Las Vegas College-Houston Career Institute

Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning

Houston Campus
Houston, TX
Diploma · On Campus
Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning
Accredited by ACCSC-accredited.
Classes are held on campus with hands-on instruction.
Tuition is $16,435 for the 840-hour Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning programme.
Complete Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning in 840 clock hours.
$0
Financial aid is available for students who qualify.

Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning is a Diploma program offered by Las Vegas College-Houston Career Institute in Houston, TX. The program takes 840 clock hours to complete, with a total tuition of $16,435.

Program Overview

Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning

Learn the foundational skills to install, maintain, and service commercial refrigeration and HVAC systems. Training is designed to prepare students for entry-level opportunities.

  • Hands-On Technical TrainingTrains students in basic electricity and refrigeration theory, commercial and residential air conditioning, heat pump systems, heating systems, and advanced troubleshooting and equipment installation at HCI's Bissonnet Street campus in Houston.
  • Day or Evening ScheduleEntirely classroom and lab — 504 lecture hours and 336 lab hours over seven 6-week modules, with day or evening classes (5 hours per day, Monday through Thursday).
  • EPA Certification Prep + Free ToolkitProgram is structured to prepare students to sit for EPA Section 608 Certification (refrigerant handling). HCI also provides each graduate with their own toolkit to keep as a graduation gift.

Program Overview

Our HVAC program provides comprehensive training in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and commercial refrigeration systems. You'll learn installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of modern HVAC/R equipment. Graduates are prepared for the EPA 608 certification exam and entry-level positions in this high-demand field.

Admission Requirements and Process

Our admissions process is simple and supportive. Apply today to begin hands-on training at our Southwest Houston campus, explore all available career training programs, or review financial aid options for those who qualify before you apply.

General Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
    High school diploma or a recognized high school graduation equivalent is required for admittance.
  • Minimum age
    Applicants must be at least 18 (or 17, with written parent or guardian approval, and must turn 18 before their expected HCI graduation date or before beginning any externships or…
  • EduReady Admissions Assessment
    All prospective students must take the EduReady Admissions Assessment, a proctored, web-based assessment of fundamental math, reading, and writing skills. Modular/clock hour…
  • Admissions interview in English
    Each admissions representative conducts interviews with prospective enrollees in English only as the method to determine that the prospective enrollee understands and can function…
  • Valid driver's license
    Students enrolling in the Electrical Technician and Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning programs must provide evidence that they have a valid, current driver's…
  • Online readiness for hybrid
    Students applying to programs offering distance education classes will complete an Online Readiness Assessment, will receive the Distance Education System/Technology Requirements…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Request Information
    Complete our online inquiry form or call (713) 568-0247 to speak with an admissions representative.
  2. 2
    Meet with an Admissions Representative
    An admissions representative will conduct an interview, discuss your career goals, and review program options.
  3. 3
    Tour the Campus
    Visit our 60,000 sq ft facility with classrooms, laboratories, a student lounge, and a Learning Resource Center.
  4. 4
    Complete Entrance Assessment & Provide Documents
    Prove academic readiness by achieving the required test score(s) for your intended program and submit required documentation.
  5. 5
    Sign Enrollment Agreement & Apply for Financial Aid
    Upon acceptance, complete an enrollment agreement. Financial aid is available for those who qualify; students apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  6. 6
    Start Training
    Applicants are informed of their acceptance status within 15 days after all required information is received. Attend orientation and begin your career training!

Campus Location

Houston Campus
Houston, TX

Why Accreditation Is Important

  • A reliable indicator of quality
  • Approved program of study
  • Qualified instructors
  • Recognition by employers nationwide

Accreditations

ACCSC-accredited

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Tuition
≈ $16,435
Total Program Cost
≈ $16,745
Net Price Calculator

Financial Aid for Career Training in Houston

Don't let cost be a barrier to your career goals. Financial aid options are available to help make your career training at Houston Career Institute affordable.

Federal Financial Aid Options

We offer several financial aid options to help you fund your education.

