Master’s Degree in Insurance Law and Naval Accidents
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s Degree in Insurance and Marine Accident Law
This program offers in-depth specialization in the complex legal framework governing the maritime industry. Master marine insurance contracts, claims management, and civil liability arising from accidents at sea. Learn to analyze and resolve practical cases related to collisions, general average, marine pollution, and cargo claims, with a comprehensive understanding of national and international legislation.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Approach: analysis of real cases and simulations of maritime trials.
- Expert Faculty: maritime law professionals with extensive experience in the sector.
- Networking: access to a network of professionals in the maritime and insurance sectors.
- Constant Updates: content updated with the latest legislative and jurisprudential developments.
- Career Opportunities: preparation for working in insurance companies, specialized law firms, shipping companies, and regulatory bodies.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 26-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Lawyers and Legal Advisors seeking to specialize in the complex world of maritime law and marine insurance, expanding their professional practice.
- Insurance professionals (underwriters, adjusters, reinsurers) who wish to deepen their knowledge of the legal aspects of maritime claims and accidents.
- Heads of legal departments in shipping companies and maritime businesses who need expert knowledge for risk management and dispute resolution.
- Judges, prosecutors, and maritime administration officials who require advanced training in the legislation applicable to accidents and insurance in the maritime sector.
- Law graduates interested in developing a professional career in the maritime sector, with a solid theoretical foundation and practical experience in marine insurance law.
Flexibility and Specialization
Adapted to the needs of active professionals: online format with updated content, practical approach to real cases and professional experts in the sector.
Objectives and skills
Managing and resolving complex maritime disputes:
“Analyze documentation, coordinate with lawyers and experts, and negotiate out-of-court settlements or prepare the defense in court.”
Advising on the contracting and compliance of marine insurance policies:
Analyze risks, evaluate coverage and manage claims efficiently according to national and international regulations.
Mastering the legislation and regulations of the marine insurance sector:
“Identify the main national and international laws governing marine insurance, including the Insurance Contract Act and the London Convention, understanding their implications for the contracting and management of policies.”
Assessing and mitigating risks in the maritime and insurance industry:
“Analyze marine insurance policies, identify coverage gaps, and assess financial exposure to claims.”
Analyze and assess maritime accidents accurately:
“To determine the causes, responsibilities and extent of damages, applying regulations, jurisprudence and technical knowledge of the vessel.”
Design innovative coverage strategies tailored to the naval market:
Implement proactive naval cybersecurity solutions, anticipating threats and protecting critical systems.
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of expert assessment in maritime claims: definition, scope, and the expert’s technical and legal responsibilities
- Advanced methodologies for assessing damage to ships and cargo: visual inspection, structural analysis, and the use of non-destructive testing (NDT) technologies
- International regulations applicable to maritime claims: SOLAS, LLMC, CLC, and FUNDAS Conventions and their impact on claims
- Procedures for preparing expert reports: structure, technical content, interpretation, and use as documentary evidence in arbitrations and litigation
- Comprehensive claims management: from notification of the claim to resolution and case closure, integration with insurers and maritime authorities
- Analysis of marine insurance policies: coverage, exclusions, general and specific conditions, and their application in practical cases
- Investigation and expert assessment of specific claims: technical and legal approach in collisions, groundings, fires, and marine pollution
Economic assessment of damages and quantification of losses: technical and legal criteria for compensation and calculation of associated expenses
Conflict management and mediation techniques in maritime claims: a multidisciplinary approach to litigation prevention
Case studies of litigation and arbitration related to maritime accidents: analysis of judgments, expert criteria, and applicable lessons
- International legal framework for maritime civil liability: Brussels Convention, Hague-Visby Convention, Law of the Sea, and IMO regulations
- Contractual and extra-contractual liability in maritime transport: analysis of obligations, duties of care, and case law criteria
- Mandatory and voluntary marine insurance: hull, machinery, total loss, and particular average policies, as well as civil liability insurance
- Legal assessment of marine accidents: classification of damages, criteria for attributing liability, and grounds for compensation claims
- Typical disputes in marine insurance contracts: exclusions, adjustment clauses, subrogation, and reinsurance
- Dispute resolution procedures in marine accidents: maritime arbitration, specialized tribunals, and international mediation
- Impact of national and foreign regulations on the interpretation of contracts Maritime insurance and civil liability
Case studies of maritime accidents: analysis of relevant judgments and arbitration decisions
Civil liability for marine pollution and environmental damage: legal framework and environmental liability insurance
Risk management and preventive practices in maritime transport: safety protocols for mitigating accidents and insurance disputes
