Master’s Degree in Advanced Aquaculture and Sustainable Production
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Advanced Aquaculture and Sustainable Production
Prepares you to lead the future of the aquaculture industry, focusing on innovation and sustainability. Learn to optimize production processes, from the genetics and nutrition of aquatic species to environmental management and health control. Acquire the skills necessary to implement cutting-edge technologies and develop responsible production strategies that minimize environmental impact and maximize profitability.
Differentiating Advantages
- Comprehensive Approach: Addresses all key aspects of modern aquaculture, from biology to economics.
- Sustainability at the Core: Learn to implement environmentally friendly aquaculture practices.
- Innovative Technologies: Master the latest tools and techniques to optimize production.
- Real-World Case Studies: Analyze success stories and challenges in the global aquaculture industry.
- Professional Networking: Connect with industry experts and leaders to boost your career.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Marine biologists and veterinarians seeking to specialize in intensive and extensive aquaculture, understanding the complete production cycle.
- Agricultural and food engineers interested in process optimization, aquaculture facility design, and product quality management.
- Production managers and farm technicians wishing to update their knowledge of new technologies, animal welfare, and sustainable feeding strategies.
- Consultants and project managers needing tools for environmental impact assessment, sustainability certification, and project financing.
- Entrepreneurs and industry professionals aspiring to lead innovative projects in aquaponics, recirculating aquaculture systems, and multitrophic aquaculture Integrated.
Learning flexibility. Adapted to busy professionals: online content available 24/7, active discussion forums, and personalized tutoring.
Objectives and skills
Optimize and manage aquaculture operations in a profitable and environmentally responsible manner:
“Implement optimized feeding strategies, monitoring key water quality parameters and applying corrective measures to minimize environmental impact and maximize productive efficiency.”
Develop and implement innovative strategies for genetic improvement and nutrition in aquaculture:
“Designing marker-assisted genetic selection protocols and optimizing diets based on sustainable alternative ingredients, evaluating their impact on crop performance and health.”
Design and implement efficient water recirculation and treatment systems for aquaculture:
“Implement biofilters, solids separators and UV disinfection systems, optimizing parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen and total ammonia nitrogen (TAN).”
Leading research and development projects in aquaculture to promote sustainability and innovation:
“Implement agile methodologies adapted to biological experimentation, managing inherent risks and maximizing efficiency in obtaining results.”
Assess and mitigate the health and environmental risks associated with intensive aquaculture:
Implement and audit biosecurity and waste management plans, ensuring regulatory compliance and minimizing the impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
Understand and apply current regulations on aquaculture and sustainability:
“Interpret and apply current environmental legislation (water, waste, protected species) in aquaculture operations, ensuring the minimization of environmental impact and compliance with certifiable sustainability standards.”
Study plan – Modules
- Advanced Fundamentals of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): Components, Hydraulic Configuration, and Mass Balances
- Water Treatment Technologies: Biofiltration, Ozonation, Ultrafiltration, and UV Disinfection for Improved Quality and Stability
- RAS Design and Optimization from a Sustainable Engineering Perspective: Computational Modeling, Automation Implementation, and Intelligent Control
- Integrated Waste Management: Techniques for Reduction, Treatment, and Reuse of Solids, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus in Closed Systems
- Advanced Monitoring and Real-Time Sensors: Critical Parameters, Predictive Algorithms, and Digital Platforms for Optimal Control
- Minimizing Environmental Impact through Life Cycle Assessment, Water Footprint, and Reduction of Gas Emissions and Polluting Effluents
- RAS Adaptations and Scalability for Species with Different Physiological Requirements and Life Stages
- Innovations in materials and biosecurity: selection of resistant components, disease prevention, and sanitation protocols
- Case studies and comparative analyses of globally implemented RAS systems with an emphasis on sustainability and profitability
- International regulations, certifications, and environmental standards applicable to recirculating systems and sustainable aquaculture production
Productive
- Fundamentals of Integrated Aquaculture System Design: flow analysis, subsystem interconnection, and critical parameters for production efficiency.
- Advanced Applied Environmental Management Models: bioindicators, impact assessment, and predictive tools for sustainability in intensive aquaculture systems.
- Process Automation and Control: implementation of PLCs, SCADA, and IoT systems for real-time monitoring of water quality, feed, and clinical parameters.
