Convenient Online Coursework

SDI specializes in online learning. That means students enrolled in the Associate of Science in Firearms Technology Degree program get the convenience of completing coursework at home with a DEAC accredited school. It’s the best of both worlds with a comprehensive curriculum delivered right to your door. Our unique mix of online and hands-on classes allow students to learn and practice efficiently and conveniently.

If you started the ASFT program before January 1, 2026, or are a re-entry student, please refer to your specific program and course information below or contact your Student Success Coach for assistance.

If you started the ASFT program after January 1, 2026, please refer to your specific program and course information HERE or contact your Student Success Coach for assistance.

The Associate of Science in Firearms Technology Degree program consists of 60 semester credit hours broken into four 16-week semesters. Because of our flexible learning options, students choose to study at whatever time of day works best but will still be able to engage with other online learners and instructors as a part of weekly assignment requirements.

Course availability may vary each semester. Not all courses may be offered each term.

Firearms Technology Discipline
42 credit hours

Courses
BBS 200: Advanced Ballistics
FTT 100: Introduction to Firearms
FTT 104: Gunsmithing Tools Lab
FTT 111: Firearms Inspection and Troubleshooting
FTT 114: Custom Kydex Lab
FTT 122: Intro to Ammo and Basic Ballistics
FTT 201: Firearms Finishes and Engraving
FTT 210: Customizing and Woodworking
FTT 211: Stock Refinishing and Metal Work Lab
FTT 214: Hand Checkering Lab
FTT 221: Sights, Optics, and Accuracy
FTT 231: Machining and Manufacturing of Firearms
FTT 240: Shooting Sports Management
FTT 299: Firearms Technology Elective

General Business
3 credit hours

Course
BUS 101: Introduction to Business

General Education
15 credit hours

Courses
SCI 101: Introduction to Physical Science
AGT 100: American Government
BSM 100: Business Mathematics or ENS 100: Environmental Science
ENG 101: English Composition I
PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology

Elective Options
FTE 211: 1911 Advanced Armorer
FTE 217: Modern Sporting Rifle
FTE 218: Pump Shotgun Armorer
FTE 225: Developing a Business Plan

To view a full list of course descriptions, click below.

Learn what you love from the comfort of your home

The Associate of Science in Firearms Technology degree program offers SDI students the opportunity to gain a complete understanding of firearms technology and how to navigate the unique and exciting firearms industry without having to travel or relocate. This 60-semester-hour program is the most comprehensive of SDI’s programs, and is one of only a handful of firearms-specific degree programs in the nation.

With the successful completion of this program, a student will be able to do the following:

• Interpret and apply federal, state, and local firearms laws and regulations to ensure legal compliance in gunsmithing practices.
• Develop firearms and ammunition vocabulary to distinguish between broad industry terms and manufacturer-specific language.
• Distinguish firearms and ammunition by industry-defined characteristics and terms, to support the translation of customer-identified problems.
• Use safe industry practices while applying tools and knowledge to effect firearms-related repairs or customizations.
• Apply gunsmithing techniques across various firearms platforms to complete basic modifications or upgrades consistent with industry standards or good craftsmanship.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical and operational issues in firearms, utilizing critical thinking and specialized tools to implement effective solutions.
• Uphold industry standards for workplace safety and proper handling of tools, machinery, and firearms in all gunsmithing activities.
• Demonstrate proficiency in specialized gunsmithing techniques, including the operation of lathes and other precision machinery, and perform accurate modifications, repairs, and restorations on a wide range of firearms.
• Identify and apply business principles by understanding basic retail and repair scenarios within a firearms business operation.
• Apply advanced wood and metalworking techniques to fabricate and customize firearm components, with attention to detail, quality, and aesthetic design.
• Explore concepts in communication, quantitative reasoning, information literacy, critical thinking, natural and physical sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and the humanities.

Completion Requirements

To earn an Associate of Science in Firearms Technology degree, a student must do the following:

• Complete all coursework required in the degree program
• Complete at least 45 credit hours of discipline-specific coursework
• Complete at least 15 credit hours of general education coursework
• Complete the program with a minimum grade point of 2.0 or above
• Meet all financial obligations to the institute

Completion of the Associate of Science in Firearms Technology degree does not require additional specialized training, practicum, or externships.

BBS 200: Advanced Ballistics – 3 Credit Hours
This course builds on the outcomes of the Basic Ballistics course. The course will explain how ammunition accuracy is impacted by gunpowder and various projectiles. This course will address reloading techniques including the basic components of reloading for both the brass cartridge and shotgun shell, how to set up shell plates, dies, reloading dies, and how to prime cartridges. Further discussion will take place on how to reload for accuracy, measuring with precision equipment, and how to develop customized loads.

FTT 100: Introduction to Firearms – 3 Credit Hours
This course is an introduction to firearms technology and the field of shooting sports management. During the course the student will review firearm fundamentals and multiple types of firearms available. The student will practice researching disassembly procedures and demonstrate a comprehensive project on the topic of cleaning firearms.

