The initial and crucial step towards fulfilling your aspirations of becoming a residential or commercial HVAC technician in Bakersfield, CA, is selecting a suitable HVAC school.
No matter if you are a novice looking to begin your career or seeking to advance your skills, Bakersfield offers numerous options to consider.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best HVAC schools in Bakersfield, highlighting their programs, tuition, and locations to help you make an informed decision.
1 San Joaquin Valley College
About the School
San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) is a private career college that was founded in 1977.
With 17 campuses spread throughout California, SJVC provides students with a wide range of vocational and career-focused programs.
The college aims to provide students with practical skills and hands-on experience to prepare them for successful careers in their chosen fields.
SJVC provides an HVAC program that is specifically tailored to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning sector.
The HVAC program encompasses various subjects such as refrigeration, electrical systems, ductwork, and installation and maintenance of HVAC equipment, ensuring students receive comprehensive training.
Students can earn either an Associate of Science degree or a certificate upon completion of the program.
Courses Offered
Students can earn either an Associate of Science degree or a certificate upon completion of the HVAC program.
Some of the courses offered at San Joaquin Valley College include:
- Theory & Applications of Air Conditioning
- Theory & Applications of Refrigeration
- Theory & Applications of Electricity
- Advanced Electricity
- Advanced Air Conditioning
- Advanced Refrigeration
- Air Distribution Systems
Upon completing the program, students will gain the knowledge and skills to install, operate, maintain, and repair residential and light commercial HVAC and refrigeration systems.
Students will also learn how to use the basic tools of the trade and apply advanced electrical concepts and critical thinking skills to interpret and draft schematic wiring diagrams, perform system diagnostics, and interpret results.
The program’s cost varies depending on the degree or certificate pursued.
The cost for an Associate Degree in HVAC-R at SJVC is $35,417.50, while the cost for a Certificate is $23,612.
To help students cover the cost of their education, SJVC takes part in federal financial aid programs.
Students applying for financial aid must confirm their eligibility each year.
To be eligible, students must complete the application process, meet academic progress requirements, and be enrolled at least part-time.
Address: 201 New Stine Road, Bakersfield, CA 93309
2 Bakersfield College
About the School
Students who enroll in Bakersfield College’s HVAC program graduate with the knowledge and abilities necessary to succeed in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning sector.
The program focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of HVAC systems, including design, installation, maintenance, and repair.
Students in the program have access to hands-on training in well-equipped labs and classrooms and are taught by experienced instructors with years of HVAC industry experience.
In addition to classroom instruction and hands-on training, the program includes an internship component allowing students to gain real-world experience.
Courses Offered
The HVAC program at Bakersfield College is designed to be completed in two years and offers both an Associate in Science degree and a Certificate of Achievement.
The courses in the HVAC program include:
- Principles of Air Conditioning
- Refrigeration Technology
- Electricity Applied to HVAC
- Industrial Refrigeration Operation
- Industrial Technology Careers
- Programmable Logic Controls
- Ice Machine Service & Repair
Upon completing the program, students can apply their knowledge to troubleshoot, maintain, and repair HVAC systems.
Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for entry-level positions in the HVAC industry, including jobs such as HVAC technicians, installers, and repairers.
The enrollment fees for Bakersfield College are set by the state and are currently $46 per unit.
Accordingly, the total cost of tuition will change based on the number of units taken each semester.
Students may also incur additional costs for textbooks, supplies, and other fees related to the program.
However, financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available to help students cover these expenses.
Address: 1801 Panorama Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93305
3 UEI College
About the School
UEI College is a private vocational college with multiple campuses throughout California.
The HVAC program offered by UEI College prepares students for entry-level jobs in the HVAC sector.
The program covers various topics related to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and is intended to be finished in as little as 10 months.
Courses Offered
The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
Some of the courses offered include:
- Basic Electricity, Motors and HVAC Controls
- Basic Refrigeration Theory and Application
- Air Conditioning, Troubleshooting and Heat Pump Systems
- Heating Systems
- Duct Design, Blueprint Reading and Load Calculation
- Commercial Refrigeration Systems
- Specialized Commercial Equipment and Green Awareness
- Regulation and Building Automation
- Electrical and Mechanical Troubleshooting
The cost of tuition for UEI College’s HVAC program is $21,500.
However, the total cost of attendance may vary depending on other factors, such as books, supplies, and other fees related to the program.
UEI College offers financial aid options to help students cover tuition and related expenses.
UEI College also offers career services to its students, assisting with job placement and helping students prepare for interviews and job searches.
Address: 3737 Rosedale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93308
Schools Summary Table
Rank | School | |
---|---|---|
#1 | San Joaquin Valley College | |
#2 | Bakersfield College | |
#3 | UEI College |
Read the full guide: How to Become an HVAC Technician