Programs in nondestructive testing prepare people to evaluate objects without destroying the object. Students learn how to test objects for quality and safety. They also learn how select a sample of objects.

Imagine that after years of developing the perfect widget, you handed it over to a tester who then immediately lit it on fire. "What are you doing?" you cry out. "I spent fifteen years creating that widget! It's my only one!"

"I was just seeing how flammable it was," the tester replies. "It's pretty bad, by the way."

"But the widget was never to be used near fire," you moan, as your perfect widget shrinks in flames. "It was supposed to be for."

That may be a silly example, but it illustrates the need for different kinds of tests. In some cases, "destructive testing" is necessary. This means that the object or process is harmed or even becomes useless after the test. However, in many cases, testing that determines what a material is made of or how long a product might last is needed. The test doesn't destroy anything, and therefore, it's called nondestructive.

Nondestructive testing is an important field within the area of quality control. As a result, many programs teach students how to perform a variety of tests that can be used in many industries. These include manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and construction. However, some of the techniques are used in forensics (crime scene investigations). Because of the importance of evidence, you must not destroy it. However, you still need to understand the make-up of a fiber, for example.

In general, students in nondestructive testing programs get lots of hands-on training. You learn how to operate ultrasonic, radiologic, and magnetic tests. As the names imply, you learn how to use X-rays and sound waves to evaluate an item. You also learn how to test liquids, solids, and processes (how something works).

Many two-year schools offer programs in nondestructive testing. You can earn a certificate or an associate's degree in this field. In some cases, for every test you master, you can earn a certificate of completion. A small number of schools offer a bachelor's degree in this area. It generally takes four years of full-time study to complete a bachelor's degree.