Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) at Dallas College

The earnings trajectory tells the real story here: Dallas College HVAC graduates start at just $28,849—well below both Texas and national averages—but jump to $45,742 by year four, a 59% increase that ultimately surpasses the state median by over $15,000. While the program ranks only at the 40th percentile among Texas HVAC programs initially, that strong four-year outcome suggests graduates are building valuable skills and certifications that pay off with experience. The debt load of $9,720 is manageable at just 0.34 times first-year earnings, lower than both state and national averages for this program.

The concern is that initial earning period. At $28,849, new graduates earn significantly less than peers from comparable Texas programs—about $10,000 below what Lamson Institute grads make right out of the gate. This could reflect Dallas College graduates entering the field without all their certifications complete, or taking apprentice-level positions while they build credentials. For a student who needs immediate income, this matters.

For families willing to take a longer view, the four-year numbers justify the investment—graduates who stick with the trade end up earning solid middle-class wages with minimal debt. But students should plan financially for that lean first year and understand they'll need to actively pursue additional certifications and better positions to match the program's longer-term earning potential.