If you’re looking to launch a career in commercial diving, enrolling at the divers institute of technology cost (DIT) in Seattle can be a game-changer. Located in Seattle, a major maritime hub, DIT is known as one of the most respected underwater welding schools in the U.S. The program offers rigorous training, hands-on experience, and a curriculum designed to meet industry needs, preparing students for a variety of marine and offshore jobs. Before getting started, it’s crucial to understand the full Divers Institute of Technology cost, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, so you can plan your investment effectively.
Divers Institute of Technology Tuition and Program Costs
As of 2025, the core program at DIT is the Diver, Professional and Instructor certification. This is a seven-month commercial diver training program that consists of approximately 900 hours of classroom instruction, practical training, and certifications. The tuition for the program is set at $27,500. In addition to tuition, students are required to cover an estimated $4,000 for books, supplies, diving gear, and required equipment.
Combining tuition with these associated costs brings the total program cost to $31,500. While this may seem steep at first glance, it’s important to remember that this program includes not only theoretical training but also industry standard certifications and practical experience. Compared to the national average tuition for commercial diving schools, which hovers around $25,425, DIT’s price tag is slightly higher but many argue the value is justified by its facilities, job placement support, and training quality.
Living Expenses While Attending DIT in Seattle
When evaluating the overall cost of diving school, tuition alone doesn’t paint the whole picture. Students must also budget for living expenses during their seven-month stay in Seattle. Based on data from higher education cost trackers and local living indices, students who live off campus near DIT can expect to spend approximately $10,437 on room and board. This includes rent, utilities, and basic food costs.
On top of that, students should set aside around $1,750 for miscellaneous living expenses. These may include transportation, healthcare, clothing, mobile phone plans, and basic necessities. That brings the total average living cost during the entire program to roughly $12,187. Seattle’s cost of living is higher than the national average, so this estimate assumes modest but comfortable off campus living arrangements without extravagant spending.
Financial Aid Options and Assistance at divers institute of technology cost
Paying for diving school is a major concern for most students, which is why understanding financial aid opportunities at the Divers Institute of Technology is crucial. Fortunately,divers institute of technology cost accepts federal financial aid and is approved for the use of FAFSA, federal grants, student loans, and military education benefits including the GI Bill.
As of the latest statistics, about 69 percent of DIT students receive some form of financial assistance. Approximately 37 percent receive federal grants with an average award of $4,139, while 11 percent are awarded state or local grants averaging $3,204. A small percentage, about 2 percent, receive institutional grants directly from the school, generally around $1,000.
Student loans are a more common financing option. Around 39 percent of students take out loans, and the average loan amount borrowed per student is $15,434. In addition to these options, DIT offers scholarships through the Divers Institute Foundation, where eligible students can receive up to $4,000 depending on financial need and academic performance.
For veterans and military-affiliated students, DIT is a Yellow Ribbon Program participant and is recognized for its veteran-friendly policies. This makes it one of the more accessible technical diving schools for those transitioning from military to civilian careers.
Historical Tuition Trends at the Institute
Over the past decade, tuition at the Divers Institute of Technology has increased modestly, but the most significant change has been in the cost of books and supplies. For instance, in the 2014–2015 academic year, the estimated cost for books and materials was around $1,800. By 2017–2018, this figure jumped to $4,500, largely due to upgrades in equipment requirements and expanded course content.
Between 2021 and 2024, the cost for supplies slightly decreased and stabilized around $4,000. These fluctuations highlight the importance of budgeting accurately for non-tuition-related expenses, especially in a specialized program where gear and materials are crucial to hands-on learning.
Key Student Metrics and Institutional Stats
In evaluating whether DIT is worth the investment, prospective students often look at outcomes and student success rates. The graduation rate at the Divers Institute of Technology is a strong 93 percent. That’s well above the average for vocational and trade schools across the country.
The average student-to-faculty ratio stands at 16 to 1, which allows for personalized instruction and close supervision during dive training. The total enrollment at the school is under 300 students, providing a close knit learning community.
The average net price after aid and discounts is approximately $37,198 per year. This figure represents what most students end up paying after scholarships and federal assistance are factored in.
Program Features: What You Get for the Cost
DIT’s program offers much more than traditional classroom instruction. Training modules include underwater welding, surface-supplied air diving, dive medicine, hyperbaric chamber operations, and equipment maintenance. Students train in both freshwater and saltwater environments, preparing them for a variety of real-world conditions.
Facilities include a dive tank on campus, barge training in Lake Union, and access to professional gear and safety equipment. The program also covers dive physics, diving regulations, and inspection certifications. Upon graduation, students walk away with certifications from the Association of Commercial Diving Educators (ACDE) and other globally recognized institutions.
Job Prospects and Return on Investment
So what kind of return can students expect after paying the Divers Institute of Technology tuition? DIT graduates often enter careers as commercial divers, underwater welders, offshore rig workers, marine construction professionals, and inspection divers. Starting salaries vary based on location and industry, but many entry-level commercial diving jobs start at around $55,000 to $65,000 annually, with significant room for growth.
Offshore divers can earn substantially more especially in hazardous environments or international jobs where six-figure incomes are common. Some graduates go on to specialize further with NDT (nondestructive testing) certification or move into supervisory roles. The robust alumni network and career services at DIT support job placement in both domestic and international markets.
Location and Lifestyle: Living and Training in Seattle
Training in Seattle has its advantages. The city’s maritime culture, access to diverse diving conditions, and close ties to the commercial marine industry make it a prime location for dive education. Students can expect wet weather, mild winters, and access to both Puget Sound and Lake Union for hands-on training.
