Iner page banner 1

Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science (Formerly known as HND-NS)– Collaboration with City of Glasgow College, Approved by Maritime and Coastguard Agency (UK)

Programme Pattern

Course Duration: 2 Years

  • Phase 1- 2 years (1 year in Training Ship Varren Institute in Pune / + 2nd Year in City of Glasgow University in UK)
  • Phase2- On ship training – 12 months
  • Phase3- Appear for 2nd mate Examination in UK.
Download Brochure
Download Course fees

This Programme comprises 52 weeks in Training Ship Varren and about 52 weeks in City of Glasgow College, UK. Candidates who complete 52 weeks training in Training Ship Varren and pass the entire learning outcome with attendance percentage of not less than 80 will be proceeding to UK to complete their level 2 subjects After completing the training in UK, candidate has to complete 12 months sea training through our sponsored Company, again undergo training for 3 months for the 2nd mate preparatory Programme in their respective college to appear for the examination conducted by Maritime and Coast Guard Agency, UK who are the examination body for the UK License. Candidate who successfully passes the MCA examination will be awarded with 2nd mate License.

Entry Requirements:

Age: Minimum 17 years

Educational Qualification: A pass in plus-two (12th standard) with Maths, Physics and Chemistry as subjects and minimum 50% marks in English language in 10th or 12th standard exam, from any recognized Board.

Medical Standard: Candidates should be physically fit for sea service under standard norms, with eye sight 6/6 in better eye, 6/9 in other eye and with no colour blindness.

The candidate will have to appear in IELTS examination for English proficiency with minimum score of 5.5.

Boys and Girls are eligible to apply.

Apply now

    Date of Birth*

    Inquiry Types*

    Merchant Navy Career Graph – Step by step promotion from Cadet to Master | 2nd Mate and Chief Mate Exams in UK | Maritime Career Path

    ADNS / HND-NS – Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science (ADNS)? +
    ADNS (formerly known as HND-NS, Higher National Diploma in Nautical Science) is a pre-sea training program designed to prepare students for a career as a Deck Officer in the Merchant Navy.
    What is the eligibility for HND-NS course? +
    Candidate must have passed 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Maths, with minimum 50% in English in either 10th or 12th, and must meet Merchant Navy medical fitness standards.
    What is the duration of the HND-NS course? +
    The course duration is typically 2 years of academics (1st year at TSV Pune and 2nd year at City of Glasgow University, UK), followed by sea service.
    What is the career path after HND-NS? +
    After completion and sea time training, candidates start as Deck Officers and can progress to Captain with experience and required examinations.
    Is sponsorship required for HND-NS? +
    Yes, most HND-NS programs require sponsorship from a shipping company before admission.
    What is the salary after HND-NS? +
    Freshers can earn between $500 - $1200 per month (tax-free), depending on the company and role.
    What subjects are taught in HND-NS? +
    Subjects include navigation, cargo handling, maritime law, ship stability, and safety procedures.
    Is HND-NS better than GP Rating? +
    HND-NS leads to officer-level roles, while GP Rating is for crew-level positions. Both have different career growth paths.
    Does Training Ship Varren help with sponsorship? +
    Yes, we guide and assist students in securing sponsorship opportunities with reputed shipping companies.
    What are the medical requirements for HND-NS? +
    Candidates must meet strict DG Shipping standards including 6/6 eyesight, physical fitness, and overall medical requirements.
    What is the commencement date of the HND course? +
    There are two batches every year — the first begins in February and the second begins in August.