Houston is home to several top-notch schools offering pipe welding programs, each designed to equip students with the skills they need for careers in the welding industry. Below is an overview of some of the leading pipe welding schools in the Houston area, highlighting key aspects of each program.
- Lone Star College
Offers a variety of certificates and degree options focusing on SMAW and GMAW techniques, with programs lasting from 1 to 2 years. - Tulsa Welding School
A 9.5-month program that provides hands-on training in pipe welding techniques like SMAW, GTAW, and FCAW, available in flexible schedules. - San Jacinto College
Offers several certification options in pipe welding, including a 3-month Stick Pipe Welder certificate and a 2-year AAS degree. - Precision Welding Academy
A 1,200-hour program with advanced training in structural and pipe welding techniques, including certifications such as AWS SENSE Level II. - Universal Technical Institute
A 36-week program with comprehensive training in MIG, TIG, stick, and pipe welding, preparing students for entry-level welding careers. - College of the Mainland
Provides a range of programs from certificates to AAS degrees, with a focus on pipe welding using processes like SMAW and GTAW. - Lee College
Offers certificates and an AAS degree in welding, focusing on pipe welding techniques, safety, and equipment setup. - Fortis College, Houston South
A 48-week program emphasizing pipe welding techniques, including SMAW and GTAW, with flexible morning and evening classes. - Arclabs Welding School
Offers specialized programs, including a 1,300-hour Master Welder track focusing on pipe welding, with hands-on training and certifications. - Premier Welding Academy
Provides advanced stainless steel pipe welding courses with flexible day and evening classes and job placement support.
Learn more about each of these programs, including their costs, duration, certifications, and schedules, in the detailed summaries that follow.
1. Lone Star College – Welding Technology Program
Lone Star College offers a robust pipe welding program through its Welding Technology specialization. The program includes a variety of certificate and degree options, with a focus on both Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), key processes for pipe welding.
The Level 1 Certificate in SMAW introduces students to fundamental techniques like welding in various positions and basic layout skills. Students take courses such as “Introduction to Shielded Metal Arc Welding” and “Welding Fundamentals,” which provide hands-on training in both classroom and lab settings. This certificate requires 16 credit hours to complete.
The Level 2 Certificate builds on the first certificate, requiring an additional 16 credit hours. Students in this stage take advanced classes, such as “Introduction to Pipe Welding” and “Advanced Pipe Welding,” which are focused on practical pipe welding techniques and preparing students for jobs in the industry.
The Welding Technology AAS degree expands on the certificates and includes general education courses alongside advanced welding classes. It’s a two-year program that provides a more comprehensive education for students looking to enter the workforce with an Associate’s degree.
All of Lone Star’s welding courses are designed to give students a strong foundation in pipe welding, making it a good option for individuals seeking to gain hands-on experience with real-world applications in pipe welding.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | $6,220 |
Program Duration | Varies based on certificate or degree, typically 1-2 years |
Class Schedules | Morning, afternoon, and evening options available |
Welding Classes Offered | Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Pipe Welding, Advanced Welding |
Certifications | Level 1 and Level 2 Certificates in SMAW, GMAW, and Welding Technology AAS |
Program Focus | Practical training in various welding techniques, with hands-on experience in pipe welding |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Available through Lone Star College |
Location | 5000 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381 |
Phone | (832) 813-6500 |
2. Tulsa Welding School
The Tulsa Welding School in Houston offers a comprehensive pipe welding program as part of its Professional Welder training. This program is designed to prepare students for pipe welding jobs in various industries. Over the course of 9.5 months, students receive hands-on instruction for four days each week and classroom learning for one day. This structure allows students to spend the majority of their time developing practical skills.
Classes include key welding processes such as Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW), all essential for pipe welding. The program is available with flexible scheduling options, including morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend sessions, making it accessible to students with different time commitments.
Students begin with fundamentals, such as basic welding processes and layout reading, then move on to more advanced pipe welding techniques, including both root and cap welds. They also learn how to safely handle and operate portable welding equipment.
