Diploma in Nautical Science Course, Admissions, Eligibility, Syllabus, Fees, Career

Diploma in Nautical Science Course, Admissions, Eligibility, Syllabus, Fees, Career

Edited By Vandana Pandey | Updated on Jul 07, 2025 05:13 PM IST

A diploma in Nautical Science is an undergraduate diploma programme in the nautical science discipline. Students who complete this programme are awarded a diploma. The academic duration of the programme is one year. Individuals wishing to enrol in the programme are required to fulfil the minimum eligibility criteria. They must complete 10+2 in physics, chemistry and mathematics from a recognised board.

The Diploma in Nautical Science course serves as the foundation for a rewarding maritime career, blending academic knowledge with practical training aboard ships. Those who have done nautical science have higher career prospects with alluring salary packages. They can opt for various career options such as deck officer, radio officer, marine engineer, oceanographer, nautical surveyor and numerous other career options.

Diploma in Nautical Science- Highlights

ParticularsValues

Degree Name

Diploma in Nautical Science

Degree Type

Undergraduate Diploma

Degree Duration

1 year

Entrance Exams

IMU CET

Eligibility Criteria

10+2 in physics, chemistry and mathematics

Admission process

Entrance

Fees for the entire duration

Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3 Lakhs

Average Salary

Rs. 2 Lakhs to Rs. 7 Lakhs

Job profiles

Nautical Surveyor, Deck Officer, Oceanographer, Marine Engineer

Top recruiters

Indian Naval Sciences, Port Operations Companies, Weather Forecasting Center, Educational Institutes

Diploma in Nautical Science Eligibility

Individuals who are willing to enrol in a diploma in nautical science course are required to fulfil the minimum eligibility criteria. We have provided below the minimum eligibility criteria considered by diplomas in nautical science colleges.

Eligibility CriteriaDetails
Academic Qualifications

10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) with at least 60% aggregate marks.

OR B.Sc. (Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry or Electronics with Physics) with minimum 55% marks.

OR B.E./B.Tech. degree with a minimum of 50% marks (from AICTE/UGC approved colleges).

English Proficiency

Minimum 50% marks in English either in Class 10 or 12 or in the qualifying degree.

Age LimitNot more than 25 years at the time of course commencement (may vary by institution).
Medical Fitness

As per DGS medical standards.

Eyesight: 6/6 in each eye, no colour blindness.

Diploma in Nautical Science Admission Process

The admission process for enrollment in a diploma in nautical science varies from college to college. The standard admission process involves three rounds.

Step 1- It involves a written entrance examination. The candidate’s basic knowledge and clarity of concepts are tested in this round.

Step 2- It involves group discussion. Teamwork and leadership abilities are assessed in this round.

Step 3- It is based on a personal interview. The candidate’s self-confidence is judged in this round.

Top Diploma in Nautical Science Entrance Exams

Various colleges and universities conduct entrance examinations to provide admission for a diploma in nautical science. We have provided below the major entrance examinations.

IMU CET: IMU CET stands for Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test. It is a university-level entrance examination conducted to provide admissions in various maritime academic courses running in the university.

Cutoff of Top Colleges

The cut-off is set as an eligibility criterion for students for the selection of candidates to provide admissions in the courses. A minimum cut-off rank or score is announced every year. Those who acquire scores or rank within this limit are provided with admission.

Diploma in Nautical Science Subject/Syllabus

Diploma in Nautical Science combines theoretical modules with practical training and simulation exercises. The academic curriculum of a diploma in nautical science may vary from institute to institute. We have provided below the syllabus of the Diploma in Nautical Science offered at the Haldia Institute of Maritime Studies and Research.

Semester-1Semester-2

Applied Mathematics

Navigation-III: Navigation & Chart Work

Applied Sciences

Navigation IV: Advance Bridge Equipment,

Watch Keeping, Meteorology & Oceanography

Applied Electricity & Electronics

Cargo Handling, Stowage & Seamanship-II

Navigation-I: Terrestrial & Celestial

Ship Operations

Navigation-II: Bridge Equipment, Watch Keeping, Meteorology & Oceanography

Maritime History & Commerce

Cargo Handling, Stowage & Seamanship-I

Practical Seamanship (only practical)

English & Human Factors

Boat Work (only practical)

Applied Science Laboratory

Ship Visit (only practical)

Computer Laboratory

Signal

Workshop Practices

Computer

Practical Seamanship (only practical)

-

Boat Work (only practical)

-

Ship Visit (only practical)

-

Signal

-

Diploma in Nautical Science Fees Structure

The fee structure of a Diploma in Nautical Science varies from college to college. The fee structure is planned by the management authorities keeping in view the various facilities provided to them. The average diploma in nautical science fee ranges Rs. Rs. 200 to Rs. 3 Lakhs.

