The Aquatics Minor is open to students in any major field of study. The program will prepare students to lead, educate, and empower individuals for a career in the field of aquatics. The Aquatics Minor prepares students for appropriate certifications in the aquatic industry. The Aquatic Minor consist of a minimum of 19 hours of course work in the following areas: aquatic fundamentals, risk management, lifeguarding, swimming instruction, leadership, and aquatic adventure sports.
Career Opportunities: Upon graduating, students will be qualified to obtain a variety of positions in the aquatic field. Careers in aquatics include:
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aquatic director
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aquatic coordinator
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training officer
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waterpark manager
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recreation program manager
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marine safety officer
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aquatic supervisor
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safety program manager
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aquatic consultant
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aquatic program specialist
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aquatic instructor (swimming, adapted, physical therapy, fitness)
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recreational boating specialist
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skin and scuba diving instructor
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water safety specialist
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professional aquatic coaching (diving, swimming, water polo).
Students will be exposed to a variety of aquatic environments:
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city parks and recreation departments
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colleges and universities
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youth organizations
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YMCA’s
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resorts
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water parks
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beaches
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swim clubs
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swim schools
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military
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fitness centers
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natatoriums
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rehabilitation or therapeutic facilities
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dive centers
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marinas
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state and federal governments
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national organizations
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nonprofit organizations
Students can obtain the following certifications:
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WSI
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Lifeguard Instructor
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CPR for the Professional Rescue Instructor
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CPR/AED/ First Aid Instructor
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Boating and Water Safety Awareness
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Basic Water Rescue
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Certified Aquatic Administrator
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Hazard Aquatic Communication
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Lifeguard Management
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Safe-handling of Pool Chemicals
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Teacher of Adaptive Aquatics
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Safety Training for Swim Coaches
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Lifeguarding
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Waterfront Lifeguard
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CPR for the Professional Rescuer/ AED
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Oxygen Administration
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Blood –borne Pathogens
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Auto Epinephrine Injector
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Asthma Inhaler
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Open Water Rescue for First Responders
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FEMA ICS (100, 200, 700, 800)
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Open Water Scuba Diver
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Oxygen First Aid for Scuba Diving Emergencies
Graduates have worked in the following positions:
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Longhorn Aquatic Club
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Indiana University of Pennsylvania
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Butler YMCA
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Waldameer Park and Water World
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United States Navy – Navy Special Warfare
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City of Pflugerville, Texas
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Greater Johnstown YMCA
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Franklin Regional School District
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Splash Lagoon
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YMCA of Broward County
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Sewickley Valley YMCA
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Saint Mary’s College of Maryland
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James Madison University
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Corolla Fire and Rescue
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Great Mills Aquatic Club
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United States Coast Guard
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Cranberry Waterpark
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Ocean City Beach Patrol
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Latrobe Area School District
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Titusville Area School District
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Six Flags Great America – Hurricane Harbor
SRU Grads: information forthcoming
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Scott Hendry
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Tony Mehalic
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Bob Peterson
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Adam Katchmarchi
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Emily Dow
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Aquatic Facilities:
Morrow Field House: The Morrow Field House Pool was built in 1963. Home of the Slippery Rock University Aquatics Program, the pool was once considered one of the top facilities in the PSAC. Today it is primarily used by the Physical Education Program for hands on class instruction, Slippery Rock High School meets and other various recreational uses. The pool is 75x45/-12 ft deep and contains one maxi-flex diving board, full service scuba room with air compressor and cascade system.
East-West Gym: The idea for the East-West Gym Pool came about when the East Gym building was constructed in 1931. The pool is positioned between the two buildings and was the idea of former swim coach and professor, Elmer B. Cottrel. The pool opened up many opportunities for the sport of swimming at Slippery Rock. The East-West Gym Pool is a 20 yard, three lane pool.
Photo Galleries
National Recognition:
- National Water Safety Congress – Letter of Commendation
- National Water Safety Congress – Award of Merit
- National Drowning Prevention Alliance – Founding Chapter