Master’s Degree in Urban Planning of Port Cities
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Urban Planning for Port Cities
This program offers comprehensive training for professionals seeking to lead the sustainable and resilient development of these complex environments. You will learn to integrate port activity with the urban fabric, addressing challenges such as infrastructure management, mobility, environmental quality, and social cohesion. This program will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to design innovative strategies that boost competitiveness and quality of life in the port cities of the future.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Urban planning, port engineering, economics, law, and sociology in a single program.
- International Case Studies: Comparative analysis of successful experiences and lessons learned in leading port cities.
- Cutting-Edge Tools: Urban modeling, geographic information systems (GIS), and citizen participation technologies.
- Strategic Networking: Direct contact with industry experts, public administrations, and port companies.
- Applied Master’s Thesis Project: Development of an urban planning proposal for a real port city.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 25-08-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Architects, civil engineers, and urban planners seeking to specialize in the development and revitalization of port areas.
- Maritime and port professionals interested in understanding the interaction between the city and the port to optimize logistics and transportation.
- Public officials and consultants working in the management and planning of cities with port activity and seeking innovative solutions.
- Graduates in geography, economics, and environmental sciences wishing to focus their careers on the sustainability and urban development of port environments.
- Real estate investors and developers interested in urban development projects in port areas and improving their profitability and social value.
Flexibility for professionals
Adapted for working professionals: flexible online format, accessible content 24/7 and networking with experts in the sector at an international level.
Objectives and skills
Design resilient urban development strategies:
“To assess urban vulnerability, identify climate and socioeconomic risks, and integrate nature-based solutions to improve adaptability to future challenges.”
Managing the complexity of the port-city interface:
“Identify relevant actors (authorities, operators, community) and establish effective communication channels for conflict resolution and resource optimization.”
Promoting environmental and economic sustainability in ports:
“Implement waste and energy management strategies to minimize the environmental footprint and optimize port operating costs.”
Leading innovative urban regeneration processes:
“Implement participatory design methodologies and BIM for resource optimization and co-creation of solutions adapted to the local context.”
Optimizing mobility and accessibility in port environments:
“Implement traffic management and signage strategies, considering human factors and assistive technologies to facilitate safe and efficient navigation.”
Promote citizen participation in port planning:
“Design and implement transparent mechanisms for consultation and collaboration with the community, incorporating their perspectives into the development of port policies and projects.”
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of Strategic Design in Port Cities: Analysis of Urban, Maritime, and Logistical Contexts for the Development of Comprehensive Master Plans
- Advanced Models of Territorial Management: Dynamic Zoning, Mixed Uses, and Optimization of Public Space in Port Environments
- Evaluation and Application of Sustainability Methodologies: Environmental, Social, and Economic Indicators Adapted to the Port Reality
- Planning Resilient Infrastructure: Integration of Green Systems, Climate Risk Management, and Adaptation Strategies for Extreme Events
- Smart Mobility and Multimodal Transport: Design and Optimization of Urban and Port Flows with a Focus on Energy Efficiency and Emission Reduction
- Implementation of IoT and Big Data Technologies for Real-Time Monitoring of Resources, Traffic, and Environmental Quality in Port Cities
- Designing inclusive urban spaces with a perspective of social equity and universal accessibility in the maritime-urban environment
- Governance and citizen participation: collaborative models, public policies, and strategic alliances for the co-creation of smart port cities
- Analysis of successful international cases: lessons learned and knowledge transfer in port design and sustainability
- Advanced urban simulation and modeling tools for strategic decision-making in sustainable planning and port urban design
- Fundamentals of Technological Innovation in Port Urban Environments: Evolution and Applications
- Digital Tools for Smart Urban Planning: Advanced GIS, 3D Modeling, and Integrated Information Systems
- Architecture of Smart Port Cities: IoT Sensors, Communication Networks, and Real-Time Management Platforms
- Implementation of Environmental and Maritime Monitoring Systems: Water Quality, Air Quality, and Natural Hazard Detection
