What Degrees and Education Programs Are Available in Locksmithing?

Important Facts About Locksmith Professionals

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Apprenticeships

Locksmith apprentices study with a master locksmith and learn through an extended on-the-job training program. At the end of an apprenticeship, locksmiths are fully trained in the trade and have a solid work history to present to prospective employers.

Individual Locksmith Courses

Students can design their own educational program in locksmithing through schools that offer individual courses. As an example, the Charles Stuart School of Locksmithing offers individual courses taught by working locksmiths who are up-to-date on the latest advancements. The curriculum prepares students to obtain the license needed for locksmithing in New York. Available courses include:

• Key Cutting and Duplication both by Hand and Machine
• Lock Installations
• Master Keying
• Safe Combination Changing
• High-Security Locks
• Auto Locksmithing
• Emergency Openings (forced entry)
• Auto Opening
• General Lock Construction
• How to Operate Your Own Business

Certificate Programs

Certificate programs teach the fundamentals of locksmithing over a short period, preparing students for entry-level locksmithing jobs. Graduates of the program may pursue the Registered Locksmith designation. Topics covered during the course include identifying different types of locks, keys, and security systems, understanding key duplicating systems, re-keying lock cylinders, master key basic systems, installing high-security locks, and cross-referencing key blanks.

Community College Programs

While associate's degree programs in locksmithing are rare, many community colleges offer professional training programs lasting six months to a year. These programs lead to a professional diploma or certification. Students enrolled in a community college program will learn locksmithing techniques, industry standards, as well as relevant legal, ethical, and safety practices.