Ferris State University provides hands-on learning and allow graduates to get a leg up on the competition when seeking entry-level positions. Ferris State offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in welding technology. Courses range from basic welding to plasma arc welding and fabrication design. The program emphasizes accuracy of welding inspection techniques as well as mechanical testing and fabrication. You can attain an entry-level position with an associate degree, but students can also pursue a bachelor's degree. However, the bachelor's program is only offered to those who have completed the associate degree program. Courses in the bachelor's program include advanced welding, design of welding robotics, and technique specialization focusing on manufacturing and engineering. Those who complete this program work as welding designers, manufacturers, engineers, or plant project managers.
Of the 28 community colleges found in Michigan, Oakland Community College is the largest. For those interested in achieving welding degrees, Oakland offers a nine-class certificate program that includes state certification courses. Introductory courses teach skills such as gas, arc, metal inert gas, and tungsten inert gas welding. After completing these courses, students take higher-level courses such as structural welding, welding theory, various welding positioning, pipe welding, and plasma cutting. All classes feature multimedia elements and required laboratory experience. Proper safety procedure is emphasized for each kind of welding procedure. Graduates attain jobs in workplaces such as auto shops, art studios, and construction sites.
Alcotec Welding School offers a special program in aluminum welding because companies are moving from welding steel to welding aluminum. The program includes welding theory and hands-on experience with welding aluminum alloys. This program is designed for welding engineers, supervisors, designers, and sales representatives. The course fee is $1,000.
This community college offers an Associate in Applied Science degree in welding technology. Students transferring from Ferris State University can transfer credits. Lincoln Electric Co., a world leader in arc welding design and manufacture equipment, provides 43 welding stations.