vcc.ca
RACM 4001: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Apprenticeship Level 4
Effective date
January 2027
Department
Refrigeration & Air Cond Appr
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
Designed for Level 4 apprentices, this course integrates advanced theory with practical application in refrigeration and air conditioning. Students will master electrical motor theory and control systems while interpreting complex wiring diagrams. The curriculum emphasizes the installation, commissioning, and servicing of gas-fired systems, including combustion analysis and venting. Learners will also refine skills in routine trade activities, mentoring, and the maintenance of HVAC/R systems to ensure industry compliance. This course has been developed to comply with the SkilledTradesBC Program Outline for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Apprenticeship Level Four.
Credits
17.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
Active STBC Apprentice Identification Number.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Interpret and apply trade codes, regulations, and standards to organize work and maintain records, while utilizing effective communication and mentoring techniques in a professional setting.
- Apply advanced electrical concepts to interpret wiring diagrams and schematics, analyze motor and motor control theory, and select appropriate control systems for HVAC/R applications.
- Analyze refrigeration and air conditioning theory to evaluate the operational performance and efficiency of complex refrigeration systems.
- Install comprehensive gas-fired systems, including the assembly of gas piping, regulators, valves, air supply systems, venting, and draft control systems.
- Install comprehensive gas-fired systems, including the assembly of gas piping, regulators, valves, air supply systems, venting, and draft control systems.
- Perform service and repair on HVAC/R systems, control systems, and gas-fired appliances, including the maintenance of burners, boilers, and gas distribution equipment.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 222
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 28
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 50
Total Hours: 300
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 28
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 50
Total Hours: 300
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
30 |
|
|
Final Exam |
30 |
|
Course topics
- Routine Trade Activities and Codes
- Communication and Mentoring Techniques
- Electrical Concepts and Controls
- Refrigeration and A/C Theory
- Gas-Fired System Installation
- System Commissioning and Analysis
- Service HVAC/R Systems
- Service Gas-Fired Appliances
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.