Federal Direct Student Loans

Federal loans available to eligible students. The loans are subsidized (government pays interest while student is in school) or unsubsidized (student must pay the interest), depending on a student's financial need. The U.S. Department of Education is the lender. The loans must be repaid with interest.

Federal Pell Grant

A federal grant for students with financial need. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be repaid.

Federal Direct PLUS Loan (Parent)

A federal loan available to parents of dependent undergraduate students to help cover education expenses. The U.S. Department of Education is the lender. This loan must be repaid with interest.

What Will My Training Cost?

Use our Net Price Calculator to estimate your cost to attend HCI after grants and scholarships, based on your family's situation.

Important Note

Priority is given to students with the lowest Student Aid Index (SAI) who are also Pell Grant recipients. Students are encouraged to submit their FAFSA as early as possible to maximize eligibility.

Federal Direct PLUS Loan (Parent)

The Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan is a federal loan available to parents of dependent undergraduate students to help cover education expenses. A student's dependency status is determined by the student's responses in the Student Personal Circumstances section of the FAFSA. The U.S. Department of Education is the lender.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • A student's biological or adoptive mother or father or the student's stepparent, if the biological parent or adoptive mother or father has remarried at the time of application. (See FAFSA Instructions regarding which parent must provide information on the FAFSA.)
  • Student must be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program
  • Parent must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Parent must not be in default on any federal loan or owe an overpayment on a federal grant
  • Parent must pass a credit check (an endorser may be obtained if denied)
  • Student must have a completed FAFSA on file

Loan Amount: Currently, parents may borrow up to the student's total cost of attendance minus any other financial aid already received.

How to Apply:

  1. 1Student completes the FAFSA at studentaid.gov
  2. 2Parent logs in to studentaid.gov using their own FSA ID
  3. 3Parent completes the Direct Parent PLUS Loan application

Grants

  • Free money — does not need to be repaid
  • Based on financial need
  • Awarded through FAFSA
  • Limited funding available

Loans

  • Borrowed money — must be repaid with interest
  • Available to eligible students and parents
  • Multiple repayment plan options
  • Grace periods may apply after graduation

Curriculum

Course & Module Breakdown

HCI's Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning curriculum at our Houston campus is structured into focused modules. Below is what students cover in each module:

The required courses below are from Las Vegas College-Houston Career Institute's published catalog.

Required Courses

Subject #NameLectureLabExternalTotal
CR100Basic Electricity Theory72480120
CR150Basic Refrigeration Theory72480120
CR200Advanced Electric/Commercial Refrigeration72480120
CR250Heat Pump Systems72480120
CR300Commercial/Residential Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps72480120
CR350Heating Systems72480120
CR400Advanced Troubleshooting and Equipment Installation72480120
Totals5043360840

Required Courses

Subject #Name
CR100Basic Electricity Theory
CR150Basic Refrigeration Theory
CR200Advanced Electric/Commercial Refrigeration
CR250Heat Pump Systems
CR300Commercial/Residential Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps
CR350Heating Systems
CR400Advanced Troubleshooting and Equipment Installation
Totals

Career Outcomes

Career Outcomes

The greater Houston metropolitan area includes an active commercial and residential construction market and supports a wide range of contracting, service, facilities, and maintenance companies. Graduates of HCI's Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning program may qualify for a variety of entry-level job titles, depending on the specific roles and certifications they pursue. Examples of entry-level job titles include:

  • HVAC Technician
  • Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic
  • Refrigeration Installer
  • HVAC Service Technician
  • Field Service Technician
  • Maintenance Technician
  • Assistant Facilities Manager
  • HVAC Installer
  • Engineering Technician
  • Maintenance and Repair Worker
  • Commercial Refrigeration Technician
  • Residential HVAC Technician
  • Property Maintenance Technician

Training for an HVAC Career in Houston

EPA certification is required to handle refrigerants legally, and HCI's Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning program at our Bissonnet Street campus is structured to prepare students to sit for that certification. Graduates also leave the program with their own toolkit, provided by HCI as a graduation gift.

