Last updated on September 11th, 2023 at 03:27 pm

What do you seek in your life? Adventure, thrill, respect, or rewards and recognition for your work, or all of them? The thing is whatever you want to do in life, merchant navy offers the perfect platform to kick-start your career and reach the pinnacle of success, no matter how you perceive success to be. It is a false concept that the career of a marine engineer has reached its apex at the rank of Chief Engineer or Marine Superintendent (or Surveyor).

The truth is, the field of work opens up after the position of Second Engineer. There are endless global opportunities available and you have the resources to fulfill your dreams. One such course through which you can join the engine department of the merchant navy is, Graduate Marine Engineering. Marine Engineers are sought after throughout the world because of their problem-solving skills, capacity to work hard, interpersonal skills and ability to work under pressure.

What is GME (Graduate Marine Engineering)?

Graduate Marine Engineering is a postgraduate diploma course for a duration of one year to enable cadets to join the merchant navy. All Institutes are headed and administered by the Director General of Shipping, a government body.

 The graduates of this course go on to become marine engineers. They start by working on merchant ships as a junior engineer. After the completion of 6 months of sea time training, they become eligible for class IV MEO examination. Upon successfully passing this examination they receive a Certificate of Competency (CoC) from the Mercantile Marine Department of the Government of India and are promoted to fourth engineer. The career progression is as follows: – 

Graduate Marine Engineering courses are usually joined by those who have a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or naval architecture. 

 Offshore oil rigs, tugs, freight ships, and tankers are some of the vessels, graduates get to work on. The job profile usually entails the design, construction, and maintenance of sea-going vessels. On-shore jobs are also on the rise and are employed by educational institutions as professors and in shipyards. Opportunities in this field are set to increase in the future.

Imporatnce of (Graduate Marine Engineering)?

Graduate Marine Engineering is a specialized field of study and profession that plays a crucial role in the maritime industry. Here are some of the key reasons highlighting the importance of Graduate Marine Engineering:

1. Ensuring Safe Navigation: Graduate Marine Engineers are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and operation of various marine systems and machinery on ships. Their expertise ensures that ships are in optimal working condition, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring safe navigation.
2. Technological Advancements: The maritime industry is undergoing a technological transformation with the development of autonomous ships, advanced propulsion systems, and digital monitoring and control systems. Graduate Marine Engineers are at the forefront of adopting and implementing these technologies, making the industry more efficient and competitive.
3. Safety at Sea: The safety of crew members and passengers on board ships is of utmost importance. Marine Engineers ensure that all safety systems, such as lifeboats, fire suppression systems, and navigation equipment, are in working order. Their expertise in shipboard safety protocols is vital in emergency situations.
4. Global Trade: Approximately 80% of global trade is transported by sea. Graduate Marine Engineers play a vital role in maintaining the reliability of this trade route, ensuring that goods can be transported efficiently and reliably across the world, which is essential for global economic stability.
5. Career Opportunities: Graduates with a degree in Marine Engineering have a wide range of career opportunities, not only in ship operations but also in ship design, marine research, consultancy, and maritime education. The demand for skilled Marine Engineers remains relatively high, offering good job prospects.
6. Emergency Response: In cases of maritime disasters or accidents, such as oil spills or shipwrecks, Graduate Marine Engineers may play a role in managing and mitigating the environmental and safety consequences. Their expertise is crucial in responding to such emergencies.

GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Course Overview

A Graduate Marine Engineering course provides students with essential knowledge and skills for careers in the maritime industry. It covers marine systems, propulsion, safety regulations, environmental sustainability, automation, and includes practical training. Graduates are prepared for roles in ship operation, maintenance, and design.

Graduate Marine Engineering Eligibility Criteria

The fundamental admission policies are given by the Director General of Shipping upon which maritime institutes can set their criteria for admission of GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) aspirants. The following set of points will sum up the admission criteria of most of the GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Institutes –

• Age restriction — The age of the Candidate must not be more than 28 years on the day of the start of training.

• Educational qualification — Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering or Naval Architecture with a minimum score of 55% in aggregate.

• English Proficiency — A minimum score of 50% in the subject of English in their 10+2 examination is compulsory to get admitted in a GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) college.

• Medical assessment — A minimum of 6/12 vision or 6/9 in better eye and 6/18 in worst eye and perfect hearing is necessary without any defects such as night blindness and color blindness. Medical parameters for selection are set by the Director General of Shipping. 

