Sacramento City College
Open tablet menu Close tablet menu×
Open mobile menu Close mobile menu×
Close search box×

Home Academics Programs and Majors Mechanical-Electrical Technology

Mechanical-Electrical Technology

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

Mechanical-Electrical Technology (MET) Courses

MET 250 Introduction to Mechanical-Electrical Technology

  • Units:1
  • Hours:18 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This introductory course is designed for potential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning/refrigeration (HVAC/R) career professionals such as stationary engineers, commercial refrigeration technicians, commercial HVAC/R control technicians, and residential air conditioning technicians. In this course, students will explore the available career opportunities, be introduced to the fundamentals of refrigeration and technical math associated with this field, and learn the requirements for a certificate in Commercial Building Energy Auditing and Commissioning Specialist, Mechanical-Electrical Technology, Mechanical Systems Technician, and completing the Associate in Science degree in Mechanical-Electrical Technology. A final grade of "C" or better is necessary to move on to MET 256, 257, 351, and 352.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify career opportunities in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning/refrigeration industry.
  • identify the basic components of a refrigeration system.
  • describe the basic theory of heat transfer and how it is applied to a refrigeration system.
  • perform a fundamental technical math calculation using unit cancellation.

MET 256 Fundamentals of Instruments and Electricity

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 250 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 257, 351, and 352 with grades of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment in MET 257, MET 351, and MET 352.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of electrical instruments and concepts required in commercial and industrial practice. Units of instruction include: fundamentals of electricity, Ohms law, use of voltmeters, ammeters, ohmmeters, series and parallel circuits, wiring diagrams, and electromagnetic theory. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recall and describe the key electrical components of control systems, including relays, switches, sensors, and loads.
  • explain the principles of electrical circuit analysis, including Ohm's and Kirchhoff's laws, and apply them to analyze and interpret control circuits.
  • diagnose and troubleshoot electrical control system issues by identifying faults, analyzing data, and recommending practical solutions.
  • design and construct functional electrical control systems by integrating components, developing control logic diagrams, and, if applicable, programming controllers to meet specific operational requirements.

MET 257 Fundamentals of Workplace Success

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:27 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:MET 250 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 256, MET 351 and MET 352 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 256, MET 351 and MET 352.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides the student with basic workplace skills needed to enter the workforce as a machinery systems technician. Units of instruction include teamwork, ethics, diversity, communication skills, writing e-mail messages, Internet websites, conflict resolution, critical thinking, problem solving, conflict resolution, career management, sexual harassment, and drug and alcohol use. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • define workplace success, proper attitudes, culture, politics, and attendance.
  • exhibit understanding of workplace teamwork, diversity, accountability, quality, and work ethics.
  • write cover letters and resumes for technical employment.

MET 294 Topics in Mechanical-Electrical Technology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:9 - 18 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is an individualized course developed in cooperation with industry to meet specialized training needs.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • understand and apply principles learned in mechanical-electrical technology.
  • interpret refrigeration, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, or water-wastewater treatment data acquired in the laboratory.
  • predict outcomes using the principles of mechanical-electrical technology.
  • develop analytical reasoning and critical thinking skills as they relate to the study of mechanical-electrical technology.
  • apply classroom study through application of planned, supervised, on-the-job experiences.

MET 295 Independent Studies in Mechanical - Electrical Technology

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed to provide student’s additional on-hands experience in the Mechanical Electrical Technology related disciplines. To be eligible for independent study, students must be currently enrolled in at least one Mechanical-Electrical Technology course. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval.

