Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS): All you need to know

The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is a residential program designed for aspiring deck officers in the merchant navy. This one-year long program is offered by the Indian Maritime University (IMU) and other affiliated institutes. This course provides foundational knowledge about marine navigation, seamanship, and safety management.

Diploma in Nautical Science Course Overview

The DNS program provides students with critical maritime skills, covering subjects such as:

• Navigation & Ship Stability
• Cargo Handling & Maritime Law
• Safety Management & Seamanship

Upon graduation, individuals are eligible to appear for exams to acquire a Certificate of Competency (CoC) as a Deck Officer, which is granted by the Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India.

 Eligibility Criteria for DNS :

To enroll in the DNS program, candidates must meet the following requirements:

 – Educational Qualification:

To be eligible for the Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) program at the Indian Maritime University (IMU), candidates must have completed 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as mandatory subjects from a recognized board.

– Minimum Marks:

• 60% aggregate in PCM.
• 50% in English in the 10+2 examination.

– Age Limit:

Male Candidates:

• General: 25 years
• OBC (NCL): 28 years
• SC/ST: 30 years

Female Candidates:

• General: 27 years
• OBC (NCL): 30 years
• SC/ST: 32 years

 – Medical Requirements:

• Candidates must submit a Physical Fitness Certificate from a registered medical practitioner.
• Eyesight: 6/6 vision in each eye without visual aids and normal color vision.

Also Read: B.tech Marine Engineering Sponsorship 2025 – Fleet Management

Course Fee Structure for Diploma in Nautical Science

The fee for the one-year residential DNS program varies across different institutes. At IMU campuses, the approximate fee is around ₹2,75,000.

Semester-wise Breakdown:

• Odd Semester: ₹1,22,500
• Even Semester: ₹1,22,500
• Additional Program Fee: ₹30,000

Fees may differ for other affiliated institutes.

Career Opportunities after Diploma in Nautical Science

Graduates of the DNS program can pursue careers in several fields, such as:

After completing the DNS program, successful candidates can seek different type of job roles, such as:

– Trainee Navigating Officer

– Port Operations Officer

– Oceanographer

– Radio Officer

After gaining atleast 18 months of sea service, the candidates can advance to B.Sc. in Nautical Science and qualify for higher competency exams.

Admission Process for Diploma in Nautical Science

To secure admission, candidates must:

1. Qualify for the IMU Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET).

2. Meet medical fitness standards.

3. Apply to IMU or affiliated institutes.

For more details, visit the Indian Maritime University website.

Hope you liked this article on Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS): All you need to know. So please do share your views with me within the comments section below. If this article was helpful, do share this post with your friends on Facebook and Twitter. It would mean a lot.