Master’s Degree in Maritime Culture and Oceanic Civilizations
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s Degree in Maritime Culture and Oceanic Civilizations
Offers an in-depth immersion into the history, art, and society shaped by human interaction with the oceans. Explore the trade routes, migrations, and cultural exchanges that have connected continents. This program analyzes the maritime legacy through archaeology, anthropology, and cultural studies, understanding the impact of the sea on the identity, innovation, and sustainability of civilizations.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integrates history, anthropology, archaeology, geography, and cultural studies.
- Comparative Analysis: Examines diverse maritime cultures and oceanic civilizations globally.
- Applied Research: Develops research skills for projects related to maritime heritage.
- Contemporary Perspective: Addresses current challenges of conservation and sustainable development in the oceans.
- Expert Network: Connects with researchers, professionals and organizations dedicated to maritime culture.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Historians, anthropologists, and sociologists interested in exploring the influence of the sea on the formation of cultural identities and societies.
- Tourism and cultural management professionals seeking to develop products and experiences focused on maritime heritage and oceanic civilizations.
- Science educators and communicators wishing to incorporate the maritime dimension into their educational projects and programs.
- Public policy and land-use planning professionals interested in the conservation and promotion of maritime heritage and the sustainability of coastal communities.
- Students of humanities, social sciences, and environmental sciences aspiring to interdisciplinary and specialized training in the study of culture maritime.
Academic Flexibility:
Adapted to professionals and full-time students: online and in-person classes, personalized research projects, and specialized tutoring.
Objectives and skills
Critically analyze the socio-cultural impact of maritime activities:
“To identify and assess how maritime activities influence coastal communities, local traditions and the public perception of the sea, considering aspects such as tourism, fishing and the conservation of maritime cultural heritage.”
Manage and promote tangible and intangible maritime cultural heritage:
To catalog, document and disseminate elements of maritime cultural heritage, collaborating with local institutions and communities for their preservation and enhancement.
Develop innovative research projects in the field of oceanic civilizations:
Identify and apply interdisciplinary research methodologies to analyze the complexity of oceanic societies, considering archaeological, anthropological, linguistic and historical aspects, in order to generate new knowledge about their development and legacy.
Interpreting and communicating the complexity of human-ocean interactions:
“Analyze oceanographic data and climate models to predict the impact of coastal human activities and communicate risks to local communities and authorities.”
Advising on the formulation of public policies for the sustainability of marine and coastal ecosystems:
“Analyze the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of different policies, proposing alternatives based on scientific evidence and international best practices.”
Design sustainable cultural tourism strategies based on local maritime identity:
“To research and document the local maritime heritage (history, traditions, gastronomy) in order to create authentic and differentiated tourism products.”
Study plan – Modules
- Origins and early expressions of maritime civilizations: an anthropological and archaeological analysis of coastal cultures and their interaction with the ocean environment
- Technological development in ancient navigation: vessels, measuring instruments, and orientation techniques in key civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Polynesians, and Vikings
- Strategies for the exploitation and management of marine resources: fishing, aquaculture, and sustainable use in traditional oceanic societies
- Maritime trade in antiquity and the Middle Ages: trade routes, emblematic products, and networks of cultural and economic exchange in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Pacific
- Geopolitical impact of maritime civilizations: colonization, naval conflicts, and strategic alliances in the global context
- Oceanic cultural legacy: mythologies, rituals, ecological knowledge, and cosmologies linked to the sea in different island and coastal communities
- Transformations during the Age of Discovery: Evolution of Navigation Techniques, Cartography, and Maritime Sociopolitics from the 15th Century
