BSc Nautical Science – Scope & Salary BSc Nautical Science is a popular choice of course for those students who desire a job with high pay and exciting work in the Merchant Navy. This professional qualification leads to a career as Deck Officer in merchant navy ships for navigation, cargo work, ship safety, and crew management.

The course is recognized by DG Shipping, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, and Government of India and conforms to IMO standards. There are better job security, international exposure and handsome pay packages with global opportunities for BSc Nautical Science holders.
At IIMT, we provide you with all the information you should know about BSc Nautical Science Fees, Eligibility, Salary, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Admission Process and Career Scope.
What is BSc Nautical Science?
BSc Nautical Science is a 3-year residential degree course that trains students in:
- Ship navigation
- Maritime laws
- Cargo handling
- Ship stability
- Seamanship
- Marine meteorology
- Watchkeeping duties
After successful completion, candidates must undergo 12 months of sea training and clear competency exams to become a Deck Officer.
BSc Nautical Science Course Overview
| Course Name | BSc Nautical Science |
| Course Duration | 3 Years |
| Training Type | Residential + Sea Training |
| Approval | DG Shipping, Govt. of India |
| Career Role | Deck Officer |
| Eligibility | 12th PCM |
| Job Sector | Merchant Navy |
| Average Salary | ₹2.5 – ₹8 LPA (initial) |
BSc Nautical Science Eligibility Criteria (2026)

The following Preference Qualifications Are required For applying BSc Nautical Science:
- Education Qualifications
Passed 10+2 (12th) with Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics (PCM)
Minimum 60% marks in PCM
Minimum 50% marks in English (10th or 12th)
- Age Limit
Minimum age: 17 years
Maximum age: 25 years (relaxation for reserved categories as per rules)
- Medical Fitness
Must be medically fit as per DG Shipping medical standards
- Eyesight requirements:
6/6 vision in better eye
6/9 in other eye
No color blindness
BSc Nautical Science Admission Process
Eligibility for BSc Nautical Science is as follows:
- Entrance Exam Details
- IMU CET (Indian Maritime University)
- Institute-level entrance tests
- Personal Interview
- Medical Examination
- Merit List & Counseling
Few private marine institutes give direct admission on the basis of PCM marks and interview.
BSc Nautical Science Syllabus
The syllabus is designed to meet international maritime standards and includes both theoretical and practical training.
Semester-wise Subjects
| Core Subjects |
| Applied Mathematics |
| Applied Physics |
| Applied Chemistry |
| Navigation |
| Seamanship |
| Ship Stability |
| Cargo Handling |
| Maritime Law |
| Meteorology |
| Ship Construction |
| Watchkeeping |
| Marine Communication |
Practical training includes simulator sessions, workshops, and onboard training exposure.
BSc Nautical Science Fees Structure
The course fees depend on the institute, infrastructure, and training facilities.
Average Fees in India (2026)
| Type of Institute | Annual Fees |
| Government Colleges | ₹2 – ₹3 Lakhs |
| Private Maritime Institutes | ₹3 – ₹5 Lakhs |
| Total Course Fees (3 Years) | ₹6 – ₹15 Lakhs |
Additional costs may include:
- Uniform
- Books
- Medical tests
- Hostel & mess charges
Top Colleges for BSc Nautical Science in India
Here are some reputed institutes offering BSc Nautical Science:
| College Name | Location |
| Indian Maritime University (IMU) | Chennai |
| T.S. Rahaman | Mumbai |
| Anglo Eastern Maritime Academy | Mumbai |
| Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies | Lonavala |
| Tolani Maritime Institute | Pune |
| Applied Research International | Delhi |
| Maritime Training Institute | Chennai |
| Crack Merchant Navy | Lucknow |
Choosing a DG Shipping approved institute is mandatory for a valid career in the Merchant Navy.
BSc Nautical Science Salary Structure
One of the biggest attractions of BSc Nautical Science is the high salary package and tax-free income during sailing periods.
Salary After BSc Nautical Science
| Rank | Monthly Salary |
| Deck Cadet | ₹25,000 – ₹60,000 |
| 3rd Officer | ₹1.5 – ₹3 Lakhs |
| 2nd Officer | ₹3 – ₹5 Lakhs |
| Chief Officer | ₹5 – ₹8 Lakhs |
| Captain (Master Mariner) | ₹7 – ₹15 Lakhs |
These are factors that cause salary variations: experience, certifications, and shipping line.
Career Path After BSc Nautical Science
After completing the course, candidates follow this career progression:
- Deck Cadet
- 3rd Officer
- 2nd Officer
- Chief Officer
- Captain (Master Mariner)
With experience, officers can also shift to shore-based maritime jobs such as:
- Marine Surveyor
- Port Operations Manager
- Maritime Instructor
- Ship Superintendent
Advantages of BSc Nautical Science
- High salary from early career
- International exposure
- Fast career growth
- Tax-free income while sailing
- Globally recognized certification
- Adventure + professional lifestyle
Skills Required for BSc Nautical Science
To succeed in this field, candidates should have:
- Strong leadership qualities
- Physical and mental fitness
- Problem-solving ability
- Discipline and responsibility
- Good communication skills
- Interest in sea life and navigation
Why Choose BSc Nautical Science in 2026?
As the international shipping industry grows at a fast pace, the need for trained deck officers is on a rise. BSc Nautical is a career in the safe side of the future having stability, respect and financial well-being.
Technological advancements, greener ships and growth in international trade will make this curriculum even more relevant in 2026 and beyond.
Read More : https://crackmerchantnavy.com/top-10-merchant-navy-colleges-in-india/
Conclusion
BSc Nautical Science is a good career option for the aspirants who want to have a dignified, adventurous and rich profession in the Merchant Navy. Otherwise just wait for the right institute, the right training and put your mind to the right conditions and you can make captain and earning lakhs of rupees per month.
In case you love ships, navigation and travelling across the world then BSc Nautical Science in 2026 can be your best option to set for a bright career in the maritime industry.