Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Masters · 1600 h · 11 modules
Master's in Ocean Pollution and Microplastics
The Master's in Ocean Pollution and MicroplasticsThis program offers comprehensive and up-to-date training on the critical challenges facing the health of our oceans. Immerse yourself in the study of the sources, transport, and
Duration1600 h
FormatOnline
Starts23 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
Prior Knowledge Assessment
These are the skills this programme builds. Tick the ones you already have and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is really for you.
Your profile
Tick what you already know to see your result.
Programme overview
What is the Master’s in Ocean Pollution and Microplastics?
The Master's in Ocean Pollution and Microplastics
This program offers comprehensive and up-to-date training on the critical challenges facing the health of our oceans. Immerse yourself in the study of the sources, transport, and fate of marine pollutants, with a special focus on the growing problem of microplastics. Learn to assess ecological and toxicological impacts and develop innovative strategies for the prevention and management of ocean pollution.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integrates knowledge of marine biology, environmental chemistry, ocean engineering, and public policy.
- Applied Research: Participates in cutting-edge research projects and contributes to the development of sustainable solutions.
- Advanced Technologies: Learn to use modeling, remote sensing, and data analysis tools for pollution monitoring.
- International Collaboration: Establishes contacts with leading experts and organizations in the fight against marine pollution.
- Career Opportunities: Ample opportunities in the public and private sectors and in NGOs dedicated to marine conservation.
Programme type
Master's Degree
Study mode
Online
Duration
1,600 hours
Modules
11
Start date
26-11-2026
Programme highlights
- Comprehensive Analysis: Understand the sources, transport, and impact of ocean pollution, with a focus on microplastics.
- Advanced Techniques: Master methodologies for sampling, identifying, and quantifying marine pollutants.
- Innovative Solutions: Explore strategies for preventing, mitigating, and remediating plastic pollution in the ocean.
- Regulatory Framework: Understand national and international legislation on waste management and marine environmental protection.
- Hands-on Experience: Participate in research projects and collaborate with experts in the field.
- Get ready to lead the change toward a cleaner, healthier ocean.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 11 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Advanced techniques for monitoring and analysis of microplastics in marine ecosystems
- Fundamentals of microplastics: definition, classification, sources and distribution in marine environments
- Microplastic sampling techniques: methods of capture in water column, sediment and marine biota with standardised protocols
- Equipment and technologies for on-site monitoring: Advanced use of TRAWLS, filtration pumps and specialised optical sensors
- Sample preparation and treatment: Chemical digestion processes, density separation and purification for precise analysis
- Spectroscopy analytics: Application of microscopic FTIR, Raman and mass spectrometry for polymer identification and characterisation
- Detection and quantification using digital imaging techniques: electron microscopy, fluorescence and automated analysis by artificial intelligence
- Statistical methodologies and spatial modelling: interpretation of data from microplastic contamination with GIS tools and multivariate analysis
- International protocols and current regulations for marine environmental monitoring and control of microplastics
- Advanced case studies: monitoring using autonomous platforms, temporal analysis and microplastic dispersion dynamics
- Current and future challenges Technological trends in the monitoring and analysis of marine microplastics, including nanoanalytic techniques and integrated sensors
02
Ecological impact and bioaccumulation of microplastics: comprehensive strategies for marine protection and restoration
- Fundamentals of Ocean Pollution: Types, Sources and Dynamics of Microplastics Dispersion in Marine Environments
- Bioaccumulation and biomagnification mechanisms: chemical and biological interactions that facilitate accumulation in marine organisms
- Advanced methodologies for the detection and quantification of microplastics in biological tissues: spectroscopic, chromatographic and high-resolution imaging techniques
- Ecological impact on marine communities: alterations in biodiversity, ecosystem functionality and ecosystem services
- Assessment of toxic risks associated with microplastics and adsorbed contaminants: analysis of sublethal, reproductive and population effects
- Transport models and environmental destination of microplastics: trajectory simulation, sedimentary settlement and coastal redistribution
- Integrated Strategies for Marine Mitigation and Restoration: Design of Remediation Projects Based on Bioengineering and Ecological Restoration
- International policies and environmental regulations for the regulation and management of microplastics in ocean ecosystems
- Continuous monitoring protocols and use of innovative technologies: drones, remote sensors and automated platforms for real-time tracking
