There are not particular career specializations within this industry, but opportunities do exist for individuals to move into more advanced positions through management classes and experience. They may also have the opportunity to work for themselves by opening their own contracting company.

• Certification in HVAC: 2 years to complete

Some high schools offer introductory HVAC courses, but most students who are really interested in an HVAC career will enroll in a postsecondary certification program. This program will normally take about two years to complete, and it will offer courses such as applied physics and chemistry, computer applications, blueprint reading, plumbing, and electrical and electronics training. It is also possible to train for this career by completing an apprenticeship, which typically lasts three to five years. Apprenticeships provide a combination of on-the-job training and classroom work. In addition to the certificate program or the apprenticeship, students training to become HVAC technicians must obtain between six months and two years of paid training experience.

After students have completed the proper training and apprenticeship in HVAC, they must be certified or licensed by the state in which they live. Each state has different regulations, testing requirements, and rules, so students should consult their state's Department of Labor and Industries to learn what their particular requirements are.

The kinds of classes an HVAC student will take will be specifically designed to help them operate, maintain, and repair HVAC equipment; therefore, they will probably take a course in heating machinery. They will study the format and design of popular heating units and learn how to install and repair them. Similarly, students will study the format and design of air conditioning and cooling manufacturing units. Again, a combination of diagrams, readings, and practical, hands-on training will help prepare students for their certification examinations and careers. 

Architectural classes will probably be required of HVAC students as well. Understanding the way ventilation systems are built into a house or building is essential for students to be able to work effectively with heating and cooling units. A preliminary understanding of plumbing may also be important for HVAC students. Another class will ask students to study the safety particulars of working with HVAC units. Because their jobs can be extraordinarily dangerous, HVAC professionals will regularly update themselves on safety precautions. Some HVAC degree programs will also include a course in basic business, especially useful for those professionals who want to be self-employed. 

In most cases, yes. In order to become certified as an HVAC specialist, which is the whole intention of earning an HVAC degree, students need to be able to demonstrate that they have mastered certain practical skills. In order to master these skills, HVAC students need to complete on-site training during which they will be taught how to operate and fix HVAC machines. 

There are many other types of vocational degree programs that are comparable to HVAC. Plumbing degrees, for example, will train students to install and repair plumbing systems. Many of the same classes that HVAC students take will also apply to electrician training programs. Electricians work with electrical units and are trained to repair wiring problems. An individual with a home inspection degree will have mastered all of these principles, and will be able to work with HVAC units, plumbing, and electricity.