- International and national regulatory framework applicable to maritime claims: IMO and CMI conventions, Maritime Navigation Law, and ad hoc regulations on insurance and civil liability
- Fundamental legal principles in claims assessment and management: fault theory, strict liability, marine insurance contracts, and specific clauses
- Types of claims in the maritime sector: collisions, groundings, fires, pollution, cargo damage, and general average; Classification and legal consequences
Expert procedures in maritime claims: technical methodology for damage assessment, on-board and in-port inspections, and preparation of expert technical reports
Role of the expert and their legal interaction: functions, responsibilities, preparation of expert reports and their evaluation in courts and arbitration proceedings
Documentary analysis and chain of custody: review of insurance policies, maritime transport contracts, cargo manifests, loss reports, and supporting documents of actual value and damages
Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms (ADR): mediation, conciliation, and arbitration in maritime insurance disputes Advantages, practical application, and current legislation
Legal actions and enforcement of judgments: competent jurisdiction, ordinary civil and commercial procedure, precautionary measures, and enforcement of arbitral awards in maritime matters
Civil and criminal liability in maritime accidents: analysis of practical cases, determination of liability, imputability, and legal consequences for shipowners, operators, and insurers
Risk prevention and management in marine insurance: legal and expert strategies to minimize litigation, optimize coverage, and apply salvage and gross average clauses
- Fundamentals of marine insurance contracts: definition, essential elements, and peculiarities compared to other insurance contracts
- Typical clauses in marine policies: scope, exclusions, and special conditions in Hull and P&I insurance
- Hull insurance: coverage of hull, machinery, and equipment — technical and legal analysis of insurable risks
- P&I (Protection & Indemnity) insurance: nature, group insured parties, civil liability, and claims for damages to third parties
- Applicable legal framework: international regulations, maritime insurtech, and comparative legislation
- Maritime salvage: specific legislation, rights of the rescuer, remuneration, and analysis of practical cases
- General and specific average: definition, practical application, and differences in appraisal and loss settlement
- Procedures for settling marine claims: damage assessment, Technical assessments, negotiation, and resolution
International arbitration in maritime claims: arbitration clauses, selection of arbitrators, and international protocols
Key case law and trends in the interpretation and practical application of Marine Insurance Law
- Fundamentals of Marine Insurance Law: general principles, legal nature, and special features of the marine insurance contract
- International and national regulatory framework: Brussels Convention, relevant national laws, UNCITRAL Model Law on Marine Insurance
- Essential clauses and general conditions: technical-legal analysis of clauses such as the hull clause, civil liability, cargo policies, and protection and repair (P&I)
- Insurable risks and specific exclusions in marine insurance: coverage for damages, total and partial losses, exclusions for acts of war, piracy, and political risks
- Civil liability and compensation regime: assessment, quantification, claims procedure, and adjustments of marine losses
- Naval accidents and losses: classification, legal analysis of causes, claims investigation, and expert evidence in maritime matters
- Resolution Alternative dispute resolution in insurance and marine claims: mediation, arbitration, and litigation in the international maritime sphere
Regulation and liability of shipowners, charterers, and insurance brokers: rights, obligations, and sanctions regime
Impact of environmental regulations on marine insurance: MARPOL, environmental liability, and insurance mechanisms against ecological damage
Advanced strategies for comprehensive risk management: design of insurance programs, preventive assessment, and contingency mitigation in the maritime sector
Key case law and specialized doctrine: critical analysis of landmark rulings and their influence on the practice of Marine Insurance and Accident Law
Tax and accounting aspects of marine insurance contracts: tax treatment, provisions, and auditing in marine insurance operations
Legal innovations and trends in marine insurance: parametric insurance, blockchain applied to maritime contracts, and new technologies in risk management
- Role of international institutions and organizations: IMO, IUMI, CMI and their impact on the regulation and evolution of maritime insurance law
- Comprehensive case study: design and legal defense of a maritime accident claim with insurance coverage, including expert opinions, negotiation, and resolution
- Fundamentals of Maritime Law: Applicable National and International Regulatory Sources in the Field of Insurance and Marine Accidents
- Regulatory Framework of Marine Insurance: Detailed Analysis of International Conventions such as the Brussels Convention, the Coal Act, and Specific Policy Conditions
- Civil and Contractual Liability in Marine Accidents: Key Legal and Jurisprudential Aspects for Determining Liability
- Expert Procedures in Maritime Accidents: Planning, Execution, and Presentation of Technical-Legal Reports for Dispute Resolution
- Comprehensive Management of Marine Accidents: Coordination Among Shipowners, Insurers, Adjusters, and Port Authorities
- Damage Assessment and Quantification Techniques: Advanced Methodologies for the Economic and Technical Estimation of Losses in the Marine Sector
- Risk Prevention and Mitigation in Maritime Operations: Application of Strategic Protocols and Compliance Regulatory Framework