Duration of the Graduate Marine Engineering course in india

In India, the duration of a Graduate Marine Engineering course is typically one year (min 8 Month in college + min 4 month on ship). This course is often pursued after completing a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. It includes both classroom instruction and practical training on ships or simulators. However, it’s essential to check with specific universities or institutions for the exact duration and curriculum, as program lengths may vary slightly.

Core Subjects in Graduate Marine Engineering course

The Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) program in India spans one year, split into two semesters. It covers a range of subjects such as ship construction, naval operations, management, and safety. Some specific topics included are electrotechnology, naval architecture, and automation and control systems.

Students in the GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) course focus on gaining practical skills through a year-long onboard training program and real-time simulations of naval ships and their operations. Upon completing the course, graduates have diverse career opportunities, including roles in Marine Engineering, the Navy, and the Merchant Marine.

Here’s a breakdown of the GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) syllabus:

Semester 1 GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Syllabus:

• Ship design, construction, and maintenance
• On-Board Operations
• Electrical and Electronic systems
• Electrical and Electronic Maintenance and Repair
• Workshop Management and Skills

Semester 2 GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Syllabus:

• Further exploration of ship construction, safety, and operations
• Advanced topics in Electrotechnology
• Automation and Control Systems
• Additional skills and knowledge to prepare students for careers in the maritime industry.

Practical Training Requirements Graduate Marine Engineering course in india

Practical training is a crucial component of the Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) course in India. It provides students with hands-on experience and prepares them for real-world challenges in the maritime industry. Here are the practical training requirements typically associated with the GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) course:

1. Onboard Training: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) students are required to undergo onboard training on actual ships. This training can vary in duration but typically lasts for several months to a year, depending on the program. During this period, students work as trainee marine engineers and are exposed to various ship systems and operations.
2. Sea Service: The onboard training is often referred to as “sea service” because it involves working at sea. Students are expected to actively participate in the day-to-day maintenance, repair, and operation of the ship’s machinery and systems. This experience is invaluable for understanding the practical aspects of marine engineering.
3. Engine Room Familiarization: Trainees are typically assigned to the engine room, where they become familiar with the ship’s propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, electrical systems, and control systems. They learn to troubleshoot and carry out routine maintenance.
4. Watchkeeping: Trainees may also be required to participate in watchkeeping duties, which involve monitoring and operating machinery during specific shifts. This helps them gain a deeper understanding of the responsibilities of marine engineers while at sea.
5. Simulator Training: In addition to onboard training, GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) programs may include simulator training. Ship simulators replicate real-life scenarios, allowing students to practice navigation, emergency response, and decision-making in a safe and controlled environment.
6. Safety and Emergency Drills: Trainees participate in safety drills and emergency response exercises to ensure they are prepared for potential onboard emergencies. This includes fire drills, abandon ship drills, and other safety procedures.
7. Documentation: Trainees are often required to maintain detailed logs and records of their activities, including maintenance tasks, engine performance, and fuel consumption. This documentation is essential for tracking the ship’s operations and compliance with regulations.
8. Assessment: Practical training is usually assessed through evaluations by experienced marine engineers or instructors. Trainees may need to pass assessments related to their practical skills and knowledge.
9. Certification: Completion of the practical training component is often a prerequisite for obtaining the necessary certifications and licenses to work as a marine engineer.

Graduate Marine Engineering Entrance Examinations

Most Graduate Marine Engineer Graduate Marine Engineer Institutes in India admit students depending upon the performance of entrance examinations. Each GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) college conducts its own entrance examination. The exams usually consist of 2 segments. The first segment consists of English, Aptitude, and Mechanical Engineering knowledge. The second segment is based on the psychology-based test. 

Graduate Marine Engineering Admission Procedure

After the results of the respective Graduate Marine Engineer entrance examination results have been declared, the shortlisted candidates are called for a panel interview. The candidates who have cleared the interview are called for a medical checkup. The medical criteria and physical fitness criteria for GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) admissions are set both by the Director General of shipping and also by the respective Institutes. The cadets who pass through all these stages are asked to join the respective GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Institutes .

Top Institutes Offering Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) in 2023 with Course Fees

The GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) course is offered by many government institutions and private institutions. Here is a list of the top Graduate Marine Engineer Institutes and their respective GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) course fees.