- Influence of Early Globalization on Oceanic Civilizations: Cultural Exchange, Impact on Indigenous Populations, and Development of Maritime Empires
- Conservation and Enhancement of Maritime Heritage: Archaeological, Historical, and Anthropological Challenges in Preserving Ancestral Knowledge
- Contemporary Perspectives in the Study of Maritime Civilizations: Integration of Digital Technologies, Research Networks, and Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Analysis of the Oceanic Legacy
- Origins and evolution of ancestral navigation: historical and anthropological foundations
- Traditional maritime technologies: vessel construction, indigenous materials, and assembly techniques
- Methods of visual and astronomical navigation: use of the stars, the sun, and natural patterns
- Instruments of primitive navigation: wind, waves, currents, and natural signs for orientation in the ocean
- Cultural adaptations to environmental challenges: survival strategies in turbulent seas and island regions
- Trade routes and exchange networks in oceanic civilizations: analysis of pre-colonial maritime routes
- Sociopolitical and economic dynamics linked to navigation in coastal and island societies
- Influence of ancestral navigation on cultural expansion and dialogue between communities
Oceanic
Technological innovations and syncretisms in the modern era based on the ancestral maritime legacy
Preservation of maritime heritage: archaeological, ethnographic, and digital methods for documentation and enhancement
- Introduction to Maritime Civilizations: Definitions, Scope, and Relevance in Global History
- Naval Technological Evolution: From Vessels of Plant Fiber and Wood to Navigation Assisted by Astrolabe and Sextant
- Ancient Navigation Systems: Astronomical Techniques, Use of the Stars, and Early Nautical Charts
- Models of Social and Political Organization in Oceanic Societies: Tribal Structure, Hierarchies, and Specialized Roles
- Prehistoric and Protohistoric Maritime Trade: Routes, Key Commodities (such as Obsidian, Shells, and Spices), and Their Impact on Cultural Development
- Maritime Exploitation Strategies: Fishing, Gathering, and Sustainable Use of Oceanic Resources
- Cultural Exchange and Diffusion through Oceanic Routes: Languages, Myths, Religions, and Technology Shared Among Civilizations
- Archaeological and Anthropological Legacy: Analysis of Material Remains, Coastal Settlements, and Nautical Burials
- Impact of Maritime Civilizations on Ancient Cartography and Geopolitics
- Detailed Study of Key Civilizations: Phoenicians, Polynesians, Vikings, and Their Respective Systems of Navigation and Governance
- The Transition to the Age of Discovery: Innovations in Navigation, Shipbuilding, and Celestial Navigation
- Early Maritime Legislation and Regulations: Law of the Sea, Treaties, and Their Evolution to Contemporary Systems
- Comparative Analysis of Maritime Strategies in Different Regions and Their Influence on Global Trade
- Preservation and Dissemination of Maritime Heritage: Museology, Historical Documentation, and Intangible Heritage
- Modernization of Maritime Cultural Studies: Incorporation of Geospatial Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, and Interdisciplinary Methods for Ocean Research
- Fundamentals of Ocean Governance: Structures, Processes, and Key Actors at the Global Level
- International Legal Framework: The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and its Implications for Coastal and Ocean Management
- Analysis of International Policies for the Blue Economy: Objectives, Instruments, and Strategies for the Sustainable Development of Marine Resources
- Integrated Management Models for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Design, Implementation, and Effectiveness Evaluation
- Economic Instruments for Marine Conservation: Incentives, Blue Markets, and Sustainable Financing
- Protection of Underwater Heritage: International Regulations, Identification and Valuation of Cultural and Archaeological Resources
- Methodologies for Surveillance and Control in Maritime Spaces: Emerging Technologies and Satellite Monitoring Systems
- Impact of Geostrategy and Geopolitics on Ocean Governance: Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), Disputes Maritime and International Cooperation
Community and Traditional Participation in Ocean Resource Management: Inclusive and Social Equity Approaches
Advanced Case Studies: Critical Analysis of Integrated Blue Economy Policies and Heritage Protection in Diverse Ocean Regions
- Theoretical Foundations of Oceanic Civilizations: Definition, Chronology, and Geographic Dispersion
- Sociocultural Dynamics: Social Organization, Kinship Systems, Traditions, and Ancestral Maritime Practices
- Historical and Contemporary Environmental Impact in Coastal and Oceanic Environments: Anthropization and Ecological Resilience
