This course provides the essential knowledge and skills needed to carry out open water diving to a maximum depth of 20m.  Training achieves this outcome commences in the safety of a swimming pool or sheltered water with an introduction to open water in a controlled, safe manner.  Experience and confidence will be gained under the guidance of a qualified instructor.  Prior to commencement of training, participants must pass a diving medical to Australian Standard AS 4005.1-2000.  The BSAC considers the OD grade to be equal to the PADI & SSI Open Water Diver qualifications.

This is an intermediate diver grade with skills & knowledge in rescue, navigation, nitrox and deeper diving.  Sports Diver training builds a sound foundation of open water diving skills and experience with structured, practical lessons. Qualified Sports Divers are ready to take part in dives with other Sports Divers or higher.  Depth can be built progressively to a maximum of 35m after qualifying.  The BSAC considers the SD grade to be equal to the PADI Rescue Diver & the SSI AOW Diver + Stress & Rescue qualifications.  Entry grade – OD.

This grade concerned with the organisation of & leading groups of divers.  Training covers responsibilities and safety requirements for leadership.  Practical lessons will give divers confidence to deal with emergencies.  Leading a dive will develop enjoyment, confidence and experience as a diver.  The BSAC considers the DL grade to be equal to be PADI Dive Master & SSI Dive Control Specialist qualifications.  Entry grade – SD.

The Advanced Diver course further develops knowledge and skills obtained in the DL course.  Divers gain experience in planning and managing dives at different sites and under different circumstances.  Additional experience will be gained in using small boats, chartwork, coastal navigation and many other related skills.  BSAC consider this grade as being a fully trained diver.  While this grade is not currently taught by BSAC Adelaide, it is offered by some of the other Australian Branches.   Entry grade – DL plus minimum experience.

BSAC's highest diving grade requires a higher than average level of theoretical knowledge, organisational and personal diving skills.  BSAC First Class Divers are assessed through nationally conducted examinations usually held in the UK. Assessment when held in Australia is coordinated by the BSAC Australian Regional Coaching team.  Entry grade – AD plus minimum experience.