Student Center :: Steps to Certification

Steps to SCUBA Certification

• Complete STUDENT FOLDER paperwork (Completed in class, first or second lecture session).
• If applicable, obtain a PHYSICIAN APPROVAL for SCUBA diving (if you answered 'YES' on your medical statement, a physician approval is required before ANY underwater participation). This form can be downloaded here.
• Pass Swim Test
• Purchase training materials (textbook, dive table, and log book). Items should be available in the West Valley College bookstore.
• Purchase or acquire Personal Gear Package (Mask, Snorkel, Fins, Gloves, and Boots).
• We recommend Any Water Sports. A flyer for their shop can be downloaded here.
• You must use your own personal gear during pool training sessions. We want to figure out any gear problems before going to the ocean.
• Get fitted for your ocean SCUBA gear at a dive shop - Do this as soon as possible, at least 10 days prior to your scheduled ocean dives!
• West Valley College will provide SCUBA gear for pool training sessions. You will rent SCUBA gear for ocean training. The rental gear will consist of:
1. Regulator with SPG, Dive Computer, and a Compass
2. Buoyancy Compensator
3. Wetsuit w/ Hood or Hooded Vest
4. Weight Belt and Weights
• Complete ALL Study Guides and turn in on due dates (Chapters 1 - 7 and Dive Table worksheet). Study guides can be downloaded at: http://www.westvalley.edu/pe/mdep/mdepbeg.htm
• Complete ALL in class quizzes (5 in total).
• Satisfactorily complete Pool Training Sessions and meet all requirements for Ocean Training participation
• Signup and pay for Ocean Training
• Detailed payment instructions can be found here.
• Complete Ocean Training dives (Minimum of four ocean dives and one skin dive required for certification)
• Pass written exam (80% or higher score required)