Diploma in Physical, Chemical and Biological Oceanography
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Physical, Chemical, and Biological Oceanography
Offers an in-depth exploration of the processes that govern the oceans. It covers the dynamics of ocean currents, the chemical composition of water, and the diversity of ocean life, interconnecting them to understand the ocean as an integrated system. This program will provide you with the necessary tools to analyze and interpret oceanographic data, model marine processes, and assess the impact of human activities on ocean ecosystems. You will learn the latest sampling, analysis, and remote sensing techniques applied to oceanography.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integration of marine physics, chemistry, and biology for a holistic understanding.
- Advanced Tools: Use of software and models for the analysis and simulation of oceanographic processes.
- Case Studies: Analysis of real-world problems such as climate change, pollution, and overfishing.
- Expert Faculty: Teaching staff with extensive experience in oceanographic research and marine management.
- Practical Applications: Development of skills for the sustainable management of marine resources and the conservation of ecosystems.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 18-07-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Marine biologists and oceanographers seeking to deepen their understanding of ocean dynamics and their impact on ecosystems.
- Environmental engineers and consultants who need to understand oceanographic processes for the sustainable management of marine resources.
- Professors and educators interested in incorporating up-to-date knowledge in oceanography into their curricula.
- Professionals in the fishing and aquaculture sector who need to understand the influence of oceanographic factors on marine productivity.
- Students of marine sciences and related fields seeking comprehensive and specialized training in physical, chemical, and biological oceanography.
Flexibility of Study
Adaptable to your schedule: online content available 24/7, discussion forums, and personalized tutoring to answer your questions.
Objectives and competencies
Assessing the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems:
“Analyze pollution from plastics, spills and fishing activities, identifying sources, dispersal routes and effects on marine biodiversity.”
Develop predictive models of oceanographic processes for the sustainable management of marine resources:
“Implementing machine learning algorithms to predict the distribution of marine species and optimize sustainable fishing strategies.”
To comprehensively analyze the interactions between physical, chemical, and biological factors in the ocean:
“To assess the impact of pollutants, temperature changes and acidification on the health of marine ecosystems and biodiversity, using predictive models and oceanographic data.”
Design and implement oceanographic monitoring strategies for the early detection of environmental changes:
“Select and deploy an optimal combination of in-situ sensors (buoys, vertical profiles) and remote data (satellites, HF radars) to measure key parameters such as temperature, salinity, currents and pollutant concentration, integrating predictive models to anticipate critical events.”
To propose innovative solutions for mitigating marine pollution:
Implement on-board wastewater treatment systems and encourage the use of cleaner alternative fuels, promoting the adoption of green technologies and sustainable practices in the maritime industry.
Leading multidisciplinary oceanographic research projects for a deeper understanding of the ocean:
“To integrate expertise in physical, chemical, biological and geological oceanography to design, implement and manage complex oceanographic campaigns, maximizing the acquisition of high-quality data and fostering effective collaboration between diverse scientific teams.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Ocean Dynamics: Driving Forces and Scales of Motion
- General Ocean Circulation: Surface and Deep Currents, Ocean Gyres
- Mixing Processes: Turbulence, Diffusion, and Advection
- Ocean Waves: Tides, Gravity Waves, Tsunamis
- Marine Geochemistry: Biogeochemical Cycles (C, N, P, Si)
- Seawater Chemistry: Salinity, pH, Dissolved Oxygen, Nutrients
- Isotopes and Tracers in the Ocean: Dating and Monitoring Water Masses
- Marine Biodiversity: Classification, Adaptation, and Distribution of Organisms
- Marine Ecosystems: Reefs of Coral reefs, estuaries, ocean floor
Human impact on ocean dynamics, geochemistry, and biodiversity
‘
- Introduction to Ocean Dynamics: scales of motion and driving forces.
- General Ocean Circulation: surface and deep currents, heat transport.
- Ocean Waves: characteristics, generation and propagation of gravity and internal waves.
- Tides and Tidal Currents: tidal theory, prediction, and modeling.
- Chemical Properties of Seawater: salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and nutrients.
- Marine Biogeochemical Cycles: carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and silicon.
- Marine Primary Productivity: phytoplankton, limiting factors, and harmful algal blooms.
- Oceanographic Modeling Numerical Modeling: Fundamentals, Types of Models, and Applications.
Oceanographic Data Assimilation: Techniques and Applications in Ocean Forecasting.
Ocean-Atmosphere Interaction: Processes of Heat, Humidity, and Gas Exchange.
‘
- Introduction to Oceanography: History, Disciplines, and Current Challenges
- Properties of Seawater: salinity, temperature, density, and their global distribution
- Global Ocean Circulation: surface and deep currents, heat transport
- Dynamics of Waves and Tides: generation, propagation, and impact on coastlines
- Marine Chemistry: biogeochemical cycles (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus), ocean acidification
- Primary Productivity: marine photosynthesis, phytoplankton, and limiting factors
- Coastal Marine Ecosystems: estuaries, mangroves, coral reefs, and their ecological importance
- Deep-Sea Ecosystems: hydrothermal vents, hydrothermal vents cold and abyssal biodiversity
- Marine Pollution: sources, types of pollutants (plastics, oil, chemicals) and effects on marine life
- Marine Conservation: marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management and climate change
‘
- Introduction to Ocean Dynamics: Driving Forces and Time Scales.