Anglo Eastern Maritime Academy (AEMA)

It is considered the best training institute today, and has its own shipping company. It is located in Khandpe, Maharashtra. The curriculum includes 2 semesters of classroom training, 4 months each. This is followed by 4 months of onboard training. 

The college offers: —

             • Good employee treatment

             • Institute of one of the biggest shipping companies today

             • Small waiting period

             • Top-of-the-class training facility 

It conducts its own examination named Anglo Eastern Maritime (AEM) online written test. The GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) course fees in this institute is around 6.5 lakh rupees. 

AEMA GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Eligibility Criteria: 

Educational Qualification	English Proficiency	Age Limit	Physical and Medical Standards
B.E./ B.Tech. in Mechanical/ Naval Architecture or Mechanical & Automation after attending a course of 4 years duration from a UGC recognized University and/or approved by AICTE, with minimum 65% aggregate marks and minimum 65% marks in the final year; In class 12th or equivalent have scored minimum 65% marks in PCM or Diploma aggregate 65%. For Diploma candidates with lateral entry to 2nd year of B.Tech, they need to have scored 65% and above in Diploma followed by the Degree eligibility criteria.	Should not have obtained less than 50% marks in English as a separate subject, at either 10th or 12th standard or in the Degree course conducted by a Recognized Board / University.	The maximum age should not exceed 28 years on the date of commencement of the course (The course commences in March, July, and November every year).	Physically fit and should meet the medical requirements as specified by DGS guidelines, eyesight 6/12 in each eye without visual aids, and no colour blindness.

To know more click here: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Eligibility Criteria at AEMA

AEMA GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Selection Procedure: 

Online Entrance Test-The test consists of 2 sections, for a total duration of 3 hours.Pan-1TopicsEnglish, Aptitude, and Mechanical Engineering Topic. Duration: 2 HoursMarksTotal 100 Marks (No Negative marking applies)LevelsThe level of difficulty for this test is based on the Degree level Syllabus.Pan-2PSY Test“Personality-based questions” Duration: 1 Hour

Panel interview-Shortlisted candidates who’ll pass the online tests shall be notified via email to appear for an interview

Medical Examination and Eye-testCandidates, who’ll pass the interview, will be directed to undergo a medical examination conducted by company-appointed doctors who will also be conducting an Eye-Test which conforms to the requirements of medical examination rules of the Director General of Shipping.

To know more click this link: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Admission Procedure at AEMA.

Institute of Maritime Studies (IMS Goa)

This college does not own its shipping company but is considered as one the finest for the training of Graduate Marine Engineer (GME) cadets. It is located in Bogda, Goa. The college is reputed for taking care of their cadets, overall well-being. Many reputed shipping companies come here for placements. The course fees here is close to 6.58 lakh rupees.

IMS Goa Eligibility Criteria:  

Educational Qualification	Minimum Marks	Marks in English	Body Mass Index	Minimum Height Minimum Weight
Diploma in Mechanical/ Shipbuilding / Electrical /Electrical & Electronics/ Marine Engineering/Naval Architecture.	50% in the final year	Minimum 50% in X or XII or Diploma or Degree	<<25	1.58m 51 Kg

To know more click this link: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Selection Procedure at IMS GOA.

IMS GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Selection Procedure :

Entrance examination- 1) Mechanical & Spatial Aptitude, Engineering Knowledge General Knowledge and English. Duration: 1 hour 2) Psychometric Evaluation: 1 hour approximately

Panel Interview-Shortlisted candidates who’ll pass the online tests shall be notified via email to appear for an interview

Medical Examination and Eye-test Candidates, who’ll pass the interview, will be directed to undergo a medical examination conducted by company-appointed doctors who will also be conducting an Eye-Test which conforms to the requirements of medical examination rules of the Directorate General of Shipping. To know more, click here.

To know more click this link: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Admission Procedure at IMS GOA.

GEIMS (Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies)

Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies or GEIMS is a part of the Great Eastern group, an Indian Shipping company. It is located in Lonavla, Maharashtra. The college has got great placements, but since the company is Indian, the salaries paid in Great Eastern are in Indian currency. The total fee is around 5.41 lakh rupees.  The eligibility and selection here are merit-based. 

