MSDT Program on Koh Tao
Our Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) program is designed to transform you into a highly sought-after PADI Specialty Instructor with the skills and experience to teach a diverse range of specialty diving courses.
This training program will not only enhance your teaching capabilities but also boost your employability in the competitive dive industry. There are two Pathways to MSDT success.
Our MSDT Program Consists of Two Connected Parts
MSDT Prep: Gain in-depth knowledge and practical training in at least 5 PADI Specialty courses. You will participate in instructor-level training, mastering the standards and procedures for each specialty.
MSDT Internship: Put your newfound knowledge into action through team teaching alongside our experienced diving instructors. Gain real-world teaching experience and earn your first PADI certifications.
Benefits of Our MSDT Program
- Expand Your Teaching skills and resume: Learn to confidently teach a variety of specialty courses, from Enriched Air Nitrox and Wreck Diving to Underwater Navigation and Fish Identification.
- Gain Practical Experience: Team teach alongside seasoned instructors, gaining valuable insights into course organisation, student management, and effective teaching techniques.
- Boost Your Employability: The MSDT rating demonstrates your commitment to continuing education and makes you a more attractive candidate for dive centers worldwide.
- Enhance Your Skills: Develop essential skills in time management, communication, and problem-solving, which are crucial for success as a dive professional.
- Flexible and Rewarding: Our program offers a flexible schedule and a supportive learning environment, allowing you to progress at your own pace.
Included in our MSDT program
- MSDT Prep course with 5 Specialty Instructor certifications
- Team teaching opportunities to gain real-life experience
- Flexible schedule to fit your needs
- Free use of dive computers
- Log book
- Our commitment to customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility
Prerequisites for MSDT program
- Renewed PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor certification
- Medical clearance to dive
Become an In-Demand PADI Specialty Instructor
Our MSDT program empowers you to become a versatile and confident PADI Instructor with the skills and experience to excel in the global dive industry.
Our MSDT program is your gateway to becoming a well-rounded PADI Diving Instructor with expertise in a range of specialty diving disciplines. We have structured the program into two complementary parts:
Specialty Instructor Training: This intensive training period focuses on equipping you with the knowledge and skills to teach 5 PADI Specialty courses of your choice.
You will dive into the specific standards, procedures, and teaching techniques for each specialty through interactive workshops and discussions.
Team Teaching Internship: Gain practical experience and build your confidence by team-teaching alongside our seasoned PADI Master Instructors. You will actively participate in real-world teaching scenarios, guiding students through various PADI diving courses and earning your first certifications as a diving instructor.
Learning to Teach PADI Specialty Courses
Our comprehensive MSDT program covers all the essential elements of becoming a successful specialty dive instructor:
Knowledge Development: Gain a deep understanding of the goals and objectives of each specialty course. You will master the course standards, demonstrate your knowledge through presentations, and learn effective teaching strategies.
Open Water Training: Develop your ability to conduct safe and engaging open water training sessions. You will learn how to manage student divers, demonstrate essential skills, and ensure your students meet all performance requirements.
Specialty Course Selection: Choose from a diverse range of PADI Specialty courses, including Enriched Air Nitrox, Deep Diving, Wreck Diving, Underwater Navigation, and many more. Customise training to your interests and career goals.
Gaining Real-World Teaching Experience
Our MSDT Internship provides invaluable hands-on experience:
- Team Teaching: Work alongside experienced instructors, gradually taking on more responsibility as you develop your skills and confidence.
- Diverse Course Exposure: Participate in teaching a variety of courses, including Discover Scuba Diving, Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and PADI Divemaster programs.
- Certification Goals: Gain the required 25 certifications to achieve the MSDT rating. We include your first two team-taught courses and offer further opportunities to gain certifications at an additional cost.
Focus on Individual Personal Development
While achieving the MSDT certification requires a minimum number of certifications, our primary focus is on nurturing your individual growth as a PADI diving instructor.
