Master’s Degree in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s Degree in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology
Offers an in-depth immersion into the evolution of maritime warfare and trade, combined with cutting-edge techniques for the exploration and conservation of underwater heritage. Discover lost civilizations through historical shipwrecks, learn to document and preserve ancient artifacts, and master historical research with a unique interdisciplinary approach. This program prepares you for an exciting career in heritage management, academic research, and underwater archaeology.
Key Advantages
- Real Expeditions: Participate in excavation and documentation projects at underwater sites.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Use ROVs, side-scan sonar, and 3D modeling for archaeological research.
- International Collaborations: Connect with leading experts and research centers in the field.
- Comprehensive Training: Combine naval history, archaeology, conservation, and heritage law.
- Career Opportunities: Open doors to museums, academic institutions, and consulting firms and government agencies.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Historians and archaeologists passionate about the research and reconstruction of naval and maritime events through material evidence.
- Museum and interpretation center professionals seeking to specialize in the dissemination of naval and underwater heritage.
- Divers and marine explorers interested in the documentation and preservation of submerged archaeological sites.
- Naval officers and maritime professionals interested in the understanding of the historical impact of naval activities and their relationship to the present.
- Humanities and social sciences students aspiring to an interdisciplinary career in cultural heritage research and management Maritime.
Academic Flexibility:
Adapted to professionals and students: online modality, access to digital resources and personalized tutoring.
Objectives and skills
Leading innovative maritime research:
“To develop and validate research methodologies, integrating emerging technologies and advanced data analysis for the optimization of maritime operations and safety.”
Preserving and promoting underwater naval heritage:
“To document, investigate and protect shipwreck sites to preserve maritime history and raise awareness of their cultural and scientific value.”
Critically analyze the evolution of naval warfare:
Understanding the technological, strategic, and geopolitical transformations that have shaped naval combat throughout history, and assessing their impact on current doctrines and capabilities.
Managing underwater archaeology projects with scientific rigor:
“Implement standardized research methodologies, thorough documentation, and rigorous data analysis to ensure the scientific validity of the results.”
Reconstructing historical contexts through the analysis of naval artifacts:
Identify the technological, socioeconomic and cultural evolution reflected in the design, construction and use of vessels over time.
Identify and assess the socio-economic impact of past maritime activities:
Recognizing how the evolution of the maritime industry has shaped coastal communities, economies, and cultures, analyzing both positive and negative legacies.
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of Underwater Surveying: Geophysical and Acoustic Analysis Applied to Historical Contexts
- Advanced Instrumentation: Use of Multifrequency Echosounders, Underwater LiDAR, and Magnetometry Technologies for the Precise Detection of Naval Artifacts and Structures
- Three-Dimensional Mapping Methodologies: Underwater Photogrammetry and 3D Laser Scanning Techniques for the Digital Reconstruction of Shipwrecks
- International Standards and Ethical Protocols for Intervention and Documentation at Historical Underwater Sites
- Scientific Planning of Archaeological Campaigns: Risk Assessment, Permits, Logistics, and Interinstitutional Coordination
- Sedimentation Processes and In-Situ Conservation: Identification of Environmental Conditions and Biofouling for Structural Preservation
- Metadata and Document Management Systems: Standards for Cataloging, Storage and dissemination of underwater archaeological data
Advanced safe diving techniques and equipment management in environments with reduced visibility and complex sea currents
Integration of autonomous underwater drones and ROVs in the comprehensive exploration of inaccessible areas and continuous monitoring
Interpretation of findings: interdisciplinary analysis supported by artificial intelligence and big data for historical and cultural contextualization
- Fundamentals of Underwater Naval Heritage: Definition, Typologies, and Classification of Underwater Archaeological Remains
- Scientific Methodologies for Surveying and Documentation: Topographic Analysis, Underwater Photogrammetry, and 3D Scanning Applied to Historic Naval Sites
- Degradation Mechanisms in Aquatic Environments: Electrochemical Processes, Biofouling, Microbiological Corrosion, and Physical-Chemical Environmental Factors
