Rockford Career College

Welding

Rockford Campus
Rockford, IL
Certificate · On Campus
Welding
Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Classes are held on campus with hands-on instruction.
$24,150
Program length: 10 months.
$0
Financial aid is not available for this program.

Welding is a Certificate program offered by Rockford Career College in Rockford, IL. Tuition is $24,150 total.

Program Overview

Welding

At Rockford Career College, our Welding Diploma Program helps you turn precision, strength, and creativity into a high-demand career. In just 10 months, you’ll learn a variety of welding techniques—including Stick and MIG to Flux Core and TIG, giving you the skills to tackle real-world projects and impress employers.

Taught by experienced instructors and practiced in a hands-on lab setting, the program is built for those who enjoy working with metal, tools, and practicing teamwork. Whether you want to join a fabrication team, inspect welds, or work in shipyards and manufacturing, welding is your gateway to opportunity.

What sets this Program apart

Q: Will I graduate with any industry credentials or be ready for certification exams?

During the program, you’ll have the opportunity to earn an American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspection (CWI) report at no extra cost. The curriculum also readies you for plate-welding code tests, giving your resume a boost before day one on the job.

What Sets Rockford’s Welding Training Apart

  • Hands-On Skill Development – Learn by doing with industry tools and equipment.
  • CWI Credential Opportunity – Take pride in earning a Certified Welding Inspector report through AWS at no additional cost.
  • Support That Goes Beyond the Classroom – Career services, tutoring, and instructor mentorship to help you succeed every step of the way.
  • Learn from Field-Tested Instructors – Get real world training taught by instructors with industry experience.

General Requirements

  • Complete Your ApplicationWe can make filling out your application easy!
  • Collect Your PaperworkLet’s gather your transcripts where necessary from previous institutions, to tailor our programs to your specific needs and goals.
  • Test For Placement!Don’t worry, it’s just a test! We require prospective students to take a placement test, enabling us to assess your current skill level and determine suitable…
  • Talk to Financial AidOur knowledgeable financial aid team assists you in securing grants, loans, and scholarships to make quality education affordable.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Submit Application
    Complete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
  2. 2
    Submit Transcripts
    Provide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
  3. 3
    Financial Aid
    Complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.
    Complete FAFSA Application
  4. 4
    Enrollment
    Once accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.

Program Schedule

DURATION

Graduate in just 10 months and step straight into the workforce with the practical welding skills local employers need. Rockford Career College’s focused, hands-on training lets you start shaping metal—and your future—right away.

Campus Location

Rockford Campus
1130 S Alpine Rd
Rockford, IL 61108

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Tuition
≈ $24,150
Graduates in this field
Rockford Career College graduates in Precision Metal Working: median federal loan debt $13,717; median earnings a year after completing $39,286. Source: College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education (field-of-study data released October 2026).
Average net price: $18,695 / year
Rockford Career College's average yearly cost after grants and scholarships, for all aided students (IPEDS 2022-23) — school-wide, not this program's price.
Federal student aid
Rockford Career College takes part in federal student aid, so eligible students may receive a Pell Grant. See if you qualify

Affording Your Training

Concerned about paying for welding school? You don’t have to figure it out alone. Our financial aid team will walk you through options like federal aid, grants, and scholarships (for those who qualify), so you can focus on mastering your craft and preparing for a strong career.

Curriculum

What You’ll Learn

  • Master Four Welding Processes – Stick, Flux Core, MIG, and TIG welding on mild steel up to 3/8”.
  • Industry Certifications – Opportunity to earn a Certified Welding Inspection (CWI) report through the American Welding Society (AWS)—a mark of credibility and pride.
  • Hands-On Lab Training – Gain confidence using professional-grade tools and welding equipment in realistic job settings.
  • Safety & Quality Standards – Understand industry regulations, proper safety techniques, and best practices for structural integrity and inspection.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers such as

  • Welder
  • Welding Technician
  • Welding Inspector
  • Welding Instructor

With further experience or certifications, you can explore advanced positions or specialize in high-demand areas like pipeline welding or aerospace fabrication.

What to expect as a Rockford Career College student

The Welding program at Rockford Career College delivers focused, practical instruction designed to prepare you for today’s most in-demand welding roles.

Safety & Quality Standards – Understand industry regulations, proper safety techniques, and best practices for structural integrity and inspection.

Be an active participant in the requirements of the classwork, homework and community

Gallery

Welding — image 1
Welding — image 1
Rockford Career College and St. Ambrose University logos over a blue-tinted image of smiling nursing students in scrubs.
Welding — image 3
Grace S., Graduate Veterinary Technician
- Clydisha W., Graduate Business Administration Diploma
- Essence G., Graduate Business Administration Diploma
Mike and Deanna 2015
Keiland Lumpkins Sr. smiling in front of a blue Rockford Career College backdrop, wearing glasses, a yellow knit hat, and a floral shirt.
Rockford Career College Graduation 2026 by KB Digital
Carol Taylor’s portrait beside Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce and The Voice logos over a career fair background.
RCC-Career-Fair-147
Welding — image 12

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Welding