Master in Underwater Robotics (ROVs and AUVs)
Why this master’s programme?
The Master in Underwater Robotics (ROVs and AUVs)
This program prepares you to lead the next generation of ocean explorers. Master the design, operation, and maintenance of remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), key tools for scientific research, the offshore industry, and the inspection of submerged infrastructure. This intensive program provides you with a solid foundation in engineering, robotics, and oceanography, combined with hands-on experience in advanced simulators and with real equipment. You will learn to program, navigate, and troubleshoot in complex underwater environments, acquiring the skills necessary to drive innovation in this constantly growing field.
Differential Advantages
- Development of Real Projects: Design, construction, and operation of ROVs/AUVs in simulated and real missions.
- Cutting-Edge Software and Hardware: Training in the latest tools and technologies on the market.
- Expert Faculty: Instructors with extensive experience in the marine industry and research.
- Professional Networking: Connections with leading companies in the underwater robotics sector.
- Professional Certification: Obtain a recognized certification that will open doors to the job market.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 26-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Engineers, technicians, and scientists who wish to specialize in the design, operation, and maintenance of ROVs and AUVs.
- Offshore professionals (oil, gas, renewable energy) seeking to optimize underwater inspections, repairs, and operations.
- Marine biologists, oceanographers, and underwater archaeologists who need advanced tools for exploration, research, and documentation in the marine environment.
- Engineering, robotics, or marine science students aspiring to a cutting-edge career in underwater robotics.
- R&D managers in technology companies interested in innovating in systems development Autonomous devices for underwater applications.
Flexibility and specialization: Master’s degree with distance learning options, hands-on projects with real equipment, and a focus on the latest technologies in the sector.
Objectives and skills
Mastering the operation and maintenance of ROVs and AUVs:
“Perform inspections, repairs and adjustments on mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and control systems, ensuring operability and safety.”
Develop and implement innovative robotic solutions for underwater inspection and repair:
“Designing modular and adaptable robotic systems, integrating advanced sensors and precise manipulation tools to optimize efficiency and safety in complex underwater environments.”
Managing underwater robotics projects, from conception to delivery:
“Define scope, budget and timeline, coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing technical and logistical risks to ensure the achievement of objectives.”
Interpret data and generate detailed technical reports:
“Use statistical analysis tools and data visualization software to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies, communicating findings clearly and concisely through customized technical reports for different audiences.”
Design control and navigation systems for ROVs and AUVs:
Implement robust control algorithms and inertial/acoustic navigation systems by fusing sensor data to ensure accuracy and stability in challenging underwater environments.
Adapting and applying underwater robotics technologies to diverse environments and needs:
“Select appropriate ROVs/AUVs, integrating specific sensors and tools for underwater inspection, repair or mapping, optimizing the efficiency and safety of the operation.”
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Control: Principles of Underwater Dynamics and Mathematical Modeling Applied to ROVs and AUVs
- Propulsion and Maneuverability Systems: Design, Vector Control, Redundancy, and Energy Optimization in High-Pressure, Low-Temperature Environments
- Advanced Control Architectures: PID, Adaptive, Predictive, and AI-Based Control for Stabilization and Autonomous Navigation
- Sensor-Actuator Integration: Sensor Fusion of Sonar, DVL, INS, Multispectral Cameras, and Acoustic Sensors for Environmental Awareness and Relative Positioning
- Navigation and Location Algorithms in GPS-Denied Systems: Underwater SLAM, Inertial Navigation, and Acoustic Signal Correction
- Underwater Communication Protocols: Acoustic, Optical, and Electromagnetic Techniques, Modulation, Bandwidth Limitations, and
- Real-time latency
- Design and operation of remote and semi-autonomous control systems: control stations, human-machine interfaces, and robust telemetry systems for harsh environments
- Operational safety and fault management: detection, diagnosis, and recovery from hardware and software failures in remote operating environments
- Strategies for operation in extreme environments: adaptation to high pressure, corrosion, turbulence, ocean currents, and reduced visibility
- International regulations and standards applicable to the operation of unmanned underwater vehicles: certifications, safety protocols, and environmental management
