Our Oceans Need You

What do marine biology, oceanography, and environmental journalism have in common?

All three–and many other fields connected with the environment and sustainability–involve underwater research. And for underwater research, you need scientific diving.

Good news: we can help with that. Based at the Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island, USC’s Scientific Diving program is among the best in the nation. Our team of educators, waterfront staff, and medics provide all the support you need to become a world-class underwater researcher!

Note: These courses are currently open only to USC individuals, with priority given to undergraduate and graduate students. If you are a non-USC individual who would like to be added to a waitlist for future courses, please email uscdso@usc.edu.

a scuba diver in full gear makes a heart shape with their hands as they bob with their head and shoulders above the water

Earn Your AAUS Certification

  • Why it Matters
  • How it Works
  • How to Apply

Why it Matters

An American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) certification is a must-have for Ph.D. research in marine biology, oceanography, and many other ocean-related fields. It also gives you an advantage when applying for internships or jobs at aquariums, research facilities, and similar locations.

How it Works

Our course consists of mainland-based classes and a full week of diving in the pristine waters of Big Fisherman Cove at the Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island.

A highly experienced team of diving instructors, led by USC’s Diving Safety Officer, teaches the course. Students also get support and instruction from the Catalina Hyperbaric Chamber, an emergency dive medicine facility located at WMSC.

Course content includes marine species identification, transect use, underwater mapping and navigation, first aid, rescues, and more.

How to Apply

Before applying for this course, you must earn an open-water SCUBA certification. You’ll also need to pass an AAUS diving physical. To apply, submit your completed physical and the program application to the USC Diving Safety Officer at uscdso@usc.edu.

Note: Our AAUS course is currently open only to USC individuals, with priority given to undergraduate and graduate students. If you are a non-USC individual who would like to be added to a waitlist for future courses, please email uscdso@usc.edu.

an underwater scene showing corals of various shapes and sizes, as well as macroalgae and rocks
an underwater scene showing corals of various shapes and sizes, as well as macroalgae and rocks
an underwater scene showing corals of various shapes and sizes, as well as macroalgae and rocks

Research Diving at Wrigley Marine Science Center

Looking for information about conducting underwater research at the Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island? Please visit the Facilities and Services section of our Visit WMSC page.

Research diving @ WMSC