Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Program

This page has a diagram of all the courses and certification levels, with links to detailed information about each:
www.paddlingcanada.com/programs/sea-kayaking25/sea-kayaking.html

Here is a brief summary of the skill level programs.

• Sea Kayak Skills Introduction to Kayaking
  Introduction to Kayaking introduces the novice to paddling a kayak in calm sheltered water.Rescue techniques at this level incorporate the use of a paddling partner and it is essential for all Introduction to Kayaking certified paddlers to travel on the water with others who have been trained in the techniques of  assisted rescues.
• Sea Kayak Skills Level 1
  Level-1 provides the skill and knowledge necessary for day-long sea kayaking trips in sheltered waters (non-wilderness areas). Successful completion of Level-1 indicates competence to paddle a sea kayak within a sheltered bay in the company of one or more paddlers with Level-1 or greater skill and knowledge.
• Sea Kayak Skills Level 2
  To provide the skills and knowledge for proficient kayaking in moderate conditions, on overnight trips along a moderately exposed shore with frequent easy landing opportunities.
• Sea Kayak Skills Level 3
  The participant in Level–3 will
  Develop practical leadership, risk assessment, decision-making, judgment, group management, and seamanship, in the context of a multi-day journey.
  Participate in a multi-day journey that includes changing conditions and varying terrain.
  Develop the skills necessary to lead a small group of paddlers on an overnight journey.
  Develop the skills outlined in Level-2 to a higher standard of proficiency.
• Sea Kayak Skills Level 4
  Level-4 provides the skills and knowledge for sea kayaking tripping during multi-day trips along an open coast with rough conditions. This course includes a leadership component.

FYI, rolling starts to be taught in level 2, is required in open water in level 3, and is required in rough water in level 3.