DNS (DIPLOMA IN NAUTICAL SCIENCE COURSE)

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Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)

Approved by Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), Government of India

Programme Pattern

Course Duration: 1 Year (Pre-Sea Training)

Phase 1 – Academic Training (1 Year)

Candidates undergo 1 year of pre-sea academic and practical training at a DG Shipping-approved maritime institute in India. The programme includes classroom learning, simulator training, navigation, seamanship, cargo handling, maritime safety, and practical shipboard knowledge.

Phase 2 – Onboard Sea Training

After successful completion of academic training, candidates undergo 18 months of onboard sea training onboard merchant vessels through sponsoring shipping companies to gain practical maritime experience.

Phase 3 – Certificate of Competency Examination

Upon completion of sea service, candidates appear for the 2nd Mate (FG) Certificate of Competency Examination conducted as per DG Shipping norms, enabling them to progress toward officer-level careers in the Merchant Navy.

Course Overview

The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) programme is designed for students aspiring to become Deck Officers in the Merchant Navy. It combines academic training, practical maritime education, and onboard sea experience, providing students with the technical knowledge and professional skills required for navigation and ship operations.

After successful completion of the DNS programme and sea training, candidates become eligible to pursue officer-level certifications, opening doors to rewarding careers onboard cargo ships, container vessels, tanker ships, cruise ships, and offshore fleets.

Entry Requirements

Age

Minimum 17.5 Years

Educational Qualification

  • Passed 12th Standard (HSC) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM)
  • Minimum 60% aggregate in PCM
  • Minimum 50% marks in English in either 10th or 12th Standard
  • From a recognized board

Medical Standards

Candidates must be medically fit for sea service as per Merchant Navy medical standards:

  • Eyesight: 6/6 vision in both eyes
  • No colour blindness
  • Physically fit for sea service

English Proficiency

Candidates may be required to meet English language proficiency standards as per sponsoring company or institute requirements.

CAREER GRAPH

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DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) – Frequently Asked Questions

DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) is a pre-sea training programme that prepares students for an officer-level career as a Deck Officer in the Merchant Navy.

Candidates must have completed 12th Standard with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) with minimum required marks, secured at least 50% in English, and meet Merchant Navy medical fitness standards.

The DNS programme consists of 1 year of academic training, followed by 18 months of onboard sea training onboard merchant vessels.

After successful completion of training and sea service, candidates become eligible to appear for the 2nd Mate Certificate of Competency Examination and can progress to ranks such as Chief Officer and Captain.

Yes, shipping company sponsorship is generally required as it provides onboard sea training opportunities and career placement support.

Freshers may earn approximately $500 – $1500 per month (tax-free) depending on the shipping company, vessel type, and rank.

Subjects include Navigation, Seamanship, Cargo Handling, Ship Stability, Maritime Safety, Marine Communication, and Maritime Law.

DNS leads to officer-level positions, while GP Rating is for crew-level roles. DNS offers faster career growth, higher responsibilities, and better salary potential.

Yes, Marine Career Academy provides complete guidance and assistance for DNS admissions, sponsorship opportunities, documentation, and career counseling.

Candidates must meet Merchant Navy medical standards, including good eyesight, physical fitness, and no colour blindness.

There are generally two intakes every year — February and August Batch, depending on institute availability and admission schedules.

MARINE CAREER ACADEMY

WITH INSTITUTES APPROVED BY DG SHIPPING GOVT. OF INDIA

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