Hands-on requirements make earning welding training online difficult; however, you can earn your diploma, certificate or 2-year degree on campus. Get information about program options and required classes.
Can I Learn Welding Online?
It's nearly impossible for you to learn about welding through an online certificate or degree program. You'll need to learn about handling materials and using welding equipment in person. However, you can earn your certificate, diploma or Associate of Applied Science degree through a traditional on-campus program.
You can learn how to work as a technician, welding supervisor, estimator or quality assurance professional. Certificate and diploma programs are available for pipe and other specific types of welding, but you can also complete a generalized program.
A certificate or diploma program can help you find work immediately after graduation. A 2-year program allows you to immediately enter the workforce as well, but you can also transfer to a 4-year program.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td>Online programs are not available due to the hands-on nature of the field</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Admission Requirements</b></td><td>High school diploma or GED; high school courses in welding or metal working may be beneficial</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Key Topics</b></td><td>Welding safety, inspection, electric techniques, metallurgy, steel fabrication</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Program Types</b></td><td>Certificates can be achieved in less than 6 months; diplomas are a bit more in-depth and allow for specialization; associate programs are the most comprehensive</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td> $44,190 (<i>for all welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 3% growth (<i>for all welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---HowCanIPrepare">How Can I Prepare?</h3><p>You'll need a high school diploma or a GED before you enter a welding program. While there aren't specific course requirements, high school students can enroll in a vocational high school for welding and metal working courses. As a high school student, you can also take courses in drafting and blueprint reading.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3><p>In a welding degree, certificate or diploma program, you'll learn about welding safety, how to inspect equipment and welding procedures. You'll also learn to create welds using gas shielded, oxy-fuel and electric techniques. This includes instruction on how to inspect and test welds.
</p><p>Welding coursework covers the use and welding of iron and non-ferrous materials, such as aluminum. After studying metallurgy, you'll learn to assess what type of material or technique is best suited to a welding task. You'll also complete courses in arc welding, steel fabrication, pipe fitting and structural welding.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAreTheDifferencesAmongCertificateDiplomaAndDegreePrograms">What Are the Differences Among Certificate, Diploma and Degree Programs?</h3><p>Certificate programs require the least amount of coursework and provide the most general training. You can earn a certificate in less than six months. Diploma programs are generally longer and allow you to specialize in a particular type of welding. Many diploma programs take a year or less to complete. Associate of Applied Science programs provide the most comprehensive training, along with some general education requirements. These programs usually require two years of full-time study to complete.</p>
