Testing & UpgradingFrequently Asked Questions
- Is this program transferable?
- Does this program qualify for financial assistance?
- Must I attend all of the program?
- What types of jobs will I be qualified for after I graduate?
- Is further training necessary in order for me to enter the job market?
- What are the starting wages a graduate could expect?
- Will I have to travel in order to find employment in this field? If so, where would this be?
- On average, what percentage of the class successfully completes the program?
- On average, what percentage of the graduates get employment in the field?
- What is the average class size?
- What is a typical weekly schedule?
- How much homework should I expect if I am a full-time student?
- Can I access this program on a part-time basis?
- Is a practicum available in this program?
- How are students usually selected for the program?
- How do I register for Level B or Level A?
- If I am not admitted into the program this year or am waitlisted, can I take any classes that will give me credit in the program?
- How will I hear if I have been accepted?
- What will I need to start classes?
Is this program transferable?
Yes, the Welding Level C, B and A programs transfers to all colleges in BC that offer the Provincial Welding program.
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Does this program qualify for financial assistance?
Yes. You can apply for the government student loan and grant program for Level C Welding. You may also qualify for institutional scholarships and bursaries. Check with the Financial Aid & Awards office, located in Building 200 at the Nanaimo campus, or call 250-740-6423.
Must I attend all of the program?
Yes, complete full-time attendance is required.
What types of jobs will I be qualified for after I graduate?
Welders are required in construction, fabrication shops, shipyards, and other industries.
Is further training necessary in order for me to enter the job market?
No, but higher levels (B and A) will open more job possibilities. You can complete levels B and A at Vancouver Island University.
What are the starting wages a graduate could expect?
Approximately $14— $18 per hour to start.
Will I have to travel in order to find employment in this field? If so, where would this be?
You should be willing to travel in order to start your career. Welders are employed world-wide in many different industries.
On average, what percentage of the class successfully completes the program?
About 90%.
On average, what percentage of the graduates get employment in the field?
Almost all graduates find employment in the field. One of our recent classes had a 92% success rate in finding work.
What is the average class size?
18 students.
What is a typical weekly schedule?
Our schedule is built around a four (4) day week, either Monday to Thursday or Tuesday to Friday some classes are offered in either a day or afternoon shift format.
How much homework should I expect if I am a full-time student?
One to two hours per night.
Can I access this program on a part-time basis?
No.
Is a practicum available in this program?
Yes, in the Level C program.
How are students usually selected for the program?
They are selected from a waitlist. Our Level C program is now offered three times per year, and the Level B & A programs are continuous intakes (see question below).
How do I register for Level B or Level A?
Contact the Welding Department by sending an email to Grant.Easterbrook@viu.ca. Note that the department is closed for several weeks during July and August.
If I am not admitted into the program this year or am waitlisted, can I take any classes that will give me credit in the program?
No.
How will I hear if I have been accepted?
VIU' s Registration Centre will contact you by letter.
What will I need to start classes?
- Text books
are available at the VIU bookstore
- Welding Level C ($215 price approximate)
- Welding Level B ($70 price approximate)
- Welding Level A ($30 price approximate)
- Steel-toed boots
- Welding jacket
- Coveralls
- Welding helmet