Course Director

Course Director

Course Information:

The SDI Course Director Course is the first module of SDI’s Instructor Trainer (IT) Development Program. This program trains candidates to conduct the SDI Instructor Development Course (IDC) independently. In addition, SDI Course Directors are qualified to conduct the SDI Non-Diving Specialty Instructor Course and specialty ratings for SDI Instructors and Assistant Instructors and conduct administrative professional crossovers. It also prepares candidates for the second module of the program, the Instructor Trainer Workshop (ITW). Course Directors cannot conduct the IEC portion of an SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Instructor course. Completion of this course does not guarantee your acceptance to the ITW.

Please be aware that your participation in this course requires preapproval from Scuba Diving International (SDI). We will guide you through the approval process and coordinate directly with SDI's training department on your behalf. Candidate requirements may vary based on individual experience, so prerequisites may differ for each participant. To ensure a smooth enrollment process, please contact us directly before purchasing this course. 

 

Course Prerequisites:

·        Minimum age 21

·        Provide proof of 200 logged dives

·        Active SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Instructor or equivalent, for a minimum of 2 years with no quality assurance issues for the past 12 months

·        Have issued a minimum of 150 SDI (or equivalent) diver certifications* at various levels (Suggested levels as defined below):

o   100 open water scuba diver

o   25 rescue diver

o   20 specialty diver

o   5 Divemaster or Assistant Instructor

·        Provide proof of current CPR, first aid and oxygen provider, where local law permits

·        Have a current medical examination for scuba diving signed by a licensed physician

What is included:

• Semi-Private Class (4-6 Students MAX)
• Air tank rentals
• Certification Processing
• Certification Hard Card
• Digital Certification Card
• Gear Discounts
  

What is not included:

• CPR, First Aid, & O2 Provider Instructor or Instructor Trainer
• Entry / Boat Fees: All entry fees and/or offshore or inshore boat fees.
• Tips: (Boat crew, Instructor, Dive Master)
• Personal Gear: Scuba Quality Mask, Fins, Snorkel, Boots, Surface Marker Buoy (SMB), Dive Slate. 
• Gear: (BCD, Regulator Set, Wetsuit) Full Equipment list and requirements provided prior to class start.
• Transportation to Training Locations or Dive Sites
• Lodging: We have partnered with local hotels for discounted rates for our candidates.
• Agency Fees: Application Fees, Crossover Fees, Upgrade fees, any additional fees required by agency.
• Additional Materials: Additional materials may be available that are not required for the course (Digital Instructor Guides & Course Manuals). Although not required they are highly recommended
• Staffing an SDI Instructor Development Course: Each candidate upon successful completion of this course must staff 1 complete SDI IDC.

 

The Florida Dive Company Difference

At Florida Dive Company, we take pride in offering an unparalleled experience for candidates pursuing their Course Director Certification. Our program is led by Instructor Trainer Examiner (ITE) Jim Newell, one of the few elite professionals holding this prestigious title in the United States and its territories. Jim's expertise and leadership extend to guiding Instructor Trainer Workshops (ITWs) at SDI headquarters in Stuart, Florida.

While successful completion of this course does not guarantee acceptance into the ITW, it places you in the hands of one of the most experienced and respected trainers in the industry. Under Jim's mentorship, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel as a Course Director.

Choosing Florida Dive Company means more than just training—it’s about joining a community dedicated to excellence in diver education. Our commitment to your success begins with personalized guidance and expert instruction, ensuring your journey to becoming a Course Director is both rewarding and inspiring.

Why Complete the Course Director Course Before Joining the ITW?

Completing the Course Director Course prior to attending the Instructor Trainer Workshop (ITW) provides a strategic advantage and sets the foundation for your success. This specialized course offers a unique opportunity to refine your skills in a semi-private setting, where the entire focus is on your development.

Under the expert guidance of our Instructor Trainer Examiner (ITE), you will master demonstration-quality water skills, perfect your academic presentations, and enhance your confined and open water teaching techniques. With individualized attention, you'll have the chance to address specific areas of improvement and gain invaluable feedback to elevate your performance.

By learning and honing these skills now, you’ll enter the ITW with greater confidence, a deeper understanding of the expectations, and the ability to perform at the highest level. This preparation not only sets you up for success but also gives you a competitive edge over other candidates.

Investing in this course first ensures that you’re not just meeting the standards but exceeding them, positioning yourself as a potential standout candidate as you advance in the professional diving ranks.

Cost:

$2500.00 + Materials & Fees. 

No Hidden Fees! (Tipping is not included)

 

Typical Class Schedule

Course Director
Day 1: Intro & Class  
Day 2: Class & Pool 
Day 3: Class & Pool 
Day 4: Class & Open Water  
Day 5: Class & Open Water  
Day 6: Extra Day - Make ups if needed 

NOTE: This is a performance-based course, and additional days may be required.

Check out our Career Development optional add-ons. 

First Response Training Instructor Trainer

• Adult, Child, and Infant Emergency Care Instructor Trainer
• Airborne Pathogens Instructor Trainer
• Bloodborne Pathogens Instructor Trainer
• Workplace CPR & AED Instructor Trainer
• Oxygen Administration Instructor Trainer