The field of plumbing deals with the installation and repair of pipes that carry water, air, or other liquids or gases to and in different settings. It provides knowledge on commercial, residential and public building pipe systems for water, waste, gas and other substances. A degree in this area may help you find possible careers with the plumbing and heating industry. While some graduates work in power plants, or water treatment centers installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing systems, others may have their own businesses.
A degree in the field of plumbing can be suitable for you if you are comfortable with “getting your hands dirty.” Opportunities for plumbers are expected to grow during 2012 – 2022 period as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Associates Degree in Plumbing
Students who are interested in understanding plumbing technology consider applying for an associate in plumbing. It is a comprehensive program designed to train individuals as entry-level technicians. The program provides students with a chance to learn the basic theory and practices of plumbing and heating. Besides, candidates get hands-on experience in a laboratory setting.
Upon graduation students may look for employment in the plumbing and heating industry or further their education by working towards advanced programs such as a bachelor of science in business management technology.
What Courses are covered in the Associate in Plumbing?
The associate degree in plumbing covers a number of topics ranging from the basic tools to waste and venting and methods of fabrication to water sources and distribution. Some of the subjects that you may study are:
-
Fitting identification and usage
-
Drainage
-
Water piping methods and design
-
Sewage disposal and treatment
-
Household and industrial maintenance
-
Plumbing fixture
-
Appliance and appurtenance
-
HVAC controls
-
Blueprint reading and drafting
-
Basic electricity and construction safety
Continuing Education
After completing an associate’s degree in plumbing, you may also need to obtain a license before you can qualify for job openings. Requirements may vary from state to state, but in most cases, plumbers need to have 2-5 years of supervised work experience in order to receive a license. Besides, you need to pass an exam that gauges your proficiency in plumbing technology, and plumbing installation methods.
What Careers can you pursue with an Associate in Plumbing?
With an associate degree in plumbing, you may qualify to work as a plumber, pipefitter or a steamfitter. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected to grow by 21% from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS also reported that such professionals earned a median annual pay of $49,140 in 2012.
Once you earn a plumbing degree, you would have increased your chances of finding opportunities with a number of industries including building equipment contractors, repair and maintenance, commercial and nonresidential building construction and the government. You may also set up your own business and work independently.
An associate degree in plumbing might give you a chance to pursue a job that offers competitive wages. The work may also give you an opportunity to display your problem-solving skills.