In order to scuba dive you must first get certified. Certification is broken into 3 simple parts:

Class Academics
Pool Training
Four Ocean Dives

Class Academics and Pool Training is held in San Mateo the first weekend while the four ocean dives are held in Monterey another. Many students choose to finish their ocean dives while on vacation. This is called the Referral Program and is very popular!

First Weekend
Saturday and Sunday are spent doing academics in the mornings followed by pool sessions in the afternoons. There is a lunch break between academics and pool both days.

Second Weekend
The ocean dives are done in Monterey. Two dives on Saturday and two on Sunday. Because it is a 2 hour drive we recommend staying at a motel to be well rested. Some divers prefer to complete the 4 checkout dives abroad. This is called the Referral program.