Isla Tortuga Divers provide personalised guidance, constructive remediation, and ongoing support to help you develop your teaching style and achieve your full potential.
Join us in Koh Tao and take your dive career to the next level as a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer – Specialty Course Instructor.
MSDT Program: 25,000 baht **
**Additional Costs
2000 THB per team teach to gain additional experience and certifications (not for the MSDT Prep dives)
PADI Instructor Specialty Application A$139 (per specialty x 5)
PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer Application online: A$188
MSDT Prep Course Key Components
The MSDT Prep Course is your intensive introduction to the world of PADI Specialty Diver instruction. Over 5-6 days, we equip you with the skills and knowledge to effectively organise, conduct, and promote 5 different PADI Specialty courses.
Specialty Focus: You will dive into the specific standards and procedures for each of your chosen specialties, gaining a deep understanding of the subject matter and teaching requirements.
Knowledge Development: Engage in interactive presentations and workshops, similar to those in your IDC and IE, to refine your understanding of dive theory and best practices.
Academic Presentations: Develop your presentation skills by delivering engaging academic presentations on your chosen specialties.
In-Water Workshops: Refine your practical skills through in-water workshops focused on the specific techniques and procedures you will be teaching in your specialty courses.
This comprehensive preparation will lay the foundation for your success as a specialty dive instructor, enabling you to confidently share your passion and expertise with your future students.
MSDT Internship on Koh Tao
From Classroom to Coral Reef
The MSDT Internship bridges the gap between theory and practice, giving you the hands-on experience needed to thrive as a PADI Diving Instructor.
After completing the Prep Course, you will embark on this exciting phase, where you will team-teach alongside our experienced Master Instructors.
Real-World Teaching Experience
This immersive internship allows you to apply your knowledge and skills in authentic teaching scenarios, working with real students in actual PADI courses. You’ll gradually gain confidence and refine your teaching abilities as you progress through the program.
Step-by-Step Development
We will guide you through a structured learning process, gradually increasing your teaching responsibilities as you demonstrate competence.
You will start by assisting with specific modules and skills, eventually leading entire courses under the supervision of our expert and highly trained diving instructors.
Achieving Dive Instructor Excellence
Our ultimate goal is to help you become a confident and competent PADI Specialty Instructor.
You will develop essential skills in organisation, time management, and student interaction, preparing you for a successful career in the dive industry.
Enhanced Employability
By the end of the MSDT internship, you will possess the practical experience and teaching expertise that employers seek in PADI professionals.
This program will significantly enhance your employability and open new doors to exciting dive leader opportunities worldwide.
Achieving MSDT Certification: Focus on Quality over Quantity
To earn the prestigious Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) certification, you must issue at least 25 PADI certifications.
While we encourage you to participate in as many team-teaching opportunities as possible to gain valuable experience, our emphasis is on your overall development as a dive educator, not just the number of certifications you accumulate.
Our Commitment to Performance-Based Training
We believe in nurturing your growth as a skilled and confident diving instructor. Our program prioritises your individual progress and mastery of teaching techniques over simply meeting a certification quota.
Expanding Your Teaching Expertise
Ideally, you will have the chance to team-teach a diverse range of PADI diving courses, including all core diver level programs (Open Water course, Advanced Open Water course, Rescue Diver course) and a variety of PADI specialty courses.
This breadth of experience will solidify your teaching skills and prepare you for a wide range of instructional scenarios.
Mentoring Future Dive Professionals
We also encourage our MSDT candidates to participate in our Divemaster in Training program. This mentorship opportunity allows you to share your knowledge and passion with aspiring dive professionals, further enhancing your leadership and instructional abilities.
Contact us for additional diving course prices, our accommodation prices and join us in Koh Tao at Isla Tortuga Divers to take your dive career to the next level!
MSDT Program: 25,000 baht **
**Additional Costs
2000 THB per team teach to gain additional experience and certifications (not for the MSDT Prep dives)
PADI Instructor Specialty Application A$139 (per specialty x 5)
PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer Application online: A$188
