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PADI Divemaster Course
course overview

Course Overview

The PADI Divemaster (DM) Course is your gateway into the world of professional diving. It's designed for passionate divers who want to take their skills beyond recreation and aspire to become role models. Over the course, you'll refine your diving techniques to a professional standard, build strong rescue and problem-solving skills, and learn how to assist instructors in training activities.

More importantly, you'll develop the confidence and leadership qualities needed to guide and inspire others underwater. By the end, you'll be a certified PADI Divemaster - qualified to supervise diving activities, assist with courses, and become a true ambassador of the ocean.

Key Details :

Minimum Age: 18 years

Duration: 30 days (Minimum)

No. of Dives: 20 (Minimum)

Maximum Depth: 40 metres/130 feet

Prerequisites:

  • PADI Rescue Diver or equivalent.
  • 40 dives logged dives.
  • EFR Primary and Secondary Care training (or equivalent) completed within 24 months.

Minimum Age: 18 years

Duration: 30 days (Minimum)

No. of Dives: 20 (Minimum)

Maximum Depth: 40 metres/130 feet

Prerequisites:

  • PADI Rescue Diver or equivalent.
  • 40 dives logged dives.
  • EFR Primary and Secondary Care training (or equivalent) completed within 24 months.

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Course Structure & Schedule

The PADI Divemaster Course is designed to take you from being a recreational diver to a dive professional, capable of supervising activities and assisting instructors. At UNA, Divemaster courses are taught exclusively by our most experienced instructors, ensuring you receive mentorship, practical guidance, and insights that go far beyond the textbook. To become a Divemaster, you need to proceed along the following path:

Open Water Diver (3 days, 4 dives, 18m maximum depth)

Advanced Open Water Diver (2 days, 5 dives, 30m maximum depth)

Emergency First Responder (1 day, classroom program)

Rescue Diver (3 days, approximately 3 dives)

Total 40 logged dives

Divemaster (minimum 30 days, minimum 20 dives)

The course blends theory, skill development, and practical application. You'll refine all your existing skills from Open Water till Rescue Diver, polish your dive techniques to a professional level, and learn how to plan, organize, and manage real-world diving activities.

Course Price

Every diver's journey to becoming a professional is unique. Some arrive already certified, with years of diving experience, while others are just starting out. That's why we offer multiple training options - from the standalone course for certified divers to our comprehensive GoPro Internship that takes you from Open Water all the way to Divemaster in one seamless journey. Wherever you are starting from, we'll help you chart the right course at a pace and structure that fits your goals.

Course Option Minimum Time What's Included Best For Price
GoPro Internship ~ 4 months All courses from Open Water till DM Those looking to become dive professionals, marine scientists, ocean ambassadors, and much more ₹1,90,000 (*18% GST additional)
Divemaster Lite ~ 30 days 20 dives, theory & practical training Certified Rescue Divers with at least 40 logged dives looking to level up ₹35,000 (*18% GST additional)
Divemaster Plus Flexible Divemaster course, Prerequisite courses, Prerequisite dives at special price Those with a lot of passion & some training, but not enough time do it all at one go Variable**

Note: For professional courses from Divemaster onwards, study material costs and professional membership fee are payable directly to PADI. All course fees other than Divemaster are inclusive of manual and certification costs.

**The total course fee for this option will vary depending on the prerequisites to be completed. All prerequisite dives are charged at a nominal rate of ₹2,000 per dive, with a minimum block of 10 dives to be booked at a time. To avail this option, students must be formally enrolled in the Divemaster Course with UNA by paying 50% of the Divemaster course fee as advance.

Inclusions

  • Classroom & pool training
  • Open water dives
  • Equipment rental
  • Instructor fees
  • Study materials (except Divemaster)
  • Certification fees (except PADI Professional Membership Fee for Divemaster)
  • Boat charges
  • Refreshments on dive day
Inclusions
additional details

Additional Details

  • Divemaster trainees must arrange their own accommodation and meals. We'll be happy to connect you with our reliable partner companies for easy bookings.
  • For ease of travel & flexibility during your stay in Pondicherry, we also strongly recommend arranging your own transport.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PADI Divemaster Course and what does it qualify me to do?

The PADI Divemaster Course is the first step into professional scuba diving. Once certified, you'll be qualified to supervise dive activities, assist instructors with courses, and guide certified divers on underwater tours anywhere in the world. It's your gateway to becoming a role model and mentor in the dive community.

Do I need to have my own equipment before signing up?

As a future dive professional, owning your own set of scuba gear is strongly recommended. You’ll be spending significant time in-water, and personal equipment ensures comfort, consistency, and familiarity. At the very least, you should have your own mask, fins, dive computer, DSMB, compass, and cutting tool.

How long does it take to complete the Divemaster Course?

This depends on your schedule and experience level. A focused Divemaster program can be completed in 3-6 weeks, while an internship-based approach spreads training over several months for more real-world experience. At UNA, we offer a full GoPro Internship, taking you from Open Water all the way to Divemaster over 4 months.

Will I get teaching experience during the course?

Yes. As part of your training, you'll work alongside experienced PADI Instructors, assisting with courses and guiding student divers. This gives you hands-on experience in leadership, supervision, and problem-solving in real-world situations.

How many dives will I do as part of the Divemaster Course?

At least 20 dives are included as part of the course, but most candidates log far more during training, especially if they choose the internship route. You'll also need to demonstrate mastery of dive skills and stamina tests in-water.

Can I work as a professional diver after completing my Divemaster Course?

Absolutely. With your PADI Divemaster certification, you can apply for work at dive shops, resorts, and liveaboards around the world. You'll also be eligible to join the PADI professional membership network, which connects you to job opportunities worldwide. The best way to increase your odds of employment is to continue on to your Instructor Development Course.

How much real-world experience will I gain at UNA?

Plenty. At UNA, Divemaster courses are taught only by our most experienced instructors. You'll assist with actual students, manage dive logistics, and learn how a dive centre operates day-to-day. The internship path provides extended exposure to everything from customer interactions to boat management and guiding.

What's next after the Divemaster Course?

The Divemaster Course is the foundation for going pro. From here, you can progress to the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) and become a certified instructor. Alternatively, many divers use their Divemaster certification to travel, work in the industry, or simply enjoy being highly skilled leaders in their local dive communities.

I am a certified diver but not sure if I want to become a dive professional. Should I still do the Divemaster course?

If you have an infectious love of diving that you want to share with others, YES! People complete the Divemaster course for countless reasons. Some want to find a way to work in the dive industry and support their travels and lifestyle. Some want to become more confident and assured recreational divers. Others want to add scuba diving to a resume for another adjacent career, like marine biology or boating. And some want to just have fun! All are equally valid reasons to dive in.