This spring has marked its place in the history books of Murray State College and the state of Oklahoma. Murray State has become the first higher education institution in the United States to offer a bachelor’s degree in Gunsmithing Technology. In addition, the state of Oklahoma has invested $10 million to construct a state-of-the-art education facility to host the gunsmithing program.

In April, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education approved Murray State’s request to offer this unique bachelor’s degree program. The current program has traditionally offered an associate’s degree with a third-year option for custom gun making.

“Now, students who wish to continue to hone their skills and learn important leadership concepts will have the training, experience and earning potential to propel the industry to higher levels of success,” said Murray State College President Dr. Tim Faltyn. “Murray State is already regarded as one of the top gunsmithing schools in America. Now, we will build upon this legacy to become a center for excellence for the firearm industry.”

The next step is to submit a substantive change request to our accrediting body, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Murray State plans to hire additional faculty as soon as possible and begin admitting students to the program this fall. Design concept plans for the new gunsmithing technology building are expected to become final within 6-8 months; construction will begin as soon as possible.

“Our best days are ahead,” Faltyn said, “and they are shaping up to be a very bright and prosperous future for Oklahoma and the gun industry.”