- Advanced simulation and virtual environments for training in the control and operation of ROVs and AUVs in complex and hazardous scenarios
- Case studies and mission analysis: planning, execution, monitoring, and post-processing of operational data in real-world inspection, intervention, and exploration missions underwater
- Advanced Fundamentals of Autonomous Navigation: Kinematics and Dynamics of ROVs and AUVs in Submarine Environments
- Modular Design of Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) and Their Integration with GNSS Units for Accuracy and Robustness at Depth
- Sensor Fusion Algorithms: Extended Kalman, Particle Filters, and Neural Networks for Precise Position and Orientation Estimation
- Hydrodynamic Models and Predictive Control for Real-Time Trajectory Adjustment in Response to Currents and Oceanic Disturbances
- Software Architecture for Autonomous Systems: Middleware, ROS Frameworks, and Adaptive Underwater Communications
- Implementation and Optimization of SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) Algorithms in Low-Visibility and Limited-Communication Environments
- Route Planning and Pathfinding in 3D Spaces Using A*, D*, and Heuristic Techniques to Avoid Dynamic Obstacles and static
- Mission protocols and fault management: redundancy, recovery, and autonomous decision-making in contingencies
- Human-machine interface for semi-autonomous control: advanced telemetry design and remote monitoring systems
- Simulation and validation of navigation software using digital environments and testing on real experimental benches
- Fundamentals of control systems for underwater vehicles: classical and modern theory applied to ROVs and AUVs
- Architecture and design of autonomous control systems: mathematical models, PID controllers, LQR, and adaptive control
- Sensors and actuators in underwater environments: integration of IMUs, gyroscopes, accelerometers, DVL, pressure sensors, and sonar
- Fusion of sensor data for precise navigation: extended Kalman techniques, particle filters, and robust estimation algorithms
- Advanced autonomous navigation algorithms: underwater SLAM, image-based navigation, and acoustic reference localization
- Trajectory control and maneuvering in dynamic conditions: compensation for currents, turbulence, and hydrodynamic disturbances
- Implementation of inertial navigation and underwater GNSS systems: challenges and solutions in signal-limited or null
- Mission planning strategies: optimal route generation, obstacle avoidance, and real-time adaptation to changing conditions
- Redundancy and fault tolerance in control systems: design for high reliability and operational safety
- Advanced simulation and testing in virtual environments: marine dynamics modeling for validation of control and navigation algorithms
- Real-time communication protocols for autonomous control: acoustic link, RF, and underwater networking
- Practical implementation on commercial and research platforms: case studies and performance analysis in ROVs and AUVs
- Regulations and standards applicable to underwater control systems: certifications, safety, and technical compliance
- Future perspectives in autonomous control and navigation: artificial intelligence, machine learning, and full underwater autonomy
- Fundamentals of hydrodynamic propulsion in underwater environments: principles of fluid dynamics, drag, and lift applied to ROVs and AUVs
- Design and architecture of propulsion systems: comparative analysis between conventional and advanced propulsion systems, selection of multidirectional impellers and propellers
- Dynamics and control of hydrodynamic flow: CFD modeling, turbulence minimization, and energy efficiency optimization in underwater maneuvers
- Integrated multimodal sensors: types of sensors (acoustic, inertial, optical, and electromagnetic) and techniques for real-time data fusion to increase operational accuracy
- Sensor-propulsion integration architecture: strategies for data synchronization and management, internal communication protocols, and specific middleware for ROVs and AUVs
- Underwater acoustic communications: physical principles of transmission, modulation, encoding, and specific protocols for short- and long-range submarine networks
Advanced operating system diagnostics: implementation of predictive techniques, continuous monitoring using integrated sensors, and fault analysis using machine learning
Operational optimization: adaptive algorithms for propulsion control, real-time adjustment based on environmental conditions, and multimodal sensor feedback
Interference mitigation techniques in acoustic communications: noise filtering, spatial and adaptive diversity techniques to improve data integrity
Practical cases and advanced simulations: application of integrated concepts in real-world scenarios of submarine exploration, industrial inspection, and rescue in complex environments
- Fundamentals of energy systems in underwater vehicles: types of energy sources (batteries, fuel cells, hybrid systems) and their applicability in ROVs and AUVs
- Design and selection of energy storage systems: Li-ion, Li-polymer battery technologies, and advanced alternatives for maximum energy density and safety in marine environments