What to expect as a Las Vegas College-Houston Career Institute student

Hands-On Training

Get real-world experience in our industry-standard training facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Houston Career Institute accept federal financial aid?
Yes. Houston Career Institute is approved to participate in federal Title IV financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and federal Direct Student Loans, for students who qualify.
What financial aid programs are available at HCI?
Available financial aid programs include the federal Pell Grant, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and institutional payment plans. The financial aid team reviews each student's eligibility individually.
How does someone apply for financial aid at HCI?
Students apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov. HCI's financial aid team helps students through the FAFSA process and follow-up paperwork.
Does HCI offer payment plans?
Yes. Houston Career Institute offers institutional payment plans for students who need to spread tuition over the program. The financial aid team reviews payment plan options individually with each student.
Are veterans benefits accepted at HCI?
Houston Career Institute participates in federal financial aid programs. Veterans should contact the financial aid team at (713) 568-0247 to discuss specific VA benefits eligibility and which benefits apply to their program of choice.
What programs does Houston Career Institute offer?
Houston Career Institute offers five hands-on diploma programs: Medical Assistant (9 months), Dental Assisting (11 months), Lab Assistant / EKG / Phlebotomy (9 months), Electrical Technician (10 months), and HVAC & Refrigeration (10 months). All programs are on-campus at HCI's Southwest Houston campus.
Where is Houston Career Institute located?
Houston Career Institute is located at 9700 Bissonnet Street, Suite 1400, Houston, TX 77036, in Southwest Houston near Sharpstown.
Is Houston Career Institute accredited?
Yes. Houston Career Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and is licensed by the Texas Workforce Commission, Career Schools and Colleges Section.
Does HCI accept financial aid?
Yes. Houston Career Institute is approved for federal financial aid programs including Pell Grants and federal student loans for students who qualify.
How long are HCI's programs?
Houston Career Institute's diploma programs range from 9 to 11 months, with hands-on, on-campus training.
Does HCI help graduates find jobs?
Houston Career Institute's Career Services team provides graduates with resume help, interview preparation, and connections to Houston-area employers. Career Services provides placement assistance; HCI does not guarantee employment.
How does someone apply to Houston Career Institute?
Prospective students can apply by calling (713) 568-0247 or submitting a contact form. HCI's admissions team meets individually with each applicant to review documents, discuss financial aid options, and confirm a start date.
What are HCI's admission requirements?
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). Some programs may have additional requirements; the admissions team confirms specific requirements during the individual admissions appointment.
What documents are needed to enroll at HCI?
Required enrollment documents typically include proof of high school completion (diploma or GED), a government-issued ID, and any required financial aid paperwork. The admissions team provides a complete checklist during the admissions appointment.
When can students start at HCI?
Houston Career Institute offers multiple start dates throughout the year. The admissions team confirms the next available start date for each program during the admissions appointment.
Does HCI require an entrance exam?
HCI's admissions process does not require a standardized entrance exam such as the SAT or ACT. The admissions team reviews each applicant's documents and discusses program fit during an individual appointment.
Does HCI accept transfer credits?
Transfer credit policies are reviewed by the admissions team on a case-by-case basis. Applicants who have completed prior coursework should bring transcripts to the admissions appointment for evaluation.
How long is HCI's HVAC & Refrigeration program?
Houston Career Institute's Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning program is a 10-month diploma program with hands-on training in residential HVAC, commercial HVAC, and refrigeration systems.
What does the curriculum cover (residential, commercial, refrigeration)?
The program covers residential HVAC systems, commercial HVAC systems, refrigeration cycles, electrical components, refrigerant handling, system installation, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.
Does the program prepare students for EPA 608 certification?
Yes. The program prepares students for EPA Section 608 certification, which is federally required for technicians who service equipment containing refrigerants.
What are the admission requirements?
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). HCI's admissions team works with each applicant individually on documents, financial aid, and start dates.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. Houston Career Institute is approved for federal financial aid including Pell Grants and federal student loans for qualifying students.
What jobs do HCI HVAC graduates pursue?
Graduates pursue roles such as HVAC technician, HVAC installer, refrigeration technician, and service technician at residential and commercial HVAC companies, property management firms, and industrial facilities throughout the Houston area.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning at Houston Campus.
Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning