Master’s Degree in Port Infrastructure Engineering
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s Degree in Port Infrastructure Engineering
This program offers comprehensive and specialized training in the design, construction, and management of ports and their infrastructure. Through a practical and up-to-date approach, the program addresses the challenges of modern port engineering, from strategic planning to operation and maintenance. You will learn to optimize the efficiency, sustainability, and safety of port facilities, using the latest technologies and methodologies.
Differential Advantages
- Advanced Design and Simulation: Specialized software for structural modeling and analysis.
- Port Project Management: From conception to commissioning, including economic and environmental aspects.
- Resilient Maritime Infrastructure: Adaptation to climate change and coastal risk management.
- Innovative Technologies: Digitalization, automation, and sustainability in port operations.
- Professional Networking: Access to a network of experts and collaboration opportunities in the port sector.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 25-08-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Civil engineers, architects, and construction professionals who aspire to lead large-scale port projects, from design to execution.
- Port managers and logistics operators who seek to optimize the efficiency and sustainability of existing and future infrastructure.
- Consultants and technical advisors who wish to specialize in the regulations and specific challenges of port engineering at an international level.
- Public administration officials and port authorities interested in planning and developing resilient port infrastructure adapted to climate change.
- Graduates in engineering and related sciences seeking specialized postgraduate training with a practical focus and application of technologies innovative.
Flexibility for your development
Adapted to active professionals: flexible online format, access to multimedia resources and personalized tutoring to boost your career in the port sector.
Objectives and skills
Design and optimize port terminals:
“To evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of projects, considering factors such as capacity, performance, safety and environmental sustainability, with emphasis on optimizing the flow of goods and reducing waiting times.”
Manage and maintain port operations:
“Supervise and coordinate loading and unloading operations, ensuring compliance with safety and efficiency regulations, minimizing downtime and optimizing the flow of goods within the port area.”
Assess and mitigate the port's environmental impact:
“Implement waste and spill management plans, minimizing water and soil pollution, and promoting the circular economy.”
Leading port expansion and modernization projects:
“Define scope, manage budgets and timelines, coordinating multidisciplinary teams and key stakeholders to maximize the efficiency and profitability of investments.”
Develop engineering solutions for port sustainability:
Implement waste management strategies (MARPOL) and energy optimization, evaluating their environmental impact using **modeling tools and life cycle analysis (LCA)**.
Implementing innovative technologies in port management:
Implement an advanced port traffic management system (VTS) with predictive risk analysis and route optimization, integrated with drones for real-time inspection and monitoring.
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals and criteria of structural engineering applied to port infrastructure: international standards, design codes, and best practices.
- Geotechnical characterization of port subsoil: advanced soil analysis methods, cohesive and non-cohesive soils, differential settlement, and bearing capacity.
- Structural design of wharves and breakwaters: material selection, types of structures (piling, sheet piles, gravity walls, riprap breakwaters), and composite systems adapted to harsh marine environments.
- Hydrodynamic analysis and modeling of extreme environmental loads: wave action, storms, currents, sea level variation, and earthquakes in coastal areas.
- Advanced methodologies for the numerical modeling of port structures: use of finite elements, structural dynamics, and simulation of response to critical events.
- Structural optimization based on criteria of
- Strength, durability, and cost-benefit: application of parametric techniques, multi-objective analysis, and life cycle assessment (LCA).
- Integration of protection systems against corrosion and environmental degradation: innovative technologies to extend the service life of structures in aggressive marine environments.
- Structural design and verification under extreme loads: LRFD standards, load factors, safety factors, and probabilistic risk analysis.
- Implementation of smart technologies for monitoring structural behavior: sensors, real-time data acquisition systems, and predictive diagnostics.
- Structural maintenance and rehabilitation management strategies: inspection, damage assessment, intervention planning, and advanced repair technologies.
- Case studies and advanced design projects: critical analysis of real-world examples, comprehensive simulations, and optimization proposals for port infrastructure under extreme conditions.
