The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), under India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, regulates every aspect of maritime education and training. Any Indian who wishes to work at sea must complete a DG Shipping approved course. These programs ensure safety, competence, and international recognition under the STCW 2010 Convention.
If you’re planning a career in the Merchant Navy or offshore shipping, understanding which course suits your goal is essential. SSNT Maritime College – a DG Shipping approved maritime training institute in Tamil Nadu – offers all major categories of approved training for aspiring seafarers.
What Are DG Shipping Approved Courses?
DG Shipping sets academic standards, infrastructure norms, and evaluation systems for maritime training institutes in India. Only certificates from approved institutions are accepted for Indian CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) and international employment.
Choosing a non-approved institute can make your certificate invalid for shipboard employment. Hence, enrolling in a DG Shipping approved college like SSNT ensures compliance, credibility, and placement readiness.
Types of DG Shipping Approved Courses
These are the foundation programs for newcomers who want to start a sea career. Students learn seamanship, safety, firefighting, first aid, and marine discipline.
Examples: GP Rating, Saloon Rating.
Short-term safety modules mandatory for all seafarers. These follow the STCW 2010 standards and are globally recognized.
Modules include
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF)
- Elementary First Aid (EFA)
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR)
For officers and crew renewing certificates every five years. Refresher training keeps seafarers updated with current international regulations.
Designed to strengthen practical and technical skills – firefighting, welding, seamanship, or workshop practice.
A DG Shipping approved six-month program focusing on hospitality and food service on board. Graduates join the Catering Department of passenger, cruise, and cargo ships.
Eligibility and Admission Process
- Age: 17½ – 25 years
- Education: 10 + 2 passed with ≥ 40 % aggregate, English compulsory
- Medical Fitness: As per DG Shipping standards (eyesight, hearing, physical fitness)
- Documents: Mark sheets, Aadhaar ID, passport-size photos, medical certificate
Admission involves counselling, document verification, and batch allocation.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates of DG approved courses can pursue shipboard roles such as:
- Deck Rating / Able Seaman
- Engine Rating / Motorman
- Steward / Catering Crew
- Oil & Chemical Tanker Assistants
After required sea time and competency exams, ratings can rise to officer ranks.
Average starting salary: ₹35,000 – ₹90,000 per month (India-flagged vessels); $900 – $1,500 on foreign ships.
DG Shipping Official Portal, IMO STCW Convention Overview
Why Choose SSNT Maritime College
- Approved by DG Shipping, Govt. of India
- Experienced faculty with sea service background
- Modern workshop and simulator labs
- Ship visits and hands-on training
- Hostel and transport facilities
- Dedicated placement support after course completion
FAQs
Q1. What is a DG Shipping approved course?
A training program authorized by India’s DG Shipping to ensure standards for seafarer training and certification.
Q2. Are these courses valid internationally?
Yes. DG Shipping approval aligns with STCW 2010 Convention recognized worldwide.
Q3. How often must I renew my certificates?
Every five years through Refresher (STCW update) courses.
Q4. Does SSNT offer placement support?
Yes. SSNT has a placement cell assisting students with shipboard placements and shipping company interviews.
Conclusion
A DG Shipping approved certificate is the gateway to a safe and successful maritime career. It validates your skills and opens doors to employment on both Indian and international vessels.
SSNT Maritime College provides end-to-end training across all DG approved categories – from Pre-Sea to Refresher with modern facilities and career guidance.
Begin your voyage today – apply for a DG approved course at SSNT Maritime College and set sail toward a global career.