The program focuses heavily on preparing students for real-world applications, and graduates are equipped to take certification tests through the American Welding Society (AWS). This makes it an ideal option for individuals seeking entry-level positions in industries like construction, manufacturing, and pipeline welding.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | Varies; typically around $6,220 for Welding Specialist programs |
Program Duration | 7 to 9.5 months depending on the program |
Class Schedules | Morning: 7:00 am-12:15 pm, Afternoon: 12:45 pm-6:00 pm, Evening: 6:30 pm-11:45 pm |
Welding Classes Offered | SMAW, MIG, TIG, High-Frequency TIG, Fluxcore, Pipe Welding, Structural Welding |
Certifications | American Welding Society (AWS) Welder Certification |
Program Focus | Welding and Pipefitting training for entry-level positions |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Scholarships and financial aid options available |
Location | 243A Greens Rd., Houston, TX 77060 |
Phone | (855) 237-7711 |
3. San Jacinto College
San Jacinto College offers a variety of pipe welding classes through its Welding Technology program. This program focuses on providing instruction for all welding positions on carbon and stainless steel plate and pipe using several processes, including SMAW (Stick), GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), and FCAW. The curriculum is designed to meet the industry’s demand for skilled welders in the petrochemical and construction sectors.
Students can choose from multiple certification options, such as the Stick Pipe Welder Occupational Certificate, which introduces shielded metal arc welding of pipe. This program can be completed in three months if pursued full-time. Other certifications, like the Combination Welder Certificate, focus on both plate and pipe welding with intermediate and advanced instruction in processes like GTAW and SMAW. These courses can be completed in six months.
For those looking for a more in-depth program, the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Welding Technology spans two years, providing a broader skill set that includes advanced pipe welding techniques and general education courses. This degree is well-suited for individuals seeking to advance their careers or transfer to further education programs.
San Jacinto College also offers non-credit continuing education courses for workforce training, which are tailored to meet the needs of students who want to enter the workforce quickly.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | Varies by program; contact for details |
Program Duration | 3 months to 2 years, depending on the certification or degree |
Class Schedules | Full-time and part-time options; morning, afternoon, and evening classes available |
Welding Classes Offered | SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW, Oxy-Fuels |
Certifications | Stick Pipe Welder, Combination Welder, Gas Shielded Welding, Industrial Welder, AAS degree |
Program Focus | Pipe welding and plate welding, preparation for industry certification |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Yes, financial aid available |
Location | North Campus: 5800 Uvalde Rd, Houston, TX 77049; Central Campus: 8060 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX 77505 |
Phone | (281) 998-6150 |
[email protected]; [email protected] |
🔍 Leave the hard work to us!
Tell us about your welding goals, and we’ll connect you with the best welding programs in Houston.
4. Precision Welding Academy
Precision Welding Academy in Katy, Texas, offers a comprehensive pipe welding program aimed at students looking to gain professional skills in pipe welding. The Advanced Structural & Pipe Welding program, designed for both beginners and experienced welders, is one of their most intensive tracks. The program covers advanced welding processes, including shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), and flux-cored arc welding (FCAW).
Students complete a total of 1,200 hours of training, focusing on both structural and pipe welding techniques. The curriculum includes hands-on practice in multiple positions on pipes and plates, preparing students for real-world challenges. Students will also learn blueprint reading, welding safety, and equipment setup, essential skills for operating in industrial environments.
This pipe welding course prepares students to meet industry certification standards and offers them the opportunity to earn certifications, such as the SENSE Level II: Advanced Welder Certification from the American Welding Society (AWS). The academy’s small class sizes ensure personalized attention from instructors, helping students refine their technique efficiently.
Classes are offered in flexible formats, with options for morning, afternoon, and evening schedules to accommodate different lifestyles. Upon successful completion, students are equipped to pursue jobs in pipeline welding, fabrication, and industrial construction, making this program ideal for anyone serious about entering the field.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | $25,200 |
Program Duration | 1,200 hours |
Class Schedules | Day: 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Night: 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. |
Welding Classes Offered | Advanced Structural & Pipe Welding |
Certifications | SENSE Level II: Advanced Welder Certification (AWS) |
Program Focus | Structural and pipe welding techniques and processes |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Federal financial aid and GI Bill® accepted |
Location | 18830 Gummert Road, Katy, TX 77449 |
Phone | (832) 427-6587 |
[email protected] |
5. Universal Technical Institute
The Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers a Welding Technology program at its Houston campus, designed to prepare students for careers in pipe welding and other welding fields. This program emphasizes hands-on training in a variety of welding processes including MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-cored welding. The course also covers welding in multiple positions such as flat, vertical, horizontal, and overhead, with a focus on the fixed and rolling positions used in pipe welding.
