Master’s Degree in Global Security and Law of the Sea (UN/IMO)
Why this master’s programme?
The Master in Global Security and Law of the Sea (UN/IMO)
Offers a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the international maritime arena. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the program explores the intersection of international law, maritime security, ocean governance, and UN/IMO policies. Gain the tools necessary to analyze and address the complex issues affecting the oceans, from piracy and maritime terrorism to climate change and the sustainable exploitation of marine resources.
Differential Advantages
- UN/IMO Focus: Access specialized knowledge on the regulatory frameworks and initiatives of leading international organizations.
- Global Perspective: Analyze case studies and real-world scenarios from different regions of the world.
- Skills Development: Strengthen your critical analysis, negotiation, and problem-solving skills in the maritime context.
- Networking: Connect with experts, professionals, and colleagues from diverse areas of the maritime sector.
- Career Opportunities: Expand your career horizons in international organizations, governments, companies, and NGOs.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 25-08-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Law, International Relations, and Political Science professionals interested in specializing in maritime governance and global security.
- Navy, Coast Guard, and Maritime Authority officers seeking to deepen their understanding of international regulations and emerging challenges in the maritime field.
- Consultants and advisors in maritime security and the law of the sea who wish to update their knowledge and expand their professional network.
- UN and international organization officials related to global security and the oceans seeking specialized and up-to-date knowledge.
- Researchers and academics in international law, security, and maritime studies seeking training Advanced and a practical approach.
Flexibility and applicability
Online and part-time training: allows compatibility with professional responsibilities, with 24/7 accessible materials and a focus on practical application in the sector.
Objectives and skills
Designing resilient maritime strategies in the face of transnational threats:
“Develop contingency plans that involve interagency (navy, coast guard, customs) and international collaboration, prioritizing early detection and coordinated response to illicit activities in the EEZ.”
Implement international legal frameworks for maritime security:
“Implement the SOLAS Convention and its amendments, ensuring compliance with safety standards, pollution prevention and maritime security, coordinating with port authorities and coast guards.”
Managing complex maritime crises with a multilateral approach:
“Implement predefined contingency plans and international communication protocols, adapting them to the specific situation and coordinating SAR resources.”
Lead maritime security operations in accordance with international law:
“Plan and execute maritime patrols, applying international legislation on safety and rescue, and coordinating effectively with port authorities and naval forces.”
Assessing and mitigating risks in the maritime supply chain:
Implement contingency plans for cyberattacks and port delays, ensuring operational continuity through diversification of suppliers and cargo insurance.
Promote international cooperation for the protection of the marine environment:
“Actively participate in international agreements and conventions, implementing environmental management practices that minimize pollution and protect marine biodiversity, fostering collaboration between countries and organizations to address shared environmental challenges.”
Study plan – Modules
- International regulatory framework for maritime security: SOLAS, MARPOL, and UNCLOS Conventions and their impact on global governance
- In-depth analysis of maritime defense strategies: concepts of deterrence, prevention, and rapid response in high-risk scenarios
- Assessment of emerging maritime threats: piracy, terrorism, illicit trafficking, and sabotage on international waterways
- Design and implementation of national and international policies for the protection of critical maritime infrastructure
- Multilateral cooperation and coordination mechanisms among coastal states, the UN, the IMO, and other specialized agencies
- Use and advanced management of maritime surveillance and monitoring technologies: coastal radar, satellites, AIS systems, and drones
- Maritime risk analysis models and strategic planning for the mitigation of security incidents
- Integrated maritime security operations: planning, execution, and evaluation under hybrid and Cyber threats
Legal and operational framework in maritime conflict situations: rules of engagement, neutrality, and application of International Humanitarian Law
Case studies and crisis management simulations in global maritime security: lessons learned and development of effective protocols
- Conceptualization of maritime risks: identification, analysis, and assessment in oceanic and coastal environments
- International regulatory framework: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), IMO conventions, and maritime security protocols
- Advanced methodologies for integrated risk management: probabilistic models, vulnerability analysis, and combined risk scenarios
- Legal protection in strategic marine areas: delimitation of exclusive economic zones (EEZs), continental shelves, and protected areas under international law
- Inter-institutional coordination and multinational cooperation for emergency management and rapid response to maritime accidents and pollution
- Assessment of specific threats: piracy, maritime terrorism, illicit trafficking of goods and people, and cyberattacks on naval infrastructure
- Design and implementation of mitigation strategies: security protocols, contingency plans, and preventive measures based on International Best Practices
Technological Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: Integration of Satellites, AIS, Coastal Radars, and Maritime Surveillance Platforms for Risk Management
Legal Impacts and Liabilities in Serious Maritime Incidents: Analysis of Jurisdiction, Claims Procedures, and International Arbitration
Due Diligence, Compliance, and Audits in Maritime Safety: Mechanisms to Ensure Conformity with International and National Standards in Operations on the High Seas
- Foundations and Evolution of Sustainable Maritime Policies: historical analysis, guiding principles, and their impact on global ocean governance.
