B.Sc Nautical Science – Southern Academy

The B.Sc Nautical Science program prepares candidates for a career as Deck Officers in the Merchant Navy. Deck Officers play a crucial role in the navigation, manoeuvring, and safe operation of the vessel. They are responsible for cargo handling, ship stability, communication between ship and shore, and the operation of life-saving and safety equipment onboard. The Chief Officer, also known as the First Officer, is the highest-ranking Deck Officer after the Captain and holds overall responsibility for cargo operations and the efficient functioning of the ship’s deck department.

This course is approved by the Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India, and leads to the award of the Second Mate’s Foreign-Going Certificate of Competency after completion of the program and twelve months of mandatory sea service. This certification enables cadets to serve as Navigating Officers on Merchant Navy ships worldwide.

Eligibility requires passing 12th standard with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English as separate subjects, securing at least 60% aggregate in PCM and 50% in English. Candidates must be between 17 and 25 years of age and medically fit as per DG Shipping norms, including prescribed eyesight standards and no color blindness. Final selection is subject to medical examination by a DGS-approved doctor.

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