The program is 36 weeks long and includes classes specifically focused on pipe welding techniques. These classes provide practical training on how to weld pipes using different methods and tools, with the goal of developing versatile skills for the job market.
Students train with industry-standard equipment provided by Lincoln Electric, including virtual welders that simulate welding scenarios. By the end of the program, students will have completed 12 courses, culminating in a diploma that demonstrates their readiness for entry-level roles in welding. UTI also offers career services to assist graduates in finding employment in industries like construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
This program provides a well-rounded education with classes like Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), and specialized pipe welding courses, making it a strong option for those seeking a career in welding.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | Not provided on website. Contact UTI for details. |
Program Duration | 36 weeks |
Class Schedules | Morning, afternoon, and evening classes available |
Welding Classes Offered | MIG, TIG, stick, flux-cored, pipe welding, GMAW, SMAW, GTAW, FCAW |
Certifications | Diploma upon completion |
Program Focus | Hands-on welding training in various positions, including pipe welding |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Federal financial aid available, including GI Bill® for veterans |
Location | 721 Lockhaven Drive, Houston, TX 77073 |
Phone | (281) 443-6262 |
[email protected] |
6. College of the Mainland
College of the Mainland offers a comprehensive pipe welding program through its Advanced Level Welding Certificate and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The program is structured to provide students with hands-on experience in pipe welding, incorporating multiple welding processes like Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW).
Students in the Advanced Level Welding Certificate program gain proficiency in performing critical weld tests on 5G-2” carbon steel pipes. The curriculum includes courses like Intermediate Pipe Welding and Advanced GTAW Welding, which are designed to prepare students for industry certification tests and entry-level pipe welding roles. The capstone experience involves a bend test on pipe welding to assess students’ skills.
For those pursuing the AAS degree, the program extends to include more advanced training, such as welding in 6G-2” positions on carbon steel pipe. This makes it an ideal pathway for students looking to deepen their knowledge and qualify for more specialized positions in the welding industry.
With flexible full-time scheduling and an emphasis on skill development for immediate employment, College of the Mainland ensures its graduates are well-prepared for careers in industries like oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | Varies depending on the program and level. |
Program Duration | 1-2 years (Full-time) depending on the certificate or degree. |
Class Schedules | Full-time, typically divided into fall, spring, and summer semesters. |
Welding Classes Offered | SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW, Pipe Welding, Oxy-Fuel Welding. |
Certifications | AWS Certified Entry-Level Welder, Advanced Pipe Welding Certification. |
Program Focus | Pipe welding, structural welding, multiple welding processes. |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Available (Federal Aid, Scholarships) |
Location | 1200 Amburn Rd., Texas City, TX 77591 |
Phone | (409) 938-1211 |
[email protected] (Program Coordinator) |
7. Lee College
The Industrial Welding Technology program at Lee College provides hands-on training with a focus on both structural and pipe welding. Students can enroll in courses like Introduction to Pipe Welding and Advanced Pipe Welding, which teach essential skills for welding in various positions and on different types of metals. These courses, along with others like Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), are designed to prepare students for careers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and oil and gas.
The program is structured to offer flexibility in training, with full-time schedules that allow students to complete certifications like the Certificate of Completion in Welding Technology (WE1) and Advanced Pipe Welding. These courses provide students with industry-relevant skills, preparing them to pass qualification tests required for employment in welding jobs. Students also gain a comprehensive understanding of welding equipment, safety protocols, and blueprint reading.
The pipe welding classes specifically include coursework on joint preparation, welding in all positions, and advanced techniques for different types of pipes. The Advanced Pipe Welding class focuses on more complex welding scenarios, providing students the opportunity to master their skills for career advancement.