- Coastal Resilience: Vulnerability Analysis to Extreme Weather Events and Adaptive Strategies Based on Emerging Technologies
- Computational Models for Simulating Coastal Impacts: Sediment Dynamics, Erosion, and Critical Infrastructure Management
- Integration of Renewable Energies and Sustainable Solutions in Port Urban Design: Energy Efficiency and Carbon Footprint Reduction
- Intelligent Management of Maritime and Land Traffic: Advanced Control Systems and Logistics Optimization through Intelligence artificial
- International regulations and technological standards for smart port cities: compliance and certification
- Case studies: successful implementation of innovative technologies and coastal resilience projects in international ports
- Fundamentals of Sustainable Design in Port Environments: Ecological Principles, Environmental Integration, and Energy Efficiency
- Urban Resilience Models Applied to Port Cities: Systemic Approaches, Vulnerability Analysis, and Adaptive Strategies
- Environmental Impact Assessment in Port Planning: Use of Indicators, Carbon Footprint, and Mitigation
- Technological Innovations for Sustainability: Renewable Energies, Smart Water Management, and Waste Treatment Systems
- Green and Blue-Green Infrastructure: Design and Utility in Microclimatic Improvement and Stormwater Management
- Digitalization of Port Management: Integration of IoT, Big Data, and Real-Time Monitoring Systems for Decision-Making
- Implementation of 5G Technologies and Communication Networks to Optimize Connectivity and Emergency Response
- Integrated Planning for Urban Mobility and Sustainable Logistics: Multimodality, emissions reduction, and operational efficiency
International regulations and sustainability and resilience standards applicable to smart port cities
Global case studies: analysis of leading projects in sustainable and resilient transformations of port cities
Advanced methodologies for the assessment and monitoring of urban technological resilience
Social and economic aspects in sustainable design: inclusion, territorial equity, and green job creation
Strategies for climate risk and natural disaster management: preventive planning and early warning systems
Participatory design and smart governance: citizen involvement and use of collaborative digital platforms
Urban simulation and modeling tools applied to the development of smart port cities
- Fundamentals of Integrated Strategic Planning in Port-City Contexts: Vision, Objectives, and Key Stakeholders
- Multimodal Mobility: Design, Integration, and Optimization of Land, Sea, and Rail Transport Networks
- Advanced Urban Logistics Models for Ports: Flow Management, Congestion Reduction, and Improved Operational Efficiency
- Green Infrastructure and Environmental Resilience: Implementation of Sustainable Systems, Management of Public Spaces, and Mitigation of Climate Impacts
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) Methodologies Applied to Port and Urban Infrastructure Projects: Planning, Design, Execution, and Maintenance
- Internet of Things (IoT) for Smart Ports: Sensors, Automation, Real-Time Monitoring, and Resource Optimization
- Spatial Analysis Tools and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Planning Adaptive Port Cities
- Collaborative governance strategies between port authorities, municipalities, and local communities for integrated development
- International case studies: successful implementation of integrated mobility, logistics, and environmental management models in smart ports
- Impact and sustainability assessment: key indicators for measuring the effectiveness of strategic and adaptive plans in the port-city context
- Conceptualization of the Integrated Management of Port Urban Spaces: Foundations, Scope, and Relevance in Modern Port Cities
- Logistics Optimization: Design and Management of Multimodal Infrastructure, Sequencing of Port Operations, and Intermodal Cargo Flows
- Advanced Territorial Planning Models for the Harmonious Integration of Urban and Port Areas
- Analysis and Application of Emerging Technologies: IoT, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and CPS (Cyber-Physical Systems) in the Monitoring and Control of Port Urban Environments
- Implementation of Strategies for Environmental Sustainability: Waste Management, Water Treatment, Reduction of Pollutant Emissions, and Design of Peri-Port Green Spaces
- Port Smart Cities: Architectures Communication and integrated platforms for the intelligent management of urban resources and services in port areas.
Assessment and mitigation of environmental and social impacts through life cycle assessment (LCA) and approaches based on urban resilience.
Land use planning and inter-institutional coordination for the sustainable development of port areas with a focus on adaptability and future expansion.
Application of GIS and remote sensing techniques in dynamic mapping and the spatial-temporal monitoring of port urban transformations.
International regulations and standards for port urban management: integration of security, environmental protection, and economic development policies.
Simulation models and predictive analysis to optimize operational efficiency and the management of maritime and land traffic in port centers.
