Scientific Diving Program

The Scientific Diving Program began at the University of ÀÖ»¢Ö±²¥ in 1988. We work under the auspices of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS). With multiple courses that involve scientific diving and various subtidal research projects, we average approximately 70+ active divers per year. Diving courses and projects are mostly cold-water, drysuit diving and take place across ÀÖ»¢Ö±²¥ and the Antarctic.

Feature story: UAF scientific diving program marks 25 years


To submit dive plans, log into your AAUS account (yellow button, external link) and use the "Dive Plan" link.

Useful links

Fairbanks Dive Classes

Term Course Number Credits Instructor
Every Spring Scientific Diving MBI 220 2.0 CR Brenda Konar
Every Spring Nearshore Ecology Field Course

MSL 421

MSL 623

 2.0 CR Brenda Konar
Summer—even years Kelp Forest Ecology

MBI 456

MBI 656

 2.0 CR Brenda Konar
Summer by demand Advanced AAUS skills MBI 395 1.0 CR Brenda Konar
Contact information

Brenda Konar
Phone: 907-474-5028
Email: bhkonar@alaska.edu

Sitka Dive Classes

Term Course Number Credits Instructor
Fall & Spring Basic Scuba Diving – Open Water and Drysuit Diver FT 188 3.0 CR Joel Markis
Fall & Spring Advanced Scuba Diving FT 189 1.0 CR Joel Markis
Spring Scientific Diving – Rescue and Research Diver FT 288 2.0 CR Joel Markis
Spring Diving Internship FT 291 3.0 CR Joel Markis
Related courses
Spring Cold Water Survival FT 193  1.0 CR  
Spring Small Vessel Operator MTR 119  1.0 CR  
Spring Outboard Motor Maintenance and Repair MTR 120  1.0 CR  
Sitka contact information


Phone: 907-747-7760
Email: jamarkis@alaska.edu