MET 350 Cal/OSHA 10 General Safety

  • Same As:IMMT 140
  • Units:1
  • Hours:18 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This class focuses on the training required for the 10-Hour Cal/OSHA General Industry Safety and Health training card program. Training includes safety policies, procedures, standards, and general industry safety and health principles. Topics for this course will include the following: Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Cal/OSHA; Injury and Illness Prevention Programs and Heat Illness Prevention; Walking and Working Surfaces, Including Fall Protection; Electrical Hazards; Hazardous Materials; Health Hazards; Personal Protective Equipment; Tools and Equipment; Hazard Communication; Material Handling. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer. Students are required to pay the Cal/OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Card fee.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • successfully pass the 10-Hour Cal/OSHA General Industry Safety and Health exam.
  • demonstrate the ability to identify, abate, avoid, and prevent job related hazards on a general industry job site.
  • recognize employee rights and responsibilities as a general industry worker according to Cal/OSHA Title 8 standards.
  • recognize employer responsibilities according to Cal/OSHA Title 8 standards.
  • describe how to file a complaint according to Cal/OSHA Title 8 standards.

MET 351 Basic Mechanical Systems

  • Units:5
  • Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 250 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 256, MET 257 and MET 352 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 256, MET 257 and MET 352.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed to introduce the student to the theoretical and practical applications of basic mechanical systems utilized in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, steam power generation, and the treatment of water for use in mechanical systems. Additional studies include fundamental laws of heat; theory of refrigeration and refrigerants; installation, operation, and testing of refrigeration units; and safe, efficient use of related hand, heat, and power tools. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • apply problem-solving skills to the maintenance, operation, and repair of mechanical systems.
  • utilize tools and equipment in the maintenance, operation, and repair of mechanical systems.
  • explain the theory and demonstrate practical applications of basic mechanical systems utilized in refrigeration, heating, cooling, steam power generation, and the treatment of water for use in mechanical systems.

MET 352 Mechanical Systems Calculations

  • Units:2
  • Hours:36 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:MET 250 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 256, MET 257, and MET 351 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 256, MET 257, and MET 351.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:AA/AS Area II(b)
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on building mathematical skills specific to the mechanical-electrical trades: problem solving using metric (SI) units and English and metric unit conversions; solution of word problems involving length, area, volume, weight, work, power, energy, and efficiencies; exponents, and roots; problem solving using graphs and tables; and algebraic solutions to applied problems. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • solve calculations related to Mechanical-Electrical Technology courses and mechanical systems using unit cancellation.
  • use applied calculations and formulas to solve for pressure, flow, and electrical related problems.
  • demonstrate problem-solving abilities and practical analytical thinking skills.

MET 357 Drawing Mechanical Systems

  • Units:1
  • Hours:18 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:MET 250 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:MET 351 and 352
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on building drawing skills specific to the mechanical-electrical trades; problem solving using graphs; freehand sketching employing multiview, isometric, and oblique drawing methods; and lettering and dimensioning. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate freehand sketching skills for use in mechanical-electrical field applications.
  • demonstrate freehand drafting skills for use in mechanical-electrical field applications.
  • demonstrate isometric and oblique drawing techniques for use in mechanical-electrical field applications.

MET 360 Mechanical Systems Maintenance

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 256, 257, 351, and 357 with grades of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:MET 363
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the student to maintenance concepts for basic mechanical systems. Units of instruction include safety, customer service skills, heating and cooling system maintenance, filter management, lubrication, belts and drives, and verifying equipment operation. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate safe workplace practices.
  • demonstrate system maintenance from a tasking sheet.
  • explain proper lubrication practices.
  • demonstrate customer service skills.

MET 361 Refrigeration Systems

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 351 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 352 with a grade of "C" or better. Concurrent enrollment in MET 362, MET 363, and MET 364.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is devoted to the study of residential and commercial refrigeration systems and equipment. Students learn about mechanical compression and refrigeration devices: their operating characteristics, common applications and typical servicing procedures, and related safety practices. Hand tools, power tools, and test instruments are used by the student in lab to repair and service refrigeration devices. Students gain additional experience by analyzing system performance with pressure-enthalpy diagrams. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • apply problem-solving skills to the maintenance, operation, and repair of refrigeration systems.
  • utilize tools and equipment in the maintenance, operation, and repair of refrigeration systems.
  • demonstrate an understanding of the theory and practical applications of refrigeration equipment, accessories, and controls.