Scope of Diploma in Nautical Science

A diploma in nautical science provides individuals with numerous career opportunities. After successful completion of the course, they can start their career as a training cadet. After completion of 18 months of sea service period, they can appear for the next mate examination.

Individuals who wish to pursue higher education may opt for a BSc. in Nautical Science. After completion of the BSc. Nautical Science, they may further pursue an MSc. in the same course. Individuals who want to opt for an academic career as a teacher, professor, or researcher may pursue a Ph.D. or M.Phil in the relevant specialisations after completion of a master’s degree.

Career Options after Diploma in Nautical Science

There are numerous career options for graduates with a diploma in nautical science. We have provided below details of major job profiles for them.

Deck Officer - A deck officer is responsible for executing numerous tasks on deck. It includes navigation, manoeuvring of vessels, and handling safety equipment on board. He or she is also responsible for cargo, communication and the safety of other people on the deck.

Nautical Surveyor - A nautical surveyor is known as a marine surveyor. He or she is responsible for conducting thorough surveys of the ship. A nautical surveyor analyses the complete vessel before delivery and determines the worthiness of the vessel.

Oceanographer - An oceanographer is responsible for planning and carrying out research on oceans. He or she collects samples and data from the seafloor and analyses those sampled to discover natural and contaminant composition.

Marine Engineer - A marine engineer is responsible for designing, building and maintenance of ships, aircraft carriers, submarines, sailboats and tankers. He or she is responsible for the internal systems of a ship, including propulsion, refrigeration, electrical and steering systems.

Benefits of Studying a Diploma in Nautical Science

A diploma in nautical science provided individuals with training to navigate a ship from one point to another on the sea. It enriches the knowledge of enrolled students on principles and practices of managing and operating ships, vessels, submarines and tankers. They learn various aspects of ship management including cargo work, propulsion and meteorology.

Average Salary after Diploma in Nautical Science Course

The salary offered to graduates with diplomas in nautical science varies depending on their skills and abilities. The size of the recruiting company and its geographical location also affect the salary. We have provided below details of the diploma in nautical science salary.

Job RolesAverage Salary
Deck Cadet

Rs. 2.9 Lakhs

Navigation Officer

Rs. 12 Lakhs

Chief Officer

Rs. 20.04 Lakhs

Captain (Master)

Rs. 43.9 Lakhs

Source-AmbitonBox

Top Recruiters

  • Maersk Line
  • Anglo-Eastern
  • NYK Line
  • Great Eastern Shipping
  • MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)
  • Wilhelmsen
  • MOL Maritime
  • Fleet Management Ltd.

Top Diploma in Nautical Science Colleges in India

Numerous colleges in India offer a diploma in nautical science. We have listed below the top diplomas in nautical science institutes. The academic curriculum, fee structure and facilities provided in these colleges may vary.

The Diploma in Nautical Science is an excellent launchpad for individuals aiming for a seafaring career. It not only equips cadets with essential nautical knowledge and shipboard skills but also opens doors to high-paying jobs in the global maritime industry. With discipline, dedication, and experience, a DNS graduate can rise to the helm of a ship and sail into a prestigious and adventurous profession.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the minimum required qualification to enroll in a diploma in nautical science course?

The minimum qualification required to enroll in a diploma in nautical science course is successful completion of class 10+2 in physics, chemistry and mathematics with equivalent to 65 percent of marks.

2. What is the average salary offered to graduates of a diploma in nautical science?

The average salary offered to graduates of diploma in nautical science ranges from Rs. 200,000 to Rs. 700,000 per annum. 

3. What is the average fee of diploma in nautical science?

The average fee of the academic course diploma in nautical science generally ranges between Rs. 2000 to Rs. 300,000.

4. What are the major diploma in nautical science career options?

The major career options for graduates of diploma in nautical science are listed below: 

  • Marine Surveyor

  • Cadet Officer

  • Oceanographer

  • Radio Officer

  • Marine Engineer 

5. What is the average salary of deck officers?

The average salary of a deck officer is Rs. 150,000 per month.

6. What is nautical science?

Nautical science is a specialised subject that comprises science, mathematics and physical training to navigate and operate a ship safely in the ocean or sea from one point to another. 

7. What are top recruiters of diploma in nautical science?

We have listed below top diploma in nautical science recruiters: 

  • Indian Naval Sciences

  • Port Operations Companies

  • Weather Forecasting Center

  • Educational Institutes

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