- Global Ocean Circulation: Surface and Deep Currents, Ocean Gyres.
- Mixing Processes: Turbulence, Diffusion, Convection, and Their Impact on Nutrient Distribution.
- Waves and Tides: Generation, Propagation, and Effects on Coasts and Marine Organisms.
- Stratification and Productivity: Thermocline, Halocline, and Their Relationship to Phytoplankton Blooms.
- Marine Biodiversity: Basic Concepts, Trophic Levels, and Food Webs.
- Key Marine Ecosystems: Coral Reefs, Mangroves, Estuaries, Deep Sea Floors.
- Adaptations of Organisms Marine life: Physiology, morphology, and behavior in different environments.
Impact of climate change: Ocean acidification, rising temperatures, and their effects on biodiversity.
Marine conservation: Marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management, and ecosystem restoration.
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Oceanography: History, disciplines, and relevance.
- Physical Properties of Seawater: Salinity, temperature, density, and pressure.
- Global Ocean Circulation: Surface and deep currents, heat and nutrient transport.
- Seawater Chemistry: Dissolved gases, nutrients, pH, and biogeochemical cycles.
- Marine Primary Productivity: Phytoplankton, photosynthesis, and limiting factors.
- Marine Food Webs: Energy flow, zooplankton, fish, and top predators.
- Coastal Marine Ecosystems: Estuaries, mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass meadows.
- Deep-Sea Ecosystems: Hydrothermal vents, cold vents, and associated fauna.
- Human Impacts on the Oceans: Pollution, overfishing, climate change, and acidification.
- Marine Conservation and Sustainable Management of Ocean Resources.
‘
Career opportunities
- Oceanographic Laboratory Technician/Analyst: Analysis of water, sediment, and marine organism samples.
- Research Scientist: Participation in oceanographic research projects, data analysis, and publication of results.
- Environmental Consultant: Environmental impact assessment of coastal and marine activities, design of environmental management plans.
- Marine Resource Manager: Planning and management of marine protected areas, assessment of fish stocks.
- Aquaculture Technician: Water quality control, monitoring of environmental parameters, and optimization of production processes.
- Oceanographic Data Analyst: Processing and analysis of large volumes of oceanographic data for modeling and prediction.
- Environmental Educator: Development of educational programs about the ocean and its conservation.
- Technician in government institutions: support in decision-making related to the management of the coastline and marine resources.
“`
Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
Documentation:
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Master the fundamentals: Explore the physics, chemistry, and biology of the ocean, understanding their intricate interconnections.
- Comprehensive analysis: Learn to analyze oceanographic data to interpret processes and predict changes in the marine environment.
- Cutting-edge tools: Use software and modeling techniques to simulate and understand ocean dynamics.
- Practical applications: Learn about the applications of oceanography in coastal management, sustainable fisheries, and climate change mitigation.
- Career development: Expand your career opportunities in research, environmental consulting, and government agencies.
Testimonials
The Diploma in Physical, Chemical, and Biological Oceanography exceeded my expectations. The integration of the three branches provided me with a holistic understanding of the ocean, significantly strengthening my skills in oceanographic data analysis and modeling. I applied the knowledge I gained directly to my research on ocean acidification, which resulted in the publication of an article in a recognized scientific journal.
The Diploma in Marine Sciences & Oceanography provided me with a solid and practical foundation, enabling me to successfully lead the environmental impact assessment project on the coast of Oaxaca. We were able to identify critical biodiversity zones and propose effective mitigation measures, which were adopted by local authorities, contributing to the conservation of the marine ecosystem.
The Diploma in Physical, Chemical, and Biological Oceanography provided me with a solid, interdisciplinary foundation that significantly boosted my research on ocean acidification in coastal areas. The skills I acquired in hydrodynamic modeling and biogeochemical analysis were crucial for publishing my first scientific article in an international journal.
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. Integrating knowledge of physical, chemical, and biological oceanography provided me with a holistic understanding of the ocean, key to my current research on ocean acidification and its impact on coral ecosystems. The laboratory sessions and field trips were invaluable for applying theory and developing practical skills. I now feel prepared to face the challenges of oceanographic research and contribute to the conservation of our oceans.
Frequently asked questions
Physical, chemical and biological oceanography.
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.
Physical, chemical and biological oceanography.
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.
- Introduction to Physical Oceanography: properties of seawater, temperature and salinity distribution.
- General Oceanic Circulation: winds, surface and deep currents, ocean gyres.
- Ocean Waves: wave generation, propagation and dissipation, wave spectrum, extreme waves.
- Tides: generating forces, types of tides, resonance, tidal prediction.
- Mixing and Diffusion Processes: ocean turbulence, advection, influence on property distribution.
- Climate Variability and the Ocean: ENSO, AMO, long-term changes and their impact on ocean dynamics.
- Ocean-Atmosphere Interaction: heat, momentum, and gas transfer, influence on climate.
- Numerical Ocean Modeling: governing equations, numerical schemes, global and regional models.
- Ocean Observation: buoys, satellites, temperature and salinity profiles, in-situ and remote data.
- Applications of Ocean Dynamics: navigation, fishing, coastal management, ocean energy.
‘
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.