- Global case studies: detailed analysis of successful marine protection projects in different biomes and their practical application
03
Techniques of monitoring, analysis and evaluation of risks in marine microplastics
- Fundamentals of sampling in marine environments: experimental design, representativeness and scalability
- Advanced instrumentation in microplastic monitoring: use of drones, acoustic sensors and laser technologies
- Physical-chemical analysis methodologies: characterisation by FTIR spectroscopy, Raman and electron microscopy
- Standardized protocols for separation and quantification: filtration, densitometry and flotation techniques
- Applications of chromatography and mass spectrometry for identification of specific polymers
- Evaluation of the spatial and temporal distribution of microplastics: multidimensional marine modelling
- Biomonitoring and bioaccumulation techniques: study of biological vectors in the marine food chain
- Determination of ecotoxicological effects: in vitro and in vivo tests with marine organisms Indicators
- GIS and remote sensing tools for pollution mapping and environmental risk analysis
- Quantitative and qualitative risk assessment: risk matrices, multi-criteria analysis and probabilistic methodologies
04
Modelling, traceability and management of microplastic sources: integrated strategies for prevention, control and marine remediation
- Theoretical Foundations of Environmental Modelling Applied to Marine Pollutants: Physical, Chemical and Biological Principles
- Advanced methodologies for the identification and quantification of microplastics in oceanic and sedimentary matrices
- Dispersion and transport models of microplastics: particle dynamics, oceanographic flows and meteorological factors
- Traceability of point and diffuse sources: analysis of contamination routes from origin to marine and coastal settlements
- Integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing for real-time tracking and spatial prediction of microplastics
- Development and application of numerical modelling techniques to evaluate future scenarios under different environmental management policies
- Integrated strategies for prevention based on reduction at origin: regulations, industry and social awareness
- Design and optimisation of control plans using emerging technologies: bioremediation, advanced filtration and mechanical recovery
- Protocols for Environmental Impact Assessment and Continuous Monitoring in Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems
- International and regional regulatory framework applicable to the management of microplastics: agreements, guidelines and technical standards
05
Innovative technologies for the remediation and sustainable management of microplastics in ocean environments
- Fundamentals of microplastic contamination: definition, classification and primary and secondary sources in ocean environments
- Technological advances in detection and quantification: techniques of sampling in water, sediments and biota; Spectroscopic methods (FTIR, Raman) and automated image analysis
- Nanotechnology applied to remediation: design and functionalization of nanomaterials for adsorption and degradation of plastic particles
- Molecular bioremediation: polymer degrading microorganisms, genetic engineering and metabolic optimisation for environmental treatment
- Advanced filtration technologies: development and application of selective permeable membranes, micro and ultrafiltration systems in marine treatment stations
- Implementation of autonomous robotic platforms and unmanned submarine vehicles (AUVs/ROVs) for real-time monitoring and mechanical removal of microplastics
- Computational modelling and intelligent systems: Integration of artificial intelligence for distribution prediction, polluting sources and long-term impact assessment
- Sustainable management systems: international regulations (MARPOL, Basel Convention), ISO standards and marine environmental governance protocols
- Circular economy and recovery of plastic waste: technologies for capture, chemical recycling and generation of bioproducts from recovered microplastics
- Global Case Studies: Design, Implementation and Evaluation of Successful Pilot Projects for Remediation and Integrated Management in Vulnerable Ocean Ecosystems
06
Advanced methodologies for detection, evaluation and remediation of microplastics in marine ecosystems
- Fundamentals and classification of microplastics: types, sizes, physical-chemical properties and primary and secondary sources of contamination
- Advanced Sampling Techniques in Marine Ecosystems: Manta Nets, In-Situ Filtration Pumps, Passive Methods and Their Optimisation for Different Columns of Water and Sediment
- Analytical methodologies for the identification and quantification of microplastics: Raman spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy with total attenuated reflectance (ATR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and hybrid techniques
- Geospatial modelling and mapping of microplastic dispersion and accumulation: use of geographic information systems (GIS), hydrodynamic modelling and oceanographic variables
- Advanced Ecotoxicology Assessment: Subcellular impacts, bioaccumulation, trophic transfer and synergistic effects with associated chemical contaminants
- Bioremediation and phytoextraction technologies: potential of marine microorganisms and macroalgae in the degradation and absorption of microplastics
- Innovations in physical-chemical methods for removal: use of nanomaterials, filtering electromagnetic systems and biomimicry-based technologies for selective capture