Seattle is known for its vibrant neighborhoods, outdoor lifestyle, and strong job market, especially in tech and marine industries. While housing isn’t cheap, the proximity to the ocean and thriving economy means ample opportunities for partmtime work or post graduation employment in the area.
divers institute of technology cost
| Expense Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $27,500 |
| Books & Supplies | $4,000 |
| Room & Board (Off-Campus) | $10,437 |
| Other Living Expenses | $1,750 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $43,687 |
| Average Financial Aid | -$4,687 |
| Net Cost After Aid | $39,000 |
FAQs
What is the total cost to attend Divers Institute of Technology in 2025?
The estimated total cost to attend Divers Institute of Technology in 2025 is approximately $43,687. This includes $27,500 in tuition, $4,000 for books and required diving equipment, and about $12,187 for living expenses over the seven-month program duration. After applying financial aid or veteran education benefits, many students pay closer to $39,000 in total.
How much is the tuition for Divers Institute of Technology?
The 2025 tuition for DIT is $27,500. This covers the full professional diver training program, which includes classroom instruction, dive tank work, underwater welding, and industry certifications. The program is designed to be completed in seven months and includes 900 hours of training.
What is the cost of books and equipment at divers institute of technology cost?
Students are required to pay an additional $4,000 for diving gear, books, and supplies. This fee covers essentials like diving suits, helmets, underwater welding tools, and textbooks. These items are critical for hands-on learning and certification.
What are the living expenses while studying at divers institute of technology cost?
Living in Seattle, Washington, students can expect to spend around $12,187 on housing, food, utilities, transportation, and personal expenses during the program. Most students live off-campus and may reduce costs by sharing housing with other students.
Are there financial aid options available at DIT?
Yes, financial aid is available. DIT participates in federal financial aid programs including Pell Grants, Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and Parent PLUS Loans. Approximately 69% of students receive some form of aid. The school also helps with FAFSA filing and offers military education benefits for veterans.
Can I use military benefits or the GI Bill® at DIT?
Absolutely. DIT is an approved institution for Post-9/11 GI Bill® and other VA educational benefits. Many veterans use their benefits to cover tuition, equipment, and even receive a monthly housing allowance while attending the program. DIT is recognized as a Military Friendly® School.
Is the equipment fee included in the DIT tuition?
No, the equipment fee is not included in the $27,500 tuition. Students are required to purchase a personal dive equipment package costing about $4,000, which includes all required gear and educational materials for the program.
What’s the average cost to become a commercial diver at DIT?
The total cost of attending DIT and becoming a certified commercial diver averages between $39,000 and $44,000, depending on the student’s living situation and access to financial aid or military benefits. This figure includes tuition, books, equipment, and estimated living expenses.
Does DIT offer tuition payment plans?
Yes, Divers Institute of Technology offers flexible tuition payment plans. Students can set up monthly installment options through the financial services office, helping them manage their finances and reduce the need for large upfront payments.
How does the cost of DIT compare to other diving schools?
DIT’s tuition is slightly above the national average, which is around $25,425 for similar programs. However, DIT offers more extensive training, industry-recognized certifications, and stronger career placement support, making it a strong investment for aspiring commercial divers.
Are housing costs included in DIT tuition?
No, housing costs are not included in the tuition. Students are responsible for arranging and paying for their own housing. DIT provides support with local housing resources and can help connect students with potential roommates to reduce costs.
What financial aid is available for underwater welding school?
Financial aid options for DIT’s underwater welding program include federal grants, low-interest student loans, state-based assistance, and institutional scholarships. DIT also works with veterans using the GI Bill® to reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.
Can I get a job after graduating from DIT to help repay the tuition?
Yes, many DIT graduates find employment quickly thanks to the school’s strong ties to the diving industry. Entry level commercial divers typically earn $45,000 to $60,000 annually, while experienced divers, especially offshore or in hazardous roles, can earn well over $100,000 per year. These earnings make it possible to pay off student loans relatively quickly.
How long is the diving course at divers institute of technology cost?
The DIT diving course lasts seven months and includes 900 hours of training. Students receive instruction in diving physics, safety, welding, rigging, and surface-supplied air diving, as well as hands on tank and open-water practice.
Is DIT worth the tuition cost?
For individuals serious about pursuing a career in commercial diving, divers institute of technology cost is widely considered worth the investment. The program has a 93% graduation rate, strong job placement outcomes, and a curriculum designed in collaboration with industry employers. Graduates leave with valuable skills and certifications that open the door to high-paying diving careers across various sectors.
Conclusion
Attending the Divers Institute of Technology is not a small investment. With a full cost of attendance that exceeds $43,000 before financial aid, it’s essential that prospective students carefully weigh the benefits. However, when factoring in the high graduation rate, the comprehensive nature of the training, strong job placement support, and industry certifications included, DIT delivers considerable value.
For those serious about becoming a commercial diver, underwater welder, or marine construction professional, DIT offers a fast-track to a rewarding and high-demand career. As long as students plan their finances, explore scholarships and aid, and prepare for the physical demands of the profession, the investment can pay dividends in both skills and salary potential.
Jhon AJS is a tech enthusiast and author at Tech Dimen, where he explores the latest trends in technology and TV dimensions. With a passion for simplifying complex topics, Jhon aims to make tech accessible and engaging for readers of all levels.