MET 362 Refrigeration Systems Calculations

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:MET 351 and 352 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 361, MET 363, and MET 364 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 361, MET 363, and MET 364.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on mathematical problems involving English and metric (SI) units concerned with installation, operations, and maintenance of commercial and industrial refrigeration systems. Emphasis will be placed on basic heat transfer, loads, piping, equipment performance, and economic factors. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • apply problem-solving skills to refrigeration equipment and systems.
  • estimate the cost of a refrigeration system installation including materials, labor, and profit.
  • analyze manufacturer's data of equipment performance and economic factors related to refrigeration equipment.

MET 363 Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Processes and Procedures

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:27 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:MET 351 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 361, MET 362, and MET 364 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 361, MET 362, and MET 364.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on the recovery and recycling of existing refrigerants, the transition to environmentally safe refrigerants, and the preparation for certification testing in refrigerant handling as mandated by the Clean Air Act, 40 CFR, part 82, subpart F and regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate the necessary skills to successfully take the HVAC/R industry required Federal Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certification license examination.
  • recognize the importance of proper handling of refrigerants.
  • examine the environmental impact of improper refrigerant management.

MET 364 Electrical Controls

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 256, 351, 352, and 357 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 361, MET 362, and MET 363 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 361, MET 362, and MET 363.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides instruction in power and control circuits and devices used with refrigeration, heating, cooling, and pumping mechanical systems. Units of instruction include a study of electron theory, magnetism, induction, alternating current, direct current, resistance, and capacitance. Students will practice using electrical meters and test instruments in the laboratory. Electrical safety practices will also be covered. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • explain electrical theory, electrical circuits, circuit interpretation, and related electrical phenomenon.
  • evaluate electrical control schematics as used in HVAC/R industry.
  • troubleshoot various electrical circuits.
  • draw various types of HVAC/R control circuits.

MET 371 Gas-Fired Heating Equipment

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 351, 360, and 364 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 372, MET 373, and MET 374 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 372, MET 373, and MET 374.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides instruction on warm air furnaces, hydronic heating, steam boilers, and power plant systems. Instruction includes pumps, pumping head calculations, combustion principles, steam and hot water boilers, warm air furnaces, boiler safety and operating controls, and boiler emissions. Laboratory activities include operation, testing, maintenance, and troubleshooting of warm air furnaces and steam/hot water heating systems. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer. This course was formerly known as MET 371: Heating and Power Machinery.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • explain the theory and practice of heating and power machinery.
  • operate and troubleshoot a low pressure steam boiler system and related heating equipment.
  • describe pumps and piping systems.

MET 372 Power Machinery, Heating and Air Conditioning Calculations

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:MET 361 and 362 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 371, MET 373, and MET 374 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 371, MET 373, and MET 374.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on mathematical problems involving English and metric (SI) units concerned with installation, operation, and maintenance of power machinery, and heating and air conditioning systems. Emphasis will be placed on heat transfer, heating and cooling loads, pipe and pump sizing, steam and hot water system performance, psychrometrics, and duct sizing calculations. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of applied calculations and analytical thinking.
  • solve problems applied to a commercial building's ventilation, heating, and cooling systems

MET 373 Piping and Electrical Drafting and Blueprint Reading

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 360, 361, and 364 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 371, MET 372, and MET 374 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 371, MET 372, and MET 374.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides instruction in the design of mechanical and piping systems. Units of instruction include mechanical, electrical, and plumbing codes, blueprint reading, recognition of standard symbols, computer-aided drawing applications, and construction terms and specifications. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer. This course was formerly known as MET 373: Piping, Electrical, and Sheet Metal Drafting.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate problem-solving skills involved in mechanical and electrical systems.
  • demonstrate analytical thinking skills related to mechanical and electrical systems.
  • solve problems required for the design of electrical and piping systems for mechanical and electrical systems.

