Published on May 24th 2024
The boundless ocean beckons individuals seeking adventure and a tough profession. For such people, a career in the Merchant Navy promises adventure, accountability and a decent income. However, there is one more important step to make before embarking on this journey, selecting the appropriate educational programme. This blog answers the question: Which is good dns or bsc nautical science? by thoroughly examining the important characteristics of these programmes, such as course structure, job possibilities, earning potential and more, to help you decide which option best corresponds with your professional objectives.
After a one-year pre-sea training programme, students must complete an 18-month sea service requirement to earn a DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science). It puts an emphasis on real-world abilities and gets you ready for the competency tests needed to join the Merchant Navy as a deck officer. The three-year BSc Nautical Science degree programme combines classroom teaching with hands-on learning experiences. Gaining a solid understanding of navigation, ship operations and maritime science through this programme will set you up for a quicker career advancement and higher qualifications.
The duration of the Diploma in Nautical Science is normally one year. The primary objective of this extensive programme is to furnish students with the essential knowledge and hands-on skills needed for entry-level roles in the maritime sector.
On the other hand, a three- to four-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) programme in Nautical Science offers a more extensive curriculum. This provides a more extensive exploration of multiple facets of maritime operations, encompassing navigation, ship handling, maritime law and management.
The price of enrolling in a DNS programme in India varies based on the location and institution. The average range of fees for a DNS course is between ₹4,50,000 and ₹7,50,000, which is equivalent to between USD 5,600 and USD 9,400.
A Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science programme might cost anywhere between ₹2 lakhs and ₹8 lakhs annually, depending on the university. This can cover additional costs for books, uniforms, housing, tuition and other miscellaneous fees. Generally speaking, government institutes are less expensive than private ones.
You can become a deck officer in the merchant navy by pursuing either the Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) or the Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science. However, they differ in terms of duration, curriculum depth and areas of specialisation.
This rigorous one-year programme offers a solid foundation in fundamental nautical skills. Practical skills including navigation, seamanship, cargo management and maritime safety protocols are highly valued in the curriculum. Your necessary sea time training as a Deck Cadet will last for eighteen months following your completion of DNS.
This undergraduate degree programme lasts three years and provides in-depth learning. In addition to expanding on the fundamental topics of DNS, it explores more theoretical aspects of nautical science, such as:
DNS teaches useful skills. DNS programmes include a strong emphasis on hands-on instruction, giving graduates the abilities they need to perform well as deck officers on board ships. BSc Nautical Science offers a broader theory. A more thorough curriculum covering topics such as navigation, meteorology and marine law is provided by BSc programmes. These programmes combine practical lessons with a solid theoretical foundation.
Competent officers are always needed by the global shipping industry and there will always be a strong demand for competent workers. However, BSc students have to wait to be placed in a shipping firm after paying their fees. With DNS, on the other hand, students are sponsored before starting the course by a shipping firm. This implies that after finishing the degree, students will already have a job, which gives them a sense of employment stability that a BSc may not.
DNS salary in Merchant Navy provides financial stability in addition to job security. As a result of starting their employment earlier, DNS students began earning money sooner. On an average basis, a BSc nautical science salary in merchant navy ranges from between 30,000 - 40,000 per month and an average DNS salary in merchant navy ranges from between 40,000 - 50,000 per month. A DNS cadet, for example, might make up to Rs. 5,40,000 in 18 months if they make Rs. 30,000 a month. By doing this, they may be able to pay off their loans and tuition fees early. On the contrary, BSc students have to wait for placement in a shipping firm before they may start earning money. For individuals who want to start their jobs as soon as possible, this may not be the best option because it can take a long time.
The following are some things to think about when choosing:
A BSc in Nautical Science can be a wise choice if you have a solid academic background and like a more theoretical approach. If you prefer a more hands-on approach and wish to begin earning sooner, DNS may be a better option.
DNS is less expensive compared to BSc Nautical Science, which is a huge benefit for individuals on a tight budget.
Both programmes prepare students for employment in the Merchant Navy, but in the long run, a BSc degree provides possibilities for additional degrees and possibly speedier professional advancement.
Certain DNS programmes provide employment guarantees upon graduation by securing sponsorship from shipping corporations. Although this might be a very beneficial thing, it may also restrict your options for particular organisations or jobs.
Although both programmes provide hands-on training, the BSc Nautical Science programme typically includes more on-board training. This may provide you with an advantage in your initial experiences.
Whichever route you decide to choose, keep in mind that being successful in the Merchant Navy largely depends on personal traits like effective leadership, excellent communication and the capacity to function well in a difficult and changing environment.
Regardless of the programme you pick, specific abilities are required for success in the Merchant Navy.
Browse the websites of respectable maritime academies and shipping firms to make an informed choice. For firsthand knowledge, think about going to marine career fairs or getting in touch with alumni.
For anyone with a love of the sea, the Merchant Navy provides an intriguing career path. Both the DNS and the BSc in Nautical Science programmes provide you with the skills you need to pursue a rewarding career in the marine industry. Never forget that your passion and commitment to quality are the most crucial elements. Step off on a voyage full of possibility and adventure with confidence!