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

What stands out about Midlands Technical College's HVAC program is how its graduates outperform the national field—first-year earnings of $46,803 place this program at the 95th percentile nationally, well above the typical $35,749. While debt figures are estimated from peer programs at similar community colleges (around $9,300), the resulting debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.20 suggests graduates earn roughly five dollars for every dollar borrowed, a strong financial position for entering the trades. Four-year earnings of $53,555 show steady growth in a field known for consistent demand.

Within South Carolina, however, the picture is more competitive. Midlands sits in the middle of the state's HVAC programs—behind Greenville Tech's $50,802 but ahead of programs producing graduates earning in the mid-$30,000s. The estimated debt here is notably lower than South Carolina's typical $12,546, which helps offset the earnings gap with top state performers. For a certificate program that gets graduates working quickly, this combination of below-average estimated debt and above-average national earnings represents solid value.

The main caveat: since the debt figure is estimated rather than reported for this specific program, actual borrowing could vary. Still, the strong earnings outcomes are real and measurable. For families prioritizing quick entry into a stable trade with minimal debt risk, Midlands delivers on the fundamentals—though students serious about maximizing earnings might also consider Greenville Tech's program.