SSI Professional Courses Overview

CourseMinimum ageLogged dives / ExperienceContent / SessionsScopePrerequisites
DiveMaster18 yrsAt least 40 logged dives plus experience in deep, navigation, night and limited-visibility divingScience of Diving and Dive Guide training; mentoring; leading certified divers; assisting instructorsGuides certified divers and assists SSI instructorsStress & Rescue certification, required specialties or equivalent experience, medical fitness
Assistant Instructor18 yrsAt least 75 open-water dives and 50 dive hoursInstructor Training Course (first part); academic and confined-water teaching practiceCan teach certain SSI programs under supervision and assist with all entry-level coursesDivemaster certification, required logged dives, current First Aid and O2 provider training
Open Water Instructor18 yrsAt least 100 open-water dives and 65 dive hoursComplete full Instructor Training Course and pass Instructor EvaluationMay teach and certify Open Water Diver, Scuba Diver, Advanced Adventurer and other core SSI programsAssistant Instructor certification, required logged dives, Enriched Air Nitrox 40, medical fitness