The field of Nautical Science combines the study of many disciplines, namely – Mathematics, Science, and Physics. The techniques and knowledge needed to navigate and operate a ship safely from one destination to another is taught. It equips the students with an understanding of the processes and functionalities that are related to the deck work and navigation of ships. The course offers a good blend of practical and theoretical training.
After successful completion of this course, and acquisition of the degree the candidates are eligible to work on ships as deck officers.
Marine Engineering on the other hand, is that branch of engineering that involves the construction and the operation of the entire mechanical equipment that forms a part of seagoing vessels, harbor installations, and docks.
The Marine Engineers are primarily responsible for the designing, building, and maintenance of structures and vehicles that are used inside and within close proximity of water. These comprise – aircraft carriers, submarines, ships, tankers, sailboats, etc.
The internal system of ships that include the electrical, refrigeration and propulsion, and steering systems are maintained by the marine engineers.
The fields of Marine Engineering and Nautical Science are important. This is because, the largest of aircraft carriers to the submarines to yachts to the smallest of dinghies, and in fact, any type of vessel that travels on the water is designed by Naval Architects; built and maintained by Marine Engineers. While Marine Engineers maintain it, those from the field of Nautical Science operate and navigate it.
World commerce and more specifically a country’s commerce is largely dependent on ships for transporting oil and costly cargo. If these ships face any technical issues, then engineers required to rectify those must be readily available. If the crisis or problems are not rectified urgently then major losses and disasters can occur.
This field is also crucial for maintaining international relations, whilst on peacekeeping and during the war. The submarines, destroyers, frigates and aircraft carriers all play an important role. During any international incident; fleets have to be gathered and action taken. National security is protected. A marine engineer has the challenging role of ensuring that apart from running smoothly, the vessels are secure, easy to manage, and are technologically advanced.
In this blog we will elucidate the difference between Nautical Science and Marine Engineering. The roles and responsibilities of that field, the scope and career opportunities, the career path, training, and programs. Based on the vital information provided in this blog, you will be able to take a well-calculated decision on this as a career choice.
The important roles and responsibilities in Marine Engineering include the monitoring and maintenance of mechanical systems. Employees of each rank are allocated specific systems and machinery which they have to monitor and maintain.
The roles and responsibilities of Nautical surveyors is to carry on an inspection of the existing or new vessels and ensure that they are compliant with the various specifications and standards and are seaworthy. These comprise machinery and equipment on board such as radio, navigational safety and the structure. They are in charge of maintaining the general condition and safety of a vessel and its cargo.
The job opportunities in this field are immense, especially in the technical fields. The job profiles are:
A variety of career options exist in the field of Marine Engineering. Based on your specializations you can seek employment in those fields. The scope of this field is also vast. It is not just restricted to the maintenance of vessels on the sea like ships, boats, etc. but covers the project management and control too.
Both private and public shipping companies offer lucrative career options. These opportunities exist both in India as well as abroad.
A Marine Chief Engineer’s rank is equivalent to that of a Captain. The other designations in this field are –
In Nautical Science, a cadet has to complete enough time at sea and gain experience as required. He has to then clear the mandatory competency exams as required and get certified. He then becomes eligible to get a job as a navigating officer and he can board a merchant ship. A trainee cadet officer or a deck cadet is the starting point of a career in this field. A Deck officer must have hands-on training and detailed procedures on running and maintenance of the important deck machinery is taught in this course.
From a junior officer, you may be promoted to an OOW or Officer on watch.
The designation of a Third Mate or junior officer comes with the first promotion. The years of experience for this post though may vary with shipping companies. A blend of theoretical and practical knowledge is required for chart work, collision prevention, navigation, bridge equipment, cargo handling etc. They are also exposed to managerial skills.
As a Deck officer, you are part of the executive department. Your prime focus will be the safe handling and navigation of the ship. They are on board merchant vessels and their salaries are in the range of INR 2 ~ 8 lakhs.
As a Nautical surveyor; inspection of equipment for existing and new vessels, compliance with various specifications and standards is undertaken. This is related to vessels and cargo. The salaries are in the range of INR 6 ~ 8 lakhs.
A Marine Superintendent’s job, is looking after the efficiency and safety of the running of vessels in an economical way. The execution and planning of shipyard repair work is under him. The salaries for this, ranging from INR 15 ~ 20 lakhs.
Marine Engineers are normally employed in private organizations. The design, development, research, and construction of new marine vessels, as well as its parts, are done by them. They are also responsible for the maintenance of the existing vessels. The salaries for this range from INR 2 ~ 6 lakhs.
After successful completion of this course, some of the best jobs and internships can be taken up. Both the public and private sectors are open for employment. Reputed organizations such as GSI, SAIL, ONGC, Coal India, GMDC and certain Government operated companies too offer employment.
The cadets from these courses are trained in seafaring. They are trained how to use navigational and technological equipment on different types of vessels that run on the sea. Training is imparted on maritime skills that include communications and navigation and OOW or Officer on Watch training. They are also trained on environmental response, safety, rescue, safe carriage of goods, vigilance, and security threat response.
Marine Engineering training is similar to other engineering training but with a strong focus on marine-related aspects. These are: – ship structure & construction, Marine engineering drawing, engine room management, naval architecture, marine machinery & system design programs.
The Nautical Science programme is a 3-year undergraduate degree course. Whilst Marine Engineering is a 4-year undergraduate degree course.
Overview:
In this blog, you have learned about both the courses and the career opportunities. One’s career is completely an individual’s choice. Your skill sets, your passion, your inclination are what should motivate you to choose a career. A wise choice must be made based on up-to-date information about the courses. Both the fields have their pros and cons and your decision should be a calculated one.
Both the fields are demanding as they require good health and stamina. A course in Marine Engineering will take you to a Chief Engineer’s post and a course in Nautical Science will take you to a Captain’s post. Both the fields will offer you employment on ships or sea-going vessels. The shipping industry offers rewarding job opportunities and in the last few decades has grown in importance as a career. This sector is a significant contributor to a country’s growth and economy.
Both careers have a similar salary structure that is dependent on experience and ranks.
Both the fields are co-related and exist together. It is up to a candidate to decide which field he finds more appealing. Based on your skill sets you can choose between pursuing the marine engineering field or the nautical science field. Long hours at sea and a high degree of physical and mental stamina are needed for a successful career in this field.
Conclusion
If you feel the fascination for the seas and want to explore the depths of the excitement and opportunities it can offer, allow us to steer the course of your career in the right direction – MIT ADT University!
The Maharashtra Institute of Naval Education & Training (MANET) has emerged as a leader in transforming young cadets into successful mariners. With its ultra-modern facilities at the campus and highly trained and competent faculty, it ensures that you set sail with a sharp and clear focus on destination success!
Allow us to welcome you aboard on http://bit.ly/ApplyNow_MIT-ADTU as you begin your career of leader ‘ship’ and excellence in maritime education!