- Design and Optimization of Closed Hydraulic Circuits: recirculation, biological and mechanical filtration, minimizing energy consumption, and water resource recovery.
- Integration of Advanced Sensory Technologies: optical, electrochemical, and ultrasonic sensors for continuous measurement of dissolved oxygen, nutrients, pH, and organic compounds.
- Data Management and Big Data Strategies: database architecture, predictive analytics, and strategic decision-making based on artificial intelligence to improve Survival and growth rates.
Planning and implementation of automated feeding systems: adaptive algorithms for efficient feed dosing based on the biomass and behavior of the farmed species.
International regulations and environmental certifications: compliance with ISO, MARPOL, and FAO guidelines for sustainable aquaculture production and comprehensive traceability.
Economic and financial evaluation: cost-benefit analysis, return on investment, and strategies for reducing operating costs through technological innovation and sustainable practices.
Case studies and advanced simulations: design of virtual prototypes of integrated systems, resolution of technical problems, and application of Lean Aquaculture methodologies to maximize production.
- Fundamentals of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): definition, key components, and applied physical and biological principles.
- Dynamics and control of environmental parameters: advanced water quality management, including dissolved oxygen, ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, pH, and temperature.
- Design and selection of biofilters: types, microbiological mechanisms, nitrogen compound removal rate, and optimization for different aquaculture species.
- Automation in RAS: SCADA systems, integration of smart sensors, real-time control, and predictive algorithms for the efficient management of critical variables.
- Hydraulic modeling and turbulent flow for system optimization: energy balance, dead zone reduction, and maximization of gas exchange.
- Advanced waste management strategies and solid filtration systems: emerging technologies in the separation, compaction, and reuse of organic material.
- Implementation of renewable energy and green technology for reducing environmental and operational impact: life cycle assessment and carbon footprint analysis.
- Integration of modular design and scalability in RAS for commercial production: planning criteria, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
- Biosecurity and health prevention protocols in closed systems: early diagnosis, automated disinfection, and control of specific pathogens.
- Optimization of animal growth and welfare through automated control of photoperiod, water flow, and smart feeding.
- Analysis of case studies and successful implementation studies in sustainable aquaculture: benchmarking, key performance indicators (KPIs), and return on investment.
- Regulations, certifications, and international standards applicable to RAS: regulatory compliance and certification for global markets.
- Technological innovation in sensors and robotics applied to the monitoring and maintenance of RAS systems.
- Interdisciplinary integration for the design of intelligent aquaculture systems: collaboration between engineering, biotechnology, and environmental sciences.
- Future perspectives and disruptive trends in automation and integrated design of RAS: artificial intelligence, machine learning, and digital twins in aquaculture.
- Advanced fundamentals of biotechnology applied to aquaculture: genetic engineering, genome editing (CRISPR/Cas9), and their impact on the improvement of aquatic species.
- Comprehensive nutrition for aquatic organisms: formulation of balanced diets using alternative and sustainable ingredients, analysis of amino acid profiles and essential lipids for optimal growth and health.
- Intestinal microbiota and its modulation through probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics to increase feed efficiency and resistance to pathogens.
- Advanced biosecurity strategies in aquaculture systems: early disease diagnosis, quarantine protocols, management of pathogen vectors, and validation bioassays.
- Emerging diseases and health management: molecular identification of infectious agents, antimicrobial resistance, and rational use of alternative therapies.
- Principles and application of the circular economy in aquaculture: valorization of organic waste, anaerobic digestion, nutrient recycling, and water efficiency through recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS).
- Comprehensive traceability in the aquaculture value chain: digital registration systems, blockchain, and IoT sensors to guarantee product transparency, safety, and quality.
- Innovative marketing models for sustainable aquaculture products: international certifications (ASC, GlobalGAP), green marketing, and access to premium markets.
- Economic and financial analysis of sustainable aquaculture projects: return on investment assessment, environmental and social risk management, and green financing strategies.
- Practical case studies on the integration of biotechnology, optimized nutrition, and advanced biosecurity to maximize profitability and minimize environmental impact in different production systems (tanks, floating cages, aquaponics).
- Digital tools for biological monitoring and control: use of Big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning for outbreak prediction and continuous operational optimization.
International regulations and standards in sustainable aquaculture: compliance with environmental, health, and commercial standards to ensure long-term viability and global competitiveness.
