The purpose of the PADI Underwater Survey Diver distinctive speciality course is to provide the basic knowledge and the skills for those divers and researchers with a special interest in natural and cultural features of the marine environment, so they can be able to participate in the preparation and the carrying out an underwater survey campaign. Specific objectives of the course are:
- the development of knowledge and skills for the use of maps and diagrams in underwater researches,
- the introduction in the procedures of planning and organizing an underwater survey campaign,
- the familiarization with the particular skills, procedures and techniques applicable to an underwater mapping project,
- the understanding and the recognition of potential problems and risks associated with underwater surveying and
- the capacity building for coordinating and cooperating with the crew members of an underwater survey.