What is Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)?
Non-destructive testing (NDT) is the process of testing or analyzing products, materials, structures and more to discover any defects and ensure quality standards are met. From the roads we drive on to the buildings we work and live in, NDT is critical to what people do.
Advanced Non-Destructive Testing Technician Program Overview
When looking for non-destructive testing schools near you, consider Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Houston, Texas! At UTI Houston, students receive hands-on training in our industry-aligned labs. Insightful, supportive instructors are there to guide you as you complete training in just nine months!
Why UTI for Non-Destructive Testing training in Houston?
- Relationships with employers1
- Complete the program in nine months
- No prior experience needed
- Hands-on learning that mirrors real-world environments
Non-Destructive Testing Courses in Houston, Texas
Non-Destructive Testing classes at UTI Houston are designed to build your knowledge from the ground up with a curriculum tailored to fit industry needs. Here are details for some of the non-destructive training topics you will learn at UTI Houston:
NDT essentials
This course provides a foundation for students in the NDT program. It helps explain foundational subjects that are needed for students learning NDT techniques and skills, along with learning NDT history and how to interpret codes and procedures.
Visual theory
This course explains the theory of visual inspection and incorporates necessary didactic information. The equipment used will be presented, explained and demonstrated.
Penetrant theory and application
This course explains the theory of penetrant inspection and incorporates essential didactic information.
Eddy current theory and application
Students dive into the theory of eddy current inspection and will incorporate the didactic information needed.
Magnetic particle theory and application
Students learn the theory of magnetic particle inspection and they’ll incorporate the essential didactic information.
Radiation safety
During this course, students learn about the theory and practice of radiography testing. A lot of focus is around the radiation safety program, which is approved and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Ultrasound theory and application
Students explore the theory of ultrasound inspection and learn to incorporate fundamental didactic information.
Radiography theory and application
This course topic delves into the theory of radiography inspection, as the equipment is presented to help students incorporate the knowledge gained from this course.
Capstone
As the culmination of all courses taught in the NDT program, the capstone provides an in-depth review of classes and modules covered. The goal is for students to demonstrate their knowledge of each NDT technique.
Non-Destructive Testing Career Opportunities in Houston, Texas
NDT is a complex field, and technicians often take pride in the significance of their work. Most of our grads start out prepared to work as entry-level technicians or in other entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work. Entry-level and advanced roles could include77:
Entry-level
- Non-destructive testing technician
- Quality control technician
- Inspector
Advanced
- Industrial radiographer
- NDT/NDE technician level I
- QC/QA inspector
- QC/QA inspector assistant
Non-destructive testing technician career outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for non-destructive technicians in the United States was $78,350 in May 2025.62 This means half earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.
There’s also a demand for qualified non-destructive testing technicians. In fact, total non-destructive testing technician employment is expected to exceed 68,000 by 2034.76
Frequently Asked Questions
Some major NDT testing methods include eddy current (ET), visual testing (VT), magnetic particle testing (MT), ultrasonic testing (UT), radiographic testing (RT) and liquid or dye penetrant testing (PT). Although there are many different approaches, each testing method is important to ensure the quality and safety in products, structures and more.
A non-destructive testing career can be a strong career choice for those interested in technical, hands-on work that plays a critical role in safety and quality. NDT technicians are needed in many industries, so those interested in this career path may enjoy the variety it offers.
While there can be many paths to starting a non-destructive testing career, one of the best ways to get started can be to enroll in an NDT training program, like the one offered at UTI Houston.1 This way, you’ll get industry-aligned practice by training in hands-on labs using the same techniques found in the field.
NDT training at UTI is designed for all skill levels, so no previous experience is required to enroll. Those interested in applying do need to have a high school diploma or GED certificate and be at least 16 years old (with parental consent if under 18).
Non-destructive testing training can prepare you for opportunities across a range of industries that rely on safety, quality control and equipment integrity. Common industries may include oil and gas, power generation, manufacturing, fabrication, construction and aerospace.
Tour UTI’s Houston campus for NDT training
Houston is a bustling city with something for nearly everyone, be it beautiful hikes, art, concerts, sporting events or great eats, making the UTI Houston campus a great place to train. Plus, our Advanced Non-Destructive Testing Technician program is designed to be completed in just nine months, so students can feel confident pursuing a career in an industry they’re passionate about.1
Seeing makes the difference. Decide if UTI Houston’s non-destructive testing training is right for you by scheduling a campus tour.
721 Lockhaven Drive
Houston, Texas 77073
M-F | 8am-5pm | Hours
281-443-6262 | Campus
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Get Your NDT Training Started with UTI
Whether you have a passion for non-destructive testing (NDT) or are looking to train for a hands-on career, our Admissions Representatives are happy to answer your questions and help you get started. Click on the button below for more information, or enroll today.