Whether you’re looking to start a welding career or you want to improve your skills as a welder, you’ll likely want to go to a welding school. However, choosing a welding school can be a difficult decision.
With so many schools out there, it is hard to know where to start. To make this process easier for you, we’ve created a list of factors you should consider that will help narrow down your search and get you on the right track.
Location Of The School
A welding school’s location directly affects your education by shaping the resources you can access. Rural schools may lack nearby metalworking companies or shops. City schools usually offer more access to those resources.
Length Of The Program
Welding school programs vary in length, ranging from a few weeks to two years. If you want to get started quickly and begin working as soon as possible, then choosing either an eight-week or twelve-week program might be the best option for you. However, if you are looking to learn more about welding before entering the field, you might want to consider a longer program.
Tuition And Fees
Welding school tuition and fees vary widely, so it’s essential to do your research before deciding which program is right for you. If you cannot afford the tuition at one school, consider looking into other schools.
Job Placement Assistance
After graduation, you’ll probably want to start working right away. If so, the welding school should offer job placement help. This can include resume support, continuing education for experienced welders, or job fairs with employers.
What Are The Top Welding Schools In The USA?
If you’re looking for quality welding schools, you should think about attending one that is well-known and respected. There are welding programs at technical colleges, community colleges, vocational schools, four-year universities as well as trade associations. Some of the top-rated welding schools in the USA include:
Albany Technical College
Albany Technical College is a nationally ranked welding school that offers a variety of programs and courses. They have an extensive 54-hour program that results in a diploma rather than a degree, allowing students to immediately get started in the field.
Ashland Community and Technical College
Ashland Community and Technical College offer a two-year welding program across the country. This progranm provides students with the skills they need to start their careers in welding. There are hundreds of subjects to pick from the curriculum to help you become eligible for hundreds of jobs in the industry.
Ferris State University
Ferris State University prides itself on the quality of its welding courses and is known for its effectiveness in preparing students to enter the workforce. They offer two-year associate degrees, four-year bachelor’s degrees as well as one-year certificates that you can complete quickly.
American Welding Society
The AWS website features a wide variety of online courses designed to fit any schedule. AWS courses use short modules with video, interactive tools, animations, and narration—unlike basic slideshows or recorded lectures. They’re accessible 24/7 on any device, so students can learn anytime.
Choosing a welding school can be tough. Focus on what you need from your education and weigh each factor carefully before enrolling.