Welding is a skill that’s in high demand, and whether you’re in Texas or any other part of the U.S., getting hands-on training at a reputable school can make all the difference. Texas offers some of the best programs in the country, with schools providing instruction in various techniques such as TIG, MIG, and arc welding.
Learn more about these welding schools below as we provide insights on their tuition costs, earnings after graduation, and more, helping you make an informed decision when kickstarting your career.
Best Welding Schools in Texas
We’ve ranked the following welding schools according to tuition costs and expected salaries after graduation, as reported by College Scorecard, ensuring graduates get the best return on their education. However, other variables when selecting a welding school could include location, degree level, and more. It’s advised that prospective students thoroughly research each program of choice to make the best decision for them.
1. Alvin Community College
Type: Public
Location: Alvin, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $1,706
Out-of-State Tuition: $4,010
Median Earnings: $45,762
1-Year ROI: 2,682%
Alvin Community College offers the highest ROI among welding programs in Texas. With low tuition and strong post-graduation earnings, this program provides an excellent return on investment for students pursuing a certificate in precision metalworking.
2. Collin County Community College District
Type: Public
Location: McKinney, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $1,864
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,614
Median Earnings: $48,701
1-Year ROI: 2,613%
Collin County Community College District offers a competitive welding program with both certificate and associate degree options. The combination of affordable tuition and strong earnings after graduation makes this a top choice for aspiring welders.
3. Tarrant County College District
Type: Public
Location: Fort Worth, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $1,728
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,235
Median Earnings: $42,727
1-Year ROI: 2,473%
Tarrant County College District provides an affordable and flexible welding program, offering both certificate and associate degree options. The program’s combination of low tuition and competitive post-graduation earnings ensures a solid return on investment for students entering the welding field.
4. San Jacinto Community College
Type: Public
Location: Pasadena, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $1,872
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,040
Median Earnings: $43,062
1-Year ROI: 2,300%
San Jacinto Community College offers a high-value welding program with affordable tuition and strong post-graduation earnings. With both certificate and associate degree options, this program prepares students well for careers in precision metalworking.
5. College of the Mainland
Type: Public
Location: Texas City, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $1,773
Out-of-State Tuition: $3,873
Median Earnings: $39,639
1-Year ROI: 2,236%
College of the Mainland offers a well-rounded welding program with low tuition and solid post-graduation earnings. The program’s high ROI makes it a great option for students pursuing careers in precision metalworking.
6. Lamar State College-Port Arthur
Type: Public
Location: Port Arthur, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $1,770
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,890
Median Earnings: $37,120
1-Year ROI: 2,097%
Lamar State College-Port Arthur offers a strong welding program with affordable tuition and reasonable post-graduation earnings. The program is designed to provide students with the skills they need for success in precision metalworking.
7. Lee College
Type: Public
Location: Baytown, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,166
Out-of-State Tuition: $4,302
Median Earnings: $42,178
1-Year ROI: 1,947%
Lee College offers a competitive welding program with strong post-graduation earnings. The program’s affordable tuition and solid ROI make it an excellent choice for students seeking a career in precision metalworking.
8. Amarillo College
Type: Public
Location: Amarillo, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,136
Out-of-State Tuition: $4,704
Median Earnings: $41,302
1-Year ROI: 1,934%
Amarillo College offers a solid return on investment for students in its welding program. The combination of affordable tuition and competitive earnings after graduation makes this program a good option for aspiring welders.
9. Houston Community College
Type: Public
Location: Houston, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,040
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,460
Median Earnings: $39,254
1-Year ROI: 1,924%
Houston Community College offers a flexible and affordable welding program with both certificate and associate degree options. With strong post-graduation earnings, this program provides a good return on investment for students entering the welding industry.
10. Brazosport College
Type: Public
Location: Lake Jackson, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,411
Out-of-State Tuition: $4,748
Median Earnings: $45,910
1-Year ROI: 1,904%
Brazosport College provides students with an excellent welding program, offering both certificate and associate degree options. With affordable tuition and high median earnings, this program ensures a strong return on investment.
