HVAC Schools in Tennessee: The Ultimate Guide

Accredited Tennessee HVAC Training Programs

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “Because HVACR systems have become increasingly complex, employers generally prefer applicants with post-secondary education or those who have completed an apprenticeship.” Also, some craft workers enter apprenticeship programs after working as a helper. The Home Builders Institute offers a pre-apprenticeship certificate training (PACT) program for eight construction trades, including HVAC.

Tennessee does not license HVAC apprentices or technicians at the state level. Cities and counties throughout the state issue traditional journeyman or master contractor licenses while the state issues contractor licenses. Formal education is not required by law by the state, but specific minimum amounts of verified experience are required for each level of licensing. However, technical education can help you land that first job in the field. In general, there’s a direct correlation between a degree and higher long-term earnings, so it could pay off in the long run. 

Tennessee has quite a few programs accredited by HVAC Excellence, one of the two main organizations that approve HVAC programs and schools nationwide. The other is Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA). These organizations evaluate the programs based on the facilities, the faculty, and whether the curriculum meets or exceeds industry standards.

HVAC Excellence has accredited the HVAC programs at 18 campuses of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT).

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Covington

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Memphis

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Morristown

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Nashville

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Whiteville

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Jackson

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Surgoinsville

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Clarksville

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Crump

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Crossville

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Dickson

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Elizabethton

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Knoxville

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Pulaski

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Shelbyville

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Chattanooga

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – McKenzie

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Newbern 

HVACR Degrees & Certificates

As you weigh the benefits of formal training at a technical or community college, you may want to speak with people in the field in your state. The licensing requirements vary from state to state, and some insist on a minimum amount of education to perform work on any heating systems. Other states, like Tennessee, favor local licensing, so you’ll need to follow the requirements of the municipalities where you plan to work — usually a minimum amount of hands-on training and in some cases classroom education. If the return on investment for formal education is not there in your state or jurisdiction, it may make more sense to simply get an entry-level position and get on-the-job training with these control systems. 

Regardless of the educational requirements by state, anyone who maintains, services, repairs, or disposes of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere needs Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification. More on that later.

In terms of college education for HVACR techs, typically there is a range of degree and certificate programs. The time it takes to complete them and the cost of each are the most significant differences. The most common HVAC programs are:

• Certificate Program – three to six months

• Diploma Program – one year

• Associate’s Degree – two years

• Bachelor’s Degree – four years

Obviously, the longer the program, the more it costs. Most HVAC professionals have some post-secondary training because the systems used to regulate our homes and businesses are becoming increasingly complex and technical. However, very few HVACR professionals choose to get a four-year bachelor’s degree unless they’re seeking an engineering degree to design and develop those complex heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.  If this is a path that interests you, you may want to explore the Mechanical Engineering Bachelor of Science degree at one of the four-year universities in Tennessee like:

• Vanderbilt University

• University of Tennessee Knoxville

• Union University

• Milligan College

• Lipscomb University

• Tennessee Technological University

• Christian Brothers University

• University of Memphis

• The University of Tennessee- Chattanooga

• Tennessee State University

As stated earlier, in many cases but not always, formal education pays off in the form of higher wages. 

Typical Courses in Technical College Programs

HVAC programs at technical colleges are all intended to prepare students for careers in the refrigeration, air conditioning and heating industries. All combine theory and the practical skills needed to do the job. Most encourage students to work in their field of interest while attending school if pursuing a longer degree, and many are designed with that in mind. One-semester programs typically prepare students to find entry-level work upon completion. 

For the certificate programs, the coursework is very specialized. Broader programs of study for lengthier diploma programs would incorporate classes on blueprint reading, gas heat, heat pumps and related systems, refrigeration fundamentals, principles and practices and system components. Air Conditioning certificates or diploma programs would also include classes on air conditioning systems application and installation and troubleshooting air conditioning systems.

Students pursuing an associate’s degree in Applied Science will need to fulfill general education coursework in addition to the specialized HVACR classes to meet the more rigorous requirements for that associate’s degree. 

School Selection Criteria

There are a lot of things to consider when picking the right school and program.

