few HVACR professionals choose to get a four-year bachelor’s degree unless they’re seeking an engineering degree to design and develop those complex heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.  If this is a path that interests you, you may want to explore the Mechanical Engineering Bachelor of Science degree at one of the four-year universities in Massachusetts like:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge

• Olin College in Needham

• Boston University in Boston

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester

• Tufts University in Medford

• Northeastern University in Boston

• University of Massachusetts in Amherst

• University of Massachusetts in Lowell

As stated earlier, in many cases but not always, formal education pays off in the form of higher wages. 

Typical Courses in Technical College Programs

HVAC programs at technical colleges are all intended to prepare students for careers in the refrigeration, air conditioning and heating industries. All combine theory and the practical skills needed to do the job. Most encourage students to work in their field of interest while attending school if pursuing a longer degree, and many are designed with that in mind. One-semester programs typically prepare students to find entry-level work upon completion. 

For the certificate programs, the coursework is very specialized. Broader programs of study for lengthier diploma programs would incorporate classes on blueprint reading, basic electricity, gas heat, heat pumps and related systems, refrigeration fundamentals, principles and practices and system components. Air Conditioning certificates or diploma programs would also include classes on air conditioning systems application and installation and troubleshooting air conditioning systems.

Students pursuing an associate degree in applied science will need to fulfill general education coursework in addition to the specialized HVACR classes to meet the more rigorous requirements for that associate degree. 

School Selection Criteria

There are a lot of things to consider when picking the right school and program.

Cost

Cost is, of course, at the top of the list. According to Community College Review, tuition at Massachusetts community colleges on average is $4,424 per year for in-state students and $9,401 for out-of-state students. Some of the programs listed here can be less than $3,000. There will be some variations in fees at each school, so be sure to review all the costs involved. 

There are also always costs for books and tools, but those tools are yours to keep as you enter your chosen occupational field. All students who are interested in receiving federal (Pell Grant) and any state grants apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form online.

Program Length

As noted above, you can choose from a very specialized certificate or a broader diploma or associate degree. The certificates can require as few as a few months to complete. Others may  take three semesters but can be done within a year if students continue through the summer sessions. Associate degree programs typically take two years.

Benefits

There are many benefits to getting formal education if you want to join the HVACR profession. Though in Massachusetts there is no educational requirement to get started in the field, many employers will choose an applicant with a certificate or degree over one without credentials. Having some basic knowledge helps you to hit the ground running and secure your place in a shop full of professionals. Technical training is also usually rewarded with higher starting pay and lifelong earnings.

Online vs in-person

You may choose to get HVAC training through an online certificate program. Only you know if this type of independent curriculum will work for you. Both Penn Foster and Ashworth College offer online HVAC classes. Salem State University also offers an Online HVAC/R Training course that can be completed in 12 months.

Online programs are ideal for people looking for entry-level HVAC jobs or for entry-level workers who are looking to increase their salary. HVACClasses.org gives a detailed description of some of the top online programs nationwide. If you know your learning style relies on personal instruction, more traditional in-person classes are very accessible throughout the state.

Level of difficulty

HVACR programs are designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in the HVAC industry in commercial, industrial, or residential sectors. Curriculum includes an understanding of mathematics and physics. 

Refrigeration programs include detailed training in commercial refrigeration. HVAC technicians have to learn to do a lot of different things to be successful, including how to follow blueprints or other design specifications to install or repair HVAC systems, connect systems to fuel and water supply lines and air ducts, install electrical wiring and controls, proper techniques of refrigerant recovery, reclaiming and recycling, run diagnostics, and so much more. 

The BLS describes the many duties of a HVAC mechanics and installers this way: Install, clean, and maintain HVACR systems; Install electrical components and wiring; Inspect and test HVACR systems and components; Discuss system malfunctions with customers; Repair or replace worn or defective parts; Recommend maintenance to improve system performance; Keep records of work performed. And, of course, especially in residential HVAC work, customer service is key.