Strategic aspects of claims negotiation and management: analysis of practical cases and evaluation of criteria for optimizing results in claims settlement
The role of the court-appointed and technical expert in litigation: best practices for preparing sound and well-founded expert reports
Technological innovations and their impact on claims expertise and management: integration of geospatial information systems, telematics, and digital forensics
- Fundamentals and scope of maritime expert appraisal: definitions, technical competencies, and areas of intervention
- Advanced methodologies for inspection and damage assessment: technical terms, digital tools, and supporting documentation
- Comprehensive management of claims in marine accidents: types, opening protocols, notification, and processing
- Legal aspects applicable to maritime accidents: international legislation (LLMC, CLC, HNS), SOLAS conventions, and comparative law
- Civil and administrative liability: identification of liable parties, analysis of fault and negligence in maritime accidents
- Expert assessment in accidents involving collisions, groundings, and strandings: interpretation of technical evidence and expert reports
- Legal procedures and arbitration in marine insurance disputes: out-of-court and judicial resolution mechanisms
- Crisis Management and Communication in Claims: Protocols for Coordination between Insurers, Shipowners, and Regulatory Bodies
- Technical and Legal Documentation in Claims Resolution: Preparation of Expert Reports, Declarations, and Supporting Documentation for Legal Proceedings
- Case Studies and Jurisprudential Analysis: Review of Significant Precedents and Lessons Applicable to Professional Practice
- Fundamentals of expert assessment in marine insurance: applicable technical, regulatory, and jurisprudential principles.
- Advanced methodologies for the collection and analysis of evidence in maritime accidents: visual inspection, technical expert reports, and documentary evidence.
- International protocols for the investigation of maritime accidents: application of the IMO, UNCLOS, and SOLAS conventions in determining liability.
- Technical assessment of damage to ships and cargo: criteria for valuation, loss assessment, and quantification of compensation.
- Technical and legal interpretation of marine insurance policies: specific clauses, exclusions, and coverage in maritime accidents.
- Civil liability in the maritime sector: in-depth analysis of contractual, extra-contractual, and joint and several liability among shipowners, charterers, and affected third parties.
- Evidentiary techniques in Litigation of maritime claims: preparation of expert reports, oral presentation of expert opinions, and evidence management in arbitrations and specialized courts.
Procedural strategies for the defense and claiming of rights in maritime claims: design of lines of argument based on comprehensive technical evidence.
Technological tools applied to maritime expertise: use of simulation software, digital data analysis, and remote inspection technologies (drones and ROVs).
Risk management and mitigation in the face of maritime accidents: contingency plans, prevention protocols, and supplementary insurance in commercial fleets.
Analysis of landmark cases and recent jurisprudence in maritime accident investigation and insurance litigation: lessons learned and global regulatory trends.
Ethical, deontological, and regulatory aspects in the expert and litigation practice of maritime insurance: professionalism, impartiality, and conflict of interest. interests.
- Multidisciplinary interaction in the resolution of maritime claims: coordination between technical experts, specialist lawyers, and insurance companies.
- International and national regulatory framework applicable to expert assessments in maritime accidents: IMO Conventions, ISM Code, Maritime Navigation Law and their impact on expert evaluations
- Legal foundations of civil and contractual liability in maritime accidents: analysis of insurance contracts, policies, exclusion clauses, and relevant exceptions
- Advanced methodologies for technical inspection and expert assessment: use of non-destructive technologies, forensic analysis techniques, accident reconstruction, and damage assessment
- Strategies for the comprehensive management of maritime claims: notification protocols, document management, pre-trial conciliation, and mediation in complex maritime accidents
- Dynamics and economic valuation of material and personal damages: criteria for quantifying losses, compensation, claim adjustment, and specialized arbitration
- Evidentiary techniques and preparation of expert reports with legal rigor: structure and justification Legal and technical aspects and effective presentation in litigation and arbitration proceedings.
Use of technology in maritime claims management: document management systems, expert analysis software, and specialized marine insurance databases.
Alternative dispute resolution procedures: arbitration, mediation, and negotiation in the maritime sector, with emphasis on legal benefits and limitations.
Critical analysis of case law and recent legal scholarship on maritime claims: identification of relevant precedents, interpretation, and practical application.
Ethical and professional considerations in expert practice and claims handling: confidentiality, technical independence, conflict of interest, and professional responsibility.
- International and national legal framework applicable to maritime accidents: international conventions (LLMC, CLC, HNS, Salvage), local regulations, and their practical interpretation.
- Technical expertise in naval accidents: advanced inspection methodologies, evidence analysis, and preparation of specialized expert technical reports.
- Integrated methodologies for risk prevention in naval operations: identification, assessment, and mitigation of risks through legal and technical predictive models.
- Legal procedures in claims management: claims, arbitrations, mediations, and litigation in the maritime-administrative and civil spheres.
