SPECIALIZED EDUCATION
Certificate in Firearms Technology - Gunsmithing
Build real, hands-on gunsmithing skills across major firearm platforms and complete a firearm build of your choice in an accredited online program you can finish in two semesters.
DEAC
ACCREDITED
32
CREDIT HOURS
100%
ONLINE
GI Bill®
& FSA ELIGIBLE*
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Develop Your Skills. Build Your Craft.
The Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing is built for people who want to take firearms work seriously — whether you’re turning a lifelong hobby into a profession, adding a credential to skills you already have, or starting a path toward your own gunsmithing business.
Across 32 credit hours, you’ll work through firearms mechanics, ammunition and ballistics, legal compliance, machining principles, maintenance, troubleshooting, and modification — combining online coursework with real hands-on application in your own workspace, and finishing with a firearm build of your choice.
It’s delivered fully online in two structured 16-week semesters, so you study any time of day that fits your life while staying on track with weekly milestones — the structure that helps you actually finish and build genuine skill.
YOUR FINAL PROJECT
Complete a Firearm Build of Your Choice
This isn’t theory-only learning. The program culminates in a hands-on build where you apply everything you’ve learned — fit, function, troubleshooting, and craftsmanship — to a platform you choose through your elective.
1911 Advanced Armorer
Modern Sporting Rifle (AR-9 / AR-10 / AR-15)
Pump Shotgun Armorer
WHAT YOU’LL BE ABLE TO DO
Skills You'll graduate With
On successful completion of the program, you’ll be able to:
Apply gunsmithing techniques across firearm platforms to complete modifications and upgrades to industry standards.
Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical and operational issues using critical thinking and specialized tools.
Interpret and apply federal, state, and local firearms laws to keep gunsmithing practices compliant.
Use safe industry practices when applying tools and knowledge to firearms repairs and customizations.
Develop firearms and ammunition vocabulary to translate what customers describe into the real issue.
Uphold workplace-safety standards for handling tools, machinery, and firearms in every activity.
SDI does not guarantee job placement, advancement, or continued employment.
COURSEWORK
32 Credits | Two 16-Week Semesters
A focused, discipline-specific curriculum — no filler. Tap any course to see what you’ll learn and the tools and materials involved. Your elective (FTT 299) sets your final firearm build.
Course availability may vary each semester; not all courses are offered every term. You can opt in to SDI-provided tools and materials or opt out and source them yourself to SDI’s specifications; some basic items (workbench, bench vise, safety equipment) are always student-supplied, and firearms ship to a licensed FFL. Tool and material contents are subject to change. Started the CFTG program before January 1, 2026? Refer to your legacy program information or contact your Student Success Coach.
TOOLS & MATERIALS
Learn with real tools in hand
Our curriculum goes beyond the textbook. The program is built around hands-on work with real gunsmithing tools and materials in your own workspace.
Tools and materials used in the program include:`
- 24-pc gun care & cleaning kits
- Steel & roll-pin punch sets
- File, rasp & needle-file sets
- Headspace gauge sets
- Torque wrench kit
- Trigger-pull & firing-pin gauges
- Recoil pad install fixture
- Epoxy bedding & stippling kits
- Boresighter, scope & rings
- Elective build kit (1911 / AR / shotgun)
- Non-firing training rounds
- Digital coursebooks & manuals
You can opt in to have SDI provide required tools and materials, or opt out and source them yourself to SDI’s specifications. Some basic items (such as a workbench, bench vise, and safety equipment) are supplied by the student. Required materials, firearms, and any applicable materials fees vary by course; firearms ship to a licensed FFL. Exact contents are subject to change.
TUITION & FUNDING
Ways to Pay for Your Program
This program is approved for the GI Bill® and other VA/military benefits, as well as Federal Student Aid, based on eligibility. An advisor can walk you through tuition, fees, and the options below.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Federal Student Aid (FSA) for those who qualify, plus payment and financing plans.
TUITION & FUNDING >
Veterans & Military
GI Bill® and other VA/military education benefits, based on eligibility.
VETERANS RESOURCES >
Scholarships
Scholarships for military-connected and first-responder students.
VIEW SCHOLARSHIPS >
NOT SURE WHICH PROGRAM?
Find The Right Fit
This certificate is one of three firearms programs at SDI. Here’s how they compare.
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