Purpose: The purpose of this study is to provide basic data for developing an educational program that can be practically applied in the field of survival swimming education. Research design, data, and methodology: This study reviewed prior literature including governmental reports, journal articles related to survival swimming programs at home and abroad. Based on the basic data collected through literature, domestic and foreign educational institutions and national educational programs were cataloged and analyzed. Results: The study found that among the goals of swimming education, the prevention of water accidents and the cultivation of water safety skills along with improving swimming ability are very important educational goals. Currently, domestic survival swimming education programs are divided into classes and training sessions, so it is necessary to develop an educational program according to each individual's swimming ability and a unified and systematic program through education for each level of survival swimming learners. Conclusions: It is thought that the reinforcement of the leader's capacity for quality improvement will have a positive effect for the development of survival swimming. Further implications were discussed.