- Cultural Interactions with the Ocean: Mythologies, Symbols, and Ritual Practices Linked to the Sea
- Sustainability Models in Traditional Maritime Communities: Territorial Governance and Marine Resource Management
- Case Studies on Adaptation and Resistance to Climate and Anthropogenic Change in Island and Coastal Civilizations
- International Policies on Cultural and Environmental Preservation in Oceanic Contexts: Conventions, Agreements, and Programs
- Interdisciplinary Methods for the Analysis and Monitoring of Environmental and social sustainability in maritime zones
Applications of advanced technologies for the conservation and revitalization of oceanic cultural and natural heritage
Risk assessment and resilience strategies for coastal communities facing natural hazards: tsunamis, hurricanes, and erosion
Ethics and responsibility in the research and management of sociocultural dynamics in oceanic civilizations
Future perspectives: challenges and opportunities in integrating traditional and scientific knowledge for sustainable ocean management
- Origins and evolution of oceanic civilizations: a chronological analysis from prehistory to the modern era
- Technological innovations in ancient navigation: shipbuilding, navigational instruments, and applied astronomy techniques
- Geopolitical dynamics in the Pacific and adjacent oceans: expansion strategies, maritime domains, and intertribal conflicts
- Maritime trade networks in oceanic civilizations: routes, goods exchanged, and mechanisms of sociocultural exchange
- Patterns of migration and island colonization: methods of relocation and settlement in diverse environmental contexts
- Cultural legacy of oceanic civilizations: mythology, maritime art, and symbolic systems linked to the sea
- Traditional systems of sustainable marine resource management: ancestral practices and their contemporary application in conservation
- Influence of the marine environment on sociopolitical configuration: impact of resources and Geographical limitations in social organization
Contemporary implications of oceanic maritime heritage: preservation, cultural tourism, and local economic development
Interdisciplinary perspectives for interpreting oceanic civilizations in the current global context
- Historical Contextualization of Maritime Civilizations: From the First Coastal Cultures to the Great Oceanic Powers
- Naval Technological Evolution: Advances in Ship Design, Navigation Techniques, and Propulsion Systems
- Geopolitical Impact of Historical and Modern Maritime Routes: Strategic Control and Conflicts over Oceanic Dominance
- Transoceanic Trade: Mechanisms, Networks, and Marine Caravans in Antiquity and the Modern Era
- Study of Military and Diplomatic Strategies Linked to Maritime Dominance and Their Influence on Global Stability
- Maritime Cultural Legacy: Traditions, Mythologies, and Their Reflection in Coastal Arts, Languages, and Societies
- Critical Analysis of Sustainability in Maritime Practices: Environmental Impacts and Ocean Conservation Policies
- Interaction Between Civilizations and Oceans: Adaptation, Exploitation, and Coexistence in Marine Ecosystems
Port Infrastructure Development and its Role in Regional and Global Economic Integration
Future Perspectives: Challenges and Opportunities in the Sustainable and Strategic Management of Oceanic Spaces
- Historical Dynamics of Maritime Trade in Oceanic Civilizations: Routes, Products, and Exchange Technologies
- Development and Evolution of Naval Fleets: Construction, Armament, and Navigation Strategies
- Maritime Diplomacy: Alliances, Treaties, and Their Influence on Regional and Global Stability
- Geopolitical Impact of Oceanic Trade Routes: Territorial Control and Power Projection
- Redefining the Balance of Power Through Naval Dominance: Emblematic Cases and Lessons for Contemporary Times
- Naval Expansion Strategies: Exploration, Colonization, and the Establishment of Forward Operating Bases
- Interaction Between Maritime Trade and Socioeconomic Development in Oceanic Civilizations
- Tools and Technologies Used in the Management and Protection of Ancestral Trade Routes
- Analysis of Conflicts and Negotiations in the Maritime Sphere: Preventive Diplomacy and Dispute Resolution disputes
Contemporary models based on ancestral practices for the sustainable and safe management of maritime space
- Historical and Geopolitical Contextualization of Oceanic Trade Routes: Evolution from Pre-Colonial Times to the Contemporary Era
- Ancient and Modern Nautical Technologies: From Celestial Navigation and the Use of Ocean Currents to the Integration of Satellite Systems and Advanced Sensors
- Dynamics and Patterns of Maritime Circulation: Analysis of Currents, Tides, Trade Winds, and Their Impact on the Selection of Trade Routes
- Economic and Logistical Models in Oceanic Civilizations: Flows of Goods, Port Infrastructure, and Multisectoral Exchange Systems
