Merchant Navy (B.Sc. Nautical Science)
A three-year degree for a high-paying career at sea managing commercial vessels.
Description
B.Sc. Nautical Science is a three-year degree that leads to a career in the Merchant Navy as a deck officer. It trains students in navigation, ship operations, cargo handling, maritime law and safety, combined with extensive on-board training.
Students study naval architecture, meteorology, ship stability, collision regulations and bridge watchkeeping, alongside practical training on simulators and at sea. After the degree and required sea time, cadets qualify for the Certificate of Competency (COC) as officers.
The Merchant Navy offers some of the highest starting salaries in any career, with the opportunity to travel the world. Officers work in contracts (typically 4–6 months at sea) and earn in US dollars on international vessels.
Entrance Exams
IMU CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test)
Indian Maritime University (IMU)
National entrance for admission to IMU and affiliated maritime colleges offering B.Sc Nautical Science.
Company-Sponsored / Direct Admission
Private maritime colleges & shipping companies
Some private colleges offer direct admission; shipping companies sponsor cadets with a job commitment.
Job Roles
Deck Cadet
Trainee officer on board, learning navigation and ship operations under senior officers.
Third / Second Mate (Officer of the Watch)
Navigates the ship, manages cargo and stands watch on the bridge.
Chief Officer (Chief Mate)
Second-in-command, responsible for cargo, deck operations and safety.
Ship Captain (Master)
Commands the vessel and is responsible for the ship, crew and cargo.
Salary
Fresher (Deck Cadet)
Stipend during on-board training; pay rises sharply after becoming an officer.
Mid-level (Third / Second Mate)
Officers are paid in US dollars on international vessels; tax benefits may apply.
Senior (Chief Officer / Captain)
Captains on large vessels and tankers earn the highest packages in the industry.
Top Colleges / Institutes
- Indian Maritime University (IMU), Chennai & campuses
- Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI), Pune
- Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies, Mumbai
- Anglo Eastern Maritime Training Centre
- IMU-affiliated private maritime colleges