This course aims to familiarize participants with the fundamentals of scientific diving, both theoretical and practical. Research methods and practices are taught in class and then subsequently rehearsed on SCUBA during open-water sessions in the field. Underwater research techniques include navigation, search and recovery procedures, rescue diving, proper usage of lift bags, and mapping techniques.

Practice data acquisition using a range of methods and equipment, such as underwater photographic surveys to measure coral communities, coral condition monitoring to measure coral bleaching and disease, coral recruitment surveys, reef fish counts, seagrass surveys, common restoration techniques and underwater cementing, blue water diving to study planktonic communities, and marine archaeology. 

Participants will be trained according to the standards defined by the American Academy of Underwater Sciences, of which ASU BIOS is an organizational member. Future renewals will be subject to AAUS requirements. 

*Participants must already be SCUBA certified (minimum at the PADI Open Water Diver level, or internationally recognized equivalent).

Applications are due by April 30.

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