SPECIALIZED EDUCATION
Real-world skills.
Career Focused.
Sonoran Desert Institute is a leader in online education for in-demand careers. Our industry-focused programs, expert instructors, and hands-on training help you build the skills and confidence to succeed in the firearms and uncrewed industries.
FLEXIBLE
LEARNING
HANDS-ON
TRAINING
INDUSTRY
FOCUSED
CAREER
SUPPORT
Trust Indicators
SDI is committed to providing a high-quality education, outstanding student support, and real-world skills you can trust.
DEAC Accredited
Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) for quality and integrity
Military-Friendly
Proudly supporting active duty, veterans, and their families with dedicated benefits and resources
Online Learning
Learn on your schedule, from anywhere, with 24/7 access to coursework and support.
Industry-Focused
Curriculum designed with industry professionals to prepare you for in-demand careers
Student Success
We are committed to your success from enrollment to graduation and beyond.
What are you looking for?
Programs
Explore our degree and certificate programs
Tuition & Funding
Tuition rates, payment plans and financial aid
Military
Benefits, transfer credit and military support
How To Apply
Step-by step guide to help you get started
OUR PROGRAMS
Choose your path
Firearms Technology
Learn firearm design, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and industry business practices.
ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN FIREARMS TECHNOLOGY
60 Credits / Four 16-Week Semesters
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CERTIFICATE IN FIREARMS TECHNOLOGY – GUNSMITHING
32 Credits / Two 16-Week Semesters
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CERTIFICATE IN FIREARMS TECHNOLOGY – HANDGUN SPECIALIST
16 Credits / One 20-Week Semester
VIEW PROGRAM →
Uncrewed Technology
Explore drone operations, UAS technology, aerial systems, and emerging commercial applications.
ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN UNCREWED TECHNOLOGY
60 Credits / Four 20-Week Semesters
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CERTIFICATE IN UNCREWED TECHNOLOGY – AERIAL SYSTEMS
16 Credits / One 20-Week Semester
VIEW PROGRAM →
TURN YOUR PASSION INTO A PROFESSION
Career Outcomes
Firearms Technology
Gunsmithing
Manufacturing
Retail
Product Development
Shooting Sports
Business Ownership
Uncrewed Technology
UAS Operations
Infrastructure
Mapping
Public Safety
Agriculture
Commercial Services
HOW IT WORKS
Your Journey Starts Here
Apply
Complete the online application in minutes
Submit Documents
Provide transcripts and any required documentation
Explore Funding
Review your options and choose what works for you
Start Classes
Register, get oriented and begin your training
QUALIFIED INSTRUCTORS
Learn From Industry Professionals
Our instructors bring real-world experience from the firearms and uncrewed industries to deliver training that’s practical, relevant, and mission-focused.
Thea Miller
Faculty Manager
Teaching at SDI since 2021
Master of Public Administration
Scott Parr
Full-Time Faculty
Teaching at SDI since 2020
BA, Human Communication
James McDanolds
Director of Uncrewed Technology Programs
Teaching at SDI since 2022
BS, Aeronautics with a Specialty in UAS
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
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
Meet SDI Graduates
Andrew Maynard
Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing
2023 Graduate
Carl Brown
Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing
2021 Graduate
Micah Ennis
Associate of Science in Firearms Technology
2023 Graduate
TUITION & FUNDING
Affordable. Flexible.
Focused on your future.
We offer multiple funding options and easy payment plans to help you achieve your goals.
MILITARY BENEFITS
VA Benefits, MyCAA and other military funding options
FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID
FAFSA-eligible programs for qualified students
NO-INTEREST PAYMENT PLANS
Interest-free monthly payments while you study
SCHOLARSHIPS
Merit and need-based scholarships available
BUILT FOR THOSE WHO SERVE
Military Students
We’re here to help you transition your skills into a meaningful career You served our country – now let us serve you.
ACTIVE DUTY
Tuition assistance, federal benefits and transfer credit support
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VETERANS
Use your VA benefits and get the support you’ve earned.
LEARN MORE >
Your Workbench Is Waiting.
Start building the technical skills needed for the firearms and uncrewed industries today. Our admissions team is here to help you every step of the way.