Scuba Instructor Academy

Become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor

Are you passionate about scuba diving and enjoy sharing your love for the aquatic world with others? If so, becoming a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) might be your path to an extraordinary and fulfilling career. The OWSI program at Scuba Instructor Academy offers comprehensive training that sets the standard for dive professionals around the world.

Why Choose the PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor Program?

PADI Open Water Scuba Instructors and PADI Assistant Instructors are highly sought-after dive professionals globally. These individuals have completed a program known for its rigorous training and commitment to excellence. As a PADI Instructor, you have the opportunity to transform lives by introducing people to the wonders of underwater adventures, enriching both their lives and your own.

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Your Journey to Becoming a PADI Instructor

The Instructor Development Course (IDC) at Scuba Instructor Academy comprises two parts: the Assistant Instructor (AI) course and the Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program. Most dive professionals complete the entire IDC, culminating in an Instructor Examination (IE) – the final step to attain a PADI Instructor certification.

Successfully completing the AI course grants you a PADI Assistant Instructor qualification. To progress further, the OWSI program opens the door to participating in an IE and earning a full PADI Instructor rating.

Experienced dive professionals with instructor ratings from other training organizations may directly enroll in the OWSI program, acknowledging their prior training as a valuable foundation for becoming a PADI Instructor.

Requirements for Enrollment:

  • PADI Divemaster certification with a minimum of six months of certified diving experience.
  • A minimum of 60 logged dives, with 100 dives required to attend an IE.
  • Current Emergency First Response Primary and Secondary Care (CPR and First Aid) training within the past 24 months.
  • A medical statement signed by a physician within the last 12 months.
  • While not mandatory before enrollment, you can earn the Emergency First Response Instructor rating during your instructor training.

What to Expect in the Instructor Development Course

Over a minimum of five, but typically seven days, the IDC will equip you with the skills and knowledge to conduct all PADI core courses. You’ll learn how to effectively organize and present information, conduct skill development sessions, and ensure the safety of student divers during open water dives. The program covers key topics such as:

  • PADI Standards and Procedures for courses with in-water workshops.
  • Learning, Instruction, and the PADI System.
  • Risk Management and Diver Safety.
  • The Business of Diving and your role as an instructor.
  • Marketing Diving and Sales Counseling.

In addition to your PADI Instructor certification, you may also be eligible to receive college credit for completing the Assistant Instructor course and Instructor Development Course.

Upcoming courses

Getting Started

To help you prepare for the IDC, PADI offers an eLearning option that allows you to study at your own pace before joining the class. Dive Theory Online is also available to review important dive-related knowledge. Successfully completing Dive Theory Online can provide credit for the dive theory exam requirement during your IDC.

Visit a PADI Five Star Instructor Development Center or Resort to learn more about the Instructor Development Course and take your first steps towards a fulfilling career as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor. Contact Scuba Instructor Academy today!