The SELECTION PROCEDURE is as given below:

• Candidate is supposed to take Great Eastern online test. Please click on APPLY NOW button below to register for the same. After submission of online application, candidate will receive an email with details of the payment for the online entrance test.
• Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria should apply by filling the Online Application Form on the website.
• The Application should be submitted in the format given in the website only, with one recent passport size photograph pasted neatly in the right hand top corner.
• After making the online payment, please send an e-mail to academy@greatship.com with the following details: Name Email id and phone number Application no., enrollment no. and course name Online payment reference number.
• Communication regarding the exact interview date and time will be communicated to the applicants in due course of time. Applicants are requested to check the website and their registered email ID continuously for details.
• Candidates must ensure they provide their correct email-id and phone number/mobile number in the online application form as they will receive the Test Login details on the email id mentioned in the application form.

For more information, click this link: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Selection Procedure at GEIMS.

Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies

Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies (SIMS) is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The college has the best training facilities and infrastructure with an amazing faculty. The drawback of this college is the waiting period after graduation is very high. GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) course fees at Samundra are close to 5.94 lakh rupees.  To know more, click this link: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Selection Procedure at SIMS.

Age	Academic	Medical	Language	IMU-CET
Not more than 25 years of age	BE / B. Tech Engineering (Any stream): Degree from an AICTE/UGC Deemed University Approved Institute with min 50% in final year	As per DG Shipping standards	English shall be one of the subjects with minimum marks scored 50% in class X or XII	There is a common misconception that IMU-CET exam needs to be cleared for GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Entrance, which is a myth.

For more information, click this link: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Eligibility Criteria of SIMS.

SCI-MTI (Shipping Corporation of India – Maritime Training Institute)

Shipping Corporation of India Maritime Training Institute (SCIMTI) is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The college is newly established and is part of an Indian Shipping Company, thus, the salary is in Indian Currency and the waiting period after placement is high.

Educational Qualification	Age Limit	Medical Standards
B. E / B. Tech in Mechanical Engineering from an AICTE recognized College with minimum 50% marks in the final year of Engineering. Minimum 50% marks in English in 10th or 12th class.	Not more than 28 Years of age as on date of the interview.Relaxation for SC/ST candidates – 5 years i.e., up to 33 years of age. Relaxation for Women candidates – 2 years i.e., up to 30 years of age.	Candidate must have good health and be fit for sea service as per existing MS Medical rules 2000/MLC 2006 applicable to seafarers.

For more information, click this link: GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Eligibility Criteria and GME Admission Procedure at SCI-MTI.

We consider only these Institutes as the best for GME (Graduate Marine Engineering). Other Institutes do not meet the standards for our approval and candidates should aim for only these above-mentioned Institutes .

Strategy for Admission in Top Institutes for Graduate Marine Engineering

It is important that the initial steps in the maritime career should be carefully taken to ensure a vibrant future ahead. The Institutes mentioned below are highly trusted Institutes for GME. These have been mentioned after careful consideration of all GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Institutes in India. These Institutes ensure almost 100% placement for all of their cadets. 

The best way to ensure a secure career is by getting a sponsorship from a reputed foreign company before joining GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Institutes .

GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Curriculum

The GME curriculum is divided into two semesters and broadly covers the engineering aspect of the ship. It teaches ship equipment usage, maintenance of ship parts and especially ship engine, and also on-board simulations. This ensures the overall understanding and operational readiness of the student when they will go for their first sail. 

Graduate Marine Engineering Job Prospects and Career Options

The course presents a wide range of opportunities and career options. Jobs are available both onshore and offshore. Here is a list of career options and their respective job prospects.

Offshore jobs: — Looking to sail and live a life full of adventure with respect. Offshore opportunities come with high salaries which are tax-free. The cherry on top of the cake is that you get to travel the world. So, if you want to be a travel bug, this is the place for you. The profession gives the perfect opportunity for travel bugs to work and explore the world at the same time at the company’s expense. Although, the maritime industry has become faster and more efficient and shore leaves have been reduced significantly. Also, during the pandemic shore leaves were put off the table to curb the rise of the coronavirus. Bulk carriers are the only ones that provide considerable periods of shore leave. Here is a list of things you can be.

•  A marine engineer in a Shipping company is responsible for the maintenance of a ship. Most GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) graduates choose this as their profession. They are paid high salaries with the opportunity to travel the world. Life is full of thrill and responsibility with fresh challenges every day. 
• Working on an Offshore oil rig is another lucrative profession. If you want to earn just as much and not be too far away from home, this is it. Those who are working on an oil rig are considered the best of the field because of the risks involved in the job. 

Onshore careers: — Will you miss the usual hustle and bustle of city life while you are out at sea or do you want to settle down with your family? You can work onshore too. Opportunities are immense and boundless. Here are a few of them.