School Comparison: At a Glance

There are many technical training programs available in Massachusetts to learn about HVAC and refrigeration. Massachusetts Career and Technical Education offered in high schools throughout the state is a great place to start if you know early on that this is the career path you’d like to take. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education offers a Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration (HVAC/R) state approved (Chapter 74) program at various technical schools statewide. The Chapter 74 designation means the program will provide all the training required to begin entry-level work in the field including hands-on training. Among the schools that offer this HVAC/R program are:

• Attleboro High School

• Cape Cod Regional Technical High School

• Madison Park Vocational Technical High School (Boston Public Schools)

• Shawsheen Valley Technical High School

• Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School

• Worcester Technical High School

Check with your high school CTE coordinator to find the nearest program if it is not offered at your school.

Many Massachusetts Community Colleges have certificate or degree programs in HVAC/R. Each has different tuition and fees, but all offer students financial aid in the form of grants and loans. Some only offer online courses. Among those are:

Bristol Community College HVAC/R Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $2,895 

Bunker Hill Community College HVAC/R Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months 330 course hours $2,895 HVAC/R Technician (Voucher and Tools Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $4,395

Cape Cod Community College HVAC/R Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $2,895 HVAC/R Certified Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $2,895 

Greenfield Community College HVAC/R Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $2,895 

MassBay Community College HVAC/R Certified Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $2,895 HVAC/R Certified Technician (Voucher and Tools Included) | 12 months | 330 course hrs | $4,395

Middlesex Community College HVAC/R Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $2,895

North Essex Community College HVAC/R Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $2,895 HVAC/R Certified Technician (Voucher Included) | 12 months | 330 course hours | $2,895

The three Community colleges that have in-person HVAC/R programs are:

Massasoit Community College in Brockton HVAC-Building Systems Energy Management | AAS | 67 credits | $15,008

After graduation and completion of 4,000 hours of work students will be eligible to take the state refrigeration license exam. 

Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester HVAC | Certificate | 2 semesters | 27 credits | $65/credit | $650 max/semester 

Springfield Technical Community College in Springfield Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning | Certificate | I year | 29 credits | $6,600

There are also independent schools that offer HVAC/R curriculum. 

Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology (Franklin Cummings Tech) in Boston HVAC/R Technology | Certificate | 8 months day or night | $18,306

Motoring Technical Training Institute (MTTI) in Seekonk HVAC/R Technician Training | Diploma | 900 hours (Days 30/Evenings 75 weeks | $19,600         

New England Institute of HVAC in Lowell HVAC Training Program | 13 weeks | Day Course $6,975 | Evening Course $5,975

All of these programs prepare students for EPA Certification and OSHA safety certification.

Steps for Enrollment in Massachusetts

Every college has its own way of doing things, but in general the process begins with you visiting the school’s website and applying for admission online. Some require that you pay an application fee and provide several documents. In general, the application process has the following steps:

1. Complete your application.

2. Pay the application fee (if applicable).

3. Provide proof of residency to qualify for in-state tuition.

4. Have sealed official high school transcript or GED scores sent.

5. Submit placement test scores.

6. If applicable, apply for on-campus housing.

If you choose to start with an apprenticeship, you will want to contact the Local Union or non-union trade organization chapter closest to you. Each organization has a slightly different application process, but the application requirements in general are:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Must be a high school graduate, senior scheduled to graduate or have earned a GED certificate. Applicants will be required to provide a copy of their diploma or GED certificate, and an official transcript of their grades following submission of the application.

• Must have a valid driver’s license.

• Have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better or pass an aptitude test.

• Pass a drug screen and criminal background checks.

