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

UEI College-Phoenix's HVAC program delivers modest but reasonable outcomes with a significant advantage in affordability. At $33,444 in first-year earnings, graduates earn slightly below both the national median ($35,749) and Arizona median ($35,744) for HVAC programs, ranking in the 40th percentile statewide. However, the program's debt load of $9,500 matches Arizona's median and creates a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28—meaning graduates owe less than three months of their annual salary.

The earnings gap is meaningful but not devastating. Top Arizona HVAC programs like Refrigeration School Inc produce graduates earning $48,145, nearly $15,000 more annually. Still, UEI's lower debt burden partially offsets the earnings disadvantage. With 70% of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves students who need affordable workforce training rather than premium outcomes.

For families prioritizing quick workforce entry with minimal debt, UEI-Phoenix offers a practical path into a stable trade. HVAC work provides steady employment, and the modest debt load won't burden new graduates. However, if your child can access higher-performing programs in Arizona, the potential for significantly higher earnings may justify exploring those options first.