What kind of degree do you need to do non destructive testing?

Answer 1

In my structural engineering firm, nearly all of the engineers use the most common NDT on a regular basis without any special training besides learning where the "on" switch is and how to read the output. The engineers who do NDT regularly as their main function have masters degrees in either structural engineering or materials science, and have had significant training on all of the equipment, some of which is highly specialized. Opposite of this, though, are our technicians, who generally don't have advanced degrees, but are handy and hardworking, and have had the proper training to use the equipment.

If you want to make a career of doing NDT, which involves tons of travel, interesting projects, and lots of hours, I would recommend a degree in engineering or materials science. These fields educate you so that you can more liberally and confidently interpret the results of you testing. Understanding all the theory behind your equipment and what you're looking at is indispensable.

Answer 2

Can you be a bit more specific? Do you want to be a technician in a lab who runs a machine all day, or a PhD scientist who comes up with new ways of performing NDT?

There are a variety of science and engineering degrees that could apply, e.g., physics, mechnical engineering, electrical engineering, etc.

Answer 3

Materials Engineering or Mechanical Engineering are good choices for non-destructive testing.

Answer 4

Much of the NDT is done by HS graduates or those with BAs or BSs and any major. But they have received the appropriate technical training and, where required, are certified.

Answer 5

Metallurgy or Material Science, which are specialties in Mechanical Engineering.

Answer 6

Of what ??? If you're talking a particle accelerator, probably a PhD. If it's ping pong paddles, you're probably OK if you don't drool.