With industry-aligned training, students are well-equipped for entry-level welding positions and beyond, benefiting from both theoretical instruction and practical application.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | Varies depending on program and residency status |
Program Duration | Certificate: 1-2 semesters; AAS Degree: 2 years |
Class Schedules | Full-time, weekdays; specific course times depend on the class |
Welding Classes Offered | Introduction to Welding, Pipe Welding, Advanced Pipe Welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), FCAW |
Certifications | Certificate of Completion in Welding Technology, Advanced Pipe Welding Certificate |
Program Focus | Structural and pipe welding, welding safety, equipment setup, blueprint reading, metallurgy |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Yes, including grants, scholarships, and federal aid |
Location | 200 Lee Drive, Baytown, TX 77520 |
Phone | (281) 427-5611 |
[email protected] |
8. Fortis College, Houston South
Fortis College offers a structured Welding Technology program designed to train students in a range of welding skills, including pipe welding techniques. The program spans 48 instructional weeks and includes 960 clock hours of hands-on training, preparing students for entry-level positions in the welding field. Key welding processes such as Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) are taught in dedicated courses.
For pipe welding specifically, the program includes specialized instruction in pipe welding techniques, where students learn how to weld pipes using SMAW and practice various pipe welding positions. This is reinforced through lab-based exercises designed to build practical skills. Fortis emphasizes safety, equipment setup, and maintenance throughout the curriculum, ensuring students are well-prepared for industry standards.
Classes are offered in two schedules: morning sessions from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and evening sessions from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Students are awarded a diploma upon successful completion, and the program also prepares them to take certification exams in accordance with D1.1 Standards for structural steel.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | $22,830 (Estimated by Fortis) |
Program Duration | 48 weeks (960 clock hours) |
Class Schedules | Morning: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; Evening: 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday |
Welding Classes Offered | SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, Pipe Welding, Cutting Processes |
Certifications | D1.1 Standards (Structural Steel Certification) |
Program Focus | Industrial Welding Technology and entry-level welder training |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Available for those who qualify |
Location | 1201 West Oaks Mall, Houston, TX 77082 |
Phone | (713) 266-6594 |
9. Houston Community College
Houston Community College offers a robust Welding Technology program designed to equip students with the skills necessary for entry-level welding positions, with a focus on pipe welding. The Combination Pipe Welding certificate is one of the main offerings, providing students with training in advanced MIG, TIG, and pipe welding techniques. The program includes practical instruction and hands-on experience in using industry-standard welding equipment.
The program’s structure consists of three semesters. In the first semester, students take introductory courses such as Introduction to Welding and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), along with Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). The second semester includes Intermediate SMAW, Blueprint Reading for Welders, and Advanced GTAW. The final semester focuses on Pipe Welding, Intermediate Welding Using Multiple Processes, and Advanced Pipe Welding, serving as the program’s capstone.
Students who complete the Combination Pipe Welding certificate will be prepared for jobs requiring advanced skills in pipe welding. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled welders in various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and energy sectors.
The small class sizes and experienced instructors help ensure that students receive personalized attention and guidance as they develop their welding skills.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | Varies by program and resident status. Contact the school for details. |
Program Duration | Certificate programs: 1-2 semesters; AAS degree: 2 years |
Class Schedules | Day and evening classes available |
Welding Classes Offered | SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW, Pipe Welding, Blueprint Reading |
Certifications | Level 1 Certificates: Structural Welding, Combination Pipe Welding |
Program Focus | Entry-level skills in structural, pipe welding, and welding automation |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Available for those who qualify, including federal aid |
Location | 3100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002 |
Phone | (713) 718-2000 |
10. Arclabs Welding School
Arclabs Welding School in Houston offers specialized pipe welding training through its comprehensive programs. The 1,300-hour Master Welder program focuses on developing pipe welding skills through hands-on training in processes like GMAW, SMAW, FCAW, and GTAW. This program includes two specialization tracks—Advanced Pipe Welding and Advanced Structural Welding. In the pipe welding specialization, students practice welding on carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum pipes, ensuring they gain experience in various welding environments.
For those seeking shorter programs, the 900-hour Advanced Welding program also includes pipe welding, alongside structural welding, with advanced training in SMAW and GTAW techniques. The program provides students with the necessary skills to perform complex pipe welding tasks required in industrial settings.