Cost

Cost is, of course, at the top of the list. According to Community College Review, tuition at Tennessee community colleges on average is $5,142 per year for in-state students and $15,666 for out-of-state students. However, many of the accredited HVACR programs listed here cost $7,000 to $10,000. There will be some variations in fees at each school, though, so be sure to review all the costs involved. 

There are also always costs for books and tools, but those tools are yours to keep as you enter your chosen occupational field. All students who are interested in receiving federal (Pell Grant) and any state grants apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form online.

Program Length

As noted above, you can choose from a very specialized certificate or a broader diploma or associate degree. The certificates can require as few as 16 credit hours and take one semester to complete. Others may consist of as many as 60 credits and take three semesters but can be done within a year if students continue through the summer sessions. Associate’s degree programs typically take two years.

Benefits

There are many benefits to formal education if you want to join the HVACR profession. Though in Tennessee there is no educational requirement to get started in the field, many employers will choose an applicant with a certificate or degree over one without credentials. Having some basic knowledge helps you to hit the ground running and secure your place in a shop full of professionals. Technical training is also usually rewarded with higher starting pay and lifelong earnings.

Online vs in-person

You may choose to get HVAC training through an online certificate program. Only you know if this type of independent curriculum will work for you. Both Penn Foster and Ashworth College offer online HVAC classes.

Online programs are ideal for people looking for entry-level HVAC jobs or for entry-level workers who are looking to increase their salary. HVACClasses.org gives a detailed description of some of the top online programs nationwide. If you know your learning style relies on personal instruction, more traditional in-person classes are accessible throughout the state.

Level of difficulty

HVACR programs are designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in the HVAC industry in commercial, industrial, or residential sectors. Curriculum includes an understanding of mathematics and physics. 

HVAC technicians have to learn to do a lot of different things to be successful, including how to follow blueprints or other design specifications to install or repair HVAC systems, connect systems to fuel and water supply lines and air ducts, install electrical wiring and controls, proper techniques of refrigerant recovery, reclaiming and recycling, run diagnostics, and so much more. 

The BLS describes the many duties of a HVAC mechanics and installers this way: install, clean, and maintain HVACR systems; install electrical components and wiring; inspect and test HVACR systems and components; discuss system malfunctions with customers; repair or replace worn or defective parts; recommend maintenance to improve system performance; keep records of work performed. And, of course, especially in residential HVAC work, customer service is key.

School Comparison: At a Glance

The accredited schools listed above are all Tennessee public colleges for technical training.    They offer students financial aid in the form of grants and loans; acceptance is typically on a first-come, first-served basis by date of completed application. All of the programs except in Chattanooga are 1,728 clock hours. Most are full-time programs, but some offer both full- and part-time

Full time 16 months — Diploma

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Morristown  (Day)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Hawkins Co. Extension Surgoinsville (Day)

Full time 16 months — Certificate/Diploma

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Memphis (Day/Night)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Nashville (Day/Night)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Whiteville (Branch Campus) (Day)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Jackson  (Day)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Clarksville Campus (Day)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Dickson (Day)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Elizabethton (Day)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Knoxville (Day/Night)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Pulaski (Day/Night)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology McKenzie (Day)

Full time/Part time 16 months — Certificate/Diploma

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Covington (Day/Night)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Crump (Day)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Newbern (Day/Night)

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Crossville (Day)

Part time 16 months — Certificate/Diploma

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Shelbyville (Night) 

3 semesters 1,290 clock hours — Certificate/Diploma

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology Chattanooga (Day/Night)

Steps for Enrollment in Tennessee

Every college has its own way of doing things, but in general the process begins with visiting the school’s website and applying for admission online. Some require that you pay an application fee and provide several documents. In general, the application process has the following steps:

1. Complete your application.

2. Pay the application fee (if applicable).

3. Provide proof of residency to qualify for in-state tuition.

4. Have sealed official high school transcript or GED scores sent.

5. Submit placement test scores.

6. If applicable, apply for on-campus housing.

If you choose to start with an apprenticeship, you will want to contact the Local Union or non-union trade organization chapter closest to you. Each organization has a slightly different application process, but the application requirements in general are:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Must be a high school graduate, senior scheduled to graduate or have earned a GED certificate. Applicants will be required to provide a copy of their diploma or GED certificate, and an official transcript of their grades following submission of the application.