- Expert intervention in judicial and extrajudicial proceedings: presentation techniques, defense of the expert opinion, and handling of evidentiary contradictions.
- Strategic coordination among key stakeholders: insurance companies, adjustment offices, maritime authorities, and the expert team for a comprehensive response to accidents.
- Damage assessment and quantification: technical and legal criteria for the economic valuation of naval claims, including pollution, material damage, and economic losses.
- Civil and contractual liability in maritime accidents: detailed analysis of policy clauses, exclusions, coinsurance, and subrogation in transport and chartering contracts.
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) strategies specialized in the naval sector: negotiation, mediation, and arbitration adapted to the technical and legal complexity of the claim.
- Preparation and defense of the Master’s Thesis: integration of legal and expert knowledge to propose innovative and effective solutions in the prevention, management, and resolution of maritime claims and naval accidents.
Naval.
Career prospects
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- Lawyer specializing in marine insurance: Legal advice and representation in litigation related to vessel insurance and maritime accidents.
- Marine Risk and Insurance Consultant: Risk assessment and design of customized insurance policies for shipowners, insurers, and companies in the sector.
- Marine Insurance Claims Manager: Investigation, evaluation, and resolution of claims for maritime losses.
- Marine Insurance Underwriter: Risk assessment and premium setting for marine insurance policies.
- Court-Appointed Expert in Maritime Accidents: Technical and legal investigation and analysis of maritime accidents to determine causes and liabilities.
- Legal Advisor to Shipping and Port Companies: Advice on insurance, civil liability, and maritime law.
- Mediator and Arbitrator in Maritime Disputes: Extrajudicial resolution of disputes related to insurance and maritime accidents.
- Compliance Officer in Marine Insurance: Ensuring compliance with legislation and regulations regarding marine insurance.
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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
- Unique Specialization: Delve into maritime and insurance law with a practical focus on marine accidents.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from the best professionals in the sector, including specialized lawyers, marine experts, and leading insurers.
- Real-World Case Studies: Analyze and resolve real maritime claims, from collisions to shipwrecks, applying current regulations.
- Professional Networking: Expand your network of contacts with professionals in the maritime and insurance sector during the master’s program.
- Career Opportunities: Prepare to excel in insurance companies, shipping lines, law firms, consultancies, and public administrations.
Testimonials
This master’s program provided me with the tools and specialized knowledge to successfully lead the legal defense of a major shipping company in a complex collision case. We obtained a favorable judgment that significantly minimized the company’s financial liability, demonstrating the strength of the training I received in the program.
During the Master’s in Maritime Law and Legislation, I acquired a deep understanding of the legal framework applicable to maritime transport, which allowed me to successfully advise a major shipping company in a complex general average case, significantly minimizing its losses and setting a favorable precedent for future similar cases.
“This master’s degree provided me with the specialized tools and knowledge to excel in the industry. After completing it, I secured a position as a legal advisor at a major international shipping company, where I successfully manage complex claims and marine insurance contracts. The program’s practical training and focus on international law were key to my rapid career advancement.”
This master’s degree provided me with the specific tools and knowledge to analyze and resolve complex insurance and maritime accident cases. Thanks to the training I received, I obtained a position as legal advisor at a major international shipping company, where I apply the principles I learned daily and contribute to the efficient management of maritime risks.
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.
It combines both fields, specializing in insurance law applied to the maritime and naval accident sector.
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.
- International and national legal framework applicable to maritime accidents: international conventions (LLMC, CLC, HNS, Salvage), local regulations, and their practical interpretation.
- Technical expertise in naval accidents: advanced inspection methodologies, evidence analysis, and preparation of specialized expert technical reports.
- Integrated methodologies for risk prevention in naval operations: identification, assessment, and mitigation of risks through legal and technical predictive models.
- Legal procedures in claims management: claims, arbitrations, mediations, and litigation in the maritime-administrative and civil spheres.
- Expert intervention in judicial and extrajudicial proceedings: presentation techniques, defense of the expert opinion, and handling of evidentiary contradictions.
- Strategic coordination among key stakeholders: insurance companies, adjustment offices, maritime authorities, and the expert team for a comprehensive response to accidents.
- Damage assessment and quantification: technical and legal criteria for the economic valuation of naval claims, including pollution, material damage, and economic losses.
- Civil and contractual liability in maritime accidents: detailed analysis of policy clauses, exclusions, coinsurance, and subrogation in transport and chartering contracts.
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) strategies specialized in the naval sector: negotiation, mediation, and arbitration adapted to the technical and legal complexity of the claim.
- Preparation and defense of the Master’s Thesis: integration of legal and expert knowledge to propose innovative and effective solutions in the prevention, management, and resolution of maritime claims and naval accidents.
Naval.
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.