- Materials and Composition of Naval Artifacts: Metallurgical, Ceramic, Organic, and Synthetic Compound Analysis in Underwater Archaeological Contexts
- Advanced In-Situ and Ex-Situ Conservation Techniques: Stabilization, Desalination, Consolidation, and Preventive Protection for Naval-Structural Structures and Artifacts
- Specialized Restoration: Scientific Protocols for the Treatment of Naval Timber, Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals, Ceramics, and Glass
- Recovered
- Applied scientific instrumentation: spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance, and microscopy techniques for diagnosing the state of conservation
- International legal and regulatory frameworks: UNESCO, the Hague Conventions, and national legislation for the management, custody, and protection of underwater naval heritage
- Design and implementation of comprehensive heritage management plans: impact assessment, anthropogenic and natural risks, and sustainable mitigation strategies
- Application of geospatial and GIS technologies for continuous monitoring and spatial analysis of underwater sites and their long-term conservation
- Case studies and flagship projects: comparative analysis of naval archaeological interventions and lessons learned for optimizing scientific techniques
- Interdisciplinarity and teamwork: collaboration among archaeologists, oceanographers, engineers, and conservators for a comprehensive approach to preservation
- Development of technical reports and scientific publications: writing criteria, citation guidelines, and professional dissemination of underwater naval heritage
- Fundamentals of Underwater Archaeology: theoretical principles, working techniques, and international regulations applicable to the exploration of historical naval remains
- Advanced Survey Methodologies: magnetometry, multibeam acoustic sounding, and geophysical techniques for the detection and delimitation of underwater sites
- Comprehensive Planning of Underwater Campaigns: objective setting, risk analysis, operational logistics, and interdisciplinary coordination
- Safe Diving and Access Techniques: scientific diving protocols, use of breathing mixtures, and time management for the preservation of the environment and the researcher
- Advanced Digital Documentation: underwater photogrammetry, 3D scanning, virtual modeling, and GIS systems applied to the mapping of naval remains
- In-situ Conservation of Artifacts: assessment of the state of preservation, chemical and physical stabilization techniques to minimize degradation in various environments
- Marine
- Controlled Extraction Procedures: Technical criteria for the recovery, packaging, and specialized transport of underwater archaeological material
- Post-extraction Restoration: Methods of decontamination, consolidation, and long-term conservation of organic and inorganic materials from the underwater environment
- Documentary Recording and Preparation of Scientific Reports: International standards, regulations for the presentation and dissemination of underwater naval heritage
- Ethics and Legality in Underwater Archaeology: Permit management, international maritime law, and protection of submerged cultural heritage
- Applied Technological Innovations: Underwater drones, advanced robotics, and autonomous systems for the exploration and monitoring of underwater archaeological sites
- Environmental Impact and Sustainable Measures: Environmental footprint assessment, damage mitigation, and protocols for the long-term conservation of associated ecosystems
- Case studies and analysis of emblematic sites: Detailed study of international projects and lessons applicable to future explorations
Multidisciplinary management of underwater projects: coordination among historians, archaeologists, oceanographers, and engineers for comprehensive and effective research
Application of databases and collaborative platforms for the management and dissemination of knowledge generated in underwater explorations
- Fundamentals of historical-documentary research applied to naval history: primary and secondary sources, documentary criticism, and validation methods.
- Advanced methodologies for the identification and typological classification of historical vessels: structural characteristics, technological evolutions, and operational functionality.
- Detailed study of classic and contemporary naval typologies: from sailing ships to motor vessels and military, commercial, and exploration craft.
- 3D digital reconstruction techniques: specialized software, processing of archaeological data, and parametric modeling applied to vessels and underwater environments.
- Integration of underwater surveys and scans with virtual modeling: photogrammetry, multibeam sonar, and LiDAR for generating accurate and detailed representations.
- Application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in underwater archaeology: georeferencing, spatial analysis, and contextual reconstruction.
Digital maps.
Scientific interpretation of 3D digital models for the structural, functional, and environmental analysis of submerged naval remains.
