What's Next After Completing the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC)

Matthew Lising   Jul 12, 2024

Scuba Courses Padi Professional Instructor Development Course Professional Scuba Diver

Congratulations on completing your PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC)! You've taken a significant step towards becoming a certified PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor. Now, let's explore what's next in your diving career:

Continuing Education

1. Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) Course: Many IDC graduates pursue the MSDT course, which allows them to teach specialty courses such as Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, and Underwater Photographer.  This can benefit your professional development as you acquire the skills and knowledge through these specialties to add to your list of qualifications. This can also allow you to teach more classes as your talents aren't restricted to only Open Water courses. To qualify, you typically need:

   • 20 logged dives in the specialty you want to teach, unless you complete the MSDT with a Course Director, in which case you only need to certify 25 students without the logged dives requirement.

2. IDC Staff Instructor: Becoming an IDC Staff Instructor is the next level after becoming a certified instructor. As an IDC Staff Instructor, you can assist Course Directors in teaching IDC courses and other professional-level training. This role is a stepping stone towards potentially becoming a Course Director yourself, opening up opportunities to manage dive centers and shape the next generation of dive professionals. 

Finding a Job at a Dive Center

After becoming a certified PADI Instructor, finding a dive center that works with you is crucial. Here’s how you can find a dive center that fits your interests:

• Research: Look for dive centers in locations that interest you. Whether it’s a tropical resort, a bustling urban center, or a remote dive destination, consider the type of environment where you want to work and live.

• Networking: Reach out to fellow divers, instructors, and Course Directors you met during your training. Networking within the diving community can provide valuable insights and job leads.

• Online Job Boards: Utilize online platforms and job boards specific to the dive industry. Websites like PADI's Pro site often list job opportunities for certified instructors.

• Visit Dive Centers: If possible, visit dive centers in person to get a feel for their operation, meet the staff, and discuss potential job openings. This personal touch can make a significant impression.

There are a variety of environments that could suit your needs as an instructor. Here are some pathways to consider when looking for your next job:

• Dive Resorts: Work at tropical dive resorts located in exotic destinations around the world. Resorts often offer a steady stream of students eager to learn in warm, clear waters abundant with marine life.
• Liveaboards: Join the crew of liveaboards, where you can teach diving enthusiasts during extended diving expeditions to remote and pristine dive sites. Liveaboard instructors enjoy a unique lifestyle, traveling to diverse locations and diving multiple times daily.
• Cruise Ships: Dive instructors on cruise ships cater to guests looking to experience diving as part of their vacation activities. Teaching aboard cruise ships allows you to travel to different ports of call while sharing your passion for diving with travelers.
• Freelance Instructor: Become a freelance instructor, offering personalized diving experiences and courses to individuals or small groups. Freelancing provides flexibility in scheduling and location, allowing you to tailor your services to meet the needs of diverse clients.
• Dive Center Ownership: Take your career to the next level by owning and operating your own dive center. As a dive center owner, you can create a thriving business that offers training, equipment sales, dive trips, and more. This pathway requires business acumen, leadership skills, and a deep commitment to customer service and safety.

Overall, continuing your path as an instructor can provide you with more variety in your career as a dive instructor. With teaching additional specialty course such as Nitrox or Underwater Photography, you can expand your services and attract a wider range of students that wish to learn those certain aspects of diving.

This also benefits you as the instructor as it deepens your knowledge in diving and you can be a valuable asset within your community. Finding your role in a dive center can allow you to find work in the environment of your choosing. This opportunity allows you to develop professionally while you retain your passion for diving through a fulfilling career.