Featured Programs and Schools


Job Description & Responsibilities of a Welder

Primarily, the job of a welder is to join different pieces of metal together by using heavy machinery and tools. A welder is responsible for repairing and maintaining metal components, as well as constructing new products with the help of high-heat equipment. From cutting metal to reading blueprints, and quality assurance, a welder is required to have an understanding of all these things. Some of the specific responsibilities of a welder include:

  • Reading and understanding drawings and blueprints to start a project.
  • Taking accurate measurements to cut materials according to specifications.
  • Having the knowledge to apply the right welding technique to achieve the desired result.
  • Understanding of both manual and mechanical welding techniques.
  • To be able to communicate properly and work as a team with the other workers.
  • Quality assurance and great attention to detail.

College Degree Requirements & Options Available

Once you have decided to pursue a career in welding, the next step is to research the best school and degree available in your area. The choice you make regarding degree level also depends on how far you plan to go in the field and anyone looking for leading roles, must go for advanced degree. Welding degrees that most schools are offering include:

  • Associate of Applied in Welding Technology.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Welding Engineering Technology.
  • Master of Science in Welding Engineering Technology.
  • Welding Certifications & Diplomas.

Top Welding Colleges and Universities in Michigan

Entering the field of welding is relatively easier compared to other trades. While the minimum requirement is a high school diploma with related subjects, there are many students who attend community colleges to earn associate’s degree or diplomas, followed by American Welding Society accredited certifications. In Michigan there is a growing demand for welders as automotive, aviation, and construction industries are booming. Keeping in mind the importance of the field, many colleges and universities in Michigan are offering welding related degrees and courses to students.

College NameLocationDegree/ProgramCredit Hours/DurationAreas of Study
1-Ferris State UniversityBig Rapids, MichiganWelding Technology
(Associate in Applied Science)
Minimum 60 credits (AAS)

Minimum 120 credits (BS)

Welding Processes
Concept, design, and engineering of weldments
2-Northern Michigan UniversityMarquette, MichiganWelding Associate Degree

Welding Certifications

2 years AAS program

1 year certification

Welding Processes and techniques like shielded metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, and gas metal arc welding
3-Washtenaw Community CollegeAnn Arbor, MichiganWelding Technology90 credit hours AAS program 24 credit hours certificationWelding and Fabrication  Programs
 4-Lansing Community CollegeLansing, MichiganWelding Technology, AAS

Welding Technology Certifications

60 credit hours AAS program

31 credit hours certification

Advanced Arc Welding. General Industry Safety. Pipe Welding. Combination Welding
5-Monroe County Community CollegeMonroe, MichiganApplied Science & Engineering Technology Division2 yearsWelding Technologist.
Welding Metallurgy.
Skills Development.

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