The PADI Divemaster course serves as the stepping stone towards professional scuba diving. As the first level of professional training, this course develops a diver's leadership abilities by training them to supervise dive activities and assist instructors with student divers. Participants refine their diving skills, demonstrate a professional level of dive theory knowledge and learn to manage and mitigate potential risks. They also gain experience in dive planning, group management and problem-solving. This course opens up career opportunities in the diving industry around the world.

The PADI Assistant Instructor course is a significant step towards a professional diving career, introducing the teaching side of the industry to those who have achieved Divemaster certification. This course enhances leadership skills by focusing on educational methodologies, the learning process and instructional presentations. Participants learn how to conduct various PADI programs and courses (under the indirect supervision of a PADI Instructor) and gain more hands-on teaching experience. The course is tailored to encourage personal development, confidence and competence in teaching, thereby preparing participants to continue their journey to becoming a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor.

The PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) is the apex of PADI's professional training programs and a milestone for any aspiring dive professional. It is designed to train qualified individuals to become effective and successful PADI Open Water Scuba Instructors. The IDC combines the Assistant Instructor course and the Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program. It covers various aspects such as dive theory, teaching methods, standards and procedures, along with practical applications like confined and open water teaching presentations. Upon successful completion of the IDC and the subsequent Instructor Examination (IE), candidates earn their instructor certification and are qualified to teach a range of PADI courses.