A Life at Sea Like No Other
Picture yourself standing on the bridge of a 200,000-tonne vessel. Beyond the glass, the ocean roars—towering waves crash against the bow just meters away. You’re at the helm of a machine worth over USD 100 million, steering it across continents and keeping the global supply chain moving.
If this kind of responsibility excites you, the Deck Department of the Merchant Navy is your true calling.
Deck officers are the navigators and guardians of the ship. From plotting courses across oceans to handling complex cargo operations, they ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective movement of goods worldwide. Their duties include:
- Navigation and global communication
- Loading, discharging, and securing cargo
- Anchorage, mooring, and ballast operations
- Monitoring ship stability and maintaining the upper hull and deck structures
Pathways to Become a Deck Officer
There are two academic routes to start your journey:
- Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) – [Click here to know more]
- B.Sc. in Nautical Science – focus of this guide
Why Choose B.Sc. Nautical Science?
This three-year pre-sea program is ideal for Class 12 (PCM) students who dream of sailing as professional deck officers. After graduation and mandatory onboard training, you join as a Deck Cadet, with the potential to rise to the rank of Captain within 8–10 years—depending on ship type, company, and personal performance.
Eligibility Criteria (As per DG Shipping)
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Age | For Male: General-25 years, OBC(NCL)-28 years, SC/ST-30 years For Female:General-27 years, OBC(NCL)-30 years, SC/ST-32 years. |
| Education | Candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as mandatory subjects from a recognized board. Minimum Marks: a) 60% aggregate marks in PCM b) 50% marks in English subject in 10+2 examination. For SC/ST candidates: There will be a 5% relaxation in eligibility marks of PCM; however, it will not apply to English Marks. |
| Physical & Medical | 6/6 eyesight (unaided), no color blindness or night blindness. Candidates must be medically fit and must meet the physical standards as prescribed in the Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Rules, 2000, as amended from time-to-time. |
Admission Procedure
- IMU CET – The national-level entrance exam (3 hours, 200 MCQs: Physics, Chemistry, Maths, English, Aptitude, GK).
- Institute-Specific Tests & Interview – Some colleges, such as Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI), AMET x Maersk conduct their own exams (e.g., TMISAT) and interviews as well.
- Medical & Eye Test – Only DG Shipping–approved medical certificates are accepted.
Top B.Sc. Nautical Science Colleges
For strong placement and industry recognition, Getsetsail Academy recommends two premier institutes:
1. Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI), Pune
- Reputation: Among India’s most sought-after maritime institutes since 1997.
- Affiliation: Indian Maritime University (IMU).
- Special Edge: Own shipping company—Tolani Shipping—boosts placement security.
- Fee: Approx. ₹18 lakhs (education loans widely available).
- Selection: IMU CET rank + PCM marks → TMISAT online test (Physics, Maths, Logical Reasoning) → 30-min Behavioral Assessment → Personal Interview → DG-approved medical.
2. Training Ship Chanakya (TS Chanakya, IMU Campus), Navi Mumbai
- Legacy: Established in 1927, a cradle of Indian maritime leadership.
- Fee: Approx. ₹6.6 lakhs (₹4.2 lakhs for female cadets).
- Strengths: Historic alumni network and regimented training culture.
- Note: Placement ratios have fluctuated post-Covid, so aspirants must stay focused and competitive.
Snapshot: TMI vs. TS Chanakya
| Parameter | TS Chanakya | TMI, Pune |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Government | Private |
| Fees | ₹6.6 lakhs (₹4.2 lakhs for women) | ₹18 lakhs |
| Recruiters | Fleet, NYK, Anglo-Eastern, Scorpio, Chevron, MOL, MSC, etc. | Maersk, Chevron, BW, MOL, Stena, Teekay, Wilhelmsen, etc. |
| Placement (2021) | 41/176 | 66/75 |
| Campus Highlight | Regimented cadet training | Ship-in-Campus, world-class labs |
B.Sc. Nautical Science Syllabus
B.Sc. Nautical Science Curriculum
1. The three-year program combines advanced navigation, seamanship, cargo handling, maritime law, meteorology, and ship maintenance.
2. After completion of BSc graduation, The candidate should complete 12 months of sea-time; mostly 6 months x 2 ships.
3. After which they can appear for the MMD Oral Examination to qualify as Officer of the Watch (OOW).
B.Sc. Nautical Science – Frequently Asked Questions
Q 1. What is the duration of the course?
The B.Sc. Nautical Science program is a three-year, full-time pre-sea course, followed by 12 months of mandatory onboard training.
Q 2. What are the average course fees?
- TS Chanakya: Approximately ₹6.6 lakhs (₹4.2 lakhs for female cadets).
- Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI): Around ₹18 lakhs for the three-year program.
Q 3. What are the academic requirements for admission?
Candidates must have completed 10+2 (or equivalent) with:
- Minimum 60% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics (PCM)
- Minimum 50% in English at either Class 10 or Class 12
Relaxation: SC/ST candidates receive a 5% concession in PCM marks (no relaxation for English).
Q 4. How does the admission process work?
Admission typically involves three steps:
- IMU CET – National-level entrance examination.
- Institute-Level Test/Interview – Conducted by select colleges such as TMI.
- Medical & Vision Clearance – DG Shipping–approved medical and eye examinations.
Q 5. Which colleges are considered the best for B.Sc. Nautical Science in India?
The two most sought-after institutes with proven placement records are:
- Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI), Pune
- Training Ship Chanakya (TS Chanakya), Navi Mumbai
Q 6. What is the onboard training requirement after graduation?
Graduates must complete 12 months of sea-time as a Deck Cadet. After this, they become eligible to appear for the MMD (Mercantile Marine Department) Oral Examination to qualify as an Officer of the Watch (OOW).
Set Sail with Getsetsail Academy
At Getsetsail Academy, we guide aspirants through every step—from IMU CET preparation to college selection and sponsorship support—so you can embark on a maritime career with confidence.
If commanding a ship and exploring the world’s oceans is your dream, B.Sc. in Nautical Science is your ticket to the bridge.
If you have any queries you can always contact us on +91 97785-95076 or write to us on join@getsetsail.in
Getsetsail Academy, Edappally, Kochi, Kerala-682024 | +91 97785-95076 | join@getsetsail.in