Diploma Nautical Science (DNS) – 1 Year Course

As a top maritime college in India for DNS, We offer a one-year residential course (Divided into two semesters) that is approved by Indian Maritime University and the Director General of Shipping, Government of India. DNS Course is a course leading to B.Sc., Nautical Science after 18 months of sea service and also leading to 2nd Mate Foreign going Certificate of competency. We train the cadets to help them in becoming navigating officers on board Merchant Naval Ships anywhere in the world.
 

DNS Merchant Navy Eligibility
There are several factors that decide whether or not you will qualify to pursue the DNS course. Following is the list of criteria that one must keep in mind while applying for the course –

  • Minimum 10+2 with 60% marks in PCM aggregate or 55% marks in the final year of B.Sc. with physics / B.E./ B.Tech and 50% marks in English in 10th/ 10+2/ Degree.
  • Must be medically and physically fit.
  • 6/6 eye vision and no color blindness
  • The age requirement for the course is between 18 to 25 years of age.
 

Career Flow in DNS Course in Merchant Navy
After completion of 12 months Diploma in Nautical Science (Semester 1 & 2 – IMU) along with mandatory STCW courses → Join as Deck Cadet/Junior Officer for 18 months of on-board ship training comprising semesters 3, 4 and 5 (With Distance Learning Programme by IMU), Awarded Advance Diploma in Nautical Science by IMU with a stipend of 400$ – 600$ → 4 months preparatory Post-sea course, Obtain 2nd Mate Certificate of Competency by Director General of Shipping, Govt. of India, Sail as 3rd / 2ndNavigating Officer on merchant ships with a salary of 3500$ – 5500$ → 6 months preparatory post sea course, Obtain 1st mate Certificate of Competency, complete 18 months sea service with a salary of 5500$ – 8500$ → Advance Ship Management Course followed by an exam, Written & Oral Examination, Obtain Master Certificate of Competency and sail as Master / Captain of the ship with a salary of 8500$ – 12000$.

Placement Opportunities After DNS Course in India
The DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) course is designed for individuals aspiring to become Deck Officers in the Merchant Navy. This course equips students with the knowledge and practical skills required to work aboard ships, handling navigation, cargo operations, and ship safety. Upon successful completion of the DNS course, graduates are eligible to pursue a career in the Merchant Navy, either with Indian or international shipping companies. Below are some of the prominent placement opportunities available to DNS graduates in India:

Merchant Navy (Deck Officer Positions)

The primary career path for DNS graduates is to join the Merchant Navy. Graduates are trained to become Deck Officers, where they are responsible for the navigation and operation of ships, ensuring safety, cargo handling, and compliance with maritime regulations.

Key Positions:

  • Trainee Navigating Officer (TNO) / Deck Cadet: As a trainee deck officer, DNS graduates undergo practical training on board ships and gain experience in navigation, cargo handling, and operational duties.
  • Third Officer: After completing the required sea-time and training, a deck cadet is promoted to the position of Third Officer, responsible for watchkeeping, navigation, and safety duties on board.
  • Second Officer: With additional experience, a DNS graduate can be promoted to Second Officer, a more senior role involving navigation, chart plotting, and taking responsibility for deck operations.
  • Chief Officer: The Chief Officer is in charge of the deck department and handles all aspects of cargo operations, ship navigation, and safety. This position requires significant experience and qualifications.

Types of Ships:

  • Cargo Ships
  • Tankers
  • Bulk Carriers
  • Container Ships
  • Passenger Ships (Cruise Liners)

Working on merchant ships allows DNS graduates to travel the world and earn a competitive salary. Career progression is typically based on the number of years at sea and passing required examinations.