B.Sc. in Nautical Science: A Complete Guide

Marine Edge Expert Guide

B.Sc. in Nautical Science is a 3-year undergraduate Merchant Navy course that trains students to become deck officers on merchant ships. The program combines classroom learning, simulator training, and mandatory onboard sea service, leading to a clear career path up to Captain (Master Mariner).

At Marine Edge, we guide aspirants through eligibility, IMU-CET preparation, sponsorship strategy, and career planning so they enter the industry with clarity, not confusion.

What is B.Sc. in Nautical Science?

B.Sc. in Nautical Science is a 3-year undergraduate course approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) that prepares students for a career as deck officers in the Merchant Navy.
After completing the academic program, candidates must undergo 12 months of onboard training as a deck cadet.

The course focuses on:

• Ship navigation and operations

• Cargo handling

• Maritime safety and regulations

• Leadership and ship management

Course Duration and Structure

Duration: 3 years (6 semesters) + 12 months onboard training

Year-wise Curriculum Breakdown

First Year

• Basics of navigation and seamanship

• Ship construction and operations

• Mathematics and physics

• Maritime communication

Second Year

• Ship stability

• Cargo handling and stowage

• Maritime law

• Meteorology

Third Year

• Advanced navigation

• Bridge watchkeeping

• Leadership and ship management

• Simulator and practical training

After completing their academic studies, students join a merchant ship as a deck cadet to gain real-world sailing experience.

Eligibility Criteria for B.Sc. Nautical Science

Educational Qualification

• 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM)

• Minimum 60% aggregate marks

Age Limit

• 17 to 25 years at the time of admission

Medical Fitness

• Must meet DGS medical standards

• Eyesight: 6/6 in both eyes

• No colour blindness

Entrance Exam

• IMU-CET qualification is mandatory for most institutes

Marine Edge strongly advises early medical checks before exam preparation to avoid last minute disqualification.

Why Choose B.Sc. Nautical Science?

Key Benefits of B.Sc. Nautical Science:

• Global career with international sailing exposure

• High salary and tax benefits

• Strong job security due to global trade demand

• Fast career progression to Captain

• Opportunity to transition to shore-based roles later

Career Path After B.Sc. Nautical Science

After onboard training, the career progression is structured and time bound:

1. Deck Cadet

2. Third Officer

3. Second Officer

4. Chief Officer

5. Captain (Master Mariner)

Deck officers are responsible for navigation, safety, cargo operations, and crew management.

Shore-Based Career Options

With sailing experience, officers can shift to:

• Port operations

• Maritime safety management

• Marine surveying

• Shipping company operations

• Maritime training institutes

Top DGS Approved Institutes in India

Always choose a DGS approved institute. Some reputed options include:

• Indian Maritime University (IMUs)

• T.S. Chanakya, Navi Mumbai

• Training Ship Rahaman, Navi Mumbai

• Tolani Maritime Institute, Pune

• AMET University, Chennai

• Hindustan Institute of Maritime Training (HIMT), Chennai

Marine Edge helps students to prepare and get admission in all these top colleges across India.

Admission Process for B.Sc. Nautical Science

Step 1: IMU-CET Examination

Tests knowledge in:

• Mathematics

• Physics

• Chemistry

• English

• Reasoning & Aptitude

Step 2: Sponsorship (Highly Recommended)

Company sponsorship ensures:

• Guaranteed onboard training

• Reduced placement risk

• Clear career continuity

Step 3: Medical Examination

Candidates must clear a DGS-approved medical test.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is B.Sc. Nautical Science?

B.Sc. Nautical Science is a 3-year undergraduate Merchant Navy course that trains students to become deck officers responsible for navigation, safety, and ship operations.

Is B.Sc. Nautical Science better than DNS?

B.Sc. Nautical Science offers a degree-based pathway with structured academics, while DNS is a faster diploma route. The better option depends on sponsorship availability, academic preference, and long-term plans.

What is the salary after B.Sc. Nautical Science?

• Deck Cadet: ₹25,000 – ₹60,000 per month

• Third Officer: ₹2 – 2.5 lakh per month

• Captain: ₹10 – 15 lakh per month
  (Salary varies by company and vessel type)

Is sponsorship compulsory for B.Sc. Nautical Science?

Sponsorship is not mandatory but highly recommended. It increases job security and guarantees onboard training after graduation.

What is the eyesight requirement for B.Sc. Nautical Science?

Candidates must have 6/6 vision in both eyes and no colour blindness, as per DGS medical standards.

Can I join the Merchant Navy without IMU-CET?

For most reputed institutes, IMU-CET is mandatory. A few private institutes may have separate exams but still require IMU-CET qualification for degree validation.

How Marine Edge Helps Aspirants

Marine Edge provides:

• IMU-CET preparation guidance

• Sponsorship strategy and mentorship

• Medical eligibility assessment

• Career roadmap from cadet to captain

Final Words

B.Sc. in Nautical Science is a high-potential career path for students who want a global, disciplined, and well-paying profession at sea. With the right preparation, sponsorship guidance, and institute selection, the course can set you up for long-term success in the Merchant Navy.

At Marine Edge, we don’t just explain the process. We help you navigate it.

Do checkout Marine Edge courses for class 11th, 12th, & Droppers for IMUCET & Sponsorship Preparations here