Pennsylvania Gunsmith School in Pittsburgh has been training people to be gunsmiths since 1949. The training is in a shop or lablike setting, giving students a hands-on approach to learning. The intensive two-academic-year program is accomplished in 16 months. Students start with the basics, then build on that knowledge to learn everything there is to know about the trade, including gun repair and custom work. The gunsmithing program requires only trade courses; no liberal arts classes are needed.
Yavapai College's Gunsmithing School is in Prescott, Arizona. The institution awards two-year certificate and degree programs. Courses are designed to get students ready to work in the custom gun trade as a small-business owner or employee. The degree program goes further, preparing students to work as an entry-level employee in metal and firearm industries. A degree requires 64 credit hours. Courses include various levels of gunsmithing classes, along with small-business management, engraving, computer information systems, and such core classes as English and Western civilization.
Trinidad State Junior College is the oldest community college in Colorado. Enrollment is about 2,200 students. Gunsmithing classes started in 1947 and have evolved into a two-year degree program. The courses train students in the basic concepts of gunsmithing, as well as the skills necessary to work in the field professionally. Classes including gun repair, stock making, bench metal, checkering, pistolsmithing and competitive rifles. As of 2011, each class costs $325.
Colorado School of Trades has been training gunsmiths since its origination in 1947. Students learn by repairing customers' firearms in the biggest gunsmithing shop in the country. The project-oriented training teaches the art of craftsmanship so students can become entry level general gunsmiths. Courses focus on hand tools, stock refinishing, checkering, gun sights, design, function, using an engine lathe and universal grinder, and business training. Graduates earn an associate of occupational studies degree after 1,800 program hours.