MET 374 Automatic Control Systems I

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 361 and 364 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 372 and MET 373 with a grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in MET 372 and MET 373.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the first of two courses (see MET 384) that focus on the study of controls and devices used in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and pumping systems. Units of instruction include control theory, final control devices, and pneumatic control systems. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need access to a computer running windows 10 or better with admin privileges and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate how to calibrate a pneumatic thermostat.
  • demonstrate how to program a Programmable Logic Controller.
  • interpret PLC ladder logic.
  • analyze a sequence of operations.
  • create a PLC application from a sequence of operations.

MET 378 Geothermal Heat Pump Operation and Maintenance

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:MET 256, 351, and 352 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides instruction in basic geothermal heat pump theory, cooling and heating cycles, load calculations, cost analysis, open and closed water loop systems, system diagnostics, and solar applications. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of basic refrigeration and geothermal heat pump theory.
  • explain geothermal heat pump cooling and heating cycles.
  • demonstrate an understanding of how to evaluate geothermal heat pump controls, defrost cycles, supplemental heat, and flow control devices.
  • design a heating-cooling geothermal heat pump system for a residential or light commercial application from concept to finish.

MET 381 Air Conditioning

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 371 and 372 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 383 and 384 with grades of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment in MET 383 and MET 384.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides instruction in the design, operation, and maintenance of commercial and industrial air conditioning systems. Instruction includes study of air distribution, variable air volume systems, refrigeration compressors, absorption air conditioning systems, helical-rotary and centrifugal water chillers, chilled water systems, thermal storage, cooling towers, and hot water solar systems, and energy management. Students will gain practical experience by operating commercial air conditioning systems. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • check for correct refrigerant charge on air conditioning systems.
  • replace a refrigerant compressor.
  • analyze the amount of energy saved by utilizing a thermal storage system.

MET 383 Instrumentation

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 371, 372, 373, and 374 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 381 and 384 with grades of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment in MET 381 and MET 384.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides instruction in the theory and practice of using instruments for testing and analyzing the operation of refrigerating, air conditioning, mechanical, electrical, and building systems. Units of instruction include a study of measurement principles including temperature, humidity, flow, light, sound, velocity, pressure, combustion emissions, air quality, voltage, level, force, and vibration. Laboratory activities will emphasize the practical applications of sensors and measuring instruments. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • describe different types of instruments used to measure and record temperature, humidity, flow, light, sound, velocity, pressure, combustion emissions, air quality, voltage, level, force, and vibration.
  • demonstrate skills in using measuring, indicating, and recording instruments for industrial mechanical and electrical systems.

MET 384 Automatic Control Systems II

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 371 and 374 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:MET 381 and 383 with grades of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment in MET 381 and MET 383.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the second of two courses (see MET 374) that focus on the study of controls and devices used in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and pumping systems. Units of instruction include electronic and direct digital controls, networks, interoperable systems, and the programming of controllers. Components of this course will be offered online. Students will need access to a computer running Windows 10 or better with admin privileges and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate basic wiring skills.
  • interpret function block logic.
  • analyze a sequence of operations.
  • design a Variable Air Volume (VAV) Rooftop Unit application from a sequence of operations.

MET 388 Heat Pump Operation and Load Calculations

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:MET 371, 372, and 373 with grades of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:MET 381, 383, and 384
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides instruction in refrigeration and heat pump theory, cooling and heating cycles, defrost cycles, controls, supplemental heat, flow control devices, and heat load calculations. Students will need to have access to a computer and the Internet and have some familiarity with a computer. The course was formerly MET 368: Heat Pump Operation and Maintenance.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • explain refrigeration and heat pump theory.
  • explain heat pump cooling and heating cycles.
  • evaluate heat pump controls, defrost cycles, supplemental heat, and flow control devices.
  • design a heating-cooling system for a residential application from concept to finish.

MET 495 Independent Studies in Mechanical-Electrical Technology

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at Sacramento City College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • produce work independently on Mechanical-Electrical Technology topics.

MET 499 Experimental Offering in Mechanical-Electrical Technology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.

Business and Industry

Business and Industry meta major

This program is part of the Business and Industry meta major.

Business and Industry