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From DNS to B.Sc. in Nautical Science — A Clear Path Explained
Many students and even parents get confused when they hear that the DNS course leads to a B.Sc. in Nautical Science. If you’re one of them, you’re not alone.
Let’s break it down, step by step, based on actual, practical experience.
What is DNS?
DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) is a 1-year pre-sea residential program that prepares students for a deck career in the Merchant Navy. But here’s the key point:
It is not just a diploma – it is the first year of a 3-year B.Sc. degree program………..!!!
The Real Structure: DNS Leading to B.Sc. Nautical Science
Here’s how the course flows from day one to becoming a Navigation Officer:
| Phase | Stage | Details |
| Year 1 | DNS (Sem 1 & 2) | On-campus pre-sea training at a DGS-approved MTI. |
| Year 2 & 3 | Shipboard Training (Sem 3, 4 & 5) | 18 months of onboard training. |
| After Ship Time | IMU DLP Exam | Appear for Distance Learning Program (DLP) exams conducted by IMU for Semester 3, 4 & 5. |
| Final Phase | 2nd Mate (FG) Course (Sem 6) | 4-month preparatory course + exams. |
| After Completion | B.Sc. (Nautical Science) + COC | Degree from IMU + Certificate of Competency from DG Shipping. |
What is the DLP Program?
After completing the DNS pre-sea training, cadets are immediately enrolled in the Distance Learning Programme (DLP) offered by the Indian Maritime University (IMU).
This DLP runs in parallel with their 18 months of onboard training, covering Semesters 3, 4, and 5 through assignments and study materials.
During this period, cadets also complete their Structured Shipboard Training Programme (SSTP).
After the sea time and academic requirements are fulfilled, cadets are eligible to appear for the IMU semester exams.
You do not need to go back to college — it’s a correspondence-based exam.
Following this, they undergo the Second Mate Function Course (Part of Semester 6), and upon passing all exams and obtaining their CoC, they are awarded the B.Sc.Nautical Science degree and can sail as a Deck Officer.
What if You Don’t Appear for DLP/IMU Exams?
If you skip the DLP exams for Sem 3, 4 & 5, IMU will not award you the full B.Sc. degree. But you may still get an “Equivalent Degree Certificate” for your pre-sea + sea time combined — often accepted for COC eligibility.
However:
You won’t have a formal graduation degree🥲.
It may limit options if you ever plan to go for shore jobs or higher studies!
Why This Route is Preferred Over Direct B.Sc.
| DNS Route | Direct B.Sc. Nautical Science |
| Job before joining (sponsorship) | Job after 3 years (uncertain) |
| Start sea time early | Sea time starts after 3 years |
| Lower cost (1-year pre-sea) | Higher cost (3 years college) |
| Earn early, promote faster | Late entry to officer rank |
Summary
DNS is the first step of a 3-year B.Sc. Nautical Science degree.
With sea time, DLP exams, and 2MFG course, you graduate with both a degree and a COC.
DNS is job-linked, time-saving, and practical — a faster path to a successful career at sea😍.
Final Advice
Always choose a DGS-approved institute, ensure you are sponsored by a registered shipping company, and follow up with DLP exams and the 2nd Mate Course to complete your graduation officially.
Thank you, 🤗
By Team Naututor
I’m Aman Joshey, a passionate and driven Officer in the Merchant Navy, currently sailing with Executive Ship Management (ESM). Beyond the bridge and charts, I’m one of the core contributors at Naututor — a platform dedicated to guiding mariners through the academic and practical challenges of a seafaring career.
I’m someone who believes in staying grounded, learning constantly, and helping others reach their full potential. Whether it’s sharing a tip from my oral exam prep or posting a breakdown of tricky ROR scenarios, I’m here to make your study smoother and smarter.
At Naututor, we’re not just teaching — we’re building confident officers for the future.
Thank you sir, it’s Very informative