Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)
From Cadet to Captain: Diploma in Nautical Science at Heroical Marine
What is Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)?
Heroical Marine Services Pvt. Ltd. offers a Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) in a one-year residential course intended for aspiring officers of the Merchant Navy with training for a pre-sea career. The DNS is a mixture of technical knowledge and practical experience in preparation for a civilian career at sea. The training and education consist of the following courses; Physics, Mathematics, Information Technology, and Nautical Basics which include marine navigation methods, operational procedures and processes onboard ships, cargo operations and handling and shipboard basics of marine engineering. Students are also provided practical experience onboard ships that being sponsored by the sponsoring companies; allowing them to interact with real-world operational and procedural maritime dynamics. Upon successful completion of the DNS designates cadets eligible for the 3-year B.Sc. (Nautical Science) degree and they will also obtain the 2nd Mate Foreign Going Certificate of Competency (CoC) issued by the Ministry of Shipping, Government of India. Anchors aweigh, heroic marine services graduates are well qualified as navigating officers around the globe with all technical and practical capabilities required for leadership in the dangerous and difficult, yet rewarding sea life.
What You Will Learn from the Course?
- Navigation techniques and ship handling
- Ship operations and maintenance procedures
- Cargo handling and management skills
- Marine engineering basics
- Applied physics and mathematics for navigation
- English communication and maritime terminology
- Onboard practical training with sponsoring ships
- Safety procedures and emergency preparedness
Career Opportunities After Diploma in Nautical Science
Graduates of the DNS course can start their careers as cadets onboard Merchant Navy ships, Third or Second Officers, and Navigating Officers. With experience, they can appear for the Second Mate F.G. Examination and progress to Chief Mate and eventually Master/Captain. The course opens opportunities in both private and public sector maritime organizations, providing exposure to international shipping companies. Cadets gain practical skills, professional knowledge, and sea service experience that make them employable in high-responsibility roles, ensuring lucrative and progressive career growth in navigation, ship operations, and maritime management worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria for Diploma in Nautical Science
To enroll in the DNS course at Heroical Marine Services Pvt. Ltd., candidates must meet specific academic, age, passport, and medical requirements. These standards ensure that students are prepared for the demands of a professional maritime career. Meeting these eligibility criteria guarantees readiness for theoretical learning, practical training, shipboard experience, and successful completion of the Diploma in Nautical Science program.
Career Progression Path After DNS
The DNS career path provides structured growth from cadet to Master/Captain with progressive responsibilities and certifications.
- 1-Year DNS Program – Residential training covering theory and practical skills.
- 18 Months Sea Service – Onboard practical training as a cadet (Distance Learning).
- Second Mate F.G. Exam – Eligibility to appear after completing sea service and assessments.
- 18 Months Officer Sea Service – Work as 3rd or 2nd Officer onboard merchant ships.
- Chief Mate F.G. Exam – Required for promotion to Chief Officer.
- B.Sc. Nautical Science Degree – Awarded by IMU after completing structured sea service.
- 12 Months Chief Officer Service – Gain practical experience before Master-level certification.
- Master Mate F.G. → Master/Captain – Final certification to serve as Captain on merchant vessels.
Course Duration and Approval
- Duration – 1-year residential Diploma in Nautical Science program.
- Approval – Recognized by Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India.
- Affiliation – Affiliated with Indian Maritime University, Chennai.
- Structured Training – Includes classroom sessions and shipboard practical training.
- Hands-On Exposure – Ensures cadets gain real-life operational maritime experience.
Course Highlights
- Navigation Techniques – Learn to operate and steer ships efficiently.
- Ship Operations & Maintenance – Hands-on understanding of vessel functioning.
- Cargo Handling Procedures – Safe and effective cargo management at sea.
- Marine Engineering Basics – Core understanding of engine operations and systems.
- Applied Physics & Mathematics – Technical foundation for navigation and calculations.
- Practical Onboard Training – Real-world experience with sponsoring shipping companies.
- Safety & Emergency Drills – Preparation for critical maritime situations.
- English Communication Skills – Proficiency in maritime communication and reporting.
Admission Process for DNS Course
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | IMU-CET Registration – Candidates must register on the official IMU-CET website using a valid email ID and mobile number. |
| Step 2 | Form Filling – Fill the online application carefully with accurate personal, academic, and contact information before submission. |
| Step 3 | Document Upload – Upload scanned photograph, signature, 10th/12th mark sheets, and category certificate if applicable for verification. |
| Step 4 | Fee Payment – Pay the registration fee online using net banking, debit card, or credit card to complete application. |
| Step 5 | Exam Pattern – The IMU-CET is a computer-based test with multiple-choice questions covering relevant subjects for eligibility. |
| Step 6 | Exam Duration & Marks – The exam lasts 3 hours, consists of 200 questions, with 1 mark per correct answer, no negative marking. |
| Step 7 | Results & Counselling – Merit list published online; selected candidates undergo counselling and verify documents before final admission. |
| Step 8 | Sponsorship Requirement – Admission requires sponsorship from a shipping company, mandatory to begin the DNS course and onboard training. |
