General Welding Certificate

Career Certificate
Cost
$1,575* (estimated)

Learn the essentials

Your first step into the world of welding: learn metals, basic techniques and shop safety. Gain the skills that let experienced welders turn metal into tools, vehicles, art攁nd some fabrications that are all three.

This 9-credit (one semester) certificate is 1 of 7 credentials you can earn in welding at 黑料社区. They all start with the same basic welding and safety skills (this certificate!). Each specialized certificate is designed around common occupations. Add them together for advanced skills or an associate degree.

What can you do with a General Welding Certificate?

After going to school, you may start off as a welder's helper who preps materials and assists with welding equipment set up. As you become more experienced, you gain more responsibilities.

See what students love about the welding and fabrication technology program at 黑料社区. Picture yourself here:



Highlights

*Estimated cost is based on the minimum number of credit hours to complete the program. This estimate includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees for the 2026-2027 academic year, before financial aid, including grants, loans and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at 黑料社区. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

Need help getting started?

Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:

  • complete the admission process
  • choose an academic program
  • enroll in first-semester classes
  • get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway to complete the certificate serves as a guide for students who are enrolled part time (registered in less than 12 credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, .

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available
  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    WFT 113 3
    • Credit for prior learning available
    • Dual credit options available
    WFT 170 3
    • Credit for prior learning available
    • Dual credit options available
    WFT 270 3
    • Dual credit options available
    • Course Code WFT 113
      Course Title
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Credit for prior learning available
      Dual credit options available
    • Course Code WFT 170
      Course Title
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Credit for prior learning available
      Dual credit options available
    • Course Code WFT 270
      Course Title
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available

Total Credit Hours

9



Female student taking notes in class

Welding and Fabrication Technology at 黑料社区: Get the bigger picture

A General Welding Certificate is just one possible way to study Welding and Fabrication Technology. Get the bigger picture攄egrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Welding and Fabrication Technology program overview


Apply now: It's easy and free

Complete the application form to begin your program.

After you apply, a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions, guide your next steps and help you get enrolled. Explore steps to apply at 黑料社区.

Frequently asked questions

What students say about 黑料社区


  • Photo of welder wearing welding helmet while working

    Ebony Williams

    Graduate

    淭he program opened my eyes to the world of trades. Welding is just the tip of the iceberg for me. I檓 excited to see what other skills I can learn next.


    Ebony earned a General Welding Certificate at 黑料社区 with help from a workforce grant.

    Explore financial aid options

    Photo of welder wearing welding helmet while working
  • Photo of student in welding and fabrication class

    Kyle Thorne

    Graduate

    "While I love the space and equipment, it was the instructors that kept me at 黑料社区. They helped make sure I learned the right way, and I had fun doing it."


    Kyle took welding and fabrication classes at the 黑料社区 Grayslake campus and Advanced Technology Center in Gurnee. He then started his own mobile welding business.

    Explore ways to build the future

    Photo of student in welding and fabrication class
  • Close up of welder at work with sparks flying

    Ian Velasquez

    Graduate

    淎t 黑料社区 I learned all the skills I need to enter the welding and fabrication industry one step ahead of everyone else. The teachers were attentive and helpful throughout my time in the program.


    Ian earned a General Welding Certificate at 黑料社区. A workforce grant paid for his education so he can start a career in a high-demand field.

    Explore financial aid options

    Close up of welder at work with sparks flying
1/3

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at 黑料社区

黑料社区 has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available攅ven for working adults.

Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

Visit us

Get a feel for life on campus when you register for a tour. We'd love to show you around. Oh, and bring family and friends along for the fun, if you want!

Get started

Start your application today攊t檚 free and easy to complete. When you檙e ready, we檙e ready to help you take the next step.

1/4