- Thermal management and protection of energy systems: heat dissipation methods, encapsulation, and strategies to improve the efficiency and longevity of components under hydrostatic pressure
- Integration of onboard power generation systems: use of thermoelectric generators, marine renewable energy, and energy recovery during operations
- Electrical and electronic architectures for intelligent underwater vehicles: design of DC-DC converters, power distribution systems, and redundancy for safe operation in critical missions
- Optimization of energy consumption through advanced control: dynamic energy demand modeling, adaptive management algorithms
- Power and load prioritization to extend autonomy
- Implementation of Energy Management Systems (EMS): real-time monitoring, predictive diagnostics, load balancing, and communication protocols integrated with navigation systems and sensors
- Intelligent autonomy strategies: route planning based on energy consumption, adaptation to environmental conditions, and autonomous decision-making to maximize non-returnable operational time
- Testing and validation of integrated energy systems: simulation procedures, test benches for validation under marine pressure and temperature conditions, and failure analysis
- Future trends in energy systems for underwater robotics: advances in materials, emerging energy sources, and their impact on the evolution of next-generation ROVs and AUVs
- Advanced Control Fundamentals in Underwater Vehicles: Nonlinear Dynamic Models, Adaptive and Robust Control Applied to ROVs and AUVs
- Design and Analysis of Autonomous Navigation Systems: Inertial Sensors, Ultrasonic Navigation, Doppler Velocity Logs (DVL), and Subsea Acoustic Positioning Systems (USBL, LBL)
- Integration of Multisensor Systems for Accurate Position and Orientation Estimation in Extreme Underwater Environments
- Data Fusion Algorithms: Advanced Extended Kalman Fusion (EKF) Techniques, Particle Filters, and Machine Learning for Continuous Improvement in Autonomous Navigation
- Model-Based Predictive Control (MPC) Strategies for Stabilization and Maneuverability in Ocean Currents and Turbulence
- Development and Optimization of Autopilot Systems in ROVs and AUVs for Inspection, Intervention, and Mapping Operations in Waters deep
- Implementation of collaborative and swarm navigation: distributed architectures for unmanned underwater vehicles in synchronized missions
- Underwater communication protocols and network management for real-time remote control and mission parameter updates
- Analysis of faults, redundancy, and tolerance in control and navigation systems to ensure operational safety in hostile environments
- Advanced simulation and testing in virtual testbeds and digital repositories to validate control and navigation strategies before operational deployment
- International regulations and standards applicable to autonomous underwater systems: certification and compliance techniques for safe operations
- Practical applications and real-world case studies in exploration, rescue, and environmental monitoring using integrated autonomous control and navigation systems
- Fundamentals and architecture of control systems in ROVs and AUVs: dynamic modeling, adaptive, robust, and predictive control applied to underwater platforms
- Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) and drift compensation: accelerometers, gyroscopes, sensor fusion with Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) and USBL data for precise localization in GPS-less environments
- Attitude and stability control: PID and LQR control algorithms and AI-based techniques to maintain vehicle orientation and posture under extreme dynamic conditions
- Autonomous maritime navigation under extreme conditions: planning optimized routes under hydrodynamic and environmental constraints, with real-time adaptation to currents, turbulence, and obstacles
- Electric propulsion and thruster vector systems: design, selection, and sizing of thrusters for maximum maneuverability and energy efficiency in deep and high-pressure waters
Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) and Advanced Telemetry Protocols: Integration of remote control and semi-autonomous modes, variable-frequency acoustic and optical communication for reliable transmission in harsh environments
Energy Management and High-Performance Battery Systems: Li-ion technologies, redox flow, thermal management systems, and energy-saving strategies for extended missions
AI and Machine Learning Implementation for Predictive Navigation: Pattern recognition, real-time obstacle avoidance, and underwater trajectory optimization based on changing environmental conditions
Safety and Redundancy Systems in Control and Propulsion: Fault-tolerant architecture design, early fault detection, and automatic recovery mechanisms to ensure mission and vehicle integrity
Case Studies and Advanced Simulations: Analysis of operational scenarios in extreme environments such as deep waters, polar regions, and areas of high geological complexity, using specialized modeling and dynamic simulation software.
