UMassD Dive

UMassD Dive is a grant funded pilot project to introduce a SCUBA Diving Program pathway into university offerings in 2025 and 2026. UMassD will offer undergraduate and graduate students matriculated in our academic majors an opportunity to earn SCUBA credentials. Credentials include Open Water SCUBA and Snorkeling to advanced training and certifications, such Science Diving, Night Diving, Dive Guide and AAUS Scientific Diving. 

The pilot will commence in Fall 2025 with a cohort of 12 students, space is limited. Students without diving experience can explore Blue Economy career pathways and earn initial industry recognized SSI Open Water SCUBA certification. For students with existing SCUBA credentials, an advanced training program including Dive Master, Instructor and Scientific Diving will start in 2026. 

After the pilot project, the intention is for UMassD Dive to be an ongoing, sustainable offering for the UMass Dartmouth community. UMass Dartmouth is currently a member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) along with the other University of Massachusetts campuses and has a Dive Safety Officer and Dive Control Board. Initial SCUBA certification through UMassD Dive will be delivered via SSI.

Proposed UMassD Dive courses

Courses are subject to change and availability.

Fall 2025

  • Introduction to SCUBA Diving and the Blue Economy

Spring 2026

  • Introduction to SCUBA Diving and the Blue Economy
  • Advanced SCUBA Diving
  • Introduction to SCUBA Instructing and Deepwater Diving
  • SCUBA Instructor

Fall 2026

  • Introduction to SCUBA Diving and the Blue Economy
  • Advanced SCUBA Diving
  • Introduction to SCUBA Instruction and Deepwater Diving
  • Scientific Diving
  • SCUBA Diving Topics (Underwater Photography and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV))

UMassD Dive eligibility

All students must meet the SCUBA dive standards to be eligible to participate. Students from all majors are encouraged to inquire. Space is limited during this pilot program. A presentation will be given in Spring 2025 to faculty and staff and students about the program and eligibility.

Application

Students will submit an online interest form for each course which will be reviewed prior to registration. Selected students are anticipated to register for the courses directly in COIN. 

Application link coming soon.

Dive Safety Board

At UMassD, we prioritize safety in scientific diving and snorkeling activities. Whether you're conducting research underwater or exploring marine ecosystems, we're here to provide you with the information and resources you need to dive and snorkel safely and responsibly. UMass Dive Safety is a specialized program dedicated to promoting safety in scientific diving and snorkeling activities within the University of Massachusetts system.

Read more about the UMass Dive Safety program.

Resources and links