- Maritime Iconography and Symbolism: Interpretation of Engravings, Ancient Maps, and Artifacts as Evidence of Cultural and Commercial Interaction
- Intercultural Interactions and Syncretism: Influence of Maritime Routes on the Diffusion of Languages, Religions, Craft Techniques, and Gastronomy
- Study of Intangible cultural legacies related to navigation: myths, rituals, songs, and traditional shipbuilding techniques
Environmental impact and sustainable management of maritime routes: analysis of anthropogenic impact and conservation strategies in ocean ecosystems
Contemporary technological innovations in maritime traceability and security: AIS systems, blockchain for maritime trade, and environmental monitoring
Case studies and field studies: reconstruction of lost trade routes, analysis of current trade networks, and prospects for regional development
Interdisciplinary tools for comprehensive analysis: advanced digital cartography, marine ethnography techniques, and computational modeling of trade networks
Development of integrative projects: designing proposals for the cultural and economic revitalization of coastal communities based on knowledge of their maritime history
- Conceptual Framework and Objectives of the Master’s Thesis: Definition of Scope and Interdisciplinary Goals
- Advanced Methodologies for Disciplinary Integration: Systems Analysis, Transdisciplinary Approaches, and Collaborative Tools for Marine Research
- Critical Study of Maritime Cultural Heritage: Identification, Documentation, and Assessment of Oceanic Civilizations in Historical and Contemporary Contexts
- Ecological Impact and Environmental Challenges: Assessment of Marine Biodiversity, Effects of Climate Change, and Strategies for Environmental Mitigation in Oceanic Spaces
- Technological Innovations Applied to Conservation: Satellite Technology, Automated Monitoring Systems, Marine Biotechnology, and Their Applicability in Conservation and Sustainability Projects
- Design of Innovative Proposals for Sustainable Management: Formulation of Public Policies, Community Programs, and Economic Models Based on Circularity and Social Equity
- International and Regional Regulatory Instruments: Detailed Analysis of the Law of the Sea, UN Conventions, Environmental Treaties, and Their Application in the protection of maritime cultures
Tools for social and cultural impact assessment: quantitative and qualitative methods, community participation, and ethical management of resources and ancestral knowledge
Strategic planning for project implementation: timelines, risk management, financing, and public-private partnerships in ocean contexts
Interdisciplinary communication protocols and scientific dissemination: advanced techniques for reporting, defending, and transferring results to specialized and general audiences
Development of integrative case studies: analysis and application of real-world case studies to strengthen critical and creative skills in cultural and environmental conservation
Continuous evaluation and criteria for excellence: academic quality standards, presentation standards, and defense before interdisciplinary committees
Ethics and social responsibility in multidisciplinary projects: guiding principles for the protection of cultural heritage and ocean sustainability
- Final Reflections and Future Perspectives: Emerging Trends in Maritime Culture and Oceanic Civilizations, and Their Role in the Global Sustainable Development Agenda
Career prospects
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- Maritime and Cultural Heritage Manager: Design and management of conservation, interpretation, and dissemination projects related to maritime heritage.
- Technician in Maritime Museums and Interpretation Centers: Content creation, exhibition design, and educational activities related to the sea and oceanic civilizations.
- Consultant in Cultural and Maritime Tourism: Development of sustainable tourism products and experiences that enhance maritime heritage.
- Researcher in Maritime and Cultural History: Analysis and dissemination of the history, archaeology, and ethnography of oceanic societies.
- International Cooperation Project Manager in the Maritime Sector: Participation in development and cooperation projects in coastal regions and archipelagos.
- Documentalist and Archivist specializing in Maritime Culture: Organization and management of historical archives and collections Documentaries related to the sea.
Educator and science communicator on marine issues: development of educational programs and awareness-raising activities on the importance of the sea and its conservation.
Advisor on cultural and maritime policies: collaboration with public and private institutions in the formulation of policies for the protection and promotion of maritime heritage.
