Diploma in Marine Engineering(DME)

Build a Maritime Career with Structured Technical Training in Ship Machinery, Marine Operations, and Engineering Systems.


    Diploma in Marine Engineering (DME)

    The Diploma in Marine Engineering (DME) is a 2-year pre-sea diploma program that combines academic instruction with practical maritime training, preparing diploma engineering holders for a career as a Marine Engineer in the Merchant Navy. The course is designed to develop core competencies in subjects such as marine propulsion systems, thermodynamics, ship construction, auxiliary machinery, electrical and electronic systems, automation, and marine environmental engineering.

    Upon successful completion of the academic phase, students must undergo 12 months of mandatory onboard sea service, including at least 4 months of engine room watchkeeping duties. After completing this training and clearing the required examinations, candidates become eligible for the Certificate of Competency (Class IV Marine Engineer Officer). The DME program provides a solid technical foundation for those seeking a long-term, growth-oriented engineering career at sea.

    Why Choose Diploma in Marine Engineering (DME)?

    If you are a diploma holder aiming to join the Merchant Navy through a technical pathway, the DME program offers a streamlined and practical route. Here’s why this program is the right choice:

    • Industry-Relevant Training: The 2-year program blends classroom sessions with workshop training and simulation-based learning, covering marine machinery, electrical systems, and safety operations.
    • Direct Path to Officer Rank: After the course and mandatory sea-time, candidates become eligible for the Certificate of Competency (Class IV Marine Engineer Officer) and can begin working as certified Marine Engineers.
    • Global Career Scope: The certification is internationally recognized, allowing employment with top shipping companies across the world.
    • Technical & Leadership Skills: The course cultivates skills in machinery maintenance, decision-making, and onboard problem-solving.
    • Growing Industry Demand: As global maritime trade expands, the demand for competent marine engineers with hands-on training continues to rise.

    Who Can Pursue this Program?

    Diploma in Marine Engineering (DME) is ideal for technically inclined students who hold a diploma in engineering and are looking for a marine career:

    • Diploma Holders: Candidates with a 3-year Diploma in Mechanical, Marine, Electrical, or Shipbuilding Engineering from an AICTE-approved institute.
    • Aspiring Marine Engineers: Individuals aiming to start as Junior Engineers and progress to senior ranks like Second Engineer and Chief Engineer.
    • No IMU-CET Required: Admission does not require the IMU-CET exam; selection is based on institute-level criteria and DG Shipping norms.

    The DME course is a job-focused training program that offers both academic rigor and sea-based exposure, preparing candidates for a stable and progressive marine engineering career.

    Eligibility Criteria

    Age

    • a) Male: General – 25 years | OBC (NCL) – 28 years | SC/ST – 30 years
    • b) Female: General – 27 years | OBC (NCL) – 30 years | SC/ST – 32 years
    • Age is considered as of 1st August of the admission year.

    Educational Qualification

    • Must hold a 3-year Diploma in Mechanical / Marine / Electrical / Shipbuilding Engineering from an AICTE-approved institute.
    • Minimum 50% aggregate marks in the final year of the diploma.
    • Minimum 50% marks in English in either 10th, 12th, or Diploma.

    Medical Standards

    • Must be medically fit as per DG Shipping medical standards.
    • A Medical Fitness Certificate must be issued by a DG Shipping-approved Doctor.
    • Unaided vision: 6/12 in each eye or 6/9 in better eye and 6/18 in other eye
    • No color blindness

    Admission Process

    Eligibility & Registration

    Check eligibility and apply directly to an institute approved by DG Shipping offering the DME program.

    Written Exam

    Some institutes may conduct their own entrance exam or screening process; IMU-CET is not required.

    Medical Test

    Clear the medical fitness test by a DG Shipping-approved doctor.

    Counselling & Admission

    Attend counselling (if applicable) and confirm admission at the approved institute offering Diploma in Marine Engineering (DME).

    Still have doubts?

    Consult our expert counselors to gain a better understanding of this course.

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