Charleston Southern University
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in South Carolina / Charleston Southern University
Charleston Southern University – Charleston, SC
Program Information
Charleston Southern University (CSU) provides a range of skilled trades training programs designed to prepare students for hands-on, workforce-ready careers in HVAC, Plumbing, and Carpentry. These programs emphasize applied learning, blending classroom instruction with extensive lab experience to ensure students gain the practical skills needed for jobs in construction, building systems, and mechanical trades throughout South Carolina and the Southeast. CSU’s curriculum is aligned with industry standards, offering students opportunities to develop technical proficiency, safety awareness, and job-site readiness.
The HVAC program trains students to install, maintain, and troubleshoot residential and commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Coursework includes refrigerant handling, electrical controls, diagnostics, system design, airflow measurement, and energy efficiency. Students work hands-on with modern HVAC units, tools, and testing equipment while preparing for industry-recognized certifications such as EPA 608. Graduates are equipped for roles such as HVAC installer, service technician, maintenance technician, or refrigeration technician.
The Plumbing program provides training in water distribution systems, drainage systems, venting, gas piping, pumps, fixtures, and plumbing code compliance. Students practice pipefitting, soldering, brazing, threading, and safe tool use in lab environments. The curriculum covers residential and commercial plumbing applications, preparing students to enter apprenticeships or entry-level plumbing roles with contractors, utility companies, and mechanical service providers.
The Carpentry program teaches foundational and advanced construction skills, including framing, blueprint reading, roof construction, drywall installation, trim work, cabinetmaking, and flooring. Students complete real-world carpentry projects using industry-standard tools while learning job-site safety protocols and construction methods used across residential and light commercial building projects. Graduates are prepared for roles such as carpenter’s assistant, construction laborer, or entry into union apprenticeship programs.
Program Length
- Certificate programs: approximately 1 year
- Associate degree programs: typically 2 years
Hands-On Training
Students gain practical experience in:
- HVAC system installation, diagnostics, and refrigerant handling
- Electrical control systems and HVAC troubleshooting
- Residential and commercial plumbing installation and maintenance
- Pipefitting, soldering, brazing, and equipment safety
- Carpentry framing, finishing, cabinetry, and blueprint reading
- Tool safety, measurement, and project management basics
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math and mechanical reasoning skills
- Ability to meet physical demands of hands-on trade work
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for EPA 608 and other industry-recognized credentials
- Career pathways include HVAC technician, plumber, pipefitter, carpenter, or construction technician
- Hands-on training supports strong employability in South Carolina’s growing construction and mechanical trades industries
Location
Charleston Southern University
9200 University Boulevard
Charleston, SC 29406
Serving students across South Carolina with practical, career-oriented technical education.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Charleston Southern University (Charleston, SC) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Bachelor’s Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at Charleston Southern University. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.