- International Legal Framework Applicable to the Law of the Sea: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), IMO treaties, multilateral agreements, and their practical application in maritime security.
- Design and Implementation of Maritime Public Policy Strategies: identification of key stakeholders, assessment of geopolitical and environmental risks in strategic maritime areas.
- Legal and Regulatory Instruments for the Defense of Strategic Maritime Areas: national jurisdiction, Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), continental shelves, and their international regulation.
- Sustainability Assessment in the Exploitation of Marine Resources: impact assessment techniques, conservation indicators, and environmental mitigation mechanisms.
- Integrated Management of Areas
- Protected marine areas
: technical criteria for delimitation, surveillance, and control based on international standards and bilateral or regional agreements. - Use of advanced technologies for sustainable maritime monitoring and surveillance: satellite systems, coastal radar, drones, and patrol automation.
- Prevention of and response to threats to maritime domain: legal and operational analysis of piracy, illicit trafficking, pollution, and international conflicts on the high seas.
- Optimization of international cooperation in maritime security through multilateral mechanisms and specialized forums (UN, IMO, IMO).
- Case studies: detailed analysis of international conflicts and agreements on critical maritime areas, with a focus on peaceful resolution and international humanitarian law at sea.
- Fundamentals of Global Maritime Security: Key Actors, Emerging Threats, and Regulatory Evolution
- International Legal Framework: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), UN Resolutions, and IMO Conventions
- Governance and Intergovernmental Cooperation: UN, IMO, MSC Structures, and Mechanisms for Coordination in International Maritime Control
- Maritime Defense Operations: Strategic Planning, Deployment of Naval Forces, and Conflict Scenarios in Critical Maritime Areas
- Analysis of and Response to Hybrid Threats: Cyberattacks, Maritime Terrorism, Piracy, Illicit Trafficking, and Maritime Manipulations
- Application of Technologies in Maritime Surveillance: Satellites, AIS Systems, Underwater Sensors, and Unmanned Platforms
- Protection of Critical Infrastructure: Oil Pipelines Submarines, communications cables, and strategic ports in the global context
Multidisciplinary case studies: conflict in the Crimean Peninsula, disputes in the South China Sea, and anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden
Integration of multinational capabilities and strategic alliances for global maritime security
Development of protocols and contingency plans for emergencies at sea, from oil spills to accidents with transnational impact
- Evolution and Foundations of Maritime Surveillance Technologies: History, Operational Needs, and Global Strategic Environment
- Maritime and Aerial Drones: Classification, Technical Capabilities, Autonomy, Onboard Sensors, and Applications in Patrol and Rapid Response
- Satellite Platforms for Maritime Monitoring: Types of Satellites (LEO, MEO, GEO), Remote Sensors, Optical Imaging, and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)
- Automated Systems and Artificial Intelligence: Integration of Machine Learning for Target Detection, Tracking, and Classification in Maritime Areas
- Secure Communication Networks and Protocols for Surveillance Systems: SATCOM, VHF, AIS, and Their Interoperability in Multijurisdictional Environments
- Applicable International Regulations: Requirements of the ISPS Code, SOLAS Convention, International Agreement on Maritime Control and Surveillance (FONASBA, IMO), and the Regulatory Framework of the UN Law of the Sea
Command, Control, and Coordination (C3) Systems for Joint Operations: Platform Integration, Information Flows, and Real-Time Decision Making
Case Studies and Incident Studies: Detection of Illicit Activities, Counter-Piracy Operations, Environmental Protection, and Security of Critical Offshore Infrastructure
Technical and Operational Challenges: Interference, Weather Conditions, Limitations in Remote Areas, and Mitigation Strategies
Future and Technological Trends: Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Drone Swarms, and Advances in Cybersecurity Applied to Maritime Surveillance Systems
- Fundamentals of Comprehensive Maritime Security: Definitions, Scope of Application, and Regulatory Evolution in the Global Context of the UN and IMO
- International Legal Framework: SOLAS, UNCLOS, and MARPOL Conventions and their Implications for Maritime Security Management
- Delegation and Structure of International Organizations: Functions, Competencies, and Coordination between the UN, IMO, INTERPOL, and Regional Agencies
- Strategic Processes for Maritime Risk and Threat Analysis: Assessment, Categorization, and Mitigation in International Scenarios
- Technologies for Maritime Surveillance and Security: Satellite Radar Systems, AIS, VMS, and their Integration into Command and Control Platforms
- Implementation of the ISPS Code and its Relationship with National Security Policies and the Prevention of Illicit Acts in Ports and Waterways
- Protocols for Comprehensive Incident Response
Maritime: Inter-institutional coordination, resource mobilization, and unified command
Technological management models applied to real-time monitoring and control of marine protected areas and critical traffic zones
