Scuba divers earn college credit

College campuses around the country are back in session. There is a new throng of freshmen flooding the counselor offices trying to make sense of this “college thing”. A new crop of seniors are combing through their transcripts seeing where they may have some “holes” that need to be filled so they can graduate in the spring.

This is great news for degree seeking Scuba divers. Anyone seeking a degree from an accredited university can benefit by being Scuba certified. In fact, Scuba diving can be a fun and enjoyable way to fulfill your Physical Education or Recreation requirements for your Associates or Bachelor degree.

Many colleges have long offered a Scuba program on their campus. Other campuses look to the The American Council of Education (ACE) to assist with standardization of ‘transfer credits’ and credit recommendations to help students receive credit for their Scuba education experience. A university or college may use the ACE credit recommendations in a variety of ways. The institution may apply the credit to your major replacing a required course. They may also use the credit as a general elective to possibly waive a prerequisite course. Universities and colleges that accept ACE credit recommendations for college courses typically handle them like transfer credit. Transfer credit is often awarded without an additional fee. This may save tuition fees while at the same time allowing students to possibly meet graduation requirements.

When considering receiving college credit for Scuba experience, students should consult their individual college adviser. Credit is available for over 15 recreational scuba courses (ranging from beginner through instructor), technical dive courses and CPR/first aid courses. Once a student has discussed the requirements for transfer credit with their adviser, many training agencies offer transcripts and other documentation that can be provided to the school. Don’t rely simply on presenting a certification card to receive credit. It is essential that students truly understand the documentation needed by their individual college. Of course, documentation can take time to accumulate, students should take care of this requirement at least 6 months prior to graduation time lines.

If you are not Scuba certified, contact the Academy of Scuba and discuss the various college credit programs offered. This school year is a great time to fulfill some college requirements and have a great time learning to dive.

Have fun and dive safe!