Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) at Delaware Technical Community College-Terry

This associate's degree in HVAC sits right at the national median for the field—both the estimated $41,438 first-year earnings and $12,000 debt figure come from comparable programs nationwide. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 suggests graduates could reasonably manage their loans, likely paying them off within a few years while building skills in a trade with steady demand.

What makes HVAC particularly appealing is that it's a hands-on field where experience quickly translates to higher pay and where many technicians eventually start their own businesses. The estimated debt here is notably lower than the $17,500 national median for similar programs, which matters when you're entering a profession where certifications and ongoing training will require additional investment after graduation. Delaware Technical serves a significant population of Pell grant recipients (38%), suggesting they understand the importance of keeping costs manageable for working-class students.

The major caveat: we're working entirely with estimates here since this is the only HVAC program in Delaware and its graduate numbers are too small to report publicly. The figures reflect what similar community college HVAC programs produce nationally, but outcomes at this specific campus could vary. For a two-year technical credential designed to lead directly to employment, the estimated financial picture looks reasonable—just verify job placement rates and local employer connections before committing.