FAQ
How long is the program?
The Marine Diving Technology program takes a minimum of two semesters or equivalent to a year to complete the certificate program. NEW INCOMING STUDENTS CAN ONLY BEGIN THE PROGRAM IN THE FALL SEMESTERS, and complete the program with advanced classes in the spring semester. One can obtain an AS degree by attending an additional two semesters.
How much does it cost?
Community College tuition in California is subsidized by the taxpayers. This fact makes SBCC Marine Technology the most affordable and comprehensive Marine Technology training program in the nation. California residents pay just $46.00 a unit for a class. Most classes are 1-3 units in length. Some classes have lab fees for materials. Non-residents pay $319 per unit and international students pay $319 per unit. Click here for fee schedule
Is commercial diving the only type of training offered?
SBCC Marine Technology has always been a technician-training program. While commercial diving training has always been a big part of what we do, the versatility of our training is what helps place graduates and keep them advancing in the marine related workforce. Our classes in welding, seamanship, marine science, emergency medicine, equipment repair, hydraulics, technical diving, SCUBA diving leadership and hyperbarics, have been used by students to build/enhance skills and launch non-commercial diving careers in these areas. This diversity is what makes our program stand out among others and leads to the success of our students and graduates.
Are there waiting lists?
There are no waiting lists at this time. SBCC is an open access taxpayer-funded Community College; we are in the business of providing career education and training for the national and global workforce. We accept all students at SBCC that apply and who qualify for admission on a first come first serve basis.
How do I apply to the program?
See steps to apply page click here
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.
What does the swim test consist of, click here.
Do I need my own equipment?
Yes, you will need some scuba gear, etc. Click here for equipment list.
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 they become established with a company.
Is Santa Barbara City College Accredited?
Yes. SBCC is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, 10 Commercial Blvd., Suite 204, Novato, CA 94949 (415) 506-0234; an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.
Marine Diving Technology has been audited by the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI), and is one of the two commercial dive training institutions in the United States qualified to issue the ADCI International Endorsement.
Marine Diving Technology is a sitting member of the American National Standards Institute committee on the ANSI/ACDE-01-2009 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 the mountains and 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 through the Foundation for Santa Barbara City College at ext. 4401. Contact Financial Aid dept. ext. 5157 or GI Bill® ext. 4003 for more information.