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Beach lifeguard education requirements

Updated January 8, 2025
2 min read
Usually, beach lifeguards don't need a college education. The most common degree for beach lifeguards is bachelor's degree with 73% graduates, with only 10% beach lifeguard graduates earning associate degree. Beach lifeguards who decided to graduate from college often finish University of Delaware or Old Dominion University. Some good skills to have in this position include cpr, emergency situations and patrol.

Popular beach lifeguard certifications include First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor, Lifeguard Certification, or First Aid Certification. To improve beach lifeguard qualification and skills, we prepared some online courses to help in beach lifeguard education paths.

What education do you need to become a beach lifeguard?

What degree do you need to be a beach lifeguard?

The most common degree for beach lifeguards is bachelor's degree, with 73% of beach lifeguards earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are associate degree degree at 10% and associate degree degree at 9%.
  • Bachelor's, 73%
  • Associate, 10%
  • High School Diploma, 9%
  • Master's, 5%
  • Other Degrees, 3%

What should I major in to become a beach lifeguard?

You should major in business to become a beach lifeguard. 13% of beach lifeguards major in business. Other common majors for a beach lifeguard include biology and kinesiology.

Best majors for beach lifeguards

RankMajorPercentages
1Business13.3%
2Biology9.6%
3Kinesiology8.0%
4Psychology6.9%
5Liberal Arts6.4%

20 best online courses for beach lifeguards

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18. ISO 45001. Occupational health & safety management system

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Upgrate your health and safety career by understanding the requriements for an OH & S management system from ISO 45001...

19. OSHA Workplace Safety (General Industry 6 Hr Class)

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Learn the requirements and standards associated with OSHA and workplace safety. Safety best practices for the workplace...

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A quick yet detailed certification in OSHA safety with a focus on Trenching, Excavation, & Soil Mechanics...

Average beach lifeguard salary by education level

Beach lifeguards with a Bachelor's degree earn more than those without, at $29,954 annually. With a Associate degree, beach lifeguards earn a median annual income of $28,747 compared to $28,260 for beach lifeguards with an High School Diploma degree.
Beach lifeguard education levelBeach lifeguard salary
High School Diploma or Less$28,260
Bachelor's Degree$29,954
Some College/ Associate Degree$28,747

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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