FTT 104: Gunsmithing Tools Lab – 2 Credit Hours
In this lab, the student will engage in hands-on techniques with some of the gunsmith’s essential hand tools. The student will replicate detailed firearms disassembly using their assigned tools, with the aid of research and detailed diagrams and drawings. Techniques will be identified that gunsmiths apply in the use of files, rasps, hacksaws, drills, wrenches and screws, among others. Maintenance techniques of these tools will also be identified.

FTT 111: Firearms Inspection and Troubleshooting – 4 Credit Hours
This course will describe methods to diagnose malfunctions of a firearm and prescribe an appropriate troubleshooting method. The course will address rimfire and centerfire rifles, handguns and shotguns. Also reviewed are methods to diagnose modified and competition firearms as well as learning to diagnose malfunctions through cartridge case analysis. A lab on the topic of fastener repair will be assigned to the student, along with requisite materials to accomplish proper screw removal, repair, and restoration.

FTT 114: Custom Kydex Lab – 2 Credit Hours
This lab investigates the development and design of firearm holsters, including modern thermoforming designs. The student will participate in a detailed project on the topic of designing firearm retention devices, to include both the one-piece and two-piece designs. Lab materials will be provided to the student to customize a holster to a specific designation.

FTT 122: Introduction to Ammunition and Basic Ballistics – 3 Credit Hours
This course introduces students to important concepts related to ammunition and basic ballistics. Students will develop an understanding of the terminology pertaining to these topics. This knowledge will help them as they communicate with their instructors and fellow students in their courses throughout their time with SDI as well as throughout their professional work within the firearms industry. Among other concepts, students will demonstrate their understanding of the various steps of ballistics, the material and environmental aspects that affect ballistics, cartridge design, various propellant types, mechanical steps completed within a firearm, and phenomena that occur as a projectile moves through the air.

FTT 201: Firearms Finishes and Engraving – 4 Credit Hours
This course covers the preparation and finishing of metal. Techniques for polishing, bluing, Parkerizing, and browning of metal are explained. Modern firearm finishes, such as spray-on finishes, hydrographics, ferritic nitrocarburizing, PVD coating, and other methods are discussed. Also included are methodologies for the engraving of metal that will allow customization of firearms.

FTT 210: Customizing and Woodworking – 4 Credit Hours
This course will describe methods to replace and repair gunstocks. Techniques on ways to properly select the wood and to shape the stock will be described. Included in those techniques will be methods to fit the new stock to the action of a firearm. Included in this course is how to custom fit a gunstock to a customer’s specifications and how to install a recoil pad. Students will demonstrate the process of gunstock inletting, and a hands-on lab on this topic is included.

FTT 211: Stock Refinishing and Metal Work Lab – 1 Credit Hour
In this lab, the student will practice and develop the stock refinishing and metalworking techniques examined in FTT 210 and FTT 201. Students will sand, stain, seal, and finish the wood stock provided, and will polish the brass components and install them onto the stock. Also, students will be provided a browning solution to finish the barrel, and will be provided with a brass lap and compound to finish a rough crown of the barrel. Students will also continue the discussion regarding “classical” and modern gunsmithing techniques, learn more about muzzleloading concepts, and finish the assembly of the Traditions Shenandoah Muzzleloader.

FTT 214: Hand Checkering Lab – 2 Credit Hours
This lab will cover hand checkering wood stocks and pistol grips. Checkering is a process of cutting parallel grooves with specific wood cutting tools. You will be provided with all supplies necessary to complete this process, to include wood and cutting tools. These tools are used to familiarize you with the techniques of hand checkering, and a final test on the topic will be conducted. A template of the pattern will be provided in the course.

FTT 221: Sights, Optics, and Accuracy – 4 Credit Hours
This course provides a thorough understanding of accuracy for the gunsmith. Included in this course are techniques on how to inspect a rifle for accuracy, tools needed to achieve accuracy, installation of sights, and mounting optics. Other topics introduce the gunsmith to modern bolt-action trigger kits and how to check proper fit of a bolt-action rifle. A core component of this course is to describe the correct procedure of rifle bedding, including how to pillar bed both modern synthetic stocks and wooden stocks. This course also explains how to properly maintain long-range hunting rifles for long-term storage and to mount a telescoping optic.

FTT 231: Machining and Manufacturing of Firearms – 3 Credit Hours
This course provides a comprehensive overview of machining and other metal manufacturing concepts. The student will discover the science behind metallurgy and how to shape metal for a desired result. The student will be introduced to milling machines, the metal turning lathe, polishing tools, and other firearms-specific machinery. Included in this course are the processes of welding, soldering, and brazing. Methods for configuring a barrel to a customer’s unique specifications will also be covered in detail. Also included is an overview of heat treatment, normalizing, and how to temper gunmetal.

FTT 240: Shooting Sports Management – 3 Credit Hours
This course provides the foundation to establish a firearms-related business. Included in the course is a review of the practices, rules, and laws that govern the operation of a firearms repair and sales business. In addition, the course is an introduction to bookkeeping and appropriate business record maintenance related to shooting sports. Advertising and marketing will also be described.

