Academics
Non-Credit Enhanced Facility Training Programs
Ranken partners to offer comprehensive training in issues related to the home inspection business. These courses run regularly throughout the year and are offered on a non-credit basis. (Click here for for-credit courses) Contact our Admissions office at (314) 371-0236, toll-free at (866) 4-RANKEN or admissions@ranken.edu to find out more about course format and pricing.
Current Courses
SEG100C SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNOLOGY TRAINING—120 Clock hours
Students learn the basic types of the photovoltaic system and their applications for both stand-alone (battery backup) and utility interactive systems (grid tied). Students will learn the about PV system install, design, size calculations and installation safety. The student will be able to draw one-line electrical diagrams for interactive and stand- alone PV systems showing all major components and subsystems, and indicate the locations of the PV source and output circuits, inverter input and output circuits, charge controller and battery circuits. This course is taught in accordance with the NABCEP PV entry level learning objectives and prepares students to take the NABCEP certification exam. At the end of the course, the student will be able to build a complete system from ground up. Lastly, the course covers the business side of the solar industry and helps the student understand what they need to know to run a solar business.
INT101C HOME INSPECTION TRAINING—120 CLOCK HOURS
This course will teach students the fundamentals of inspecting structure, exteriors, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating/cooling systems, insulation/ventilation systems, report writing and business development and marketing strategies. After completion of this course, students will be able to identify and properly document defects of a residential property within the standards of the industry. They will be able to properly document their findings on an inspection report. They will also learn essential skills in working with realtors, mortgage brokers, attorneys and financial institutions that play a key role in real estate transactions. The course is a blend of online pre-work, classroom and lab instruction.
INT104C Home Inspection Technical Certificate training—360 clock hours
This course is designed to prepare students to become a licensed home inspector. Upon completion, students will have the knowledge needed to pass both State and National Examinations also required for licensure. The course covers the fundamentals of each system of home; structures, exteriors, interiors, roof systems, HVAC, ventilation, plumbing, electrical. New construction and report writing are also covered in this course. The course examines the roles of the individuals key to a real estate transaction. Students will learn how to properly communicate to realtors, mortgage brokers, attorneys and financial institutions. Graduates of this program will be able to identify and properly document and report defects of a property within the standards of the profession. This is an online course with the option of attending an on-campus 8 hour lab session. Download application
INT102C HOME ENERGY AUDIT TRAINING—120 CLOCK HOURS
Energy audits have increased as the demand grows to lower expensive energy costs and move towards a sustainable future. There are tax credits from cities and the federal government for homeowners who implement recommendations made as a result of an energy audit. In this course you will learn the fundamentals of building science – thermodynamics, heat systems and transfer, moisture and humidity, airflow, insulation, thermal boundaries, R/U values, pressure boundaries, air sealing, blower door technology, ventilation, building calculations, combustion science and testing and energy conservation strategies.
INT103C LOCKSMITH TRAINING—120 CLOCK HOURS
After completion of this course, students will be able to disassemble, repin and reassemble Kwikset, Schlage and import-type locks. They will also know how to drill a lock, know key identification, duplication, impression and key code generation, master keying, lock picking, and car opening. In addition to the technical elements of the program, students will understand the fundamentals of how to market and sustain a successful locksmith business. Whether students become part time or later become a full time locksmith, they will know the principles of operating a locksmith business.
For more information about these courses, including scheduling and enrollment, contact the Admissions office at (314) 371-0236, toll-free at (866) 4-RANKEN or admissions@ranken.edu

