ADNS Course 2025: Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science – Study in India & UK | Career, Fees, Eligibility & Deck Cadet Jobs
The Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science (ADNS), earlier known as Higher National Diploma in Nautical Science (HND-NS), is a UK-based internationally recognized program that allows students to pursue a career as a Deck Cadet Officer in the Merchant Navy. Offered in collaboration with City of Glasgow College, UK, this course provides practical and theoretical training to prepare students for onboard ship duties and officer-level certification.
This blog dives deep into the course, eligibility, career opportunities, fees, and frequently asked questions.
What is the ADNS Course?
ADNS, or Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science, is a 2-year diploma program designed to train future Deck Cadet Officers. It is the UK equivalent of HND (Higher National Diploma) and offers a globally recognized qualification in collaboration with institutions like the City of Glasgow College in the UK.
Course Structure:
- 1st Year: Study in India (Partner Institute like Training Ship Varren)
- 2nd Year: Study in the UK (City of Glasgow College)
- Includes STCW Training, Bridge Watchkeeping, and Onboard Training
- Certification: HND-NS + UK STCW + MCA Approved
- Career Path: Deck Cadet → 3rd Officer → Chief Officer → Captain
Eligibility for ADNS Course
One of the biggest advantages of the ADNS program is its flexibility in eligibility. Unlike DNS, it does not require IMU-CET or high percentage scores.
Who Can Apply:
- 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics (PCM)
- Less than 60% in 12th? You’re still eligible!
- Age: 17.5 to 25 years
- Medically fit as per DG Shipping and MCA (UK) standards
- IELTS may be required for UK Visa
Course Curriculum (Syllabus)
The ADNS syllabus is structured to prepare students for a life at sea, blending academic knowledge with hands-on training.
Subjects Covered:
- Navigation & Chart Work
- Meteorology & Oceanography
- Marine Engineering Basics
- Ship Stability & Construction
- Maritime Communication
- STCW Basic Safety Training
- Bridge Watchkeeping Practice
Career Scope and Salary After ADNS
Graduates of the ADNS program become eligible to serve as Deck Cadets onboard merchant vessels.
Career Progression:
- Deck Cadet
- Watchkeeping Officer (after sea-time & exams)
- Second Officer
- Chief Officer
- Master Mariner (Captain)
Salary Insights:
- Starting Salary as Deck Cadet: $300–$600/month
- Salary after Promotion: Up to $7,000/month
ADNS Fees Structure (India + UK)
Total Approximate Cost:
- 🇮🇳 1st Year (India): ₹3.95 Lakhs (includes tuition, food, hostel)
- 🇬🇧 2nd Year (UK): £10,500 (~₹11 Lakhs)
Additional costs include visa fees, travel, and accommodation in the UK.
ADNS vs DNS vs B.Sc Nautical Science – Which Course Should You Choose?
| Feature | ADNS (UK-based) | DNS (India-based) | B.Sc Nautical Science |
| Full Form | Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science | Diploma in Nautical Science | Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science |
| Duration | 2 Years (1 in India + 1 in UK) | 1 Year + onboard training | 3 Years |
| Eligibility | 12th PCM (No % limit) | 12th PCM with 60% + IMU-CET | 12th PCM with 60% + IMU-CET |
| IMU-CET Required? | ❌ Not required | ✅ Mandatory | ✅ Mandatory |
| Global Recognition | ✅ UK HND Diploma (City of Glasgow College) | ❌ Limited to Indian shipping companies | ❌ Mostly Indian recognition |
| Course Level | Diploma + Officer Training | Diploma + Training | Degree (Academic-focused) |
| Sea Time Included? | Yes, onboard training via UK tie-up | Yes, after course completion | Requires additional training after graduation |
| Job Opportunities | Global (UK & Intl. shipping companies) | Indian shipping companies primarily | Indian/limited international scope |
| Sponsorship Availability | Available through partner colleges like TSV | Required before admission | Not required upfront, but affects placement |
| Fees | ₹3.95L (India) + ₹11L (UK) | ₹4-5 Lakhs (India) | ₹6–9 Lakhs (India) |
| Best For | Students wanting global exposure & relaxed entry | Students with strong academic scores | Students focused on earning a degree |
Admissions Open – Batch Starts August 2025!
📞 Speak to Our Counsellors: +91 8767999607 – Rahul Kamble
📍 Location: Navi Mumbai
🌐 www.trainingshipvarren.com
📧 Email: info@trainingshipvarren.com
ADNS – Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science (UK Route)
What it is: A globally recognized 2-year course where students study in India for a year and complete their second year in the UK (usually at City of Glasgow College).
Key Benefits:
- No IMU-CET required
- Open to students with less than 60% in 12th PCM
- Includes international diploma + watchkeeping certification100% placement support from Training Ship Varren.
- Career Scope: High chance of placement in UK, Europe, or global shipping companies.
DNS – Diploma in Nautical Science (India Route)
- What it is: A 1-year course offered by IMU-affiliated colleges in India, followed by onboard training. Requires IMU-CET & sponsorship before admission.
- Key Challenges:
Limited to students with 60%+ in 12th PCM
Requires qualifying IMU-CET and getting sponsorship
Mostly serves Indian shipping companies - Career Scope: Reliable for those who want a quicker Indian pathway with confirmed sponsorship.
B.Sc in Nautical Science
- What it is: A full-time 3-year undergraduate degree from universities like IMU.
- Key Features:
- Requires IMU-CET and strong academic background
- Leads to a B.Sc Degree (can pursue higher education later)
- Practical training often delayed until after graduation
- Career Scope: Suitable for students who want to pursue a degree, not just immediate job-readiness.
FAQs – People Also Ask
1) Can I join DNS without IMU-CET?
Yes, but only via ADNS/HND route, which does not require IMU-CET. DNS through IMU-CET is for Indian universities.
2) Which is better – DNS or ADNS?
ADNS offers international certification, UK diploma, and global job opportunities, making it a preferred choice for students who want faster sea-time and higher ROI.
3) What is HND Nautical Science?
It stands for Higher National Diploma in Nautical Science, the UK counterpart of ADNS. It is globally recognized and backed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), UK.
4) What is the qualification for DNS?
DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) requires:
- 10+2 PCM with 60% marks
- English 50%
- IMU-CET qualification
- Sponsorship by shipping company
