How difficult is it to become an instructor?
Becoming an instructor is not extremely difficult, but it is challenging. The ITC (Instructor Training course) teaches you how to teach. You need to have an excellent understanding of diving sciences, procedures and good public speaking abilities. You will also need to have excellent in water skills and be very comfortable underwater. You also need to have excellent intrapersonal skills. A good instructor will have empathy and ability to motivate others.
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How hard is it to find a job?
Finding a job as a diving instructor is no different than find any other job which requires a specific skill set. Those who are willing to relocate work long hours and gain additional skills employers are looking for are in demand.
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How much money can I make?
That depends on you. The pay scale will vary from low end of $20,000 per year to $50,000 per year on the high end. Most instructors who work in resorts and live aboard vessels work for tips. Those who provide excellent customer service do well. Other opportunities are available at local dive store and those with some entrepreneurial skills may even own there own businesses.
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How long does it take?
The core curriculum is 9 days for the ITP. This program is performance based, not time based. To pass the course, candidates must pass a final evaluation and a review board. Some candidates may need extra help to pass, so the course may last longer in those instances.
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How do I know this is right for me?
If you love diving and you enjoy teaching others, this is a rewarding profession.
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How can I attend your school if I work full time?
Our program is flexible – you can divide your training up so it fits into your schedule.
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What happens if I do not pass the course?
We don’t offer any guarantees you’ll pass on the first try. We take your education as an instructor seriously. I for some reason your skills need some more work we’ll work with you to accomplish your goals. At each step in the process you will know where you stand and we’ll base your training around your needs. That is what we can guarantee!
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Is there any age restrictions?
Yes, you need to be 18 years old to begin the course. There are no other age restrictions.
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What if my certifications are from another agency?
All certifications leading up the professional ratings (Assistant Instructor, Dive Master) can be crossover easily. If you have a rating from another agency you will need to attend our Prep program.
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Are there any special qualifications to attend?
You need to have a high school diploma and be able to pass a divers medical exam.
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Do I need to already be a diver to attend?
No. We offer a program for you to get certified before the start of your program.
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How many dives do I need?
To attend the TIP, you need a minimum of 50 logged dives. Our facility allows you the opportunity to log many dives while you are here.
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Do I need to be a good swimmer?
Yes. Unlike other training agencies, Commercial Diving Academy requires its instructor members to be able swim. You will need to be able to swim 450 yards in 10 minutes or less, complete to timed snorkel swim for 900 yards and perform some basic skin diving skills.
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There are many opportunities for dive professionals. They include resorts, live aboard vessels, in-land dive stores, schools and research.
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Why is your program less expensive than the others?
Due to the fact we are the largest dive school in Florida we have a lower overhead than most other shops or schools. Our location here in North Florida allows us to maximize your time and money.
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We limit our classes to ensure each student gets the necessary 1 on 1 student to instructor ratio for training. We strive for personal attention and helping you reach your goals.
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What can I teach after I graduate your program?
All the basic recreational courses including Scuba Diver, Advanced, Specialties, Rescue Dive and Leadership level courses.
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Where can I stay while attending your institute?
We offer on-site lodging to all of our candidates. Lodging ranges from dorm style to your own private cabin. In addition, there are many local hotels available.
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How can I prepare myself to attend your program?
Once you enroll, you will work with one of our instructors to get the necessary materials and our own study pack. In addition, hit the pool and brush up on your swimming skills.
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What makes your program special?
Our program is special because we are part of a greater whole - CDA. Training divers is what we do and we’ve been doing it for over a decade. Our proven teaching methods allow our students to excel both while in school and once out in the field. Our instructor staff comes from a unique background with a combined 50 years of teaching.
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Do you offer any student loans?
We offer up to 100% financing with approved credit on our classes. We work with VA for our military veterans.
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