Akademi Laut Malaysia (ALAM)

Course Overview

The Diploma in Nautical Studies (DNS) is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, practical understanding, and professional skills required to serve on merchant navy vessels exceeding 500 gross tonnage. The programme prepares learners for a career at sea by developing their competence to become certified watchkeeping officers capable of handling navigational duties on unlimited voyages. This comprehensive course is completed over a period of three years and is structured into three mandatory phases as prescribed by the Director General of Marine under the Malaysia Marine Department. The first year focuses on academic and professional studies conducted in an academy environment, building a strong foundation in nautical science. The second year continues with advanced professional studies, further enhancing technical and operational expertise. The final year consists of shipboard training, where students gain real-world experience onboard merchant vessels. Upon successful completion of all phases and required assessments, graduates are awarded a Diploma in Nautical Studies along with a Certificate of Competency as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for this programme ensure that candidates meet academic, medical, physical, and language standards required for maritime training. Foreign applicants or holders of qualifications equivalent to the UK GCE O’ Level must have credits in Mathematics, a Science or Technical subject, three other subjects, and English. Applicants must be single and aged between 18 and 25 years. Medical fitness certified by a medical practitioner approved by the Malaysia Marine Department is compulsory. Male applicants must have a minimum height of 158 cm and weight of 48 kg, while female applicants must have a minimum height of 155 cm and weight of 42 kg, with a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. Candidates must not be colour blind, should have good eyesight with a visual acuity of 6/6, and must demonstrate a good command of Bahasa Malaysia and English, both written and spoken. English proficiency can be proven through MUET with a minimum Band 3, IELTS or IELTS Online with a score of 5.0, TOEFL iBT with a score of 40, TOEFL Essential (Online) with a score of 7.5, PTE Academic or PTE Academic Online with a score of 47, Cambridge English or Linguaskill with a minimum score of 154, or completion of an approved Intensive English Programme with a minimum score of 107.

Exam Required

Yes

Mode Of Instruction

English

Scholarship Info

Yes