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 SEMESTER which begins late August, and complete the program with advanced classes in the Spring semester which ends in late May. One can obtain an AS degree in Marine Technology by attending an additional two semesters at SBCC where you will complete your general education requirements and other subject relevant classes. For an outline of classes required for the certificate and associates degree please visit here.
When and how can I apply?
The program will begin accepting applications on March 1st of each year. For information on how to apply please visit the Steps to Apply page
Why do I need a specific physical?
During this program, students will be subject to strenuous physical activity, hyperbaric exposure, and mixed gas diving. It is required that the students be examined by an occupational physician prior to starting the MDT program. The Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) is the accrediting body that has grated the Marine Diving Technology program permission to certify students as ADCI Entry Level Tenders/Divers as long as the program adheres to the standards set forth in the ADCI Concensus Standards. Because of this, students must meet the ADCI standards for an occupational physical which is why you must complete this specific exam when applying.
Sansum Clinic Occupational Medicine in Santa Barbara is familiar with our exam and can complete all components. However, any physician can be utilized as long as they are competent and able to complete all tests and procedures required by the MDT's Physical Exam. Please note that this exam is most often not covered by health insurance because it is an occupational rather than basic physical. These exams can cost upwards of $400.
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. Please be aware that you will also be expected to purchase some items which are not included in your tuition or lab fees. These items can be found here. 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 Nitrox and rescue diving, and hyperbaric medicine and chamber operations have been used by students to build/enhance skills to 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.
Is the program full time?
Yes, the MDT program requires students to be enrolled in 12-15 units per semester which means you will be considered a full time student. All of the classes are Monday through Friday between 7am and 5pm. You can view what times classes are by looking up all the MDT classes in the SBCC Class Schedule. Some students have part time jobs while going through the program but please be aware that some program activities such as boat trips are subject to weather and vessel availability so MDT students are expected to have a certain amount of flexibility in their schedules. As much notice as possible will be given if the schedule needs to be updated or changed.
What will my schedule look like?
The two semesters of the certification program are broken up into 8 week "minimesters" with 4-6 classes in each minimester. If you would like to see what your schedule might look like, go here, in the SUBJECT box scroll down and select "MDT Marine Diving Technologies" and then press "search". A list of the fall classes with the times for the lecture and lab will appear. This stays relatively the same from year to year. Here is a list of all the classes that need to be completed in order to receive your ADCI tender/diver certification:
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 swimming 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 requirements for the swim test can be found here.
Do I need my own equipment?
Yes, you will be required to provide your own scuba gear as well as some addition items throughout the year. All these items can be found in the MDT Required Equipment List. Please note that you will be required to purchase all items listed in addition to your registration and lab fees.
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 Santa Barbara? Does the school provide any housing?
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. SBCC does not have any on-campus or school-owned housing, however, there is a service to help students find housing. 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.