HVAC Career Requirements in Massachusetts

As mentioned earlier, Massachusetts does not have an educational requirement to legally perform entry-level Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, or Refrigeration work in the state. Entry-level professionals just need to meet employer expectations. The Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure Office of Public Safety and Inspections issues the Refrigeration Licenses, but those are only for Refrigeration Apprentices, Refrigeration Technicians, and Refrigeration Contractors who perform refrigeration work on refrigeration\air conditioning systems of TEN (10) tons or greater — typically industrial units. In terms of heating systems, OSPI issues Oil Burner Technician licenses as well. After a combination of classroom education and hours of work experience you can earn your license. Also, if you want to own your own HVAC business  you will want to get your license.

No matter what state you live in, there are Environmental Protection Agency requirements at the federal level for technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere. According to EPA regulations under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, this applies to any professional who conducts refrigerant line-pressure tests or handles or adds refrigerant to existing air conditioning systems. EPA certification is often part of HVAC degree programs. If you choose a shorter certificate program, you may need to get EPA certification on your own. Your employer should be able to guide you to resources, or you can find them in our Massachusetts HVAC License guide.

Salaries for HVAC Technicians in Massachusetts

Before paying for technical education and getting started in the HVAC field you’ll want some idea of what you can expect in terms of the return on your investment of time, effort, energy, and money. In other words, what can you expect to make as an HVAC professional in Massachusetts? Payscale.com data provides an answer based on your experience. The median HVAC salary in Massachusetts for 2023 is:

• Entry level <2 years: $55,100

• Intermediate 2-4 years: $66,900

• Senior 4-6 years: $73,300

• Supervisor > 7 years: $93,900

For more information about HVAC salaries, visit this state-by-state guide.

Industry Apprenticeships

Another way to get the training you need to become an HVAC mechanic or installer is through a formal apprenticeship. Most apprenticeships are three to five years long and require you to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or a GED, a valid driver’s license, and have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better. 

Union HVAC apprenticeships are offered throughout Massachusetts through the United Association local union chapters — LU 537 in Dorchester, LU 104 in Holyoke, and LU 4 in Worcester.

They are five years long. Each year includes 1,700 to 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and a minimum of 246 hours of classroom courses, including basics such as mathematics, science, drafting, welding, and other trade-related courses. Apprentices work for member contractors with an opportunity for increased wages each year until reaching journeyman status.

If you are interested in a non-union Refrigeration/HVAC apprenticeship, the Associated Builders and Contractors Massachusetts Chapter (ABC) works in cooperation with the non-profit Building Massachusetts Careers (BMC) to offer apprenticeships in the construction trades. The Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors of Massachusetts (PHCC) offers EPA Certification Training.

Some HVAC companies will hire applicants who have had no previous training and provide the training themselves — creating an in-house apprenticeship. A typical model of that is pairing a new employee with an experienced technician for the hands-on part of training and then requiring new hires to attend classes at night at a local community college or sometimes taught through the company itself. This typically includes getting EPA Certification and other HVAC certification such as North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certification to demonstrate your proficiency.

The state also has a website dedicated to registered apprenticeships for job seekers. 

Other School Options

We’ve highlighted accredited programs and community colleges and a few independent programs, but there are so many more HVAC and refrigeration training programs in Massachusetts. For example, the Peterson School has locations in Woburn, Westwood, and Worcester and offer classes in HVAC Refrigeration Code Prep, HVAC Controls and Energy Management, Advanced Refrigeration Theory and more—even offering combination packages so you can get exactly the training you need.

In addition to all those already mentioned each of the schools below have HVAC programs.

• Porter and Chester Institute in Brockton, Chicopee, and Worcester

• Southeastern Technical Institute in South Easton

• Salem State University (online only)

• New England Tractor Trailer Training School in North Andover (In addition to CDL truck driver training, NETTTS in North Andover offers HVAC training for those looking to learn the heating and cooling trade.)

Massachusetts has college campuses and trade schools across the state. You can find the training you need to excel in a career in HVACR in Massachusetts. The opportunities are all around you!