11. North Central Texas College
Type: Public
Location: Gainesville, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,520
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,200
Median Earnings: $45,809
1-Year ROI: 1,818%
North Central Texas College offers a strong return on investment with its welding program. With both certificate and associate degree options, and excellent post-graduation earnings, it provides students a valuable education at an affordable price.
12. Wharton County Junior College
Type: Public
Location: Wharton, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $2,520
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,048
Median Earnings: $44,960
1-Year ROI: 1,784%
Wharton County Junior College offers an affordable and effective welding program. Students benefit from competitive tuition rates and strong median earnings post-graduation, making this program a solid choice for those entering the welding field.
13. Dallas College
Type: Public
Location: Dallas, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,370
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,000
Median Earnings: $41,714
1-Year ROI: 1,760%
Dallas College provides an excellent value with its welding program, offering both certificate and associate degree paths. The combination of affordable tuition and solid post-graduation earnings ensures a strong return on investment for students entering the precision metalworking industry.
14. Kilgore College
Type: Public
Location: Kilgore, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,160
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,256
Median Earnings: $37,975
1-Year ROI: 1,758%
Kilgore College offers an affordable and flexible welding program, providing both certificate and associate degree options. The program’s competitive tuition and reasonable post-graduation earnings make it a good choice for students pursuing a career in precision metalworking.
15. Odessa College
Type: Public
Location: Odessa, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,400
Out-of-State Tuition: $4,566
Median Earnings: $42,026
1-Year ROI: 1,751%
Odessa College offers a strong welding program with solid post-graduation earnings. With affordable tuition and flexible degree options, it ensures students are well-prepared for careers in the welding industry.
16. Austin Community College District
Type: Public
Location: Austin, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,550
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,590
Median Earnings: $43,177
1-Year ROI: 1,693%
Austin Community College District offers a flexible welding program with strong earnings potential post-graduation. Although the out-of-state tuition is higher, the program still provides a strong return on investment for students entering precision metalworking careers.
17. Panola College
Type: Public
Location: Carthage, TX
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,208
Out-of-State Tuition: $4,896
Median Earnings: $36,072
1-Year ROI: 1,634%
Panola College provides an affordable and flexible welding program with both certificate and associate degree options. The program offers reasonable post-graduation earnings and a good return on investment for students seeking careers in welding.
How to Become a Welder in Texas
Becoming a welder in Texas is an excellent career choice if you’re interested in a hands-on job that’s in high demand. Welding professionals are needed in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair. The path to becoming a welder generally involves a combination of education, certifications, and on-the-job experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start your welding career in Texas.
Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma or GED
To start your welding career, you will need a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED). Most welding programs and apprenticeships require at least a high school level of education, with an emphasis on subjects such as math, science, and technical drawing, which are crucial for understanding welding techniques.
Step 2: Enroll in a Welding Program
The next step is to enroll in a welding training program at a technical school, community college, or dedicated welding school in Texas. These programs typically cover different welding techniques like MIG, TIG, and arc welding, safety practices, and blueprint reading. Depending on the program, you can earn certifications, diplomas, or even associate degrees.
Step 3: Gain Hands-on Experience
While formal education is important, practical experience is crucial for becoming a skilled welder. Many welding programs offer hands-on training as part of the curriculum, but you can also seek out apprenticeships or internships to get additional real-world experience. Working under experienced welders will help you master techniques and understand workplace safety.
Step 4: Earn Welding Certifications
Certifications are often required by employers to ensure you meet industry standards. The most widely recognized certification for welders in Texas is offered by the American Welding Society (AWS). You can earn certifications in various welding specialties, including structural welding, pipe welding, and more. Having these certifications increases your employability and allows you to work on more complex projects.
Step 5: Apply for Welding Jobs in Texas
Once you’ve gained the necessary skills and certifications, you can begin applying for welding jobs in Texas. Welders are in demand across various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas. Be sure to tailor your resume and highlight your hands-on experience, certifications, and any specialized training you’ve completed.
Licensure and Certification Requirements
The American Welding Society (AWS) is the leading organization offering certifications for welders in the U.S. AWS certification is highly regarded by employers and required by many industries. Key certifications include:
- Certified Welder (CW): This certification demonstrates that a welder can work according to specific welding codes and industry standards. It covers multiple welding processes.
