B.Sc. Nautical Science (BNS): Your Full Voyage into the Merchant Navy
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If you’re fascinated by ships, oceans, and global travel—and want a full-fledged academic and professional route into the Merchant Navy—the B.Sc. Nautical Science (BNS) course is the perfect start.
At IMUCET Prep Academy, we guide aspiring seafarers through the BNS admission process, IMUCET coaching, and sponsorship tests so you can sail into a secure and adventurous career as a navigating officer.
Let’s dive into what the BNS course is all about—from eligibility and subjects to career growth and salaries.
🌍 What is B.Sc. Nautical Science?
B.Sc. in Nautical Science is a 3-year undergraduate degree approved by the Director General of Shipping (DG Shipping), Govt. of India, and offered by Indian Maritime University (IMU) and other DG-approved maritime institutes.
This course focuses on the science of navigation, ship operation, meteorology, cargo handling, maritime law, and seamanship. Graduates become Deck Cadets on merchant vessels and can rise through ranks to become Captain.
🔑 Key Benefits of the BNS Course
Direct Entry to Merchant Navy: A full academic degree + maritime training.
Recognized Globally: Qualifies you for international shipping careers.
Foundation for Higher Maritime Studies: Paves the way to an M.Sc. or STCW certifications.
Path to Captain: Long-term progression to the highest deck officer rank.
👤 Who Should Choose BNS?
12th PCM students passionate about the sea, travel, and command roles.
Those seeking a strong academic base along with technical maritime skills.
Candidates aiming for long-term growth and promotion to senior ship ranks.
📘 B.Sc. Nautical Science Course Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years (6 semesters) |
| Approved By | DG Shipping, Govt. of India |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with PCM (60%), English 50% |
| Age Limit | 17 – 25 years |
| Mode | Full-time Residential |
| Degree Offered By | Indian Maritime University or affiliate institutes |
📚 BNS Course Syllabus
| Semester | Core Subjects |
|---|---|
| I | Nautical Physics, Navigation, Maths, English |
| II | Ship Construction, Maritime Laws, Safety Equipment |
| III | Meteorology, Cargo Handling, Ship Stability |
| IV | Marine Communication, STCW Training Modules |
| V | ISPS, ISM, Advanced Navigation |
| VI | Bridge Watchkeeping, Marine Pollution (MARPOL) |
💼 Career Path After BNS
| Rank | Approx. Time from Graduation | Average Salary (USD/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Cadet | Immediate | $300 – $800 |
| 3rd Officer | 12–18 months | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| 2nd Officer | 2–3 years | $3,000 – $4,500 |
| Chief Officer | 4–6 years | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| Captain | 7–10 years | $8,000 – $15,000+ |
💰 B.Sc. Nautical Science Course Fees – Top Institutes
| Institute Name | Approx. Fees |
|---|---|
| IMU Campuses (Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata) | ₹2,25,000 – ₹2,75,000/year |
| Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI) | ₹3,80,000/year |
| Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies | ₹3,95,000/year |
| AEMA (Anglo Eastern Maritime Academy) | ₹4,00,000/year |
🧾 Eligibility Criteria for BNS
Education: 10+2 PCM with minimum 60% aggregate
English: Minimum 50% in 10th or 12th
Age: 17 to 25 years
Medical Fitness: As per DG Shipping norms – 6/6 unaided vision, no color blindness, medically fit.
📝 BNS Admission Process via IMUCET
Step 1: IMU-CET Exam
IMUCET (Indian Maritime University CET) is mandatory for admission into BNS courses at IMU and affiliated institutes.
Step 2: Counseling & Seat Allotment
Based on CET rank, candidates attend centralized IMU counseling.
Step 3: Sponsorship (Optional but recommended)
Apply to shipping companies for company sponsorship before or after IMU CET.
Step 4: Medical Fitness
You must pass a medical test by a DG Shipping-approved doctor.
🏫 Top B.Sc. Nautical Science Colleges in India
| College Name | Location | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| IMU – Navi Mumbai Campus | Navi Mumbai | Govt. institute, high placement |
| Tolani Maritime Institute (TMI) | Pune | Excellent campus, ship bridge simulator |
| Anglo Eastern Maritime Academy (AEMA) | Karjat, Maharashtra | Maersk tie-up, company-sponsored seats |
| Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies | Mumbai | One of the best training facilities |
❓ BNS FAQs
Q1. Is B.Sc. Nautical Science better than DNS?
BNS offers a full academic degree and stronger academic grounding, but DNS offers faster entry and is more affordable.
Q2. Can I join Merchant Navy after 12th with PCM?
Yes, through BNS, DNS, or Marine Engineering based on your interest.
Q3. Is IMU-CET compulsory for BNS?
Yes, for all IMU and affiliate institutes, IMU CET is required.
Q4. What is the starting salary after BNS?
Deck Cadets earn around $300–$800/month, increasing significantly with rank.
📞 Start Your Merchant Navy Journey with IMUCET Prep Academy
At IMUCET Prep Academy, we offer:
Personal Counseling & Eligibility Check
👉 Book a free session now and take the first step toward becoming a ship captain!