Analysis of case studies and relevant jurisprudence: counterterrorism operations, international rescues, and conflict resolution on the high seas
Development of advanced skills for strategic maritime security planning aligned with UN/IMO regulations and international compliance standards
- Fundamentals of strategic planning in maritime security: definitions, objectives, and scope
- Analysis of threats and risks in strategic marine areas: quantitative and qualitative methodologies
- Assessment of the geopolitical and geostrategic context in global maritime security
- Applicable international regulations: UN Conventions on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), IMO, and other multilateral entities
- Legal instruments for the protection of marine protected areas (MPAs) and sensitive navigation corridors
- Design and implementation of public policies and operational plans for maritime surveillance and environmental protection
- Inter-institutional coordination and international cooperation: integration mechanisms among coastal states, maritime agencies, and international organizations
- Implementation of surveillance and control technologies: AIS systems, satellites, remote sensors, and maritime drones
- Crisis management and incident response: protocols, drills, and tools for real-time decision-making
Monitoring and evaluation of strategic plans: performance indicators, technical reports, and compliance audits
Technical aspects of maritime delimitation regimes and their impact on strategic security planning
Protection against hybrid and unconventional threats: piracy, maritime terrorism, illicit trafficking, and deliberate pollution
Practical application of international regulations in maritime jurisdiction and sovereignty: exclusive economic zones, continental shelves, and international areas
Mechanisms for the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes and their influence on strategic maritime security
Case studies and comparative analysis of successful strategic plans in global maritime security
- Fundamentals of International Maritime Safety Law: UNCLOS, SOLAS, MARPOL, and their strategic application
- UN and IMO Safety Protocols: detailed analysis of the Regulatory Framework and its impact on operational management
- Methodology for the practical implementation of international standards in critical marine areas: risk assessment and mitigation
- Standardized procedures for maritime surveillance and control: inter-institutional coordination and deployment of technological resources
- Advanced application of international instruments for the prevention of marine pollution and protection of sensitive ecosystems
- Integration of remote monitoring and AIS systems with inspection protocols in ports and areas of high strategic value
- Development of operational manuals based on UN/IMO regulations for rapid response teams in maritime incidents
- Implementation of contingency plans and crisis management in accordance with standards International: Drills, Communication, and Reporting
Document Management and Regulatory Compliance Audits: Ensuring Quality and Operational Credibility in Government and Private Organizations
Case Studies and Forensic Analysis of Maritime Incidents that Reinforce the Application of International Law in Global Security
- International Regulatory Framework: Comprehensive analysis of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), key IMO conventions, and UN resolutions applicable to maritime security and environmental protection.
- Advanced Technologies for Maritime Surveillance: Integration of state-of-the-art radars, satellite AIS systems, and electro-optical and infrared sensors for early detection and real-time monitoring of threats in strategic marine areas.
- Design and Implementation of Marine Protected Areas: Technical and legal criteria for the delimitation and sustainable management of Strategic Marine Areas (SMAs) under international standards, including biological corridors and national defense areas.
- Integrated Maritime Defense Strategies: Development of combined operational plans that incorporate naval capabilities, multilateral cooperation, and the use of unmanned technologies (UAVs and underwater drones) for deterrence and rapid response to violations.
- Risk and Threat Management Hybrid systems: identification, classification, and mitigation of risks including marine pollution, piracy, illicit trafficking, illegal fishing, and terrorist activities in areas regulated by UN/IMO regulations.
Command and control (C2) systems applied to global maritime security: organizational structures for interagency and international coordination, real-time communication protocols, and the use of digital platforms for strategic decision-making.
Application of artificial intelligence and big data in the monitoring of marine areas: analytical methods for processing massive amounts of data from maritime sources, predicting behavioral patterns, and anticipating risk events.
Maritime incident response protocols: standardized procedures for managing maritime crises, rescue, environmental emergencies, and international cooperation under the SOLAS and ISPS regulatory frameworks.
Technical training for maritime operators: specialized programs in the use of advanced systems, tactical simulators, and virtual scenarios for the effective preparation of security teams. in strategic maritime areas.
- Assessment and auditing of regulatory compliance: design of mechanisms and tools for monitoring, inspection, and reporting in accordance with UN/IMO standards, ensuring the integrity and sustainability of protected areas.
