Program Overview

SCUBA Diving Program

The University of Rhode Island's Tootell Aquatic Center and Diving Safety Program are offering a basic Open Water SCUBA Certification course.

Basic Open Water SCUBA Certification

The course follows standards outlined by the training agency SCUBA Diving International. Upon successful completion of all requirements, participants will receive an Open Water Scuba Certification, which allows participants to dive to 60 feet or the first level in SCUBA diving. Participants under the age of 18 require parental/guardian approval to participate.

Course Structure

All classes are mandatory and will consist of academic coursework, pool training, and four ocean dives.

Fee and Registration Information

The fee for URI students and community members is $500, which includes textbook, training materials, equipment, instruction, and certification. All prerequisites must be met in order to participate. If prerequisites are not met, participants will be unable to continue in the course and will receive a 70% refund.

Prerequisites

• Be at least 15 years of age by the last scheduled session of the course.
• Successfully completed required documents, including a general liability release form, medical statement, statement of safe diving practices, and waiver release and indemnity agreement.
• Purchase your own mask and snorkel from a recognized dive shop.
• Be a comfortable-moderate level swimmer that can pass a swim test involving a 200-yard swim and 10-minute tread water.

Certification Requirements

Each session is mandatory for participants to complete the SCUBA certification. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, such as sickness or additional training required, the instructor will attempt to make accommodations to meet the participant's needs when possible. SCUBA is an inherently high-risk activity, and participants may only continue each phase of the course at the discretion of the instructor.

Required Documents

To participate in the course, the following documents are required:

• General Liability Release
• Waiver Release and Indemnity
• Guide to Purchasing Mask and Snorkel
• New Medical Statement
• Safe Diving Practices

Medical Statement Instructions

The medical statement must be filled out truthfully, and if any items are answered with a "yes", a physician's signature is required on page two, approving participation in diving.