The DIVErsity in Diving Program at MSI is designed to eliminate barriers for students interested in marine field work by providing financial support, mentorship, and guidance for those looking to become scientific divers. This program supports awardees in a variety of ways as they work towards becoming full-fledged scientific divers—including assisting with swimming proficiency, open water certification, selecting and purchasing gear, practice dives, scientific certification, and placement with a research group on campus—no previous underwater experience required.

For information, please contact Jenn Caselle at caselle@ucsb.edu or (805) 893–5144.

SCUBA diving is an essential skill required for many fields within the marine sciences. UCSB has the largest scientific diving program in the United States, yet the diversity of students entering the training programs does not reflect the diversity of our campus. For many students, getting certified to SCUBA dive can be daunting - physically, mentally and financially. Significant barriers exist to gaining all the necessary training, equipment and certifications required to conduct research underwater, especially for underrepresented students who may have no previous exposure to the ocean or this research tool.