Diploma in Nautical Science DNS

Course Duration

01 Year

Intake

40 students

Course Fees

₹ 8,00,000/-

About The Programme

The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is one of the most prestigious entry routes into the Deck Department of the Merchant Navy, designed for students aspiring to become Deck Officers and eventually Captains of merchant vessels operating across international waters. Approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India, DNS is a 1-year residential pre-sea training programme that provides cadets with the academic knowledge, practical seamanship skills, navigation fundamentals, and leadership training required for a successful maritime career.

The programme serves as the foundation for becoming a Navigating Officer, responsible for ship operations, cargo management, navigation systems, safety management, and crew supervision onboard merchant vessels.

What makes DNS highly attractive is its structured officer career pathway. Unlike rating courses, DNS cadets directly enter the officer track and, after sea service and examinations, can rise to the rank of Captain/Master Mariner, one of the most respected and highest-paid positions in the maritime industry.

At Asha Marine Technical College & Research (AMTCR), Pali, Mumbai, DNS cadets undergo rigorous academic and practical training aligned with international maritime standards under the STCW Convention, ensuring they are fully prepared for life and responsibilities at sea.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

Candidates must have completed:

12th Standard (PCM) with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics from a recognized board with minimum 60% aggregate marks
Minimum 50% marks in English in either 10th or 12th Standard
OR
B.Sc Degree with Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry/Electronics/Computer Science as subjects with minimum 55% aggregate
OR
Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Marine, Civil or related streams) with minimum 55% aggregate

Age Requirement

Maximum 25 Years at the time of admission
Relaxation as per DG Shipping norms

Medical & Physical Fitness

Candidates must:

Be medically fit as per DG Shipping approved medical standards
Have 6/6 eyesight (normal vision)
No colour blindness
Physically fit for sea service

Required Documents

10th Marksheet
12th Marksheet
Aadhaar Card
Passport
Passport Size Photos
Medical Fitness Certificate
Transfer Certificate
Character Certificate

Programme Structure & Syllabus

The DNS programme is designed to provide cadets with strong academic knowledge along with extensive practical maritime training, ensuring complete readiness for shipboard operations.

Module 1 — Navigation & Chart Work

Cadets learn the fundamentals of safe ship navigation using both traditional and modern navigational methods. Training includes chart plotting, route planning, compass correction, radar navigation, and bridge watchkeeping procedures. They also gain practical experience in voyage planning and monitoring a vessel’s position throughout a journey.

Module 2 — Seamanship & Ship Operations

This module focuses on essential deck operations and practical seamanship skills required onboard ships. Cadets are trained in rope work, anchoring, mooring, cargo operations, and ship maintenance activities. The module also provides an understanding of ship construction and various deck machinery used during daily operations.

Module 3 — Maritime Communication

Effective communication is critical for safety at sea, and this module develops professional maritime communication skills. Cadets learn radio communication procedures, maritime English, distress signaling, and standard communication protocols. Training also covers ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication systems used in international shipping.

Module 4 — Housekeeping & Hygiene

This module provides knowledge of cargo operations, one of the key responsibilities of deck officers. Cadets learn safe loading and unloading procedures, cargo securing methods, and stowage planning techniques. Special emphasis is placed on handling dangerous goods, container operations, and maintaining ship stability during cargo operations.

Module 5 — Meteorology & Ocean Navigation

Understanding weather and sea conditions is essential for safe voyage planning. Cadets study weather systems, ocean currents, tides, cyclone formation, and weather forecasting methods. The module helps them interpret meteorological information and make informed navigational decisions during voyages.

Module 6 — Marine Engineering Basics

This module introduces cadets to the basic working principles of ship machinery and engineering systems. Topics include marine engines, pumps, steering gear, auxiliary equipment, and power generation systems. The knowledge gained helps deck officers coordinate effectively with the engineering department onboard.

Module 7 — STCW Basic Safety Training

This mandatory safety training equips cadets with internationally recognized maritime safety certifications. It includes Personal Survival Techniques (PST), Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF), Elementary First Aid (EFA), and Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR). Practical exercises ensure readiness for emergencies and safe shipboard operations.

Module 8 — Leadership & Physical Training

This module develops the physical fitness, discipline, and leadership qualities required for a successful maritime career. Cadets participate in swimming, fitness training, teamwork activities, and emergency response drills. The programme builds confidence, resilience, and the ability to work effectively in challenging shipboard environments.

Scope of the Programme

The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) programme serves as a gateway to a prestigious career in the Merchant Navy, offering opportunities to work in the global shipping and maritime industry.
With international trade heavily dependent on sea transportation, qualified deck officers are in constant demand across various types of vessels worldwide.
The programme provides the academic foundation, practical training, and mandatory certifications required to begin a professional maritime career.
Upon successful completion of the DNS programme and subsequent onboard training, cadets can join leading national and international shipping companies.
The qualification is recognized globally and opens doors to a wide range of maritime sectors, offering excellent career growth, attractive salaries, and opportunities to travel across the world.
A career through the DNS programme offers global employment opportunities, rapid professional advancement, competitive remuneration, and the chance to work in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.
With experience and higher certifications, maritime professionals can also move into shore-based careers such as fleet management, marine surveying, port operations, maritime training, ship management, and logistics leadership roles.

Certificates Awarded on Completion

Upon successful completion of training and examinations, cadets receive:

Diploma in Nautical Science Certificate
STCW Basic Safety Certificates
INDOS Registration
CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate)
Passport Verification Clearance
DG Shipping Approved Course Completion Certificate

Career Growth Path

Stage

On Joining

After 12–18 Months

After Further Sea Service

Senior Level

Top Level

Position

Deck Cadet

Third Officer

Second Officer

Chief Officer

Captain / Master Mariner

Approximate Earnings

$300 – $800/month

$2,500 – $4,000/month

$4,000 – $6,000/month

$7,000 – $10,000/month

$12,000 – $18,000/month

Placement Opportunities

Direct Industry Access

Strong partnerships with Indian and international shipping companies provide direct employment opportunities.

Campus Placement Drives

Dedicated recruitment partnerships with maritime employers and shipping companies.

CDC & INDOS Registration Support

Complete assistance for all mandatory seafarer documentation.

Shipping Company Tie-Ups

Placement opportunities with:

International Cargo Fleet Operators
Container Shipping Companies
Offshore Shipping Companies
Oil Tanker Companies
LNG Shipping Companies

Global Career Opportunities

DNS cadets gain opportunities to work with foreign shipping companies with tax-free earnings and international exposure.

Alumni Network

Strong alumni presence working across major global shipping companies helping guide new cadets.