Nautical Science is a study of the practices and principles of operating different types of marine vessels safely, efficiently and cost effectively. It’s a multidisciplinary field consisting of science, mathematics, and physical training that deals with knowledge and techniques involved in navigating and operating a marine vessel safely from one point to another. It manages route, freight tasks, support of Merchant Navy Ships and all lawful and business matters relating to transportation business. Nautical Science professionals take care of the safety related to lifesaving and firefighting. They also take part in navigating the vessel across the oceans and along the coast. In the port all freight tasks are either embraced by them or led under their immediate supervision. You understood what Nautical is, now let’s see why one should pursue this course.
Why study Nautical Science?
Nautical Science studies are appropriate for candidates who have keen interest in navigation and commanding of ships. If you do not wish for a 9 to 5 job and need adventure in your career then Nautical Science is the perfect choice for you. You get to travel the world, meet people from different countries and cultures. The exposure that the Merchant Navy gives is what makes it a career worth choosing. By facing unexpected events, situations and emergencies, you can gain a lot of experience and thus can enhance your decision-making abilities. In this field, you get respect, life is disciplined and punctual. The person sailing in the sea for a minimum of 6 months is exempted from paying taxes, thus you get a tax-free income.
Nautical Science Course at Chitkara University
Chitkara University offers a BSc (Bachelor of Science) degree in Nautical Science. The course focuses on the specialised knowledge of theoretical and practical aspects of Nautical Technology by experienced faculty. It equips students with essential knowledge of marine vessels. The curriculum followed by this program is laid down by the Directorate General of shipping that falls under the Ministry of Shipping, Government of India in compliance with the STCW course as promulgated by IMO (International Marine Organisation). The program especially focuses on hands-on training for skill development, offers opportunities to travel the world and work with global organisations.
Eligibility
To enrol in BSc Nautical Science at Chitkara University the candidate must be at least 23 years old. The candidate must have passed class 12th or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and English as separate subjects with a PCM average of not less than 60%. He/She must also have secured a minimum of 50% marks in English in class 10th and 12th. The candidate should be medically fit as per DGS norms. The candidate should have 6/6 unaided vision and no colour blindness. Passport is mandatory to all the candidates in order to process INDoS (Indian National Database Of Seafarers). Students should have qualified IMU CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test). All the candidates have to go under an entrance test of Chitkara University School of Maritime Studies. It is similar to IMU CET consisting of MCQs on Maths, Physics, chemistry, English and General Aptitude covering syllabus of class 10th to 12th.
Career Scope
A degree in nautical science gives a person plenty of options for employment in the maritime transportation industry. The maritime industry is a very strong market to work in. Upon graduation candidates can begin their career as an officer of the Watch (Deck Officer) and a Limited Tonnage Master (Captain). Some other job profiles of students after studying Nautical Science can be Marine Superintendent, Chief Officer, Second Officer, Navigation Officer, Oceanographer, Nautical surveyor, Instructor, Teacher or Lecturer etc. Students can find jobs in both private and public sectors in companies like ONGC, SAIL, Coal India, GSI etc. Other shipping companies that recruit Nautical Science graduates are Wallem Ship Management, Apeejay Shipping, United Ocean Ship Management, Herald Maritime Services, Gulf Energy Maritime Services etc.
Also Read: Future Scope of Nautical Science in 2023
Pay scale
This profession provides a lucrative pay package and the salary structure is excellent. A candidate who is about to start a fresh career after graduation in Nautical Science can expect a salary anywhere between 4.8-6 LPA. By advancing the skills and knowledge over time, candidates get a major hike in their pay scale.
The Merchant Navy is the backbone of international trade through water carrying various types of cargos all around the world. In recent times, there have been various transformations and developments in technology which plays a key role in modernising the maritime sector. As there are regulations in the release of sulphur from the ships and thus a lot of companies are investing a huge amount of money in research for environment friendly ships. This sector requires bright and talented individuals who are trained with the duty of ship operation and maintenance. The shipping companies, both government and private, provide favourable job prospects and growth along the foreign shipping lines and organisations. Once the person is on board, his/her life changes in many ways and due to many reasons, such as responsibility, workload, interacting with new people and change in climate. Careers like these are mostly driven by choice and enthusiasm of an individual. So if you feel you are passionate about working in the merchant navy, then Chitkara University is the right choice for you.
