Key Takeaways
The Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Environmental Control Technology (AIRE), A.S. at San Diego City College is a in-person associate of applied science (aas) program lasting 2 years with tuition of $2,760.
Associate in Science covering HVAC/R systems from residential refrigeration through commercial air conditioning and industrial freezing, with a series of complementary certificates along the way that can be used for job placement before the degree is finished.
At $2,760 in total tuition, this program is below the California median of $3,200. Its 2 years timeline is longer than the state norm of 1.2 years. It includes financial aid.
HVAC technicians in California earn a median of $57,180 per year (BLS OEWS), ranging from about $38,170 early in a career to over $81,370 for seasoned techs — so a program at this price point typically pays for itself within the first year or two on the job.
Upon completion you will earn a associate of applied science (aas) in HVAC/R. This in-person program takes 2 years to complete.