- Advanced Foundations of Soil Mechanics: Classification, Physical and Mechanical Properties Applied to Port Environments
- Soil-Structure Interaction: Theoretical Principles, Types of Coupling, and Dynamic Behavior in Port Infrastructures
- Numerical Modeling in Geotechnical Engineering: Finite Elements and Finite Differences Applied to Marine Foundations
- Integrated Seismic Analysis: Modeling the Effects of Dynamic Loads and Evaluating Structural Performance in Seismic Coastal Zones
- Simulation of Hydrodynamic Loads: Waves, Currents, and Water Pressure and Their Impact on the Stability of Piles and Piers
- Specialized Software: Practical Implementation on Platforms such as PLAXIS, MIDAS GTS, and Abaqus for Integrated Soil-Structure Analysis
- Evaluation and Design of Deep Foundations: Piles, Plate Piles, and Solutions Hybrid solutions for advanced port infrastructures
- Nonlinear interaction studies: behavior under extreme loads and structural fatigue in aggressive marine environments
- Methodologies for the validation and calibration of numerical models with in-situ data and laboratory tests
- International case studies: detailed analysis of landmark projects applying advanced modeling and simulation techniques
- Fundamentals of port engineering applied to the structural design of docks and breakwaters: analysis of static and dynamic loads
- Advanced numerical modeling: introduction to computational methods and specialized software (CFD, FEM) for hydraulic and structural simulation
- Characterization and modeling of extreme environmental conditions: waves, wind, ocean currents, and climate variability
- Soil-structure interaction analysis: geotechnical studies, deep foundations, and modeling of sediment behavior under dynamic loads
- Optimal design of docks and breakwaters adapted to extreme tidal and severe storm scenarios
- Numerical simulation of wave propagation and its impact on port structures using hydrodynamic modeling techniques
- Structural optimization based on strength, durability, and cost criteria, using advanced algorithms and evaluations Multidisciplinary approaches
- Risk assessment and mitigation associated with extreme weather events: resilience and adaptation strategies in port infrastructure
- Integration of sensors and real-time monitoring systems for the supervision and predictive maintenance of docks and piers
- Case studies and application of international standards (PIANC, ISO, Eurocode) in the design and validation of port structures under extreme conditions
- Fundamentals of structural resilience in port infrastructure: analysis of stresses, deformations, and common pathologies in docks and breakwaters
- Deep foundations: types, design criteria, construction techniques, and selection based on the geotechnical conditions of the ground
- Advanced modeling and characterization of port soil and subsoil: in-situ and laboratory testing, and numerical modeling
- Scour control and protection against hydraulic erosion: methodologies for detection, monitoring, and repair
- Innovative cathodic protection systems: electrochemical principles, design, installation, and maintenance for underwater metallic structures
- Implementation of continuous monitoring technologies: piezometric sensors, inclinometers, accelerometers, and non-destructive techniques applied to port infrastructure
- Digital Twin applied to the comprehensive management of docks and breakwaters: conceptualization, development, data integration, and real-time simulation
- Comprehensive management methodologies to maximize service life and operational safety: predictive maintenance, risk management, and contingency plans
- Case studies: failure analysis, structural rehabilitation, and resilience improvement in internationally recognized port infrastructures
- Applicable international standards and regulations: ISO, PIANC, LRFD, and specific criteria for marine infrastructure with a focus on durability and sustainability
- Integration of artificial intelligence and big data for the optimization of maintenance and rehabilitation based on historical data and future predictions
- Advanced workshop on digital modeling using specialized software (Plaxis, MIDAS, ANSYS) for deep foundation simulation and cathodic protection analysis
- Fundamentals of Port Automation: Definition, Objectives, and Scope in Modern Port Infrastructure
- SCADA and PLC Systems: Architecture, Communication Protocols, and Application in Port Operations Control
- Integration of Advanced Sensors: Key Technologies such as LiDAR, Thermal Imaging Cameras, Environmental Sensors, and IoT Devices for Real-Time Monitoring