- Comprehensive Analysis of the International Legal Framework: UN Conventions, IMO Conventions, and Complementary Treaties Applicable to Global Security and the Law of the Sea
- Normative Integration of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and its Application in Strategic Maritime Areas
- International Mechanisms for the Prevention and Resolution of Conflicts in Disputed Maritime Zones and Areas of High Geopolitical Sensitivity
- Risk and Threat Assessment in the Maritime Domain: Piracy, Maritime Terrorism, Illicit Trafficking, and Pollution
- Design and Implementation of Transnational Strategies to Strengthen Maritime Security and Compliance with the Law of the Sea
- Advanced Study of the Competencies and Functions of Multilateral Organizations: UN, IMO, ISPS, and their Operational Coordination
- Development A multidisciplinary approach to the protection and monitoring of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and strategic maritime corridors.
Practical application of legal protocols in maritime crisis management and combined security operations.
Methodologies for the development of the Master’s Thesis: document integration, critical analysis, and defense of legal and operational projects in global security.
Presentation, evaluation, and defense of the applied project in simulated scenarios that reflect the complexity of legal and strategic integration at the international level.
Career prospects
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- Global Maritime Security Consultant: Risk assessment, design, and implementation of security plans for port facilities and vessels.
- Maritime Intelligence Analyst: Information gathering and analysis for the prevention and detection of threats in the maritime environment.
- Law of the Sea Specialist: Legal advice on maritime space delimitation, fishing, navigation, and marine environmental protection.
- International Organizations Officer (UN, IMO): Participation in the development and application of maritime conventions and regulations at the global level.
- International Cooperation Project Manager: Design and implementation of projects for the development and strengthening of maritime security in developing countries.
- Maritime Security and Law of the Sea Researcher: Development of studies and analyses on the challenges and issues of the maritime environment.
- Maritime Policy Advisor: Developing proposals and recommendations for improving maritime legislation and public policies.
- Security Manager in Maritime Sector Companies: Managing security in shipping, port, or maritime service companies.
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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
- Specialization: Gain a comprehensive understanding of global security and the law of the sea, with a focus on UN and IMO regulations.
- Global Perspective: Analyze maritime challenges from a geopolitical, economic, and legal perspective worldwide.
- Professional Development: Boost your career in international organizations, public administration, or the private sector with cutting-edge training.
- Networking: Connect with maritime experts and professionals through our global network of collaborators.
- Practical Tools: Acquire skills and knowledge applicable to conflict resolution and ocean security management.
Testimonials
This Master’s degree provided me with the necessary tools to lead an international project for the protection of critical maritime infrastructure. I applied my acquired knowledge of the law of the sea and global security to develop a regulatory framework that was adopted by several nations, significantly improving security in the region and enhancing my professional prospects.
After completing a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and International Maritime Relations, I secured a position as a policy analyst at an international organization dedicated to ocean governance. I applied my acquired knowledge of maritime law, international negotiations, and conflict resolution to real-world situations, directly contributing to policy formulation for the protection of marine ecosystems and the sustainable management of ocean resources.
“This master’s degree provided me with a deep and holistic understanding of global maritime security. I applied the knowledge I gained about the law of the sea and ocean governance in my work at [Organization/Company], making a significant impact on the protection of critical infrastructure and the mitigation of risks in the maritime domain. The geopolitical analysis skills and international perspective I acquired were crucial to the success of [Project/Initiative], enabling me to lead the development of new security strategies and collaborate effectively with international actors.”
This master’s degree provided me with the necessary tools to understand and address current challenges in maritime security. I applied the knowledge I gained to the negotiation of an international agreement on piracy, achieving consensus among countries with divergent interests and contributing significantly to the protection of maritime trade in the region.
Frequently asked questions
UN and IMO (International Maritime Organization).
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.
The UN (United Nations) and the IMO (International Maritime Organization).
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.
- Comprehensive Analysis of the International Legal Framework: UN Conventions, IMO Conventions, and Complementary Treaties Applicable to Global Security and the Law of the Sea
- Normative Integration of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and its Application in Strategic Maritime Areas
- International Mechanisms for the Prevention and Resolution of Conflicts in Disputed Maritime Zones and Areas of High Geopolitical Sensitivity
- Risk and Threat Assessment in the Maritime Domain: Piracy, Maritime Terrorism, Illicit Trafficking, and Pollution
- Design and Implementation of Transnational Strategies to Strengthen Maritime Security and Compliance with the Law of the Sea
- Advanced Study of the Competencies and Functions of Multilateral Organizations: UN, IMO, ISPS, and their Operational Coordination
- Development A multidisciplinary approach to the protection and monitoring of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and strategic maritime corridors.
Practical application of legal protocols in maritime crisis management and combined security operations.
Methodologies for the development of the Master’s Thesis: document integration, critical analysis, and defense of legal and operational projects in global security.
Presentation, evaluation, and defense of the applied project in simulated scenarios that reflect the complexity of legal and strategic integration at the international level.
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.