Diploma in Nautical Science
Diploma in Nautical Science
The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is a 1-year maritime training program designed to prepare students for a career as Deck Officers in the Merchant Navy. The course includes academic and onboard training and is approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Govt. of India.
ā Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification:
10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics (PCM).
Minimum 60% aggregate in PCM (some institutes accept 55%).
Diploma holders in Mechanical / Marine / Naval Architecture (with 50%) are also eligible in some institutes.
Age Limit:
Maximum 25 years (relaxation up to 2ā3 years for reserved categories).
Medical Fitness:
Must be medically fit as per DG Shipping norms.
Eyesight: 6/6 in both eyes (glasses allowed, no color blindness).
Entrance Exams:
Must qualify IMU CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test).
Some institutes accept JEE (Main) Maritime or conduct their own exams (MERI, TMI, etc.).
š Course Structure
Total Duration: 1 Year
6 months of academic training at a maritime institute
6 months of onboard ship training
Approved By: DG Shipping, Govt. of India
Affiliated Institutes: IMU & DG Shipping-approved maritime academies
š§ Key Subjects & Training
Navigation & Voyage Planning
Meteorology & Oceanography
Ship Stability & Construction
Marine Engineering & Control Systems
Cargo Handling & Ship Operations
Maritime Law & Safety Procedures
STCW Mandatory Safety Training
Shipboard Training (6 months at sea)
š Career Prospects After DNS
Start as a Deck Cadet / Junior Deck Officer on merchant vessels
Appear for Second Mate (FG) or MEO Class IV exam for promotion
Rise through ranks: Third Officer ā Second Officer ā Chief Officer ā Captain
Shore-based roles: Port operations, shipping companies, maritime training
š¼ Salary Insights
Starting Salary (Deck Cadet): ā¹40,000 to ā¹80,000/month
Senior Ranks (Chief Officer/Captain): ā¹3Lāā¹6L+ per month (tax-free on foreign ships)