- Industrial Communication Networks: Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP/IP, and Their Role in Port Automation
- Big Data and Predictive Analytics: Use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to Optimize Resource Management and Predictive Maintenance in Port Terminals
- Digital Twins in Ports: Design, Implementation, and Simulation for Efficient Infrastructure Management and Decision-Making Based on Dynamic Data
- Intelligent Environmental Monitoring: Control Systems for Air Pollutants, Noise Levels, and Management of Water in port areas
- continues
- Future of automated port management: emerging trends, disruptive technologies, and professional development opportunities
Logistics operation automation: optimizing cargo flow using autonomous vehicles, automated cranes, and global positioning systems (GPS, RTLS)
International protocols and standards for sustainability and security in automated ports (ISO 28000, IMO, IAPH)
Cybersecurity in port infrastructure: strategies, threats, vulnerabilities, and best practices for protecting automated systems and critical data
Case studies: implementation of smart technologies in leading global ports and impact assessment on efficiency and sustainability
Methodologies for evaluating the return on investment in automation and smart monitoring projects in ports
Technology project management: planning, execution, monitoring, and maintenance of advanced systems in port infrastructure
Regulations and standards applicable to technological innovation in the port sector: compliance and adaptation
- Fundamentals of numerical modeling applied to port infrastructure: Navier-Stokes equations, hydrodynamic and sedimentological modeling
- Innovation in materials and construction techniques for docks and breakwaters: advanced concretes, composites, and self-compacting technologies
- Resilient analysis and design of port structures against static and dynamic loads: waves, wind, earthquakes, and port operational loads
- Integrated environmental impact simulation and life cycle assessment in port infrastructure projects using CAE and BIM software
- Implementation of intelligent systems for structural monitoring: IoT sensors, LiDAR technology, and high-precision wireless networks
- Optimization of operational management in docks and breakwaters using artificial intelligence and machine learning: maintenance prediction and resource management
- Advanced methodologies for calibrating and validating numerical models with data from Field and on-site testing
Integration of intelligent control systems for automation and improved safety in port operations
Case studies and real-world applications: optimized design of port structures under extreme conditions and changing operating scenarios
International standards and best practices in technological innovation for port infrastructure: ISO, PIANC, OECD, and environmental guidelines
- Advanced Fundamentals of Port Structures: strength of materials, behavior under dynamic and static loads, stress analysis in piles, piers, and breakwaters.
- Numerical Modeling Applied to Maritime Infrastructure: finite element methods (FEM), finite differences, and finite volumes for structural and hydro-sedimentological simulation.
- Optimization of Structural Design using genetic algorithms, multi-objective optimization, and structural cost reduction techniques without compromising safety and durability.
- Critical Aspects of Structural Resilience: vulnerability analysis to extreme events, fatigue, marine corrosion, and accelerated aging processes.
- Integration of Smart Technologies in Structural Monitoring: IoT sensors, real-time data acquisition systems, and predictive failure analysis using machine learning.
- Advanced Hydraulic and Sedimentological Simulation: Computational modeling for the study of waves, currents, sediment transport, and the stability of beaches and port areas.
Methodologies for environmental impact assessment of port infrastructure, incorporating sustainability criteria and current international regulations.
Design and implementation of intelligent systems for operational optimization: integration of automation in cranes, energy management, and port traffic systems.
Real-world case studies and practical application: analysis of landmark port projects demonstrating the use of advanced techniques in construction and maintenance.
International standards and regulations applicable to port structural design, including specific ISO and PIANC criteria, and recommendations from global maritime organizations.