Development of digital museum resources: creation of virtual environments, augmented reality, and interactively designed tours for scientific outreach and public education.
Documentation, digital preservation, and archival protocols for naval archaeological projects: international standards and specialized metadata.
Practical cases and real-world case studies: comprehensive reconstruction of emblematic historical vessels and their environmental and cultural contextualization for scientific and museographic purposes.
- Fundamentals of geophysics applied to underwater archaeology: physical principles, properties of materials and their response in aquatic environments
- Instrumentation in geophysical prospecting: magnetometers, multibeam sonar, sub-bottom profilers, gravimeters and underwater LIDAR systems; Technical characteristics, advantages, and limitations
Geophysical data acquisition methodologies: campaign planning, equipment calibration, grid and transect design for maximum coverage and resolution
Advanced signal processing: filtering, noise correction, interpolation, spectral analysis, and generation of three-dimensional underwater models
Geomatic systems in underwater archaeology: digital mapping, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and management of specialized spatial databases
Integration of geophysical and geomatic data for archaeological interpretation: identification of man-made structures, location of naval remains, and contextual analysis
Historical naval cartography: analysis of old maps, georeferencing techniques, and digitization of historical plans for overlay with modern geophysical data
Remote sensing techniques applied to the marine environment: use of satellite imagery, underwater drones, and vehicles Unmanned underwater vehicles (AUVs/ROVs) in archaeological exploration
Scientific documentation protocols: preparation of technical reports, digital seabed modeling, creation of thematic maps, and international presentation standards
Regulatory and ethical aspects of underwater geophysical surveying: international legislation, conservation of underwater cultural heritage, and interdisciplinary collaboration
- Technical Foundations of Underwater Archaeology: Specific methodologies for the identification, excavation, and in-situ preservation of historical naval heritage.
- Innovations in Underwater Exploration Technology: Advanced use of multibeam systems, digital photogrammetry, and side-scan sonar for high-resolution mapping.
- Application of Autonomous Vehicles and ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) in the inspection and documentation of underwater sites.
- Recording and Documentation Techniques: Generation of 3D models, precise georeferencing, and GIS systems applied to submerged naval remains.
- Advanced protocols for preventive conservation and laboratory restoration of recovered naval artifacts, with a focus on specific chemical and biological deterioration in marine environments.
- International Standards and legal frameworks for the protection of naval heritage Underwater Archaeology: UNESCO Convention, national legislation, and its practical application in archaeological projects.
Interdisciplinary analysis: integration of historical, cartographic, and oceanographic data to contextualize findings and reconstruct precise chronologies.
Sustainable management and professional ethics in the exploration of underwater heritage: strategies to minimize environmental impact and ensure long-term conservation.
Emblematic case studies and recent advances in global naval archaeology: innovative methodologies implemented and scientific results obtained.
Development of proposals and research projects applied to the management and dissemination of historical naval heritage in underwater environments using emerging technologies and interdisciplinary methods.
