South Texas College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Texas / South Texas College
South Texas College – McAllen, TX
Program Information
South Texas College is a public community college serving the Rio Grande Valley, with primary campuses in McAllen and surrounding South Texas communities. The college plays a key workforce development role in a region supported by construction, transportation, manufacturing, cross-border logistics, and automotive service industries. Technical programs at South Texas College are designed to support both recent graduates and adult learners seeking practical, job-ready training aligned with regional employer demand.
South Texas College offers career-focused programs in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, Welding Technology, and Automotive Technology. Instruction emphasizes applied learning through classroom coursework paired with hands-on lab training that reflects the tools, systems, and work environments commonly found throughout South Texas.
HVAC Program
The HVAC program prepares students to work with residential and commercial climate control systems commonly used in South Texas homes, retail spaces, and commercial buildings. Coursework introduces electrical fundamentals, refrigeration principles, system components, and safety practices before progressing into installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of heating and cooling systems. Hands-on lab training allows students to practice diagnosing system issues and performing service tasks in controlled environments that mirror field conditions.
Welding Technology Program
The Welding Technology program focuses on skill development for fabrication, construction, and industrial applications. Students receive hands-on instruction in welding processes such as MIG and TIG welding, along with training in cutting methods, metal preparation, and blueprint reading. Coursework emphasizes welding safety, proper technique, and consistency, helping students develop skills applicable to manufacturing and construction projects common in the Rio Grande Valley.
Automotive Technology Program
The Automotive Technology program trains students to diagnose, service, and maintain modern vehicles. Instruction covers engine systems, braking systems, steering and suspension, routine maintenance, and electrical and electronic components. Students gain experience using diagnostic tools and service information systems similar to those used in professional repair facilities, with an emphasis on accuracy, safety, and proper shop procedures.
Hands-On Learning & Workforce Preparation
Hands-on learning is integrated throughout South Texas College’s technical programs. Lab-based instruction reinforces classroom concepts and allows students to build confidence working with tools, equipment, and systems used in the field. The college maintains workforce and employer partnerships that support internships, career services, and job placement assistance for graduates entering skilled trades and technical careers.
Programs are structured to prepare students for immediate employment while also supporting continued education or advancement within their chosen trade.
Program Length
Program length varies by credential and field of study. Many certificate programs are designed for completion within approximately one year, while associate degree pathways generally require about two years of full-time study. Completion time may vary based on enrollment status, course sequencing, and individual student schedules.
Program Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Submission of an application for admission to South Texas College
- Basic math and reading comprehension skills appropriate to the selected program
- Willingness to participate in hands-on lab and technical training
- Additional program-specific requirements may apply
South Texas College provides academic advising, technical instruction, and workforce-aligned support services to help students transition into employment or continue their education within HVAC, welding, and automotive technology fields.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for South Texas College (McAllen, TX) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at South Texas College. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.