The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is a 2.5-year programme which is under the process of approval by the Ministry of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping which represents the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in Mauritius. Upon successful completion of the course, students are awarded with a Diploma and an internationally recognised Class 3 Certificate of Competency (CoC) that allows you to sail worldwide on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more, as an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (Deck Officer).

The programme consists of five 6-months semesters with 3 semesters on campus training and 2 semesters mandatory Sea Training which gives you a first-hand experience in working on board a vessel as Deck Cadet Officer.

During your time at sea, you will learn to manage the planning of a passage and the maintenance of a safe navigational watch using electronic navigation aids and traditional celestial navigation. Also, you will learn how to manage the cargo and the non-technical maintenance of the vessel at an operational level. You will also learn advanced leadership skills to manage resources and crew onboard, and lead the response to emergencies and distress at sea.

After having completed all the semesters and the mandatory 12 months’ sea training, students will undergo an Oral Examination conducted by the Shipping Division. On successful completion, you will be awarded a Certificate of Competency Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch.