Programs of Study

Welding Technology AAS

Program Description

Craven’s Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry. Welding is the most common way of permanently joining metal parts. In this process, heat is applied to metal pieces, melting and fusing them to form a permanent bond.

The welding curriculum teaches students shielded metal arc, Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG), and Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding. Instruction in this 72 SHC program includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provide the student with industry- standard skills developed through classroom training and principle application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding related self-employment.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  • Demonstrate proficiency in maintaining and meeting safety protocols in accordance with industry standards while working in the welding, cutting and fabrication fields of study.
  • Demonstrate proficiency with identification, set-up and operation of industry standard equipment.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the cutting and joining of metals using a variety of welding processes and various positions, overhead, circular, grooved, etc. 
  • Demonstrate proficiency with regard to reading and interpreting mechanical drawings, welding symbols, and fabrication requirements.

Career Opportunities

Graduates may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in:

  • construction
  • manufacturing
  • fabrication
  • sales
  • quality control
  • supervision
  • welding-related self-employment.

Contact Information

Executive Director of Career Programs
252-638-7372

Admissions Office
252-638-7430

Degree Requirements

The following suggested schedule is based on full-time enrollment. Part-Time Students begin with ACA-111, WLD-110, WLD-115. Continue with sequence of required courses. General education courses may be taken at any time. For information about prerequisites and corequisites, please refer to the catalog.

Courses in this program

First Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 19

Second Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 17

Third Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 6

Fourth Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 14

Fifth Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 16

Major Elective

Contact an advisor for information on work based learning courses.