ZIGURAT Launches New Master’s in HVAC Systems with Energy Efficiency

ZIGURAT Institute of Technology has announced the launch of its new Master’s in HVAC Systems and Energy Efficiency, an international HVAC training program delivered in English. This Live Online master’s degree awards 60 ECTS credits and will welcome its first cohort in November 2026.

The new master in HVAC systems builds on the success of ZIGURAT’s Spanish-language Máster en Climatización HVAC con Eficiencia Energética, recently ranked among the top energy master’s programmes by the prestigious El Mundo ranking. With this international edition, ZIGURAT strengthens its commitment to training engineers and AECO professionals to design, size, and manage mechanical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, all while optimising energy efficiency and system performance.

A Critical Time for HVAC Training and Innovation

The demand for HVAC expertise has never been greater. Global cooling needs are rising and placing heavy pressure on energy grids and building performance. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), energy consumption for space cooling has more than tripled since 1990. At the same time, the HVAC market is booming: research by MarketsandMarkets forecasts growth from USD 299.28 billion in 2025 to over USD 407.77 billion by 2030, driven by the demand for high-performance, sustainable systems.

This fast-moving context is widening the gap between HVAC project complexity and professional capabilities. As systems become more digital, integrated, and performance-focused, many companies struggle to find talent with cross-disciplinary skills: HVAC design, energy modelling, international standards, and performance in operation. This HVAC master’s degree addresses the gap with a practical, globally aligned curriculum tailored to today’s real project needs.

A Full-Cycle HVAC Training Program

The master’s follows a project-based approach and covers the complete HVAC system lifecycle, from design and calculation to integration, commissioning, and operational optimisation. Participants will acquire advanced skills in:

• HVAC system design and thermal load calculation (ASHRAE methodology)
• Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) strategies and ventilation system planning
• Renewable energy integration (aerothermal, solar thermal, geothermal, biomass
• BIM (MEP) and BEM (energy modelling) workflows to improve building performance
• Leading HVAC certifications and sustainability standards: LEED, BREEAM, Passivhaus

Dual Degree and Global Scope

This master HVAC training program is aimed at professionals in the AECO industry: mechanical, electrical, MEP and industrial engineers, architects, facility and asset managers, and sustainability consultants who want to specialise in HVAC and energy performance.

Graduates will earn a double degree from ZIGURAT Institute of Technology and the University of Barcelona – IL3. The training is aligned with international standards and tools used in real-world HVAC projects across different climates and markets.