- Certified Welding Inspector (CWI): A certification for experienced welders looking to oversee and inspect welding work.
- Certified Welding Educator (CWE): For welders who wish to teach welding techniques.
AWS certifications are typically earned after passing both written and performance tests that demonstrate your skill level in various welding methods.
In addition to AWS certifications, welders may need specialized certifications depending on their field. Examples include:
- Pipe Welding Certification: For welders working with pipelines or in industries such as oil and gas.
- Structural Welding Certification: Required for welders working on buildings and other large structures.
- Pressure Vessel Welding Certification: Important for those working on boilers or other pressurized systems.
Some certifications may be required by employers or government agencies for specific projects, especially in industries like construction and aerospace.
Salary and Job Outlook in Texas
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the low, average, and high welding salaries for Texas are:
- Low: $35,000.00
- Average: $53,000.00
- High: $72,000.00
These figures can differ based on several variables including welding specialty, employer, years of experience, and more. To gain a better understanding of your salary expectations, it’s important to conduct research specific to your circumstances.
As for career outlook, the BLS reports that “employment of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is projected to grow 2 percent from 2023 to 2033, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 45,800 openings for welders… are projected each year.”
While the average salary for welding in Texas is $53,000, nationwide, welders in the U.S. earn an average of $45,000 – $47,000 per year, with top earners making upwards $63,000, and specialized fields such as underwater welding exceeding $100,000 annually.
Is Welding School Worth It in Texas?
Attending welding school in Texas is often worth the investment if you’re looking to enter a high-demand field with solid earning potential and opportunities for growth. Here are a few reasons why:
- Strong Job Demand in Welding: Welding is a crucial skill across many industries, including construction, manufacturing, automotive, oil and gas, and aerospace. The demand for skilled welders is steady nationwide, and this is true for Texas as well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the employment of welders will remain stable, with opportunities for growth in certain industries depending on the region.
- Competitive Salaries: Welding offers competitive pay, especially for those with advanced certifications and experience. While the average salary for welders nationwide is around $47,000 per year, wages can vary by state. For instance, states like Texas, California, and Alaska often have higher-than-average salaries due to the presence of industries like oil and gas and aerospace, which are high-paying sectors for welders.
- Hands-on, Skill-Based Learning: One of the main advantages of attending welding school is the hands-on learning experience. Welding requires precise skills and practice that can only be mastered through real-world application. Most welding schools provide access to equipment, tools, and industry-grade materials, preparing students to enter the workforce with the necessary technical skills.
- Certification and Advancement: Completing a welding program provides the necessary training to earn certifications, such as those from the American Welding Society (AWS), which are often required by employers. Certified welders typically have more job opportunities and can command higher salaries.
- Flexibility in Career Choices: Welders have a wide range of career paths. You can start with entry-level positions and advance to higher-paying, specialized fields such as pipeline welding, underwater welding, or welding inspection. Welding schools in Texas typically offer various types of programs, from certificates to associate degrees, allowing students to choose the path that best suits their career goals.
With proper training and certifications, welding offers a stable and rewarding career path in various industries. If you’re considering welding school in Texas, be sure to explore local job opportunities, salary expectations, and the types of welding programs available to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does it take to complete welding school?
The length of welding school varies depending on the program and the type of certification or degree you’re pursuing. Typically, a certificate or diploma program can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months. If you pursue an associate degree in welding technology, it usually takes about 2 years to complete. Many schools offer flexible schedules, including part-time options, which can extend or shorten the overall duration.
Q: Do I need any prior experience or education to enroll in welding school?
Most welding schools do not require prior welding experience, but a high school diploma or GED is typically required. It helps to have a background in subjects like math, physics, and technical drawing, but welding programs are designed to train students from the ground up. Some schools may offer introductory classes to help you get comfortable with the basics before moving on to advanced techniques.
Q: What certifications can I earn through welding school, and are they necessary?
Welding schools offer various certifications, most notably those from the American Welding Society (AWS). AWS certifications, such as the Certified Welder (CW), are recognized industry-wide and often required by employers. Other certifications may include specialized fields like pipe welding, structural welding, or underwater welding. While not all welding jobs require certifications, having them significantly boosts your job prospects and earning potential.