- Advanced Fundamentals in Sensor Design: Physical principles, types of sensors (acoustic, optical, inertial, chemical), and their specific applications in underwater environments
- Architecture and Selection of Integrated Sensor Systems: Multimodal integration, time synchronization, data fusion, and operational redundancy for robustness in dynamic environments
- Mathematical Modeling and Computational Simulation for Sensor Optimization: Statistical analysis, extended Kalman filters, and machine learning techniques for improving accuracy and reliability
- Design of Distributed Tactical Control Systems: Decentralized strategies, robust communication protocols, and adaptive control for autonomous and teleoperated underwater vehicles
- Implementation of Advanced Navigation and Positioning Algorithms: INS, DVL, USBL, LBL, and hybrid systems to maintain accuracy in areas with low GNSS satellite availability
- Development of Real-Time Obstacle Detection and Avoidance Strategies: Data Interpretation
- Sensors, trajectory planning, and autonomous decision-making under dynamic constraints
- Energy optimization and resource management on underwater platforms: design of low-power systems, energy storage and distribution management to extend long-duration missions
- Predictive maintenance and self-diagnostic protocols: degradation models, continuous monitoring, and early warnings to ensure the operational availability of sensor and control systems
- Integration of emerging underwater communication systems: acoustic, optical, and electromagnetic networks for multi-vehicle support and control in harsh environments
- International standards and regulations applicable to the design and operation of sensor and control systems in ROVs and AUVs: compliance, certification, and risk management in scientific, military, and industrial missions
- Fundamentals of control systems in autonomous underwater vehicles: classical and modern theory applied to dynamic environments
- Mathematical modeling and simulation of hydrodynamic dynamics in ROVs and AUVs under high pressure and low temperature conditions
- Adaptive and robust control for compensating for external disturbances such as ocean currents, turbulence, and variability in water density
- Design and implementation of inertial navigation algorithms combined with acoustic positioning systems (LBL, USBL, and SBL)
- Integration of multifrequency sensors: Doppler Velocity Log (DVL), stereoscopic cameras, and underwater LiDAR systems for real-time detection and mapping
- Advanced signal processing for noise mitigation in electromagnetically hostile environments and reduction of errors in position estimation
- Model-based predictive control (MPC) applied to systems of Vector propulsion for high-precision maneuvers in deep water
Distributed control system architectures and redundancy to ensure operational continuity in the event of critical component failures
Energy optimization and intelligent battery management in autonomous underwater vehicles to extend endurance on extended missions
Advanced underwater communication protocols, including link estimation, latency compensation, and bandwidth management for coordinated movements
Real-world case studies in extreme environments: Arctic water exploration, deep-sea infrastructure inspection, and operations in underwater volcanic zones
Implementation of automatic emergency systems: hydraulic emergency control, system jumps, and autonomous recovery in the event of loss of navigation
International regulations and technical standards applicable to propulsion and control systems in unmanned underwater vehicles
Validation and testing methodologies on hydrodynamic test benches and simulators of extreme underwater environments
Recent innovations: Artificial intelligence and machine learning for dynamic route optimization and real-time collision avoidance
- Advanced design and integration of control systems for ROVs and AUVs: hardware/software architecture, redundancy, and fault tolerance in extreme underwater environments
- Dynamic modeling and numerical simulation of autonomous underwater vehicles: implementation of adaptive and predictive control algorithms to improve stability and maneuverability
- Development and integration of inertial and acoustic navigation systems: fusion of INS/DVL/USBLS sensors for real-time positioning under GPS-free conditions
- Advanced underwater localization and mapping (SLAM) algorithms: techniques based on multibeam sensors, side-scan sonar, and stereoscopic cameras for real-time 3D mapping
- Optimization of propulsion and power systems for autonomous underwater vehicles: evaluation of brushless electric motors, high-density battery systems, and deep-sea thermal management
- Mission control and intelligent autonomy: design of architectures for autonomous decision-making Based on artificial intelligence and machine learning in unstructured environments
Integration and testing of systems for operation in extreme conditions: resistance to high pressure, corrosion, electromagnetic interference, and thermal variability
High-reliability underwater communication protocols: implementation of acoustic and optical networks for real-time control, telemetry, and monitoring
Safety assessment and risk management in complex autonomous missions: design of contingency plans, recovery procedures, and safe operating modes
Final project: development and implementation of a functional prototype integrating advanced control, navigation, and propulsion systems, including experimental validation in simulated environments and field testing in deep water
Career prospects
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- ROV/AUV Operator: Inspection, maintenance, and repair of underwater infrastructure (pipelines, offshore wind farms, etc.).
