Welding Technology is a Diploma program offered by Lincoln Tech in Melrose Park, IL. The program takes 44 weeks to complete, with a total tuition of $29,096.
Program Overview
The Welding Technology program prepares students for entry level welder positions as structural and pipe welders. Students develop key fundamental skills during the initial courses and learn to apply these skills using different should possess the working knowledge and skills to qualify as a structural and more complex welding procedures. The welding procedures include Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/ MIG), Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW), and Gas Tungsten Arc Gas Welding (GTAW/TIG). Using each of these procedures, students learn to weld plate and pipe in various positions including horizontal, vertical, and overhead. Students also learn various techniques for cutting and preparing metal for welding procedures. Upon successful completion of all components of this program, the graduate and/or pipe welder using any one of three standard welding processes in construction, fabrication, or plant maintenance work settings. Students should be able to successfully complete pre-qualification tests for any construction structural or pipe related projects. Students will be required to complete out-of-class assignment in each course.
What sets this Program apart
Professional development modules integrated into each course: Student Success; Financial Literacy; Professional Development; Career Success
Admission Requirements and Process
Admission Requirements
In order to be considered for acceptance, an applicant must meet the following requirements:
Be a high school graduate or possess a state-approved high school equivalency assessment including, but not limited to: a GED, HiSET or TASC examination; or possess an associate’s degree or higher from an accredited institution.
Complete the Learner Assessment to determine readiness for academic success.
Student has reliable internet connectivity and access to a device that meets the minimum systems requirements. See your Admissions contact for current systems requirements.
Provide a fully executed Enrollment Agreement.
Admission Procedures
Persons desiring to make application for admission should
Be interviewed by an Admissions Representative or other member of the School staff.
Complete an Enrollment Agreement (Student Contract).
Submit documentation to meet the admissions requirements.
Complete any required entrance examination or learner assessment.
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.FAFSA Code for Lincoln Tech Melrose Park Campus: 010316Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
Program Schedule
Students can enroll at any time during the year. Class starting dates are scheduled at frequent intervals to enable students to start moving toward their career goals as soon as possible. Class size is limited so that each student can receive the personal attention so vital to successful mastery of the skills and understanding of the subject at hand. A typical classroom and laboratory at our campus can accommodate up to 30 students while a typical automotive shop can accommodate up to 100 students. There may be several smaller groups of students with their instructors within the shop at any given time. The class schedules that follow are designed to be flexible and best utilize facility and instructional time.
Shifts offered for this program
Day/Evening schedules
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Estimated educational expenses (campus tuition sheet; effective for all enrollments on or after december 1, 2025)
Tuition: $29,096.00
Books: $508.00
Uniforms: $240.00
Student Fee: $2,940.00
Technology Fee: $150.00
Total: $34,341.00
Estimated cost of attendance
For financial-aid planning, the campus Cost of Attendance sheet estimates total cost of attendance for this program — including tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses — from $58,362.04 (living with parents) to $75,438.41 (living off campus).
Financial assistance
The school participates in federal student financial assistance programs for those who qualify, including the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, Federal PLUS Loans, and Federal Work-Study, as described in the Lincoln 2025–2026 Consumer Information Booklet. Veterans' education benefits are accepted at approved campuses, and Lincoln schools award institutional scholarships to qualified students.
Total program tuition $29,096.00. Books, tools/equipment, uniforms, and student/technology fees are additional and itemized on the campus tuition sheet and enrollment agreement.
Curriculum
Course sequence
Total: 960 clock hours
Required Courses
| Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| WLD111AN — Welding and Cutting Fundamentals | 5 |
| WLD112AN — Basic Arc Welding Procedures | 4.5 |
| WLD113AN — SMAW – Plate Welding | 4.5 |
| WLD114AN — GMAW/FCAW (MIG) – Plate Welding | 4.5 |
| WLD115AN — GTAW (TIG) – Welding Procedures | 4.5 |
| WLD116AN — SMAW – Pipe Welding | 4.5 |
| WLD117AN — GMAW/FCAW (MIG) – Pipe Welding | 4.5 |
| WLD118AN — GMAW/GTAW – Fabrication Processes | 4.5 |
| Totals | 36.5 |
Career Outcomes
The Welding Technology program prepares students for entry level welder positions as structural and pipe welders.
What to expect as a Lincoln Tech student
Students can enroll at any time during the year. Class starting dates are scheduled at frequent intervals to enable students to start moving toward their career goals as soon as possible. Class size is limited so that each student can receive the personal attention so vital to successful mastery of the skills and understanding of the subject at hand. A typical classroom and laboratory at our campus can accommodate up to 30 students while a typical automotive shop can accommodate up to 100 students. There may be several smaller groups of students with their instructors within the shop at any given time. The class schedules that follow are designed to be flexible and best utilize facility and instructional time.
Campus Address
Why Accreditation Is Important
Lincoln College of Technology is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency, and is approved/licensed by the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Accreditation and approval certificates are displayed at the campus.
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide
