Kerala is home to some of India’s premier colleges offering Bachelor of Science degrees in Nautical Science. This field focuses on training students for careers as navigating officers on merchant navy vessels. This post provides an overview of the top BSc nautical science colleges in Kerala Kochi, the course structure, career prospects, the admission process, and tips for students considering this exciting field. For more information about BSc Nautical Science Colleges in Kerala Ernakulam and Tamil Nadu, (For Admission Guidance -Management Quota Admission). Please Contact Us.
Top BSc Nautical Science Colleges in Kochi Ernakulam
Here are some of the leading colleges offering BSc Nautical Science degrees in Kerala:
- Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT): Ranked 9th among top maritime colleges in India. Highly reputed university.
- Euro Tech Maritime Academy: Top private maritime academy located in Kochi. Affiliated to CUSAT.
- Maritime Training Institute: Kerala government institute offering excellent training. Located in Thrikkakara.
- Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies: Renowned private college located in Ernakulam district.
- International Maritime Institute: Supported by the Kerala government. Based in Ernakulam.
- Hindustan Institute of Maritime Training: Leading private academy with campuses across India.
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The Directorate General of Shipping approves the above colleges offering BSc degrees in nautical science colleges in Kerala. However, you need to check the approval status of each college mentioned above before taking admission. Their coastal locations in Kerala provide access to port facilities.
Bsc Nautical Science Course in Kerala- Highlights
· Mode of Course: Full-time
· Tuition Fees: Approximately ₹5–7 lakhs total
·Seats: 30–60 seats across top colleges
·Regulatory Body: Directorate General of Shipping, Govt of INdia.
·Admission Process: Based on 12th marks and IMU -CET entrance exam
·Eligibility: 12th Science stream minimum 60% marks
·Curriculum: Technical training in navigation, cargo, meteorology, naval architecture, etc.
·Training: Simulator exercises, lab sessions, shipboard internships
·Career Prospects: Merchant Navy officer, port operator, surveyor, instructor, shipping executive
·Key Benefits: Lucrative career, global job opportunities, adventurous profession.
The BSc Nautical Science degree equips students with the core skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the merchant navy and maritime industry. The course involves intensive practical training and instruction from experienced faculty. Graduates can attain key roles and leadership positions aboard ships, ports, and shipping companies around the world.
BSc Nautical Science Course Curriculum
The BSc Nautical Science degree is a 3-year program divided into 6 semesters. It trains students in navigation, cargo handling, ship operations, meteorology, oceanography and more.
Some key areas covered in the curriculum are:
- Principles of Navigation: Chartwork, tides, voyage planning, positioning, safety.
- Cargo Handling & Stowage: Planning, loading/discharging dangerous goods.
- Naval Architecture: Ship construction, stability, design.
- Marine Engineering: Propulsion, auxiliary systems, electricity.
- Maritime Legislation: National/international laws, conventions, policies.
- Meteorology & Oceanography: Weather forecasting, wave/tidal patterns, ocean conditions.
The course equips students with essential technical expertise and leadership skills to operate merchant vessels globally. It has a strong focus on practical training through lab sessions, simulator exercises, and shipboard internships. Class 12 Science stream students are eligible to apply after passing entrance exams.
Admission Process for BSc Nautical Science in Kerala
Students looking to pursue BSc in Nautical Science in Kerala need to complete the following key steps:
- Qualify for Class 12 in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Maths. Minimum 60% aggregate required.
- Pass IMU-CET Exam: All India common entrance exam conducted by Indian Maritime University.
- Apply to colleges: Submit the application form along with documents and fees to the chosen colleges.
- Undergo medical tests: Eyesight, hearing, and fitness tests are required as per DG Shipping norms.
- Complete selection process: Shortlisted candidates undergo group discussions and interviews at colleges.
- Apply for student sponsorship: Sponsorship from a shipping company is required to cover tuition fees in return for a service bond after graduation.
- Join merchant navy training: Onboard training and industrial visits are a key component of the BSc Nautical Science curriculum.
Tips for Aspiring Nautical Cadets
Here are some valuable tips for students considering pursuing the BSc Nautical Science program in Kerala:
- Start preparing for entrance exams well in advance in 11th and 12th grade.
- Focus on getting strong grades in Physics, Chemistry, Maths, and English in 12th board exams.
- Undertake fitness training to meet the physical standards set by DG Shipping.
- Be mentally prepared for a rigid training routine and following safety disciplines on ships.
- Take up sailing, navigation, and leadership courses to gain an early advantage.
- Develop practical technical skills through lab practice, simulations, and hands-on projects.
- Learn basic swimming and survival skills as mandated by most maritime colleges.
- Join student maritime clubs to enhance your marine knowledge, compete in events and build your profile.
- Research the curriculum, faculty strength, facilities, and placement records of different colleges.
With dedication and passion, a BSc Nautical Science degree can pave the way for an exciting and adventurous career aboard merchant vessels and beyond.
Comparison Between Government and Private Maritime Colleges in Kerala
Government Colleges
- Fees are lower, but a good score in IMU-CET
- is required for admission.
- Entrance exam is IMU-CET
- Curriculum aligned to DG Shipping Guidelines
- Faculty are experienced captains/officers
- Training ships depend on the institute
- Infrastructure is basic, with simple hostels and labs
- Limited in-house placements support
Private Colleges
- Fees are higher
- Some institutes have their entrance exams, but some follow IMU-CET entrance
- The curriculum meets DG Shipping Guidelines
- Faculty are experienced captains/officers
- Have their training vessels
- Advanced campus and labs
- Strong placement cell support
While private colleges have higher fees, they invest more in infrastructure and placement support. Government colleges are relatively affordable but simpler in their offering. Students must choose based on their specific needs and preferences.
Career Prospects After BSc Nautical Science
Pursuing a BSc in Nautical Science opens up a wide array of career paths in the lucrative maritime industry:
- Merchant Navy officer: Work aboard cargo ships, tankers, passenger liners, etc, as a navigating officer. Handle navigation, cargo operations, and ship management.
- Port operations officer: Coordinate operations at commercial ports. Oversee cargo handling, vessel traffic, and logistics.
- Marine surveyor: Inspect ships, cargo, and marine equipment for compliance with rules and regulations.
- Maritime instructor: Teach nautical science and marine engineering courses at maritime training institutes.
- Maritime researcher: Conduct research and analysis for advancing maritime technology, sustainable shipping, ocean resources etc.
- Government shipping roles: Work in public sector shipping corporations and regulatory bodies like the Directorate General of Shipping.
- Commercial shipping executive: Manage operations, budgets and logistics for private shipping companies.
With additional experience and certification, promotion to senior officer ranks aboard ships and executive positions onshore are possible.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Is NEET required for admission into BSc Nautical Science courses in Kerala?
No, NEET is not required. Admission is based on performance in 12th board exams and maritime entrance exams like IMU-CET. - Which are the best colleges in Kerala for BSc in Nautical Science?
Some of the top colleges are CUSAT, Maritime Training Institute Hindustan Institute of Maritime Training etc - What is the course duration and fees for BSc Nautical Science in Kerala?
The course duration is 3 years. Total fees at government colleges are ₹3–5 lakhs, while private colleges charge ₹5–7 lakhs. Scholarships are available. - What are the career options after a BSc Nautical Science degree?
Graduates can work as merchant navy officers, port operators, marine surveyors, maritime instructors, shipping company executives, government shipping roles, and more. - Do students get ship training as part of the BSc Nautical Science program?
Yes, the curriculum has simulator training, lab sessions, and mandatory shipboard internships to provide extensive practical exposure.
Key Takeaways
Pursuing a BSc in Nautical Science from a reputed college in Kerala provides a solid foundation to thrive in the global shipping industry. Students must focus on the following:
- Gain sailing experience and maritime exposure early on.
- Excel in required subjects like Maths, Physics, and English for 12th boards.
- Prepare diligently for entrance exams.
- Undergo required medical testing and meet fitness norms.
- Leverage campus placements and industry connections.
- Be willing to undergo rigorous training on and offshore.
With passion and dedication, a career as a merchant navy officer or maritime professional is certainly achievable after graduating from Kerala’s excellent nautical science colleges.
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