- ROV/AUV Maintenance Technician: Repair, calibration, and preventive maintenance of underwater vehicles.
- ROV/AUV Design and Development Engineer: Participation in the design, construction, and improvement of underwater vehicles.
- Research Scientist: Use of ROVs/AUVs for marine exploration, biological, geological, and archaeological research.
- Underwater Project Manager: Planning and coordination of projects involving the use of ROVs/AUVs.
- Technical Consultant: Advising companies and organizations on the selection and use of ROVs/AUVs.
- Instructor/Trainer: Training personnel in the operation and maintenance of ROVs/AUVs.
- Sales and Technical Support: Marketing ROVs/AUVs and providing technical support to clients.
- Defense Sector: Operation and maintenance of ROVs/AUVs for surveillance, reconnaissance, and countermeasures.
- Search and Rescue Companies: Use of ROVs/AUVs in underwater search and rescue operations.
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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
- Design and Operation: Master the construction, piloting, and maintenance of ROVs and AUVs, essential tools in underwater exploration.
- Advanced Technologies: Delve into autonomous navigation, underwater image processing, and artificial intelligence applied to marine robotics.
- Practical Applications: Learn to apply underwater robotics in infrastructure inspections, scientific research, maritime rescue, and the offshore industry.
- Simulations and Practice: Participate in realistic simulations and field exercises that will prepare you to face real-world challenges.
- Expert Professionals: Learn from underwater robotics experts with experience in industry and research, and build your professional network.
Testimonials
During my Master’s degree in Underwater Robotics, I developed an autonomous navigation control system for an AUV, which exceeded the final project’s expectations by achieving sub-meter positioning accuracy in open-sea field tests. This system, based on sensor fusion and machine learning algorithms, was subsequently implemented in a real-world university research project, demonstrating the practical applicability of the knowledge I had gained.
During my Master’s degree in Maritime Robotics and Automation, I developed an autonomous control system for an ROV used in oil platform inspections. This system reduced inspection time by 30% and improved the accuracy of the collected data, resulting in significant cost savings and increased operator safety. This project received an award for its innovation and applicability in the industry.
This master’s degree provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to design an autonomous navigation control system for an AUV, which was subsequently implemented successfully in a research project studying marine biodiversity in hard-to-reach areas. The project culminated in the publication of a scientific article in a high-impact international journal.
I applied the knowledge from the master’s program to develop an autonomous navigation system for ROVs in low visibility environments, which resulted in a 30% increase in the efficiency of underwater infrastructure inspections at the company where I work.
Frequently asked questions
Both ROVs and AUVs.
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.
An ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) is connected to a vessel on the surface by an umbilical cable that provides power and allows communication and control, while an AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) operates independently without a physical connection to the surface, following a pre-programmed mission.
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.
- Advanced design and integration of control systems for ROVs and AUVs: hardware/software architecture, redundancy, and fault tolerance in extreme underwater environments
- Dynamic modeling and numerical simulation of autonomous underwater vehicles: implementation of adaptive and predictive control algorithms to improve stability and maneuverability
- Development and integration of inertial and acoustic navigation systems: fusion of INS/DVL/USBLS sensors for real-time positioning under GPS-free conditions
- Advanced underwater localization and mapping (SLAM) algorithms: techniques based on multibeam sensors, side-scan sonar, and stereoscopic cameras for real-time 3D mapping
- Optimization of propulsion and power systems for autonomous underwater vehicles: evaluation of brushless electric motors, high-density battery systems, and deep-sea thermal management
- Mission control and intelligent autonomy: design of architectures for autonomous decision-making Based on artificial intelligence and machine learning in unstructured environments
Integration and testing of systems for operation in extreme conditions: resistance to high pressure, corrosion, electromagnetic interference, and thermal variability
High-reliability underwater communication protocols: implementation of acoustic and optical networks for real-time control, telemetry, and monitoring
Safety assessment and risk management in complex autonomous missions: design of contingency plans, recovery procedures, and safe operating modes
Final project: development and implementation of a functional prototype integrating advanced control, navigation, and propulsion systems, including experimental validation in simulated environments and field testing in deep water
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.