TOP FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (Page 2) - (Download all FAQ PDF)

I just want to take a few classes to enhance my skills, do I have to apply to the program?
You only need to fill out the department application for diving if you wish to take diving classes. Non-diving classes merely require the completed SBCC Admissions Application- Admissions will notify you when you may register. If you desire to take diving classes you will need to have our diving physical form completed and on file with us prior to beginning your training.

How do I apply to the program?
Fill out the SBCC Application for Admission and return it to the campus Admissions department. If you desire to enroll in the diving portions of the program, certificate or degree- Call (805) 965-0581, x2426 or e-mail mdt@sbcc.edu for an application packet to be sent to you or download application forms here.

Does it really matter in the industry if I have an Associate in Science A.S. degree vs. a certificate?
Studies have shown that those with a degree have a higher earning power than those without. Many marine technology employers require employees who have solid educational foundations in addition to good skill sets. In the commercial diving industry, degrees are not as important at an entry level, but often mean the difference in gaining promotions due to the additional skills they afford an employee after become established with a company.

Is Santa Barbara City College a member of the Association of Commercial Diving Educators? Yes. SBCC founded the ACDE in 1974 and has worked closely with all private Comercial Diving Schools and contractors in the U.S. since to help develop programs to meet the ANSI/ ACDE-01-1998 Commercial Diver Training Minimum Standard, which is sanctioned by OSHA.

What is the cost of living in SB?
Santa Barbara is one of the most desirable places in the world to live, due to the temperate climate, small-town atmosphere and breathtaking views of mountains meeting the Pacific Ocean. With this in mind you can expect higher than normal rents and costs for goods and services. Contact the SBCC Student Services Housing page for current information. Click here for a current housing list.

Do you have financial aid or the GI bill?
Yes, we have both the GI Bill and full Financial Aid. There are numerous scholarships available throught the Foundation for Santa Barbara City College at ext. 2604. Contact Financial Aid dept. ext. 2716 or GI bill ext. 2203 for more information.

How many students can you accept per semester?
As a State-funded College, SBCC is open access; all students that qualify may attend. There are no waiting lists. SBCC accepts as many students that apply and qualify for admission per the College Policy.

Is there a swim test?
A formal swim test is required for entrance into the diving classes within the program. Physical fitness is important for Diver Training. A thorough assessment of watermanship and diving skills will be conducted prior to your beginning dive training course. Please be prepared. This is a rigorous college level diving program designed to train professional divers versus recreational divers. Those who perform to program diving standards will advance. If you are not in good physical condition, it is your responsibility to rectify that prior to starting training.

The swim test consists of:

Swim freestyle 1000' in less than 10 minutes.
Breathold swim 75' underwater with no push-off.
Swim 150 feet underwater, surfacing three times.
Perform water treading for 10 minutes (5 mins floating, 3 mins wrists exposed, 2 mins elbows exposed)
Rescue a diver simulating unconsciousness transport 25 yards on the surface using no floatation.
Recover a 10lb. object from 10 feet of water.
Demonstrate the ability to snorkel swim 100 yards with face submerged without a mask.

Is the program limited to those that are only interested in underwater diving?
No. Our motto "More Than Just The Diver”. Marine Technology offers a variety of non- diving courses open to the public. Some of these courses include: Equipment Repair, Welding, rigging, seamanship, marine science, hydraulics.

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