- Fundamentals of Advanced Port Engineering: Structural and Geotechnical Analysis Applied to Maritime Infrastructure
- Computational Hydrodynamic Modeling: Simulation of Waves, Currents, and Sediment Transport in Port Environments
- Scour Control and Seabed Stability: In-Situ Monitoring Techniques and Predictive Methods Based on Artificial Intelligence
- Design and Optimization of Containment Structures: Piers, Groynes, and Breakwaters with Innovative Materials and Durability Criteria
- Integration of Advanced Sensors and IoT Systems for Real-Time Management of Smart Port Infrastructure
- Implementation of Digital Twins for Simulation, Predictive Maintenance, and Operational Optimization of Ports
- Resilience Strategies for Extreme Events: Climate Models, Hydro-meteorological Risk Management, and Rapid Response Protocols
- International Standards and Certifications Applicable to Port Infrastructure with Focus on sustainability and structural safety
Comprehensive lifecycle management of port infrastructure: planning, execution, supervision, and rehabilitation
Advanced case studies: critical analysis of landmark international projects with the application of digital technologies and scour control
- Fundamentals of Port Engineering: Classification of Quays and Docks, Structural Types, and Primary Functions in Port Operations
- Coastal and Maritime Dynamics: Analysis of Waves, Marine Currents, Sedimentation, and Their Impact on Port Structures
- Advanced Numerical Modeling: Introduction to CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and FEA (Finite Element Analysis) Tools Applied to Port Design
- Load Simulation and Structural Response under Static and Dynamic Conditions, Including Seismic and Naval Maneuvering Impact Analysis
- Optimized Design of Quays and Docks: Selection of Materials, Structural Geometries, and Strength Criteria with an Emphasis on Durability and Maintenance
- Sustainable Technologies for Port Infrastructure: Implementation of Renewable Energy Systems, Carbon Footprint Reduction, and Material Utilization Ecological aspects
- Extreme environmental risk assessment: modeling severe weather events, storm surges, tsunamis, and their influence on infrastructure resilience
- Resilience strategies: adaptive design, mitigation systems, and emergency protocols to ensure operational continuity under adverse conditions
- Integration of smart sensors and real-time monitoring: IoT technologies for the structural and environmental monitoring of docks and piers
- International regulations and standards applicable to the design and construction of port infrastructure, with a focus on structural safety and sustainability
- Comprehensive planning and management of the port infrastructure lifecycle: from conceptual design to operation, maintenance, and decommissioning
- IP case studies: detailed analysis of flagship projects with proven success, lessons learned, and best practices in advanced port engineering
- Specialized tools and software: Hands-on training in applications such as MIKE21, ANSYS, Plaxis, and others for modeling and optimization
- Optimization methodologies based on genetic algorithms, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness in port design
- Operational and logistical considerations of structural design: Impact on maneuverability, safety, and operational capacity of ports
- Foundations and objectives of the final project: definition of scope, sustainability goals, and resilience criteria in port infrastructure
- Comprehensive review of digital technologies applied to ports: IoT, smart sensors, SCADA systems, and advanced automation
- Advanced modeling for port infrastructure: CFD techniques, FEM structural modeling, and hydrodynamic simulation
- Integration of GIS systems with real-time data for dynamic port management and logistics optimization
- Development of digital twins: creation, calibration, and validation for predictive monitoring and preventive maintenance
- Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning for risk analysis, anomaly detection, and operational decision-making
- Mechanisms for the intelligent management of energy resources and reduction of the environmental footprint in port infrastructure
- Strategies to increase resilience to extreme weather events, including adaptive design and early warning systems Early integrated approaches
Methodologies for the multi-criteria evaluation of sustainable performance: KPIs, international standards, and specific regulations
Planning and execution of integrated projects: timelines, resource management, feasibility analysis, and final technical validation
Career prospects
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- Port Infrastructure Designer: Planning, design, and calculation of docks, breakwaters, seawalls, and other maritime structures.
- Project Manager: Comprehensive management of port infrastructure construction or improvement projects, from the design phase to execution and commissioning.
- Port Engineering Consultant: Technical advice on port projects, including feasibility studies, risk analysis, and design optimization.
- Infrastructure Maintenance Manager: Planning and supervision of preventive and corrective maintenance of port facilities, ensuring their operability and safety.
- Hydraulic and Maritime Modeling Specialist: Simulation and analysis of water behavior in port environments to optimize designs and predict environmental impacts.
