People swimming in a lap pool

Kinesiology Aquatic Specialist Skills Certificate

The East Los Angeles College Kinesiology Aquatic Specialist Skills Certificate Program will provide an opportunity for students to become certified for employment in the aquatics field. Upon completing the required courses, students will be certified in First Aid/CPR, Lifesaving, and Water Safety Instruction (WSI). It is an aquatic certification for individuals who are seeking a career in aquatics. Specific occupations include lifeguarding, pool management, and teaching aquatic courses.

Aquatic Specialist Certificate FAQs


Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Kinesiology Aquatic Specialist Skills Certificate Program take to complete?

The Kinesiology Aquatic Specialist Skills Certificate Program takes 1 year (2-semesters; Fall - Spring) to complete with a full-time schedule. It is a total of 12 units. With a part-time schedule it will take approximately 2 years to complete. A few classes are offered online, or in winter/summer.

What are the requirements to become an aquatic specialist?

  • American Red Cross Lifeguarding certificate
  • American Red Cross-Water Safety Instructor certificate

Can I get a degree in Kinesiology at the same time?

Yes. The Associate's Degree in Kinesiology for Transfer (KIN AA-T) and the Associate’s Degree in Physical Education (PE AA) at ELAC prepares students to transfer to a 4-year university and major in Kinesiology.

Program Requirements

This certificate requires students to meet the following requirements

REQUIREMENTS NAME COURSE TITLE UNITS
Required Core KIN MAJ 100 Introduction to Kinesiology 3
  KIN MAJ 134 Advanced Lifesaving 2
  KIN MAJ 135 Water Safety Instruction (WSI) 3
  HEALTH 54 Adult, Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED Skills Certification 1
CHOOSE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:
  KIN 301-1 Swimming Skills I 1
  KIN 301-2 Swimming Skills II 1
  KIN 301-3 Swimming Skills III 1
  KIN 301-4 Swimming Skills IV 1
TOTAL UNITS FOR SKILLS CERTIFICATE 10

Kinesiology Aquatic Specialist Skills Certificate Advisor
Kimberly Diana Romero 
@email