- Continuous and automated monitoring protocols: marine drones, remote sensor platforms, and artificial intelligence techniques for real-time detection
- International regulation and environmental policies on microplastics: critical analysis of legal frameworks, multilateral agreements and adaptive management strategies
- Design and evaluation of comprehensive marine remediation programmes: planning, implementation, evaluation of efficacy and environmental sustainability of technological solutions
07
Innovation in techniques of monitoring, analysis and remediation for the sustainable management of microplastics in marine ecosystems
- Advanced foundations in the physical-chemical characterisation of microplastics: properties, sizes, shapes and chemical composition
- Innovative sampling techniques in marine environments: design of protocols for the representative capture of microplastics in columns of water, sediments and marine biota
- State-of-the-art analytical tools: Raman spectroscopy, FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), electron microscopy and thermal analysis for accurate identification and quantification of microplastics
- Development and application of remote sensors and autonomous technologies (submarine drones, floaters equipped with biosensors) for real-time monitoring of microplastic contamination
- Dispersion modelling and dynamics: algorithms and computational simulations to predict the trajectory, accumulation and degradation of microplastics in marine ecosystems with high spatial and temporal resolution
- Innovation in bioremedial techniques: culture and application of microorganisms and specific enzymes for the controlled biodegradation of microplastics
- Advanced physical and chemical remediation methodologies: use of adsorbent materials, nanomaterials and electrochemical technologies for the efficient capture and decomposition of microplastics in water and sediment
- Comprehensive assessment of ecological and toxicokinetic impacts: multidisciplinary analysis of the interaction between microplastics, persistent pollutants and key marine organisms
- Design and application of integrated environmental management systems based on big data and machine learning for sustainable decision making in the mitigation of microplastics
- Emerging international policies and regulations for the regulation and sustainable management of contamination by microplastics; Practical application in case studies and effective implementation strategies in marine environments
08
Global policies and multidisciplinary strategies for the mitigation and effective management of microplastics in marine environments
- International Marine Pollution Regulatory Framework: MARPOL Convention, Agenda 21, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and specific regional agreements for the mitigation of microplastics
- Critical assessment of global public policies: comparative analysis of national and regional programmes, effectiveness, challenges and lessons learned in marine waste management
- Integrated multidisciplinary management strategies: ecosystem approach, circular economy applied to the reduction of microplastics and prevention strategies at the source
- Collabourative governance models: role of public, private and civil society actors in the implementation and monitoring of marine environmental policies
- Economic and legal instruments for the regulation and control of microplastics: incentives, sanctions and mechanisms of environmental financing
- Development and application of innovative technologies for the removal and monitoring of microplastics: advanced sensors, bioremediation and marine cleaning techniques
- International Research and Cooperation Programs: Global Monitoring Networks, Open Data Portals, and Collabourative Platforms for Environmentally Critical Data Management
- Impact of policies on ecological restoration and resilience of marine ecosystems affected by microplastics: monitoring and evaluation indicators
- Strategic planning for the mitigation of microplastics in protected coastal and marine areas: integration of science, technology and public policies
- Future challenges and trends in global policies: adaptation to climate change, new emerging threats and sustainable development in ocean environments
09
Multidisciplinary and technological strategies for the detection, evaluation and mitigation of microplastics in marine ecosystems
- Conceptual framework and key definitions: Characterization and classification of microplastics in marine ecosystems
- Advanced sampling and analysis techniques: Physical-chemical methods for the identification and quantification of microplastics
- Modern instrumentation: Raman spectroscopy, FTIR (infrared Fourier transformed) and electron microscopy for accurate detection
- Design and application of multidisciplinary oceanographic models for traceability and dispersion of microplastics
- Ecotoxicological evaluation: Biological impacts and bioaccumulation in marine organisms and food chains
- Technological innovations: autochthonous sensors, underwater drones and remote platforms for real-time monitoring
- Integrated mitigation strategies: Bioremediation approaches, advanced filtration and international regulatory policies
- Management and restoration of habitats affected by microplastics: projects and pilot programmes based on scientific evidence
- Global regulations and agreements: Critical analysis of MARPOL, Basel Convention and national microplastic control strategies