- Safety Technician Port Engineer: Risk assessment and design of security measures to protect port facilities, people, and goods.
Coastal and Port Engineering Researcher: Development of new methods and technologies for the construction and maintenance of sustainable port infrastructure.
Port Manager: Administration and operation of ports, including capacity planning, traffic management, and service coordination.
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Entry requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Bachelor’s degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering or a related qualification; or proven professional experience on the bridge/in operations.
Language proficiency:
Functional Maritime English (SMCP) recommended for simulations and technical materials.
Documentation:
Updated CV, copy of qualification or seaman’s book, national ID/passport, motivation letter.
Technical requirements (for online):
Device with camera/microphone, stable internet connection, monitor ≥ 24” recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admissions process and dates
Online
application
(form + documents).
Academic review and interview
Admissions decision
Admissions decision
(+ scholarship offer if applicable).
Place reservation
(deposit) and enrolment.
Induction
(access to the virtual campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and financial support
- Advanced Design and Construction: Master the latest techniques in the design, construction, and maintenance of resilient and sustainable port infrastructure.
- Comprehensive Project Management: Acquire crucial skills in the planning, management, and control of port projects, optimizing resources and minimizing risks.
- Simulation and Modeling: Learn to use cutting-edge tools for infrastructure simulation and modeling, enabling informed decision-making and performance optimization.
- Sustainability and Environment: Incorporate environmental sustainability criteria into port design and management, minimizing environmental impact and promoting responsible practices.
- Case Studies and Site Visits Techniques: Apply your knowledge through real-world case studies and visits to port facilities, gaining a practical perspective of the sector. Boost your career and become a leader in port infrastructure engineering.
Testimonials
The Master’s in Port Infrastructure Engineering provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead the redesign of a regional port’s berthing system. Thanks to the concepts I learned about maritime structure design and project management, I was able to optimize the flow of operations, increasing berthing capacity by 15% and reducing waiting times by 20%, which resulted in a significant increase in the port’s efficiency and profitability.
I applied the knowledge I gained in the Master’s program in Port and Coastal Engineering to optimize the design of a new breakwater, reducing construction costs by 15% and improving its wave dissipation efficiency by 20%, thus ensuring the port’s operability even in adverse weather conditions. This earned me recognition from the construction company and a promotion to project manager.
This master’s degree provided me with the necessary tools and knowledge to lead the redesign of the container terminal at the port of Algeciras, optimizing logistics and increasing operational capacity by 15% in the first year.
During my Master’s degree in Port Infrastructure Engineering, I applied my acquired knowledge to the design of a new mooring system for deep-draft vessels, optimizing the port’s operational capacity by 15% and reducing berthing time by an average of 30 minutes per vessel. This project was successfully implemented by a major port company, generating significant savings in operating costs and improving port efficiency.
Frequently asked questions
Port infrastructure engineering
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.
Port sector and maritime industries.
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 University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Foundations and objectives of the final project: definition of scope, sustainability goals, and resilience criteria in port infrastructure
- Comprehensive review of digital technologies applied to ports: IoT, smart sensors, SCADA systems, and advanced automation
- Advanced modeling for port infrastructure: CFD techniques, FEM structural modeling, and hydrodynamic simulation
- Integration of GIS systems with real-time data for dynamic port management and logistics optimization
- Development of digital twins: creation, calibration, and validation for predictive monitoring and preventive maintenance
- Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning for risk analysis, anomaly detection, and operational decision-making
- Mechanisms for the intelligent management of energy resources and reduction of the environmental footprint in port infrastructure
- Strategies to increase resilience to extreme weather events, including adaptive design and early warning systems Early integrated approaches
Methodologies for the multi-criteria evaluation of sustainable performance: KPIs, international standards, and specific regulations
Planning and execution of integrated projects: timelines, resource management, feasibility analysis, and final technical validation
Request information
Complete the Application Form.
Attach your CV/degree certificate (if you have it to hand).
Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you would like the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
An academic advisor will contact you within 24–48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.