Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation program at BCIT offers a comprehensive introduction to the essential skills required in the refrigeration industry. This certificate program is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge in basic refrigeration system design, installation, and service. Graduates will be prepared for entry-level positions in the commercial refrigeration sector, making it an excellent starting point for those looking to build a career in this field. The program is delivered in person, ensuring hands-on experience and direct interaction with instructors.

Program Structure

The Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation program is structured as follows:

Program Length: 25 weeks, full-time
Total Credits: 50.0 credits
Delivery Method: In-person at Burnaby Campus
Grading: Minimum passing grade is 64%, with an overall GPA of 70% required for successful completion

This program includes the first level of Gas B training, allowing students to progress into the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technician Co-op program after completion. Students will gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for a successful career in refrigeration and air conditioning.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on training in basic refrigeration system design and installation
Opportunity to enter the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technician Co-op program after completion
In-person delivery ensures direct interaction with instructors and practical experience
Includes the first level of Gas B training, enhancing employability in the field

Career Options

Graduates of the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation program can pursue various career opportunities in Canada, including:

Refrigeration Mechanic: Responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining refrigeration systems in commercial and residential settings.
HVAC Technician: Specializes in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, ensuring optimal performance and energy efficiency.
Service Technician: Provides on-site service and repairs for refrigeration and air conditioning units, troubleshooting issues as they arise.
Apprentice Refrigeration Mechanic: Works under the supervision of experienced mechanics to gain practical experience and complete apprenticeship training.
Field Service Engineer: Involves working with clients to design and implement refrigeration solutions, often requiring strong problem-solving skills.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation program, applicants must meet the following entrance requirements:

English language proficiency: One of the following:
- Category 2 – English Studies 12 (67%) or equivalent
- BCIT English Trades Entry Assessment
Math: One of the following:
- Pre-Calculus 11 (60%)
- Foundations of Math 11 (60%)
- Workplace Math 11 (60%)
- Other acceptable BC and Yukon courses
- BCIT Math Trades Entry Assessment
BCIT Mechanical Reasoning Trades Entry Assessment

Applicants should also have:

Good command of oral and written English
Sufficient physical strength and stamina to meet the demands of the work, good hearing, good eyesight, normal colour vision, manual dexterity, and hand/eye coordination
Good theoretical and practical mathematical skills and mechanical aptitude

International applicants: This program is available to international applicants. Please note that international students are not eligible to continue to an apprenticeship training program. A valid BCIT study permit is required prior to starting the program.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the Academic Requirements, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

At LOA Portal, we understand that demonstrating English proficiency is essential for your success in the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation program. For this program, which is categorized under Language Requirements level 2, the following English Language Proficiency assessments are accepted:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 5.5
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test - 70 overall band score with no component below 60
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - Overall score of 60 with no skill score less than 60
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) - Overall score of 86 with no section score less than 20
Duolingo English Test - 120 overall with no integrated subscore less than 95
BCIT English Competency Assessment - Minimum score of 70%

It is important to note that test results must be dated no more than two years before the start date of the program you’re applying to. Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!