Houston Community College Welding Program

Noteworthy Points:

Houston Community College (HCC) offers versatile and career-focused welding programs designed to prepare students with the critical skills needed to thrive in a modern welding industry. Whether you’re looking for a quick path to becoming a welder or seeking advanced welding knowledge, HCC provides flexible options with certificates in Structural Welding, Combination Pipe Welding, and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Welding Technology.

Program Highlights

HCC’s Welding Technology program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and extensive hands-on experience. You’ll gain practical skills through instruction in essential welding processes such as:

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG)
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG)
Pipe Welding Techniques
Robotic and Automated Welding Systems (pending approval)

Classes are conveniently offered with flexible schedules, including morning, afternoon, and evening options, making it ideal for working professionals or students balancing other commitments.

Degrees and Certifications Offered

Structural Welding Certificate (C1)

Duration: Two semesters
Ideal for quick entry into structural welding positions
Covers SMAW, GMAW, blueprint reading, and essential welding skills

Combination Pipe Welding Certificate (C1)

Duration: Three semesters
Builds on foundational structural welding skills
Advanced training in MIG, TIG, and specialized pipe welding techniques
Includes an Advanced Pipe Welding capstone course

Welding Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

Duration: Two years
Comprehensive program preparing students for advanced welding roles
Coursework includes welding metallurgy, inspection, quality control, and project management
Follows AWS (American Welding Society) guidelines and standards

Welding Automation Certificate (C1) – Pending Approval

Prepares students for careers in automated and robotic welding
Training includes robotic arm programming, 3D modeling, and welding inspection

Admission Requirements

To enroll in HCC’s welding programs, you must:

Hold a high school diploma or GED
Complete the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test for AAS and Level II certifications

Why Choose HCC?

HCC offers a practical and cost-effective way to quickly enter or advance in the welding field. Key advantages include:

Flexible Scheduling: Morning, afternoon, and evening classes available.
Affordable Tuition: Cost-effective compared to many private institutions.
Comprehensive Training: Strong balance of hands-on practice and theoretical instruction.
Industry Alignment: Courses designed to meet growing demand in manufacturing, construction, and industrial sectors.
Career Support: Strong employment placement rates due to industry connections.

While the associate degree requires a greater time commitment, it positions you for higher-level roles and provides extensive training aligned with industry standards.

Category	Description
Tuition	Varies by program, contact the school for specific details
Program Duration	Certificate programs: 1-2 semesters; AAS Degree: 2 years
Class Schedules	Morning, afternoon, and evening classes available
Welding Classes Offered	Structural Welding, Combination Pipe Welding, Welding Automation, Welding Technology (AAS)
Certifications	Certificates in Structural Welding, Combination Pipe Welding; AAS in Welding Technology
Program Focus	Entry-level and advanced welding skills, including MIG, TIG, SMAW, pipe welding, and automation
Online Classes?	No
Financial Aid Options	Yes, financial aid is available
Location	3100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
Phone	(713) 718-2000
Website	HCC Welding Program