As a diver, professional or instructor, your college or university education can play a major role in your career. It is important to choose a school that not only offers a high-quality education, but also provides opportunities for diving, networking with industry professionals, and gaining hands-on experience in the field.

Here are some of the best colleges and universities in the world for divers, professionals and instructors:

1. University of Hawaii at Manoa – This school is located in Honolulu, Hawaii, and offers a bachelor’s degree in marine biology as well as a master’s degree in oceanography. Students have access to the Hawaiian Institute of Marine Biology, which offers diving and research opportunities for students.

2. Florida State University – Florida State University offers a bachelor’s degree in marine biology as well as a master’s degree in oceanography. The school is located in Tallahassee, Florida, and is home to the Marine Laboratory in St. Teresa, which offers diving and research opportunities for students.

3. University of Miami – Located in Miami, Florida, the University of Miami offers a bachelor’s degree in marine science and a master’s degree in marine biology and fisheries. The school is also home to the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, which offers many opportunities for research, diving, and hands-on experience in the field.

4. James Cook University – James Cook University is located in Townsville, Australia, and offers a bachelor’s degree in marine science as well as a master’s degree in marine biology. The school is located close to the Great Barrier Reef and offers many opportunities for diving and research.

5. Scripps Institution of Oceanography – Scripps Institution of Oceanography is located in La Jolla, California and is part of the University of California San Diego. The school offers a bachelor’s degree in marine biology as well as a master’s degree in oceanography. The school has a research vessel and offers many opportunities for diving and research.

6. California State University Northridge – California State University Northridge is located in Northridge, California, and offers a bachelor’s degree in marine biology. The school is located near the Channel Islands National Park and offers many opportunities for diving and research.

7. University of Southampton – Located in Southampton, England, the University of Southampton offers a bachelor’s degree in ocean and earth science as well as a master’s degree in marine biology. The school has a research vessel and offers many opportunities for diving and research.

8. University of Queensland – Located in Queensland, Australia, the University of Queensland offers a bachelor’s degree in marine science and a master’s degree in marine biology. The school is located close to the Great Barrier Reef and offers many opportunities for diving and research.

9. University of Plymouth – Located in Plymouth, England, the University of Plymouth offers a bachelor’s degree in marine biology and a master’s degree in marine conservation. The school has a research vessel and offers many opportunities for diving and research.

10. Duke University – Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University offers a bachelor’s degree in marine science and conservation as well as a master’s degree in marine science and conservation leadership. The school has a marine lab and offers many opportunities for diving and research.

In conclusion, choosing the right college or university can have a significant impact on your career in the diving industry. These schools offer top-notch education, as well as opportunities for diving, research, and networking with industry professionals.