ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN
Firearms
Technology
Build hands-on technical skills in gunsmithing, machining, diagnostics, customization, and firearms business operations – from anywhere.
60
CREDIT HOURS
ONLINE +
HANDS-ON
DEAC
ACCREDITED
GI BILL®
ELIGIBLE
Program Details
Convenient Online Coursework
The Associate of Science in Firearms Technology Degree program blends flexible online learning with hands-on application. As a DEAC-accredited school, SDI gives students the opportunity to study from home while building practical skills.
Tools and materials are shipped throughout the program to support coursework in areas like maintenance, modification, machining, and shop safety, helping students turn theory into practice in their own workspaces.
Coursework
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
44 credit hours
Course
FTT 102: Principles of Mechanics in Firearms
FTT 103: Principles of Ammunition and Basic Ballistics
FTT 105: Firearms Laws, Rights, and Responsibilities
FTT 106: Hand and Specialty Tools in Gunsmithing
FTT 131: Maintenance and Troubleshooting of Firearms
MAC 110: Basic Power Tools and Machining Principles
FTT 133: General Gunsmithing Modifications
MAC 150: Introduction to Manual Lathe
FTT 213: Wood and Metalwork in Gunsmithing
FTT 220: Firearms Business Principles
FTT 299: Firearms Technology Elective
Elective Options
Course
FTE 211: 1911 Advanced Armorer
FTE 217: Modern Sporting Rifle
FTE 218: Pump Shotgun Armorer
FTE 225: Developing a Business Plan
Student Success
1 credit hour
Course
SDI 101: Success in Distance Learning
General Education
15 credit hours
Course
AGT 100: American Government
ENG 101: English Composition 1
MAT 101: Mathematics for Technical Trades
PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology
SCI 101: Introduction to Physical Science
If you started the ASFT program before January 1, 2026, please refer to your specific program and course information HERE or contact your Student Success Coach for assistance.
To view a full list of course descriptions, click below.
Tuition & Funding
This program is approved for use of the GI Bill® and other Veterans Assistance and military benefits, as well as Federal Student Aid (FSA), based on eligibility. Click on the links below for more details regarding tuition, fees, and financial aid. Please contact the Admissions department for more info at admissions@sdi.edu or 480-999-4767.
WHAT YOU’LL ACTUALLY LEARN
Industry-Focused Skills. Real-World Application.
Firearm Diagnostics
Impact, troubleshoot, and repair modern firearms
See Courses >
Ballistics & Ammunition
Understand ballistics principles and ammunition performance
See Courses >
Machining & Lathes
Use manual lathes and machine tools with precision
See Courses >
Wood & Metalworking
Shape, finish, and fit custom stocks and metal components
See Courses >
Firearm Modifications
Customize and enhance firearms for function and performance
See Courses >
Shop Safety
Maintain a safe, efficient, and professional work environment
See Courses >
Business Operations
Learn the business side of firearms and shop management
See Courses >
Firearm Laws
Understand federal, state, and local laws that govern the industry
See Courses >
Program Outcomes
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.
Successful Completion
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 44 credit hours of discipline-specific coursework
- Complete at least one credit hour of student success 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.
YOUR PATH TO EXPERTISE
Semester-By-Semester Roadmap
SEMESTER 1
Foundations
- Firearms Mechanics
- Ammunition & Ballistics
- Shop Safety
- Firearms Laws
SEMESTER 2
hANDS-ON sKILLS
- Firearms Diagnostics
- Tools & Equipment
- Gunsmithing Techniques
- Firearm Modifications
SEMESTER 3
Advanced Technical
- Manual Lathe Operations
- Wood & Metalwork
- Precision Fitting
- Advanced Projects
SEMESTER 4
Professional Readiness
- Business Principles
- Elective Courses
- Applied Projects
- Career Preparation
SDI has given me the knowledge and resources to help me accomplish the career I was aiming for. Now I am a shotgun technician for a reputable company and I enjoy going to work every day. Thank you, SDI for making it possible.
RODEO MCCUMBER
2023 SDI Graduate – ASFT
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SDI.EDU/SCHOLARSHIPS
SDI offers different scholarships that help military-connected and first-responder students pay for education. Visit our scholarships page to learn more about eligibility requirements and see other outside scholarships available.
TOOLS AND MATERIALS
Real tools. Real projects. Real Experience.
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. Plus, SDI programs include a number of entry-level tools to help set you up for success after graduation. Each course has its own required, suggested, and provided tools, so feel free to check out our Tools and Materials List to get a feel for what you’ll need and have during your coursework.
SUPPLIED BY SDI
Textbooks & Manuals
All textbooks/manuals are provided in your course.
SUPPLIED BY SDI
Required Material
Tools/Equipment provided by SDI and shipped before each course.
SUPPLIED BY STUDENT
Shopping List
These tools are the responsibility of the student to supply.
Take the next step
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. Learn more about SDI and how to get started.
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.
Your Workbench Is Waiting.
Start your journey in firearms technology today.