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

UEI College-West Covina's HVAC program delivers solid financial outcomes with manageable debt, though earnings lag behind California's stronger programs. Graduates earn $33,444 in their first year with just $9,500 in debt, creating an excellent debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28—well below the danger zone of 1.0. This low debt load is particularly impressive given that 72% of students receive Pell grants, indicating the program serves students from lower-income families without burdening them financially.

However, the earnings picture is more mixed. While graduates start at a respectable salary, the program ranks in just the 40th percentile among California's 44 HVAC programs, earning about $5,000 less than the state median of $38,137. Top California programs like DeHart Technical School produce graduates earning over $43,000—nearly $10,000 more annually. The program also falls short of the national median by roughly $2,300.

For families prioritizing affordability and job security, this program offers a practical path into a stable trade with minimal debt risk. HVAC technicians enjoy strong job prospects, and the low debt load means graduates won't be financially stretched while building their careers. However, if maximizing earning potential is the priority, other California programs deliver significantly higher returns, though likely at higher cost.