The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology curriculum provides the basic knowledge to develop skills necessary to work with residential and light commercial systems. Topics include mechanical refrigeration, heating and cooling theory, electricity, controls, and safety. The diploma program covers air conditioning, furnaces, heat pumps, tools and instruments. In addition, the diploma covers residential building codes, residential system sizing, and advanced comfort systems. Diploma graduates should be able to assist in the start up, preventive maintenance, service, repair, and/or installation of residential and light commercial systems. Diploma graduates should be able to demonstrate an understanding of system selection and balance and advanced systems. Students may be awarded a nondegree credential (i.e., certificate) after completing a specific portion of the diploma program