Welding

Becoming a Compton College student starts by filling out a free online application. After that, there are a few simple steps to follow before it's time to enroll in classes. Click to get started today.

Click here for all the details you need to understand the process from application to graduation, but here's a brief summary of the steps to become a Compton College student.

1. Apply for admission
2. Explore your financial aid options
3. Complete your online orientation
4. Work with a counselor to create your educational plan
5. Register for classes

Need more help? Click here for our virtual program guides.

Associate of Science Degree

• The Associate of Science Degree in Welding requires 26-28 units and prepares students to use specific safety knowledge and skills relating to the welding discipline for specific job requirements.

Certificate of Achievement

• The Welding Certificate of Achievement requires 21-22 units and prepares students to use specific safety knowledge and skills relating to the welding discipline for specific job requirements.

View the Certificate of Achievement or the Associate in Science program maps for more details on a pathway to completion.

The program cost is $46 per unit for California residents, not including books, fees, and supplies. For example, unit fees for a 15-unit certificate would be $690, ranging up to the 60-unit associate degree, which would be $2,760. Most students qualify for financial aid or for the Compton College Promise Program.

Program length varies depending on whether you are pursuing an associate degree or certificate and how many classes you are able to take each semester.

View the Certificate of Achievement or the Associate in Science program maps for more details on a pathway to completion.

• Welding Educator
• Welding Engineer
• Welding Supervisor
• Welding Inspector
• Welding Technician
• Shipfitter
• Welding Research Scientist
• Pipeliner
• Technical Sales
• Welder Fabricator
• Underwater Welder
• Pipefitter
• Ironworker
• Robotic Welding Technician
• Boilermaker
• Source

The median salary for someone with a welding certificate in California is $45,564 and goes up based on the welding role and experience. For example, a welder fabricator earns approximately $43,000/year (certificate experience) and a welding engineer earns $85,000/year (bachelor's degree).

Cooperative Work Experience (CWEE) is designed to provide Compton College students with workplace experience and enhanced skills. We invite you to learn more about the work experience process with us by visiting the CWEE website.

Compton College is a great value for students looking to make a change or enhance their career and get experience for in-demand, high-paying jobs. Our diverse programs, affordable fees, and outstanding student services are here to support your career goals. The Welding Program is just one of many career paths we offer and trains students based on American Welding Society standards to ensure industry success.

Upon completing Compton College's Welding Program, students can use their certificate and/or degree to work immediately or complete additional general education and major preparation coursework for transfer to a university.

At least 50% of the major requirements for the associate degree must be completed at Compton College.

Rosa Portillo Gonzalez
Student Services Advisor
Business and Industrial Studies
rportillogonzalez@compton.edu
562-726-4612
Office: Welcome Center D-27

Alicia Zambrano
Student Services Advisor
Business and Industrial Studies
azambrano@compton.edu
213-533-9937
Office: Vocational Technology Building, VT-150