Instruction
Getting started in SCUBA is as easy as 1-2-3!
- Classroom (eLearning) - Part 1
(eLearning) Enjoy learning from home and get a head start (10-12 hours to complete). Then finish up in the classroom with a short review and then to the pool. - Pool - Part 2
Sessions in the pool include learning/practicing proper breathing, dealing with water pressure, safely setting up and using your equipment, and important safety skills. All students must complete a 300-meter swim with the use of a mask/snorkel/fins and float/tread water for ten (10) minutes. - Open Waters - Part 3
You’ll feel more than ready for your first open water dive. Four dives and you’re a PADI Certified Open Water diver! These dives can be completed locally or on a dive trip.
Throughout the course, you’ll learn the fundamentals of SCUBA diving, including use of dive equipment and techniques. You will also earn a PADI Open Water Diver certification that is recognized worldwide. You earn this rating by completing pool dives and knowledge development sessions and by making four open water lake dives.
All student divers complete a brief scuba medical questionnaire that asks about medical conditions that could be a problem while diving. If none of these apply, sign the form and you’re ready to start. If any of these apply to you, your doctor must, as a safety precaution, assess the condition as it relates to diving and sign a medical form that confirms you’re fit to dive. It is highly recommended that you review this form prior to enrolling in any classes, just in case you require medical clearance. Download the scuba medical questionnaire.
Junior Open Water Certification: The minimum age is 10 years old. Student divers who are younger than 15 earn the PADI Junior Open Water Diver certification, which they may upgrade to PADI Open Water Diver certification upon reaching 15. Children under the age of 13 require parent or guardian permission to register for PADI eLearning. All of the coursework is identical for the Junior Open Water Diver and the Open Water Diver class. Junior Open Water Divers have some restrictions. Divers aged 10 and 11 must dive with a Padi Professional or a certified parent or guardian and dives cannot exceed 40 feet. Divers aged 12 to 14 years old must dive with a certified adult and dives cannot exceed 60 feet in depth.
There is good news for college students interested in getting certified: the PADI Open Water Diver course is recommended for college credit by the American Council on Education (ACE). Ask us for details on how you can enjoy this fabulous sport AND get college credit.
Cancelation Policy: eLearning is non-refundable. Class fees are non-refundable within 14 days of the class start date (store credit only). Transferring to another class can be done within 7 days of the class start date but requires a $50 transfer fee. Failure to show for class/return to class results in forfeiture of fees.
Class Locations
University of Minnesota, Morris MN
Alexandria Technical Community College, Alexandria MN
Devils Lake, ND
