A certificate in locksmithing focuses on providing knowledge and skills on installing, repairing and adjusting a several types of locks.
The locksmithing certificate programs are offered by both campus based and online schools. This certificate shows that a person has attained the required knowledge and skills in the field. Employers prefer to hire certified locksmiths as they have the right credentials of their expertise and knowledge.
Featured Programs
Certificate in Locksmithing
The certificate courses in locksmithing provide students with a chance to learn various skills that would help them “break into this field.” Candidates learn how to apply quality systems, perform computations, interact with computing technology, and use power tools. Besides, they also get to know how to interpret technical drawing, plan and conduct detailed projects and make use of hand held tools.
Students may need to spend 6 months to 2 years to complete a locksmithing certificate. In addition to classroom-based learning, they also get a chance to gain hands-on training in locksmithing.
Program Coursework
A certificate program in locksmithing provides students instruction in a variety of topics that prepare candidates to work as a locksmith. The coursework may include instruction in topics such as automotive locksmithing, identification procedures, hardware systems and electronic security lock systems. Candidates may learn how to differentiate between residential and commercial locks, and manage lock mechanisms as well.
Online Certificate in Locksmithing
Candidates seeking a career in the locksmithing industry can also work towards a training program in online format. The program coursework is similar to the content in the traditional certificate programs in locksmiting but the method of delivery is not similar. Students in the online courses learn about access control, master key systems, operate handheld and power tools and heating and thermal cutting among other areas of study without being physically present in the classes. They use various learning technologies to study remotely.
The online certificates provide students with comprehensive training. Students learn how to open, adjust, install and repair a wide range of locks studying from their homes or any other location.
Career Prospects
According to statistics, jobs for these workers are expected to grow between 2012 and 2022 (O*Net).
There are about 9,100 projected job openings for locksmiths during 2012-2022 decade (O*Net). Most of these workers are self-employed while others work for scientific and research organizations. Some locksmiths are employed by hardware, plumbing, heating companies, schools and hospitals.
Graduates of a certificate in locksmithing may work as commercial locksmiths, maintenance locksmiths, security locksmiths, industrial locksmiths or residential locksmiths.According to the BLS, locksmiths earned a median wage of $37,950 a year in 2012.
Advancement
After earning a certificate in locksmithing, candidates may need to obtain a license as a number of states require it.Students can get a license by passing a locksmithing exam. They can also get certification from ALOA, which can demonstrate their expertise in all aspects of locksmithing.
Locksmiths can also participate in seminars and workshops to stay updated with the latest developments in the field. Several technical and vocational schools offer workshops in the field of locksmithing.