How much will it cost to become a welder? Learn about the costs associated with welder training during an apprenticeship, a trade school, or a community college program.
How Much Does Welding School Cost?
There are a few different routes you can take when becoming a welder. You can enter an apprenticeship, or enroll in either a trade school or community college. Each option comes at a different price point. Keep in mind, the following numbers are strictly an average. You may find a program near you with differing expenses.
Just as importantly, note that these figures are BEFORE any financial aid has been applied. Many schools offer financial assistance, and an internet search can lead you to dozens of available scholarships.
Trade School Cost
If you’re considering a trade school like Tulsa Welding School, the cost can range between $20,000-$24,000. Other schools, like Hobart Institute of Welding Technology, can fall between $17,000 and $33,000 depending on the program and whether or not you choose to live on campus.
Some universities host specialized programs and can be a little more costly, ranging upwards of $40,000 or more.
Community College
The expenses of community colleges can range, but for a welding program, you should expect a tuition falling between $5,000-$15,000. Prices can increase if you're an out-of-district resident, and can get higher if you're enrolling out-of-state. Welding programs through community colleges can take anywhere from a few months to 2 years if you attend full time.
The above cost estimates are not weighing in the additional cost of books, course fees, and living expenses.
Apprenticeship
A welding apprenticeship generally takes between 3-4 years to complete. You'll need at least 2,000 hours of hands-on training a year, and to be present for a formal education section of 144 classroom hours per year. Apprenticeships are great opportunities to earn some money while gaining hands-on experience.
Specialized Training
Choosing to pursue specialized training after you complete trade school will come at an additional cost - but also at a higher earning potential later in your career. For example, a specialization in underwater welding will not only prepare a welder for a career in that particular industry, but also sharpens one's welding skills, making him or her more marketable in general.
In many instances, your employer may help offset the cost of specialized training. Specialized programs vary in price, so you should research your particular school thoroughly.
Find a local welding trade school now.
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