The Welding Program at Great Falls College is designed to provide students with comprehensive training in welding techniques and technologies. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the welding industry.
Students have the opportunity to pursue either a Certificate of Applied Science (CAS), a 1-year program, or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS), a 2-year program, depending on their career goals and the time they wish to dedicate to their studies. Please see additional information at the bottom of this page for more information.
| Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) Graduates: | Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Graduates: |
| The CAS typically focuses on foundational welding skills and prepares students for entry-level positions. Graduates should be able to: 1. Perform Core Welding Processes 2. Read and Interpret Blueprints 3. Operate Welding Equipment Safely 4. Apply Welding Techniques 5. Ensure Weld Quality 6. Understand Welding Codes and Standards 7. Prepare for Certification Exams |
The AAS expands on the CAS curriculum, offering advanced skills, theory, and career readiness. Graduates should be able to: 1. Perform Advanced Welding Techniques 2. Use Specialized Welding Processes 3. Apply Metallurgical Knowledge 4. Troubleshoot and Solve Problems 5. Conduct Nondestructive Testing (NDT) 6. Manage Welding Projects 7. Understand Industry Standards in Depth 8. Supervise or Lead Teams 9. Pursue Advanced Certifications 10. Explore Career Advancement |
Step 1: Be admitted to Great Falls College in good academic standing with Great Falls College and have a complete admissions file before applying to the program.
Step 2: Submit the program application (instructions in application).
Application opens March 3 and application packets are accepted on an ongoing basis but must be dropped off or postmarked on or before May 9 to meet the priority deadline to get into the Welding program for the upcoming semester. Only complete application packets will be processed, so do not send items separately.
Welding Associate of Applied Science Program Application
Welding Certificate of Applied Science Program Application
| WLDG 100 | Intro to Welding Fundamentals |
| WLDG 117 | Blueprint Reading and Welding Symbols |
| WLDG 205 | Applied Metallurgy |
| WLDG 212 | Pipe Welding and Layout (integrated lab) |
| Starting Salary | Median Salary | Highest Possible Salary |
| Entry-Level Welders: The starting salary for welders with basic certifications and no prior experience typically ranges from $30,000 to $40,000 annually.
Hourly Rate: $15 to $20 per hour. Factors influencing starting pay include location, employer size, and type of welding (e.g., structural vs. industrial). |
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers was approximately $48,000 as of 2022.
Hourly Rate: About $23 per hour. |
Experienced and specialized welders can earn significantly more: • Pipe Welders: $70,000–$120,000 • Underwater Welders: $80,000–$200,000 • Welding Inspectors: $60,000–$100,000 • Aerospace Welders: $60,000–$100,000 • Nuclear Welders: $70,000–$140,000 • Structural Welders: $45,000-$100,000 |
I like the atmosphere. It’s a really, really nice campus. There’s a lot of one-on-one time with my instructors. I really appreciate that. There’s a lot of classes that they have us take like blueprint reading, the CAD classes. It helps us not only understand welding but other things around the field too.
Students have the opportunity to pursue either a Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, depending on their career goals and the time they wish to dedicate to their studies.
Career Opportunities: Graduates from both programs are prepared to work in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, automotive, and aerospace. With a strong emphasis on hands-on training and real-world applications, the program ensures that students are job-ready upon graduation.
For more information on how to enroll or customize your welding education pathway, please contact the program office or visit the Great Falls College MSU website.
Pursuing a welding and fabrication degree at Great Falls College offers several advantages for individuals aiming to enter or advance in the welding industry. Here are key reasons to consider this program:
Comprehensive Curriculum: Great Falls College provides both a Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Welding Technology & Fabrication. The curriculum is structured around American Welding Society (AWS) outcomes, ensuring students acquire industry-relevant skills. Students gain proficiency in various welding processes, including Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW), and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). Additionally, the program covers blueprint interpretation, weld symbols, power sources, and current types, equipping graduates with the necessary competencies for entry-level welding positions.
Industry Recognition: The welding program at Great Falls College is recognized by both the American Welding Society (AWS) and the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB), enhancing the credibility of the education received and potentially broadening employment opportunities.
Limited Enrollment for Personalized Instruction: The program maintains a limited enrollment capacity, accepting a restricted number of students each year. This approach allows for smaller class sizes, providing more individualized attention and hands-on experience. Students have access to dedicated instructors and welding coaches, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Pathways for Advancement: Great Falls College offers a clear progression from the one-year CAS program to the two-year AAS degree. The AAS degree builds upon the skills acquired during the CAS program, preparing students for more advanced positions within the welding industry, including potential supervisory roles.
Strong Industry Outlook: With an aging skilled workforce and anticipated retirements, there is an expected increase in job openings for welding program graduates. The program prepares students to meet industry standards, enhancing employability in a field with a positive occupational outlook.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Great Falls College is committed to providing modern facilities and equipment, ensuring students train with tools and technology reflective of current industry standards. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing practical skills applicable in real-world settings.
Supportive Learning Environment: The college emphasizes a supportive educational atmosphere, offering resources such as academic advising, career services, and opportunities for student engagement, all contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
By choosing Great Falls College for a welding and fabrication degree, students benefit from a comprehensive, industry-aligned education designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the welding profession.
Welding Program Assessment Plan: Faculty will individually complete assessment reflection forms following outcomes reporting schedule.
