Career Prospects

After the completion of the three-year B.Sc. programme in nautical science and acquiring the Certificate of Competency of Second Mate, candidates are appointed as Third/Second Officers on board merchant ships. For subsequent promotions, the second officers have to clear higher examinations, which are also conducted by the Ministry of Surface Transport through the Directorate General of Shipping, Mumbai.

Thereafter, a certificate of competency as `Master' entitles the officer to become the captain of a ship. Graduates from MERI are taken in as Junior Engineers: On performing satisfactory service and passing requisites examinations, Junior Engineers are promoted to the ranks of Third Engineer, Second Engineer and ultimately, Chief Engineer.

These officers are employed by various merchant ships owned by the government as well as by private companies. Foreign shipping companies also offer good job prospects to Indian Merchant Navy officers.

Among all developing countries, India ranks as one of the countries having the largest merchant shipping fleets. Therefore, there is enough scope for employment in Indian as well as foreign ships. Job opportunities for women are also rapidly increasing. And since the Merchant Navy offers excellent remuneration and good career prospects, many young people are being attracted to the profession.

Shipping, engineering, the Armed Forces.