• Must have a valid driver’s license.

• Have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better or pass an aptitude test.

• Pass a drug screen and criminal background checks.

HVAC Career Requirements in Tennessee

As mentioned earlier, Tennessee does not have an educational requirement to legally perform entry-level HVACR work at the state level, but some jurisdictions within the state may mandate education, so be sure to check with the jurisdictions where you intend to work. For a detailed explanation of Tennessee’s HVACR licensing requirements and how to fulfill them, check out our essential guide to getting your Tennessee HVAC License. 

No matter what state you live in, there are Environmental Protection Agency requirements at the federal level for technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere. According to EPA regulations under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, this applies to any professional who conducts refrigerant line-pressure tests or handles or adds refrigerant to existing air conditioning systems. The EPA certification test is often part of HVAC degree programs. If you choose a shorter certificate program, you may need to get EPA certification on your own. Your employer should be able to guide you to resources, or you can find them in our Tennessee HVAC License guide. 

Salaries for HVAC Technicians in Tennessee

Before paying for technical education and getting started in the HVAC field you’ll want some idea of what you can expect in terms of the return on your investment of time, effort, energy, and money. In other words, what can you expect to make as an HVAC professional in Tennessee? Payscale.com data provides an answer based on your experience. The median HVAC salary in Tennessee for 2023 is:

• Entry level <2 years : $48,200

• Intermediate 2-4 years: $58,300

• Senior 4-6 years: $63,000

• Supervisor > 7 years: $82,100

For more information about HVAC salaries, visit this state-by-state guide.

Industry Apprenticeships

Another way to get the training you need to become an HVAC mechanic or installer is through a formal apprenticeship. Most apprenticeships are three to five years long and require you to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or a GED, a valid driver’s license, and have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better. 

The Tennessee Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors (PHCC) association offers two options for apprentices in the state. The Knoxville PHCC Apprenticeship School has a four-year apprenticeship in which you work in the trade full-time while attending school. Alternatively, for those not in the Knoxville area, there’s the Tennessee PHCC Online Apprentice Program. This training course must be supplemented by the student’s employer through on-the-job training.

The Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater Tennessee provides a four-year HVAC apprenticeship program that meets U.S. Department of Labor standards.

Union HVAC apprenticeships are also offered in Tennessee through the United Association local union chapters — LU 614 in Memphis, LU 572 in Nashville, LU 43 in Chattanooga, and LU 538 in Johnson City. They are five years long. Each year includes 1,700 to 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and a minimum of 246 hours of classroom courses, including basics such as mathematics, science, drafting, welding, and other trade-related courses. Apprentices work for member contractors with an opportunity for increased wages each year until reaching journeyman status. These are programs approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Some HVAC companies will hire applicants with no previous training and provide the training themselves — creating an in-house apprenticeship. A typical model of that is pairing a new employee with an experienced technician for the hands-on part of training and then requiring new hires to attend classes at night at a local community college or sometimes taught through the company itself. This typically includes getting EPA Certification and other HVAC certification such as North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certification to demonstrate your proficiency. The state also has a website dedicated to registered apprenticeships for job seekers. 

Other School Options

We’ve highlighted accredited colleges thus far. However, though accreditation can give you confidence in your technical or community college, accredited programs are far from your only option in Tennessee for HVAC courses.

There are many other programs throughout the state that may be more accessible to you based on where you live. There are just too many to list them all here, but in addition to all those already mentioned, each of the schools below has HVAC programs.

• Fortis Institute in Cookeville

• Fortis Institute in Nashville

• Northeast State Community College in Blountville

• Remington College in Memphis, Nashville and online for Knoxville

• RCAM (Regional Center for Advanced Manufacturing) in Kingsport

• William Moore College of Technology (Moore Tech) in Memphis

• Total Tech in Nashville

• Tennessee Valley Technical Programs in Alcoa

Tennessee has hundreds of college campuses and trade schools across the state. You can find the training you need to excel in a career in HVACR in Tennessee. The opportunities are all around you.