Welding Technology Degree Program

Description

The Associate in Science in Welding Technology Program is designed to provide comprehensive occupational training in common types of welding methods related to today’s welding industries.

The Welding Technology Program offers an Associate in Science in Welding Technology degree, as well as five Certificate options: Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, Gas Metal Arc and Flux Core Arc Welding, Pipe Code Welding, Structural Code Welding, and Welding Assistant/Helper. The Certificates are listed and linked in the For More Information section, below. These Certificate Programs are standalone certificates, and they are also stepping stones to earning the Associate in Science in Welding Technology.

This Program provides students with manipulative skills and technical knowledge required to perform in a variety of entry- to mid-level welding careers in manufacturing, petroleum, fabrication, and others.

The courses and training will prepare students to take the necessary code tests required in several occupational fields for employment.

Earnings Potential

For the Kern County region in California, earnings potential for welders will be determined by what process of welding is being performed, as well as where it is being performed. These ranges can also vary depending on experience. An entry level welder in a shop setting performing Shielded Metal Arc Welding (Stick) can expect to earn a salary of  $41,600 to $54,080 for structural welding. A "Single Hand Welder" in a shop setting or field can expect to earn a salary starting at $54,080 to $62,400 performing pipe welding. That salary is also increased to $110,240 to $114,400 for a "Rig Welder" performing mobile, onsite, and field welding. All salaries would be increased due to welders performing a specialty process such as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (TIG), Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG), or the welding of exotic metals. Welding salaries are substantially higher for Union welders where opportunities can be leveraged after a required amount of experience is completed.1 

1 Taft College Welding Technology Program. 24 October 2023.

Program Requirements

To earn an Associate in Science in Welding Technology, students must complete: (1) all course requirements with a minimum grade of “C” in each course; and (2) complete General Education Graduation Requirements with an overall GPA of 2.0 or better.

See the degree requirements in the Taft College Catalog. Please note: This links to an external website, the Taft College Catalog.

Program Learning Outcomes

After completing the Welding Technology Program, a student will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate proper safety practices when working in a welding environment.
  2. Demonstrate technical welding skills and knowledge sufficient to meet industry standards and perform various welding projects.
  3. Apply various hand, measuring, and layout tools to welding projects.
  4. Apply skills in reading and applied mathematics as related to welding.
  5. Demonstrate work attributes that contribute to personal success and contribute to the goals of an organization for which one is or will be employed.
  6. Pass industry code testing certifications required for employment based upon area of interest.

For More Information