Develop your skills and discover your passion

SDI’s Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing is designed for students seeking to build core gunsmithing knowledge, gain a valuable credential, or take the next step in turning a hobby into a career.

This 32-credit program covers firearms mechanics, ballistics, legal compliance, machining, maintenance, and modification—all delivered through flexible online learning with hands-on application.

Develop your skills and discover your passion with SDI’s Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing program

For students looking to hone their gunsmithing skills, learn the techniques needed to operate a gunsmithing business, gain a valuable credential or expand their hobby into a career, SDI’s Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing program is a great fit. In this 32-semester-credit-hour program, you’ll learn gunsmithing techniques and practices, shooting sports management, and more – you’ll also complete a build of your choice.

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 practical solutions.
• Uphold industry standards for workplace safety and proper handling of tools, machinery, and firearms in all gunsmithing activities.

Completion Requirements

To earn a Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing, a student must do the following:

• Complete all coursework required in the certificate program
• Complete at least 32 credit hours of discipline-specific coursework
• Complete the program with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 or above
• Meet all financial obligations to the institute

Completion of the Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing does not require additional specialized training, practicum, or externships.

Our curriculum goes beyond the textbook. We believe that online learning should include opportunities to ingest, explain, and demonstrate what you’ll learn as a student. Within your online classroom, you’ll access electronic coursebooks and supplemental multimedia resources, interact with students and instructors, submit assignments and exams, and find extra-curricular ways to make the most of your time as an SDI student.

Tools and materials are shipped throughout the program to support hands-on learning. Each course has its own required, suggested, and provided tools. Visit our Tools and Materials List to explore what you’ll receive and need during your coursework.

The Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing program puts you on the path to an exciting career in the firearms industry. Take the first step down this path today by learning more about SDI.

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GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.