Need a quick snapshot of what our Welding programs offer? Check out our FAQs below.
Qualified Welders are in high-demand and the job opportunities continue to grow. Getting started at NCC is a cost-effective way to maximize your potential in the field. If you're unsure if this is the path for you, check out some of our frequently asked questions below to get more information surrounding the degrees and certificates we offer, career outlook, articulation agreements and program requirments. If you have more questions, or would like to visit our site, please call 610-332-6262; M-F. 8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., or email our Program Manager, Dino Forst, at dforst@northampton.edu. We look forward to working together!
Is the program offered full-time and part-time, and can I start in either the Fall or Spring?
The programs are both full and part-time. Students can start in the Fall or Spring. Daytime classes are required.
Are there industry certifications students can obtain as part of the program?
Yes, welding certifications and AWS SENSE
What is the difference between a Specialized Diploma, Certificate, and Associate's in Applied Science?
A Specialized Diploma is a two-semester program; the Certificate is a three-semester program, and the Associates in Applied Science is a four-semester program. Each program is stackable, which means you can complete one program and transfer the credits into the next program in sequence. Wages would increase based on the program completed.
What is the average starting salary?
Specialized Diploma - $12-15 hr
Certificate - $15-18 hr
Associates in Applied Science - $20-30 hr
What are the physical requirements with this career choice?
Heavy lifting, long hours, Standing, climbing, good eyesight.
How much hands-on exposure is there?
90% of coursework is hands-on
What are the career opportunities for this major?
- Specialized Diploma - Welder helper, Tack welder, Apprentice welder
- Certificate - Welder with certification, Ironworker, Pipefitter, Welding inspector
- Associates in Applied Science - Welding Supervisor, Welding inspector, Nondestructive testing Tech.
What local companies have hired past graduates?
10-31 Industries, ABEC, Inc., Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., ASSA ABLOY, Custom Alloy, Edwin Stipe Inc., Essroc Cement Corp., Flexicon Corp., Follett Corp, Foster Wheeler, Fronti Fabrication, G.J. Oliver, Inc., Keystone Food Products, Inc., K.M.E. Fire Apparatus, Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp., Lehigh Heavy Forge, Nestle Purina Pet Care Co., Newport News (Virginia), Pipefitters Local 420, Rotating Machinery Services, Royal Chemical, Sidleck, L.L.C., SmitHahn Company, Inc., Steel Management Systems, L.L.C., Strahman Valves Inc., Tappan Zee Constructors, L.L.C., U.G.I. Utilities, Inc., Valley Industrial Rubber, Victaulic, and many more.
What is the career placement percentage?
95%, Welding is a high priority occupation in the area
Are there online course options within this program?
Not for the technical courses, but there are online academic courses available.
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