- Fundamentals of Underwater Exploration: Multidisciplinary Methodologies and International Protocols for the Investigation of Naval Sites
- Advanced Detection Technologies: Use of Multibeam Sonar, Magnetometers, Underwater LiDAR, and Autonomous Vehicles (AUVs/ROVs) in Archaeological Surveying
- Underwater Mapping and Georeferencing: Integration of GIS Systems, Differential GPS, and 3D Mapping for the Accurate Documentation of Submerged Structures
- Scientific Diving Methodologies: Technical Dive Planning, Safety Protocols, Decontamination, and Equipment Handling for Underwater Archaeologists
- In-Situ Recording and Conservation: Advanced Techniques in Digital Photography, Photogrammetry, Underwater Laser Scanning, and 3D Modeling of Naval Heritage
- Conservation Materials and Techniques: Chemical and Biological Analyses for the Stabilization and Preservation of Metallic, organic, and ceramic remains in marine environments
Underwater cultural heritage management: legal applications, UNESCO regulations, and international policies for the protection and custody of naval heritage
Historical and archaeological interpretation: contextual analysis, shipwreck typologies, and interdisciplinary study of remains for the reconstruction of historical naval events
Implementation of databases and digital systems for the management and dissemination of knowledge generated in archaeological explorations and campaigns
Research projects and case studies: design, execution, critical evaluation, and scientific publication in underwater archaeology and naval heritage
- Theoretical Foundations of Digital Restoration and Conservation in Underwater Contexts: Applied Physical-Chemical and Biological Principles
- Advanced 3D Digital Documentation Techniques: Photogrammetry, Underwater Laser Scanning, and Multispectral Mapping for Naval Artifacts
- Digital Data Processing and Analysis: Specialized Software for Virtual Reconstruction, Modeling, and Interactive Simulations
- Integrated Strategies for the Digital Consolidation and Stabilization of Archaeological Materials: Protocols for the Protection of Submerged Metal Structures, Ceramics, and Wood
- Application of Non-Invasive Technologies for Continuous Monitoring of Conservation Status: Remote Sensing, Hydroacoustics, and Hyperspectral Imaging Techniques
- International Standards for the Digital Conservation of Underwater Heritage: UNESCO, International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), and Guidelines of the UN Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage
- Design and Implementation of Secure databases and digital archives for the storage and management of naval archaeological information
Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning methodologies for the automatic detection of deterioration and prediction of risks in underwater contexts
Case studies: successful applications of advanced digital conservation in emblematic shipwrecks and related museum collections
Planning and execution of multidisciplinary digital restoration projects: coordination among archaeologists, conservators, engineers, and computer scientists
Ethics and responsibility in the handling, dissemination, and preservation of digital archaeological data: legal and cultural considerations
Emerging trends and future challenges in underwater digital restoration and conservation: from augmented reality to preservation in immersive virtual environments
- Fundamentals of Underwater Archaeology: History, Evolution, and Scientific Principles Applied to Naval Exploration
- Advanced Diving Techniques and Safety Protocols for Archaeological Divers in Highly Complex Environments
- Underwater Geophysical Survey Methodologies: Multibeam Echosomming, Magnetometry, Underwater LiDAR, and Side-Scan Sonar
- Comprehensive Planning of Underwater Archaeological Campaigns: Risk Assessment, Permitting, and Inter-institutional Coordination
- Three-Dimensional Documentation and Underwater Photogrammetry: Design, Capture, and Digital Processing of Naval Remains and Structures
- Application of GIS Mapping and 3D Modeling Technologies for the Reconstruction and Interpretation of Shipwrecks and Submerged Artifacts
- In-situ Preventive Conservation: Stabilization Techniques, Biofouling Control, and Continuous Environmental Monitoring
- Post-excavation laboratory treatments: metallurgical analysis, restoration of naval timbers, and conservation of ceramics and organic materials
- International regulations and professional ethics in the management and protection of underwater naval heritage: UNESCO, the Hague Convention, and national legislation
- Preparation of technical and scientific reports: quality standards, graphic documentation, and multidisciplinary communication for cultural dissemination and management
- Fundamentals of emerging technologies in underwater archaeology: artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics applied to research and conservation.
- Implementation of advanced geolocation systems: use of differential GNSS, multifrequency sonar, and underwater LiDAR for high-resolution mapping of naval heritage.
- Integration of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs): planning, deployment, and data collection for detailed archaeological survey.
- Digital processing of archaeological data: 3D photogrammetry, volumetric modeling, and augmented reality for the virtual reconstruction of submerged sites and artifacts.
- Application of computer management systems for preventive conservation: georeferenced databases, documentary records, and predictive analysis of environmental risks.
- Innovative protocols for intervention at underwater sites: design of methodologies Non-invasive, controlled sampling techniques and collaborative management with local communities and international organizations.
Legal and regulatory frameworks for the incorporation of technology in the preservation of naval heritage: international regulations, maritime legislation, and ethical standards in digitized underwater archaeology.
Dissemination and enhancement strategies through virtual platforms: development of interactive exhibitions, educational applications, and sustainable cultural tourism with technological support.
Real-time monitoring of environmental and anthropogenic conditions: integrated sensors for corrosion and sedimentation control and protection against illicit activities.
