Building Systems Technician (HVAC&R) - Accelerated

Overview

Heating and cooling systems are vital to the comfort and operation of homes and buildings. They also maintain the quality of critical-temperature products, such as food and medical supplies.

This program reflects the technological changes that are affecting the industry – indoor air quality, refrigerant conversion and recovery and energy conservation and management. It also provides you with the broad technical knowledge and skills that employers require.

Throughout this program, you develop skills in many aspects of the trade, including electrical and control systems, installation, maintenance, repair and servicing of basic heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for residential and commercial application.

Accelerated program delivery

• Classes take place during regular hours. Students can expect longer days than regular, full-time study programs.
• Classes continue throughout March break and summer.
• You must be prepared to attend classes on campus.
• Students are required to attend mandatory trade and safety orientations.

Work experience

• Field experience is a mandatory credit course, providing you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills outside of the classroom.
  • Opportunities are typically unpaid and last approximately 5 weeks.
• Transportation, accommodations and other costs related to work experience are your responsibility.
• For more information, visit work experience opportunities.

Other info

• This program places a high importance on providing you with skills and knowledge to work safely in industry. To prepare for employment, you participate in safety awareness courses.
• Many employers in this industry require a current, official criminal record check as part of the hiring process. A conviction on your criminal record may impact your ability to secure employment.

March 2025

Campus	Full time/part time	Delivery	Availability
Sydney Waterfront Campus Sydney	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Seats available

Admission requirements

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.
  • International students – High school diploma equivalency and English language requirements vary by country. View document and language requirements by country

Program requirements

• Portfolio development – As part of your studies at NSCC, you develop a portfolio of your work; the portfolio captures your achievements and profiles your skills to employers.

Tuition

Tuition amounts are for the 2024-25 academic year. Program costs and fees (textbooks, supplies, etc.) are additional.

Tuition, fees and program costs

• Building Systems Technician (HVAC&R) - Accelerated

Career options

• Graduates work as service technicians, building maintenance staff and tradespersons in the construction industry.
• Learn more about labour market information. View career options

Future study options

• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic is a compulsory trade in Nova Scotia. Once employed you will be required to register as an apprentice with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency as per the Apprenticeship and Trades Qualification Act.
• Red Seal Endorsement - individuals who complete an apprenticeship program are eligible to write the inter-provincial exam. A Red Seal allows certified tradespeople to practise the trade in any province or territory in Canada where the trade is designated.
• Continue your studies at university – This program includes courses that count towards a university degree. Find out more about having your diploma count towards a university degree