SSI Marine Ecology
- All Core Scuba Equipment
- All Course Materials and Certification
- Services of your Highly Trained and Professional Instructor and Support Team
The ocean is one of the most diverse and fascinating environments on our planet. From tiny reef creatures to huge marine mammals, every species plays an important role in keeping our underwater world healthy.
The SSI Marine Ecology Speciality helps you look beyond simply seeing marine life and understand the incredible relationships, ecosystems and conservation challenges that shape our oceans.
The SSI Marine Ecology program provides you with the knowledge to better understand marine ecosystems, the relationships between aquatic organisms, and the importance of protecting our underwater environments.
This dry speciality is perfect for divers, snorkellers, ocean lovers, and anyone who wants to learn more about the world beneath the surface.
You can complete this speciality entirely through SSI eLearning at your own pace, or choose to add an engaging classroom session with our SSI Professionals to explore the topics further, discuss real-world examples and share experiences.
This Speciality certification also counts as one of the four Speciality certifications required for your SSI Master Scuba Diver certification.
You need to be 10 years old or over
No previous diving certification is required
An interest in marine life and the underwater environment
Your learning starts with the SSI digital materials, where you will explore the fascinating world of marine ecosystems.
You will learn about:
The diversity of marine environments around the world
How aquatic ecosystems function and interact
Food chains and relationships between marine species
How marine animals have adapted to survive in different environments
The importance of coral reefs, kelp forests, seagrass meadows and other key habitats
The impact humans have on our oceans
Marine conservation challenges and what we can do to help protect the underwater world
How divers can become better ambassadors for ocean conservation
If you choose the classroom option, we will expand on the online learning with discussions, examples from real diving experiences, conservation projects and the opportunity to ask questions with your SSI Professional.
As part of the course you will receive access to the SSI Marine Ecology digital learning materials through the SSI App.
You can complete the knowledge reviews in your own time before attending the optional classroom session.
eLearning Only:
Complete the course at your own pace through the SSI App.
eLearning + Classroom Session:
Approximately 3–4 hours classroom session, including discussion and exploration of marine ecology topics.
There are no additional diving costs for this course as it is a dry speciality.
Understanding marine ecology can completely change the way you experience your dives. Once you understand the connections between species and habitats, you start noticing more, appreciating more, and becoming a better underwater explorer.
Why not combine your new knowledge with one of our diving adventures? From UK waters to tropical reefs, wrecks and conservation-focused trips, there is always something new to discover.
It’s not all about training… you should have the knowledge, but most importantly come diving with us and apply what you have learnt. Join our trips, meet fellow divers, make memories and continue your underwater adventures.
Prior to any Diver training course students need to complete a Mandatory Medical Questionaire.
Please ensure that you have read the Medical Statement and are sure that you will be able to commence any diver training PRIOR to paying as our Training Terms Conditions apply after payment has been made.
A doctor's confirmation of fitness to dive is required if you answer YES to any medical condition on the Medical Statement.
Please note that if you need a Physician signoff most of our local surgeries WILL NOT sign this form, we suggest you contact Midlands Dive Chamber 01788 579 555 in this instance.
You can check out the Medical Statement here:
The 25m heated swimming pool at Oakham School's Leisure Centre is perfect for scuba diver training and kids' diving courses. This state-of-the-art facility provides laned sections for focused training and a comfortable, warm environment, ensuring an ideal learning experience for divers of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're refining your technique or introducing children to the wonders of diving, our pool offers the perfect setting.
Our pool session(s) are on Saturday evenings from 18:00 - 20:00, with a meet at the Dive Centre prior (this time will be confirmed when you book). The time at the Dive Centre is spent on various activities depending on which course you are undertaking but for all first session this will involve introducing you to your instructor, the dive equipment you will be using in the pool, a safety briefing and the evenings activities. During non term time then we have a pool session available on a Thursday from 19:00 - 21:00.
First Aid
Our team of highly experienced instructors will be on hand to guide you through every step of the way
★★★★★Outstanding experience especially for young divers!
We had an absolutely fantastic experience with dive Rutland ! Tracy and the entire team was very friendly, helpful, and professional from start to finish. They went above and beyond to support our 13 year old for their open water course and her drysuit training.
What really stood out was the patience and care shown throughout the process. The instructors took the time to explain everything clearly, made our
daughter feel confident and safe , and ensured they progressed at a comfortable pace. It was never rushed - just supportive , thorough instructions from a team who clearly loves what they do.
Highly recommend Dive Rutland to anyone - especially families or younger divers. We’re so grateful for the experience and can’t wait to come back!Simon PerrinUK
★★★★★#1 training centre in my eyes. The team are friendly, courteous and astute to your individual needs and capability. Of course you’d expect to come away with a certification after paying your money; however, you come away with far more than the basic knowledge and skills to pass the certification, you come away feeling capable and competent and with a group of people you want to keep in touch with as friends and dive with more. Keep it up Dive Rutland!
Mark ConnellyUK
★★★★★Thank you for a great insightful course, which made me appreciate more what was happening around me during my diving trips.The patience and knowledge of all the staff made it a great experience overall.See you in the water soon
Agnes WelhamUK
★★★★★Drysuit Speciality - Was excellent. From the first briefing at the shop. To the pool dive. To the real thing at Stoney Cove (my first time there!). Great mix of professional efficiency with real world fun. Always felt safe. Not the best of weather, but I stayed bone dry. No hesitation in recommending Tracey and the team to anyone considering taking up diving, like me. But be warned, it’s addictive!! Special thanks to Rob
John LawerenceUK
★★★★★Outstanding experience especially for young divers!
We had an absolutely fantastic experience with dive Rutland ! Tracy and the entire team was very friendly, helpful, and professional from start to finish. They went above and beyond to support our 13 year old for their open water course and her drysuit training.
What really stood out was the patience and care shown throughout the process. The instructors took the time to explain everything clearly, made our
daughter feel confident and safe , and ensured they progressed at a comfortable pace. It was never rushed - just supportive , thorough instructions from a team who clearly loves what they do.
Highly recommend Dive Rutland to anyone - especially families or younger divers. We’re so grateful for the experience and can’t wait to come back!Simon HunterUK