SSI Marine Ecology eLearning

SSI Marine Ecology — eLearning & Certification Credit Only

Explore the wonders of the underwater world and gain a deeper understanding of how marine ecosystems function with the SSI Marine Ecology specialty. This fascinating course reveals the intricate connections between ocean life and the environment, helping you become a more aware and responsible diver. It includes your academic training and certification credit only, allowing you to complete your studies online at your own pace before choosing to join optional in-water activities with an SSI Dive Centre.

What you’ll learn online

• The structure and dynamics of marine ecosystems
• Energy flow and food webs in the ocean
• Adaptations and interactions of marine organisms
• The impact of human activity on marine environments
• Coral reef, kelp forest, and open-ocean ecosystems
• Marine biodiversity and conservation efforts worldwide
• How divers can minimise their impact and promote ocean health

Optional practical training (booked separately)

To enhance your learning, you may choose to take part in in-water activities with an SSI Instructor. These sessions may include:

• Guided dives focused on observing and identifying marine life
• Studying local ecosystems and understanding ecological relationships
• Recording observations and supporting citizen science projects
• Developing buoyancy and awareness for environmentally safe diving

The practical sessions are not included in this eLearning product and must be arranged separately with Dorset Diving or another SSI Dive Centre offering the Marine Ecology programme.

Important

• Always confirm that the dive centre you plan to use offers SSI Marine Ecology training and any related in-water sessions.
• You do not need to be a certified diver to complete this eLearning course, but any in-water sessions will require an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent.
• A love of the ocean and curiosity about marine life will make this course even more rewarding.

Free registration

Begin your studies today by creating a free SSI account and affiliating with our dive centre here:
Register with Dorset Diving.

What’s next?

After completing Marine Ecology, expand your knowledge with other SSI Ecology specialties such as Shark Ecology, Sea Turtle Ecology, or Coral Identification — perfect for divers who want to understand and protect the underwater world.