- Development of geographic information systems and databases for monitoring, modelling and decision-making in maritime environmental management
10
Prevention, Circular Economy and Plastic Waste Management
- Waste hierarchy and prevention
- European Single Use Plastics Directive
- World Treaty on Plastic Pollution
- Expanded responsibility of the producer
- Packaging ecodesign
- Mechanical and chemical recycling
- Fishing gear recovery
- Waste management in ports
- awareness campaigns
- Plastic Reduction Plan
11
Master’s Final Project in Ocean Pollution and Microplastics
- Conceptual and regulatory framework for the management of microplastics: international agreements, regional protocols and applicable environmental legislation
- Advanced techniques for sampling and chemical-physical analysis for the quantitative and qualitative detection of microplastics in different oceanic arrays
- Development of integrated models of transport and dispersion of microplastics: computational tools based on oceanographic and biogeochemical dynamics
- Evaluation of the ecological impact of microplastics: bioaccumulation, toxicological effects and alterations in the marine food chains
- Innovative continuous monitoring methodologies by remote sensors and automated data collection systems
- Sustainable strategies and emerging technologies for the remediation of microplastics: bioremediation, advanced filtration and nanotechnology-based technologies
- Design and validation of protocols for the multidisciplinary integration of environmental, socioeconomic and public health data in decision-making
- Implementation of adaptive systems of coastal-marine management against contamination by microplastics, incorporating scenario analysis and risk assessment
- Ecohydrodynamic modelling applied to the prediction of hotspots and dispersion paths with a focus on effective mitigation policies
- Preparation of technical and scientific reports: communication of results to stakeholders, recommendations for public policies and scientific dissemination
Workload
Study Time and Workload
1600 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Graduates in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Chemistry, or related engineering fields seeking advanced specialization in marine pollution.Professionals in the maritime, port management, and fisheries sectors interested in understanding and mitigating the impact of microplastics on the value chain.Researchers and laboratory technicians wishing to deepen their knowledge of sampling, analy
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Design and implement comprehensive marine pollution management strategies
- 02Assess and model the impact of microplastics on marine ecosystems
- 03Develop and innovate in ocean pollution remediation technologies
- 04Advising government and private entities on ocean protection policies
- 05Lead cutting-edge research projects on sources and destinations of ocean pollutants
- 06Effectively communicate scientific findings to the community and the general public
Careers
Career Opportunities
01```html
02Marine Environmental Project Manager: Design, implementation, and monitoring of projects for mitigating and preventing ocean pollution.
03Environmental Consultant specializing in marine pollution: Environmental impact assessments, risk studies, and proposed solutions for companies and public administrations.
04Scientific Researcher in marine and oceanographic research centers: Analysis of the presence, distribution, and effects of microplastics and other pollutants in the ocean.
05Technician in marine environmental analysis laboratories: Sampling, analysis, and quality control of water, sediments, and marine biota for the detection of pollutants.
06Environmental Educator/Science Communicator: Design and development of educational programs and outreach materials on ocean pollution and microplastics.
07Sustainability Manager in companies in the maritime and fishing sector: Implementation of sustainable practices for pollution reduction and the responsible use of marine resources.
08Technician in public administrations (municipalities, provincial councils, autonomous communities, national government): Development and application of public policies for marine pollution management and environmental protection.
09Environmental Auditor specializing in marine pollution: Evaluation of compliance with environmental regulations and the implementation of environmental management systems in companies and institutions.
Questions
Entry Requirements
Microplastics
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Ocean pollution, specifically from microplastics.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
```htmlAcademic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Marine Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, Environmental Engineering or related field; or accredited professional experience in marine research, environmental management, or related areas.Language proficiency:B2 level of English (accredited or demonstrable) for understanding scientific literature and participating in international seminars.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree, academic transcript, ID/Passport, letter of motivation (indicating interest in ocean pollution and microplasti
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Leave your details and admissions will write back. If you already know this is the one, go straight to the application and pay in the same session.