- Fundamentals of Environmental Management in Aquaculture: principles, international standards, and national regulatory frameworks applicable to modern aquaculture systems.
- Comprehensive Environmental Assessment and Monitoring: advanced techniques for analyzing water quality, sedimentation, biodiversity, and pollutant load in aquatic ecosystems.
- Design and Implementation of Adaptive Environmental Management Plans for High-Density Aquaculture Production Systems.
- Biosecurity in Aquaculture: identification, analysis, and control of microbiological, parasitic, and viral risks in aquaculture farms.
- Advanced Protocols for the Prevention and Eradication of Infectious Diseases: implementation of physical and chemical barriers, quarantine, and integrated health management.
- Use of Emerging Technologies: environmental sensor systems, biofilters, closed recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), and automation to improve sustainability and minimize environmental impact.
- Predictive Models for the Management of Environmental Risk Factors and Health management using artificial intelligence and big data applied to aquaculture systems.
Optimization of water and energy resources through eco-efficient practices, recirculation systems, and renewable energies in intensive aquaculture.
Integrated solid and liquid waste management: treatment, reuse, and minimization of effluent in aquaculture production centers.
Strategic environmental, social, and economic impact assessment (EIA) in high-productivity aquaculture projects and its link to sustainability.
Tools for the design and execution of internal and external audits of environmental and biosecurity compliance in aquaculture.
Corporate social responsibility and community development: strategies to promote active participation and transparency in the sustainable management of aquaculture systems.
International case studies and best practices in the implementation of integrated environmental and biosecurity management systems in advanced aquaculture.
Legal framework and International certifications for sustainable production: in-depth analysis of ISO, Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), and GlobalGAP standards.
Design and management of environmental and health traceability systems to ensure the quality and sustainability of the final aquaculture product.
- Advanced Design and Architecture of RAS Systems: Key Components, Modular Configuration, and Scalability for Different Aquatic Species
- Optimization of Water Recycling: Biological Biofiltration Techniques, Advanced Mechanical Filtration, and Chemical and Physical Disinfection to Maximize Quality and Reuse
- Implementation of Real-Time Monitored Systems: Sensors for Critical Parameters (Dissolved Oxygen, Ammonia, Nitrites, pH, Temperature) Integrated with IoT Platforms and Artificial Intelligence Algorithms
- Energy Sustainability: Use of Renewable Energies, Energy Efficiency in Pumps and Aeration Systems, and Strategies for Reducing Operating Costs with Clean Energy
- Advanced Waste and Effluent Management: Innovative Techniques for the Reduction, Treatment, and Valorization of Solid and Liquid Waste within the Closed Cycle
- Health Control and Disease Prevention: Biosecurity Systems in RAS, Integrated pathogen management, and vaccination and microbiological monitoring programs.
Computational modeling and simulation for system design optimization, flow dynamics, nutrient distribution, and continuous improvement of the aquatic environment.
Sustainable production strategies: integration of RAS with aquaponics, multi-trophic cultivation techniques, and environmental life cycle assessment (LCA) of the production system.
Automation and digital governance: implementation of management software for stock control, automated feeding, and digital traceability in the value chain.
Study and application of international standards and specific environmental certifications for RAS systems, such as Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) and carbon neutrality protocols in aquaculture.
- Advanced Fundamentals of RAS (Recirculating Aquaculture Systems): Hydrodynamic Design, Biofiltration, and Microbiological Management
- Innovative Technologies in Aquaculture Automation: Next-Generation Sensors, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning Applied to Real-Time Monitoring
- Integration of Automated Systems for Optimal Control of Critical Parameters: Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Temperature, Ammonia, and Suspended Solids
- Predictive Models for Optimizing Energy Consumption and Reducing the Carbon Footprint in RAS Installations
- Advanced Integrated Management Strategies: Automatic Feeding Synchronization, Water Quality, and Digitized Biosecurity
- Implementation of Digital Twins for Simulation and Continuous Improvement of Aquaculture Production Processes
- Predictive Maintenance Protocols Based on Data Analysis and Early Failure Detection Algorithms in Hydraulic and Electrical Systems
- Flow Optimization and Water renewal through intelligent control and adaptive actuators to maximize efficiency in the production cycle.
Sizing and selection of automated equipment based on sustainability, energy efficiency, and durability criteria in aquatic environments.