• Teaching is considered as an honorable profession. If educating future mariners and students is something that you find impressive, being a professor at a maritime institute will suit you best. The pay is about 1.5 lakh rupees per month.
•  A Marine Superintendent is accountable for the safety, affordability, and efficiency of sea-going vessels. They also work on risk assessment and ISM (International Safety Management) protocols. Superintendents are supposed to be well-versed in the technicalities of the vessels and rarely need to sail on board. This job needs experience and takes time to achieve. The pay for Indian Marine Superintendents ranges from 2.1 lakh rupees to 9 lakh rupees per month.

• A Marine surveyor is a person who assesses and monitors the conditions of vessels among other tasks like damage inspection, and surveys. This job is usually offered to those who have been chief engineers or 2nd engineers on ships and have sound technical knowledge about vessels. Most of their work is onshore. The seaworthiness of a vessel is assessed at the ports by the surveyors. The average salary is about 4.5 lakh rupees per month.
•  Working in a Shipyard gives one the opportunity to work onshore and build vessels for the Navy and coast guard and also for shipping companies. The pay and remunerations are lesser in comparison to other jobs but are as good as any PSUs in India. This career opportunity is yet to be explored more. The pay ranges from 40000 rupees to 2 lakh rupees per month.

Salary Trends for GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Graduates in 2023

1. Starting Salaries

• GME graduates can expect competitive entry-level salaries in 2023.
• Starting salaries typically range from INR 4 lakh to 8 lakh per annum or more.
• Actual salary may vary based on factors like location, employer, and specialization.

2. Experience Matters

• As GME graduates gain experience, their salaries tend to increase significantly.
• Experienced marine engineers and officers can command substantially higher salaries.

3. Employer Type

• Salaries can vary depending on the type of employer.
• Opportunities exist in private shipping companies, offshore oil and gas industries, and multinational shipping corporations.

4. Location

• Location plays a significant role in salary levels.
• High-demand regions or countries with strong maritime industries may offer higher salaries.

5. Specialization

• GME graduates specializing in areas like automation, propulsion, or offshore engineering often earn higher salaries due to their expertise.

6. Rank and Responsibilities

• Salary progression for marine officers (deck or engine officers) is typically based on their rank.
• Rank is determined by their level of responsibility and experience on board.

7. Additional Certifications

• Obtaining additional certifications and licenses, such as Chief Engineer’s certification or Dynamic Positioning (DP) certification, can lead to higher-paying positions.

8. Market Conditions

• Economic conditions and market demand for shipping and offshore services can impact salary trends.
• The industry can experience cyclical changes affecting job availability and compensation.

What after Graduate Marine Engineering: Future Study

If you aim to improve your curriculum vitae, have found a keen interest in studies in the maritime field, or maybe have second thoughts about your career, the maritime field gives a lot of options after a postgraduate diploma in marine engineering. Here are a few of them.

• Naval architecture and shipbuilding

• Marine drafting

• M.Sc. in Coastal and Marine Engineering Management

• M.Sc. in Marine Studies and Coastal Resource Management

• Ocean Engineering

• Master in Shipping and Transport

• M.Sc. in Technical Management of ship operation

• M.Sc. in Subsea Engineering.

• M.Sc. in Offshore Floating Systems

• M.Sc. Marine Power Systems

• Submarine Design and Technology

• PG Diploma in International Transportation and Logistics

• M.Sc. in Remote Operated Vehicle System 

• M.Sc. Marine Sciences

• Port Management

• Sustainable Maritime Technologies

• Marine Environmental Technology

• Maritime Law

The industry gives a plethora of opportunities for those who wish to explore more in the maritime sector.

Specializations in Graduate Marine Engineering

Graduates can specialize in a specific area of expertise. Here is a list of the most popular and rewarding specialization.

• Marine Structure — The subject explores the construction and building of ships analyzing structural, effectiveness, and operational efficiency parameters. They are required to apply the principles of ship design and be aligned with the recent developments in the maritime industry.

• Ship Maneuvering and control — The navigational segment and mobility of ships is taught here. Knowledge about the bridge equipment, propeller and steering wheel is the focus here.

• Material sciences and Manufacturing — Different processes to measure, produce and analyze materials and equipment for repair on board is taught in this specialization. The properties of different materials and their usability is also a part of this specialization.

Graduate Marine Engineering FAQS