Participatory management and methodologies for the incorporation of social actors and the private sector in urban planning. Port Areas
Economic and Financial Evaluation of Port Urban Projects: Tools for Long-Term Viability, Profitability, and Sustainability
Impact of Climate Change and Adaptation Strategies for Port Urban Spaces Vulnerable to Extreme Events and Climate Variability
International Case Studies and Best Practices in the Integrated Management of Smart Port Urban Spaces
- Fundamentals of Sustainable Design Applied to Port Cities: Ecological Principles, Energy Efficiency, and Green Urbanism
- Integration of Smart Infrastructure: IoT, Environmental Sensors, and SCADA Systems for Real-Time Port Management
- Modeling and Simulation of Urban Resilience: Advanced Techniques for Risk Assessment in the Face of Natural and Man-Made Phenomena
- Climate Adaptation Strategies: Mitigating the Impacts of Sea Level Rise, Storms, and Extreme Events
- Integrated Water and Waste Management: Circular Systems for Reuse, Treatment, and Minimization of Pollutants
- Optimization of Multimodal Transport: Design of Logistics Corridors, Last-Mile Delivery, and Connections with Urban Hinterlands
- Regeneration and Revitalization of Port Public Spaces: Criteria of Accessibility, Inclusivity, and Improvement of Urban Quality of Life
- Implementation of Technologies Disruptive technologies: Artificial intelligence, big data, and blockchain for transparency and efficiency in port governance
International and local regulations: Environmental compliance, operational safety, and sustainable development standards
Participatory strategic planning: Methods for incorporating public and private stakeholders and communities in the co-creation of adaptive port cities
- Fundamentals of Technological Innovation in the Port Urban Sector: Definition, Areas of Application, and Emerging Trends
- Smart Infrastructure: IoT Sensors, SCADA Systems for Real-Time Control and Monitoring of Critical Port Networks
- Advanced Data Management Models for Port Cities: Big Data, Machine Learning, and Predictive Analytics Applied to Urban Planning
- Sustainable Mobility and Multimodal Connectivity: Integration of Maritime, Land, and Rail Transport with Clean Technologies and Smart Management Systems
- Urban Resilience Strategies Against Climate Threats: Adaptive Infrastructure Design and Early Warning Systems Based on Artificial Intelligence
- Efficient Management of Water and Energy Resources: Technologies for Optimizing Consumption and Reducing the Environmental Footprint in Port Areas
- Digital Platforms for Citizen Participation: Collaborative Tools and Open Governance in City Development Sustainable Ports
- International Standards and Regulations applied to technological innovation and sustainability in port urban planning
- Success stories and pilot projects: detailed analysis of smart and resilient port cities around the world
- Development and application of urban sustainability indicators specific to port environments: evaluation and measurement of the impact of innovative technologies
Advanced Models of Governance and Sustainable Development in the Urban Planning of Smart Port Cities
- Theoretical Foundations of Urban Governance in Smart Port Cities: Definitions, Evolution, and Contemporary Models
- International, National, and Local Legal and Regulatory Framework Applicable to Urban Port Governance
- Integrated Planning Instruments: Strategic, Territorial, and Environmental Planning in the Port Context
- Analysis of Actors and Governance Networks: Public-Private Partnerships, the Port Community, and Advanced Citizen Participation
- Advanced Methodologies for Collaborative and Multi-Scale Management in Urban-Port Projects
- Indicators and Metrics for Evaluating Social, Economic, and Environmental Sustainability in Port Cities
- Financing Models and the Circular Economy Applied to Sustainable Urban-Port Development
- Technological Innovation in Governance: IoT, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Their Integration into Port Planning and Management
- Design and Management of Public Policies Oriented Towards Resilience
- Climate change and environmental adaptation in coastal urban environments
- International case studies of smart port cities: analysis of successful strategies and lessons learned
- Advanced tools for simulating and modeling the social, economic, and environmental impact of port urban interventions
- Planning and governance of multifunctional spaces for optimizing port land use in urban contexts
- Governance mechanisms for security and risk management in smart port cities
- Continuous evaluation and monitoring using emerging technologies for adaptive improvement in port urban governance
- The role of urban diplomacy and international cooperation in the sustainable development of smart port cities
- Fundamentals of technological innovation applied to port cities: trends in automation, digitalization, and smart city frameworks
- Advanced models of urban sustainability: environmental impact assessment, circular economy, and water resource management in port environments
- Adaptive urban resilience: strategies for mitigating climate risks, sea-level rise, and extreme events in coastal cities
- Integration of cyber-physical systems in the comprehensive management of port infrastructure and its link to urban logistics
- Design and application of key performance indicators (KPIs) for smart port cities focused on sustainability and resilience
- Evaluation of public policies and regulatory frameworks to promote sustainable innovation in port urban planning
- Energy optimization through renewable technologies and
- Integrated energy efficiency solutions within the urban-port ecosystem
- Advanced data analysis methodologies and big data for decision-making in the planning and operation of port cities
- Integrated management of public space and sustainable mobility: intermodal networks, smart transport, and reduction of polluting emissions
- Development of citizen participation and collaborative governance programs to strengthen community resilience in smart port cities
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Fundamentals: architectures, spatial data models, geospatial databases, and international standards
- Big Data applied to port urban planning: massive data sources, real-time processing techniques, predictive analytics, and its integration with urban models
- Advanced urban modeling: 3D simulation, population dynamics analysis, and modeling of logistics and traffic flows in port environments
- Methodologies for integrating GIS and Big Data into urban planning decision-making: frameworks, interoperability, and digital platforms
- Urban resilience in port cities: assessment of natural (floods, tsunamis, storms) and anthropogenic risks;
- Adaptive strategies and mitigation based on geospatial data
- Design and execution of integrated projects: territorial planning, smart and sustainable port infrastructure supported by geospatial technologies and big data analytics
- Spatial multi-criteria analysis for the optimization of land use and environmental management at the port-city interface
- Advanced tools for real-time monitoring and evaluation of urban variables: IoT sensors, remote sensing, and geospatial visualization platforms
- International case studies: practical application of GIS-Big Data integration in resilient port urban planning and management
- Final project: design of a port urban plan that incorporates geographic information systems, big data analysis, and urban modeling to maximize resilience, functionality, and sustainability
Career prospects
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- Urban planner specializing in port areas: design and management of urban development projects that integrate the city and the port.