With over 95% hands-on training and small classroom components, students gain practical experience in welding labs and outdoor simulators. Upon completion, students earn up to three Arclabs certifications, positioning them for entry-level pipe welding roles in industries such as construction and manufacturing. Arclabs supports graduates with job placement assistance, making it an appealing option for those seeking immediate entry into the welding field.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | Varies depending on the program selected. Contact the school for specific tuition details. |
Program Duration | Programs range from 280 hours to 1,300 hours depending on the chosen track. |
Class Schedules | Day and evening classes available. |
Welding Classes Offered | GMAW, SMAW, FCAW, GTAW, with specialization in advanced pipe and structural welding. |
Certifications | Arclabs certifications in GMAW/FCAW, SMAW/GTAW, and pipe welding (based on specialization). |
Program Focus | Focus on hands-on training, pipe and structural welding, and advanced metalwork techniques. |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Financial aid available for those who qualify. |
Location | 9510 North Houston Rosslyn Rd., Houston, TX 77088 |
Phone | (281) 501-8594 |
Contact form available on the website |
11. Premier Welding Academy
Premier Welding Academy offers hands-on pipe welding training in a state-of-the-art facility, focusing on providing advanced skills in stainless steel pipe welding. The academy’s pipe welding program is designed for both beginner and experienced welders. It covers essential techniques such as welding on stainless steel pipe, using GMAW, FCAW, and SMAW processes, ensuring students are well-prepared for entry-level jobs in the industry.
The academy provides day and evening classes, allowing flexibility for students. The program offers advanced training with certified instructors who guide students through intensive practice sessions in a fully equipped lab. Students benefit from individualized attention and can practice pipe welding techniques in real-world setups.
Premier Welding Academy also provides job placement support upon graduation. The strong connection with local industry partners, like Prostar Manufacturing, offers a direct pathway to employment for graduates. This makes it a practical choice for anyone looking to enter the pipe welding field.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Tuition | Varies by course; contact the academy for specific pricing |
Program Duration | Varies (introductory, advanced, and specialty courses available) |
Class Schedules | Day and evening classes available |
Welding Classes Offered | Introductory to advanced welding, specialty courses including pipe stainless steel |
Certifications | Certifications offered upon course completion, including AWS certifications |
Program Focus | Hands-on welding training with state-of-the-art equipment, focusing on pipe welding and advanced skills |
Online Classes? | No |
Financial Aid Options | Payment plans available |
Location | 15255 Gulf Freeway 141-D, Houston, TX 77034 |
Phone | (713) 254-8940 |
Our Thoughts
🚀 Best for Intensive, Job-Focused Training
- Tulsa Welding School
- ⏱️ Quick-start programs
- ✅ Strong career placement
- 🗓️ Flexible schedules
- Precision Welding Academy
- 🛠️ 1,200 hours hands-on pipe and structural welding
- 🎯 Personalized instruction
- 📈 Advanced skill refinement
🎓 Best for Flexible Learning (Certificates & Degrees)
- Lone Star College
- 📜 Certificate and Associate’s degree options
- 🔀 Flexible learning pathways
- 🎓 Educational progression
- Houston Community College
- 📚 Multiple certificate and degree options
- 🔧 Real-world skill development
- 🛠️ Emphasis on pipe welding certifications
🌟 Best for Advanced Specialization
- Precision Welding Academy
- 🎯 Specialized attention
- 🏅 Advanced pipe welding training
- ⚙️ Personalized skill refinement
- Lone Star College
- 📖 Associate’s degree and certifications
- 🏗️ Complex pipe and structural welding training
- 🎯 Flexible learning paths
📖 Best for Comprehensive Education
- College of the Mainland
- 📖 Short-term certifications & advanced AAS degrees
- 💼 Career-focused curriculum
- ✅ Strong emphasis on practical pipe welding skills
- Lone Star College
- 🎓 Certificates & associate degrees
- ⚙️ Flexible educational pathways
- 🛠️ Industry-aligned programs
🚀 Best for Long-Term Career Development
- Houston Community College
- 🎓 Advanced degree options
- 🛠️ Industry-driven certifications
- 🌐 Networking and career development opportunities
🎓 Best for Career Support and Financial Aid
- Universal Technical Institute
- 💰 Extensive financial aid
- 🎯 Career placement support
- 📌 Ideal for veterans and those needing career assistance
👉 Next Step: Contact these schools directly to clarify:
- Program duration
- Cost breakdown
- Schedule details
- Career advancement opportunities
Make sure your choice aligns with your unique goals and needs for a successful welding career.