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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
- Explore the Depths: Immerse yourself in the history, art, and literature that have shaped maritime cultures throughout time.
- Oceanic Civilizations: Discover the legacy and traditions of societies that have thrived in harmony with the ocean.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integrate perspectives from archaeology, anthropology, geography, and history for a holistic understanding.
- Cutting-Edge Research: Participate in innovative projects and contribute to the knowledge of the world’s maritime heritage.
- Career Opportunities: Open up a wide range of opportunities in museums, archives, cultural management, sustainable tourism, and academic research.
Testimonials
This master’s degree provided me with a deep and interdisciplinary understanding of maritime culture, from naval history to ocean resource management. I applied the knowledge I gained in my current position at [Company/Institution Name], where I lead sustainable development projects in coastal areas, achieving excellent results in ecosystem conservation and the development of local economies.
My training in the Master’s program in Naval History, Culture, and Heritage provided me with the necessary theoretical and practical tools to develop my research on the evolution of shipbuilding in the 18th century. Thanks to the knowledge I acquired and the support of the faculty, I was able to publish an article in a prestigious scientific journal and present my work at an international conference, which has significantly boosted my professional career in the field of historical research.
The Master’s in Maritime Culture and Oceanic Civilizations provided me with a holistic understanding of the sea, not only as a physical space, but also as a shaping force for cultures, societies, and histories. I applied the knowledge I gained to the analysis of historical archives for my thesis on the influence of sailing on 17th-century Mediterranean trade, which was awarded the highest distinction and published in a prestigious academic journal. I now work as a researcher at a maritime institute, contributing to the study and preservation of maritime cultural heritage.
This master’s degree provided me with a holistic understanding of the intricate relationship between humanity and the sea. I applied the knowledge I gained in underwater archaeology and coastal heritage management to my current position at UNESCO, where I lead a project to protect historic maritime sites in the Mediterranean. The program’s interdisciplinary approach, combining history, law, and marine science, allowed me to address conservation challenges from a comprehensive perspective, achieving a tangible impact on the preservation of our underwater cultural heritage.
Frequently asked questions
Maritime culture and oceanic civilizations.
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.
History, anthropology, archaeology, geography, environmental sciences, oceanography, maritime law, economics, international trade.
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.
- Conceptual Framework and Objectives of the Master’s Thesis: Definition of Scope and Interdisciplinary Goals
- Advanced Methodologies for Disciplinary Integration: Systems Analysis, Transdisciplinary Approaches, and Collaborative Tools for Marine Research
- Critical Study of Maritime Cultural Heritage: Identification, Documentation, and Assessment of Oceanic Civilizations in Historical and Contemporary Contexts
- Ecological Impact and Environmental Challenges: Assessment of Marine Biodiversity, Effects of Climate Change, and Strategies for Environmental Mitigation in Oceanic Spaces
- Technological Innovations Applied to Conservation: Satellite Technology, Automated Monitoring Systems, Marine Biotechnology, and Their Applicability in Conservation and Sustainability Projects
- Design of Innovative Proposals for Sustainable Management: Formulation of Public Policies, Community Programs, and Economic Models Based on Circularity and Social Equity
- International and Regional Regulatory Instruments: Detailed Analysis of the Law of the Sea, UN Conventions, Environmental Treaties, and Their Application in the protection of maritime cultures
Tools for social and cultural impact assessment: quantitative and qualitative methods, community participation, and ethical management of resources and ancestral knowledge
Strategic planning for project implementation: timelines, risk management, financing, and public-private partnerships in ocean contexts
Interdisciplinary communication protocols and scientific dissemination: advanced techniques for reporting, defending, and transferring results to specialized and general audiences
Development of integrative case studies: analysis and application of real-world case studies to strengthen critical and creative skills in cultural and environmental conservation
Continuous evaluation and criteria for excellence: academic quality standards, presentation standards, and defense before interdisciplinary committees
Ethics and social responsibility in multidisciplinary projects: guiding principles for the protection of cultural heritage and ocean sustainability
- Final Reflections and Future Perspectives: Emerging Trends in Maritime Culture and Oceanic Civilizations, and Their Role in the Global Sustainable Development Agenda
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.