- Port urban development consultant: advising public administrations and private companies on the planning and management of port areas.
- Urban regeneration project manager in port areas: leadership and coordination of projects to revitalize degraded port areas.
- Technician in public administrations with port planning responsibilities: preparation of urban development plans, environmental impact studies, and management of permits in port areas.
- Specialist in urban mobility and transport in port environments: design of sustainable mobility solutions that integrate the port into the urban transport network.
- Port urban planning researcher: development of academic research on the Challenges and opportunities of urban planning in port cities.
- Urban sustainability expert in port areas: Implementation of strategies to reduce the environmental impact of port activities and promote sustainable urban development.
- Land management manager in port areas: Administration and management of real estate assets in port areas, optimizing their use and profitability.
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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
- Develop innovative strategies for the urban planning and management of port cities.
- Master tools for territorial analysis, urban design, and project management, adapted to complex port environments.
- Learn to address the challenges of mobility, sustainability, and economic development in cities with port activity.
- Connect with experts and professionals in the sector, expanding your network and career opportunities.
- Boost your professional career in the field of urban and port planning, with a practical and applied approach.
Testimonials
This master’s degree provided me with the necessary tools to lead the revitalization project for my city’s waterfront. By applying the knowledge I gained in strategic planning, logistics, and sustainable development, we successfully integrated the port with the city, creating new public spaces, attracting private investment, and improving the quality of life for residents. The project’s success has been recognized nationally, making it a model for other port cities.
During my Master’s degree in Port and Coastal Engineering, I developed a coastal erosion prediction model using machine learning techniques. This model was validated with real data and subsequently implemented by a local consulting firm, achieving a 95% accuracy in predicting the evolution of the coastline over a five-year period. This project earned me the award for best Master’s thesis and led to my current position as a coastal engineer.
This Master’s degree provided me with the necessary tools to lead the ambitious project to revitalize our city’s port. Applying the knowledge I gained in strategic planning, coastal resource management, and sustainable development, we transformed a deteriorated industrial area into a vibrant public space, integrating commercial, residential, and recreational activities with the maritime heritage, which boosted tourism and the local economy.
Applying the knowledge acquired in the Master in Urban Planning of Port Cities allowed me to lead the redesign of our city’s waterfront, successfully integrating the needs of the port with vibrant and accessible public spaces, resulting in a 30% increase in tourist activity and a 15% increase in the creation of new local jobs.
Frequently asked questions
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.
In the comprehensive planning of cities that have a port.
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.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Fundamentals: architectures, spatial data models, geospatial databases, and international standards
- Big Data applied to port urban planning: massive data sources, real-time processing techniques, predictive analytics, and its integration with urban models
- Advanced urban modeling: 3D simulation, population dynamics analysis, and modeling of logistics and traffic flows in port environments
- Methodologies for integrating GIS and Big Data into urban planning decision-making: frameworks, interoperability, and digital platforms
- Urban resilience in port cities: assessment of natural (floods, tsunamis, storms) and anthropogenic risks;
- Adaptive strategies and mitigation based on geospatial data
- Design and execution of integrated projects: territorial planning, smart and sustainable port infrastructure supported by geospatial technologies and big data analytics
- Spatial multi-criteria analysis for the optimization of land use and environmental management at the port-city interface
- Advanced tools for real-time monitoring and evaluation of urban variables: IoT sensors, remote sensing, and geospatial visualization platforms
- International case studies: practical application of GIS-Big Data integration in resilient port urban planning and management
- Final project: design of a port urban plan that incorporates geographic information systems, big data analysis, and urban modeling to maximize resilience, functionality, and sustainability
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.