Advanced case studies: critical analysis of multidisciplinary projects that have integrated innovative technologies for the comprehensive management of underwater naval heritage, including results, challenges, and lessons learned.
Career prospects
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- Underwater Cultural Heritage Manager: cataloging, conservation, and dissemination of submerged archaeological remains.
- Underwater Archaeologist: research, excavation, and analysis of archaeological sites in aquatic environments.
- Naval Historian: research and dissemination of maritime, naval, and navigational history.
- Consultant in Maritime Engineering and Construction Projects: archaeological impact assessment and risk management in coastal and underwater projects.
- Technician in Museums and Interpretation Centers: design and development of exhibitions and educational activities related to naval history and underwater archaeology.
- Science Communicator: creation of content (articles, documentaries, books) to promote naval history and underwater heritage.
- Advisor on legislation and policies for the protection of underwater heritage: participation in the development of regulations for the conservation of submerged cultural assets.
- Lecturer and researcher: teaching and development of research projects at universities and specialized centers.
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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
- Delve into Naval History: Explore the battles, strategies, and technological evolutions that have shaped world maritime history.
- Master Underwater Archaeology: Learn techniques for excavating, documenting, and conserving submerged archaeological sites.
- Advanced Research: Develop research skills to discover and analyze artifacts and shipwrecks with scientific rigor.
- Innovative Methodologies: Apply the latest technologies in the prospecting, mapping, and analysis of underwater sites.
- Hands-on Experience: Participate in real field projects, gaining invaluable experience in underwater archaeology.
Testimonials
This master’s degree provided me with the theoretical and practical tools to lead my own underwater archaeological excavation. The academic rigor combined with field experience allowed me to identify, document, and recover artifacts from an 18th-century shipwreck, significantly contributing to our understanding of maritime trade routes during that period.
The Master’s degree in Naval History, Culture, and Heritage provided me with the necessary theoretical and practical tools to develop my research on shipbuilding in the 18th century. The combination of maritime history, underwater archaeology, and cultural heritage management allowed me to publish an article in a prestigious academic journal and obtain a scholarship to continue my doctoral studies.
This master’s degree provided me with the essential theoretical and practical tools to lead an underwater excavation project off the coast of Portugal. I identified and documented the remains of a 17th-century shipwreck, providing relevant data on the trade routes of the time and producing a scientific publication in a prestigious international journal.
This master’s degree provided me with the theoretical and practical tools to lead an underwater excavation in the Mediterranean. The analysis of the recovered material, thanks to the training I received, allowed me to reconstruct Phoenician trade routes in the area and publish my findings in a high-impact scientific journal.
Frequently asked questions
Naval history and underwater archaeology.
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.
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.
- Fundamentals of emerging technologies in underwater archaeology: artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics applied to research and conservation.
- Implementation of advanced geolocation systems: use of differential GNSS, multifrequency sonar, and underwater LiDAR for high-resolution mapping of naval heritage.
- Integration of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs): planning, deployment, and data collection for detailed archaeological survey.
- Digital processing of archaeological data: 3D photogrammetry, volumetric modeling, and augmented reality for the virtual reconstruction of submerged sites and artifacts.
- Application of computer management systems for preventive conservation: georeferenced databases, documentary records, and predictive analysis of environmental risks.
- Innovative protocols for intervention at underwater sites: design of methodologies Non-invasive, controlled sampling techniques and collaborative management with local communities and international organizations.
Legal and regulatory frameworks for the incorporation of technology in the preservation of naval heritage: international regulations, maritime legislation, and ethical standards in digitized underwater archaeology.
Dissemination and enhancement strategies through virtual platforms: development of interactive exhibitions, educational applications, and sustainable cultural tourism with technological support.
Real-time monitoring of environmental and anthropogenic conditions: integrated sensors for corrosion and sedimentation control and protection against illicit activities.
Advanced case studies: critical analysis of multidisciplinary projects that have integrated innovative technologies for the comprehensive management of underwater naval heritage, including results, challenges, and lessons learned.
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.