Welding is a skill that’s in high demand, and whether you’re in South Carolina or any other part of the U.S., getting hands-on training at a reputable school can make all the difference. South Carolina 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 South Carolina
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. Tri-County Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Pendleton, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,448
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,832
Median Earnings: $40,101
1-Year ROI: 902%
Tri-County Technical College offers the highest ROI among welding programs in South Carolina. With affordable tuition and strong post-graduation earnings, the program is ideal for students looking to pursue careers in precision metalworking.
2. Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Conway, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,372
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,620
Median Earnings: $35,507
1-Year ROI: 812%
Horry-Georgetown Technical College provides a strong return on investment for students pursuing a career in welding. The program offers both certificate and associate degree options, ensuring a high-quality education in precision metalworking.
3. Midlands Technical College
Type: Public
Location: West Columbia, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,788
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,812
Median Earnings: $38,701
1-Year ROI: 808%
Midlands Technical College offers a comprehensive welding program with both certificate and associate degree options. The combination of affordable tuition and competitive post-graduation earnings provides a solid ROI for students.
4. Aiken Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Graniteville, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,946
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,880
Median Earnings: $39,225
1-Year ROI: 793%
Aiken Technical College offers a strong welding program with an excellent return on investment. With low tuition and competitive earnings after graduation, it is a great option for students seeking a career in precision metalworking.
5. Piedmont Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Greenwood, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,547
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,593
Median Earnings: $35,768
1-Year ROI: 787%
Piedmont Technical College offers students an affordable and effective welding program with both certificate and associate degree options. The program’s competitive post-graduation earnings ensure a good return on investment.
6. Spartanburg Community College
Type: Public
Location: Spartanburg, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,902
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,822
Median Earnings: $37,097
1-Year ROI: 757%
Spartanburg Community College provides students with a well-rounded welding program, offering both certificate and associate degree paths. With reasonable tuition and strong post-graduation earnings, this program is a good investment for aspiring welders.
7. Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Orangeburg, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,970
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,970
Median Earnings: $35,761
1-Year ROI: 720%
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College offers a strong ROI with its welding program, providing students with the skills they need to succeed in the precision metalworking field. The combination of affordable tuition and competitive earnings makes it an attractive option.
8. Greenville Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Greenville, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $5,402
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,202
Median Earnings: $39,473
1-Year ROI: 731%
Greenville Technical College offers a competitive welding program with both certificate and associate degree options. The program’s combination of affordable tuition and high post-graduation earnings ensures a good return on investment.
9. Trident Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Charleston, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,564
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,606
Median Earnings: $38,253
1-Year ROI: 838%
Trident Technical College offers students a solid welding program with competitive post-graduation earnings. With both certificate and associate degree options, the program provides a strong return on investment for aspiring welders.
10. York Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Rock Hill, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $5,512
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,824
Median Earnings: $37,257
1-Year ROI: 676%
York Technical College offers students an affordable and flexible welding program with both certificate and associate degree options. The program provides a good return on investment, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in precision metalworking.
11. Florence-Darlington Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Florence, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,636
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,772
Median Earnings: $32,748
1-Year ROI: 706%
Florence-Darlington Technical College offers a competitive welding program with both certificate and associate degree paths. With reasonable tuition and solid post-graduation earnings, the program provides a good return on investment for students entering the welding industry.
12. Central Carolina Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Sumter, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $5,715
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,016
Median Earnings: $32,603
1-Year ROI: 570%
Central Carolina Technical College offers a flexible and affordable certificate program in precision metalworking. With competitive tuition and solid post-graduation earnings, the program provides a good entry point for students pursuing a career in welding.
13. Northeastern Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Cheraw, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $5,664
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,024
Median Earnings: $32,141
1-Year ROI: 567%
Northeastern Technical College offers a solid program in precision metalworking, with both certificate and associate degree options. Although the earnings are slightly lower compared to other schools, the program provides students with an affordable entry into the welding industry.
13. Williamsburg Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Kingstree, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,488
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,592
Median Earnings: $29,935
1-Year ROI: 667%
Williamsburg Technical College offers a flexible certificate program in precision metalworking with affordable tuition. While the earnings are slightly lower compared to other programs, it remains a good choice for students seeking a cost-effective entry into the welding field.
14. Denmark Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Denmark, SC
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $6,116
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,742
Median Earnings: $25,351
1-Year ROI: 415%
Denmark Technical College provides an affordable welding program, though post-graduation earnings are on the lower end compared to other schools. Despite this, the program offers a reasonable pathway for students looking to enter the precision metalworking field.
How to Become a Welder in South Carolina
Becoming a welder in South Carolina 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 South Carolina.
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 South Carolina. 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina
Once you’ve gained the necessary skills and certifications, you can begin applying for welding jobs in South Carolina. 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 South Carolina
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the low, average, and high welding salaries for South Carolina are:
- Low: $32,000.00
- Average: $44,000.00
- High: $57,000.00
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 South Carolina is $44,000, 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 South Carolina?
Attending welding school in South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina, 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.