*FTT 299: Firearms Technology Elective – 4 Credit Hours
See individual descriptions of courses that students select from to fill this elective.
FTE 211: 1911 Advanced Armorer
FTE 217: Modern Sporting Rifle
FTE 218: Pump Shotgun Armorer
FTE 225: Developing a Business Plan

BUS 101: Introduction to Business – 3 Credit Hours
This course provides students with an overview of business in an increasingly global society. Topics include the business environment, ethics, management, marketing, production, information systems, financial elements, entrepreneurship, and global business. This course serves as an introduction to business terminology, concepts, environments, systems, strategies, and current issues, and provides a solid business foundation for more detailed and higher-level study in subsequent courses. Students will gain an understanding of the key components of contemporary U.S. and international business in addition to the role of ethics and social responsibility within this sector. Included is an examination of how businesses can be organized and structured; the key strategies, tools, and issues involved in operations; and the key financial concepts involved in enterprise. Students will be instructed in how to analyze the various functions of and approaches to management, marketing processes, forces, and issues in a business enterprise; and to develop a business plan incorporating sound concepts, systems, and strategies.

SCI 101: Intro to Physical Science – 3 Credit Hours
This course introduces students to the foundational ideas and concepts of physical science to gain a better understanding of the world. Topics covered include measurement, motion, force and motion, atomic and nuclear physics, elements of chemistry, work and energy, temperature and heat, and waves and optics. Direct application of some of these topics will be made to provide students with further context and real-world application.

AGT 100: American Government – 3 Credit Hours
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of American government and politics, focusing on the historical evolution of government and policies, and the major institutions and processes. Course goals include developing an interest in and understanding of today’s government, policy development, and politics, as well as developing critical thinking and information literacy skills in the areas of government and politics. Topics include the Constitution; federalism; civil rights and liberties; the structure and processes of the three branches of government; political socialization; interest groups and public opinion; political parties and the election process; and basic U.S. social, economic, and foreign policy. Students will examine institutional structures and how they interact with each other to explain the processes of government and how the historical development of the United States has affected the contemporary political environment. Instruction includes an analysis of the formal and informal processes by which public policy is made; how individual actors impact the contemporary political environment; and application of informational literacy skills in the study of politics.

BSM 100: Business Mathematics – 3 Credit Hours
This course applies math fundamentals to business applications. Topics include a basic math review, business statistics, profit calculations, payroll, banking, interest calculations, insurance and taxes. Students will learn to solve mathematical problems; apply mathematical concepts to various business transactions and statistics calculations; and analyze business problems using mathematical equations.

ENS 100: Environmental Science – 3 Credit Hours
This course explores the relationship between man and the environment. Students examine the balance between natural resources and the needs of mankind as well as the scientific, political, economic, and social implications of environmental science. Students will examine the field of Environmental Science in terms of theoretical perspectives, economics, policies, and environmental ethics. Included is an exploration of population growth and demographic transitions; toxic substances and their effects; non-renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment; the biodiversity of earth and conservation biology and its benefits; and the foundations of environmental science. Students will learn how to analyze land use and planning for creating livable cities; evaluate soil as a system and its importance in the environment; describe the function of the earth’s atmosphere, its composition, structure, and changing global climate; and appraise the importance of water and marine ecosystems. The student will also understand how to examine renewable energy and analyze the types of waste generated and disposal methods.

ENG 101: English Composition I – 3 Credit Hours
This course develops written communication skills with an emphasis on understanding the writing process, analyzing text, and practicing writing for personal and professional applications. Students will learn to implement the steps of the writing process; identify essay components; and write effective and grammatically correct paragraphs and essays. Instruction includes how to analyze the role of reading and writing in academic and professional careers; apply strategies to achieve clarity and effective style in writing; differentiate between writing patterns; identify sentence types and parts of speech; discriminate between proper and improper use of punctuation; and to implement correct spelling. The student will also examine and then apply strategies and guidelines for writing an effective research paper.

PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology – 3 Credit Hours
This course introduces human behavior. It includes the study of the theories and concepts of psychology including the scope of psychology, biological foundations and the brain, sensation, perception, motivation, personality, learning/memory, emotion, states of consciousness, personality theories, cognition, lifespan development, and applied psychology. In this course, students will examine the field of psychology in terms of history, key perspectives, issues, and current trends. Instruction will cover scientific and research methods; the anatomical structures and physiological functions related to psychology; sensation, perception, heredity, and genetics; consciousness, sleep, sleep disorders, and hypnosis as related to psychology; the underlying principles and basis of the psychology behind learning, memory, and experience; cognitive abilities and intelligence from a psychological perspective; the different phases and stages in human development; the different motivation theories; and the psychological basis of emotions. Moreover, students will examine sexuality and gender in relation to psychology; psychoanalytic approaches and humanistic theories to explain behaviors and traits in personalities; health psychology and approaches to health management; different mental disorders; psychotherapy, differing methods, and their effectiveness; the importance of thoughts; trends in social behavior; and the impact of social influences.

The Associate of Science in Firearms Technology Degree program is built to help you develop real-world skills and pursue opportunities in the firearms industry.
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