Underwater Skills

Program Description

Studying from September to June, you will receive training and practice in underwater skills relating to construction and salvage work in rivers, lakes, canals, and in inspection and repair work related to the offshore oil industry. You will also benefit from instruction in the safe use and maintenance of commercial diving equipment.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)
• Grade 12 Mathematics: (C) or (U) or Grade 11 Mathematics (U) or (M)
• Grade 11 Physics (C)
• Recreational Scuba Diving Certificate from an approved organization
• Successful completion of an approved commercial diving medical prior to beginning the program
• Minimum 10 hours bottom time and 20 dives

Applicant Selection:

• During a College orientation session, testing will be conducted in the areas of English proficiency, mathematics, diving physics, and diving problem solving. The results of these tests will provide the basis upon which selection of applicants is determined. Applicants who are unable to attend the orientation session may make arrangements to write the tests at an approved location (i.e. a school) nearer their residence. Academic achievement (i.e. grades in prerequisite subjects or their equivalents) may be used in the selection process.

Restrictions:

• Commercial diving requires that all candidates be determined fit to dive by a qualified diving and hyperbaric physician. All applicants must provide proof of medical fitness to dive prior to the start of the program. A list of qualified physicians may be found on the Diver Certification Board of Canada website at www.divercertification.com.

The Importance of Learning Skills:
Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills. Seminars, workshops and tutoring are available at Seneca's Learning Centres.

Your Career

Enjoy an international career in underwater construction, inspection, and repair for both offshore oil and onshore construction sectors of the diving industry. As a graduate of the 35-week Underwater Skills certificate program, you will be eligible for certification by Diver Certification Board of Canada (DCBC). Certification by DCBC is recognized by International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and accepted worldwide.

Affiliations and Associations

• American Welding Society
• Association of Diving Contractors Int.
• Canadian Association of Diving Contractors
• Canadian Standards Association
• Canadian Welding Bureau
• Construction Safety Association of Ontario
• Diver Certification Board of Canada
• International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA)
• Ontario Commercial Diving Labour Management Health and Safety Committee
• Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS)

Curriculum

Each student is required to complete a Canadian Red Cross Standard First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (Basic Rescuer) prior to graduation.

Note: Each semester includes a physical fitness program which is designed: to develop the student’s level of fitness in order to pass an international level of fitness; to emphasize the importance of group effort and co-operation; to develop leadership and to develop the personal fitness required to carry out safe underwater operations.

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