Integration of renewable energies and energy self-sufficiency strategies in high-density RAS systems.
International regulations and standards for sustainable RAS systems: environmental impact assessment, certifications, and best production practices.
Data management and digitalization of aquaculture: IoT platforms, cloud computing, and Big Data analytics applied to strategic decision-making.
Case studies and practical applications: implementation of technological innovations in commercial and research aquaculture facilities.
Development of biosecurity protocols integrated with automation for disease prevention and contingency management.
Economic and financial evaluation of RAS projects focusing on technological investment, operating costs, and return on investment. sustainable
- Fundamentals of Water Quality in Aquaculture Systems: Physicochemical Parameters and Their Influence on the Health of Aquatic Organisms
- Advanced Sensors for Real-Time Monitoring: Optical, Electrochemical, and Bio-Sensor Technologies Applied to the Continuous Measurement of Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Turbidity, Nitrates, and Ammonia
- Design and Implementation of Automated Environmental Control Systems: Hardware and Software Integration for Temperature, Oxygenation, and Water Renewal Regulation
- Predictive Models and Artificial Intelligence Algorithms for Anticipating Changes in Water Quality and Autonomous Decision-Making in Aquaculture Systems
- Calibration, Validation, and Preventive Maintenance Protocols for Technological Equipment to Ensure Accuracy and Reliability in Continuous Monitoring
- Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) and IoT Communication: Architecture, Protocols, and Security for the Efficient and secure data transmission in remote systems
Applications of automated control in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS): optimization of energy consumption and waste reduction
Impact of automated systems on productive sustainability: analysis of water and carbon footprint reduction using advanced monitoring technologies
Case studies of intelligent system implementation in high-density fish and mariculture: results, challenges, and best practices
Future perspectives and disruptive trends in monitoring and control technologies for sustainable aquaculture: nanotechnology, hybrid systems, and Big Data platforms
- Fundamentals of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): Key Components, Modular Configuration, and Hydrodynamic Principles
- Technological Innovation: Smart Sensors for Real-Time Monitoring of Physicochemical and Biological Parameters
- Advanced Automation: Integration of PLCs, SCADA, and IoT Systems for Water Quality Control and Animal Welfare
- Optimization of Dissolved Oxygen and Efficient Management of Biofilters to Maximize Productive Performance and Minimize Toxicity
- Automated Feeding Systems: Control of Timing, Dosage, and Distribution to Prevent Overfeeding and Water Contamination
- Predictive Models and Big Data Analytics in Aquaculture to Anticipate Critical Events and Adjust Production Strategies
- Reduction of Energy Consumption through Variable Rate Pumping Technologies and Energy Recovery in Closed Circuits
- Integrated Waste Management and Effluents: Automated biological treatments and water reuse in RAS systems
Environmental impact and sustainability: Assessment and certification of automated aquaculture systems to minimize ecological footprint
Case studies and practical application: Implementation of disruptive technologies in commercial RAS facilities and their effect on production indicators
- Conceptual framework and current perspectives of advanced aquaculture: global trends, challenges, and technological opportunities
- Design and optimization of integrated aquaculture systems: computational modeling, selection of compatible species, and nutrient flow
- Implementation of IoT sensor technologies for real-time monitoring: physicochemical, biological, and environmental parameters
- Automation and intelligent control in feeding and water quality systems using IoT and machine learning
- Application of modern biotechnologies for genetic improvement and animal health: CRISPR, gene editing, vaccines, and probiotics
- Sustainable management of water and energy resources: recirculation systems, energy recovery, and waste minimization
- Advanced environmental impact assessment and mitigation strategies through eco-toxicophysiological models and life cycle assessment (LCA)
- Integration of renewable energies in aquaculture: solar, wind, and hybrid systems to optimize energy efficiency
- Economic and financial models for sustainable profitability: analysis of costs, risks, and returns under ESG criteria
- Design, development, and presentation of the Master’s Thesis: applied research methodologies, technical writing, and oral defense with advanced visual support
Career prospects
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- Aquaculture Farm Manager: Production optimization, resource and personnel management, implementation of quality systems.
- Aquaculture Production Technician: Supervision of cultivation phases, control of environmental parameters, feeding and health of organisms.
- Sustainable Aquaculture Consultant: Technical and economic advice for improving the sustainability of farms, design of new projects.
- Researcher in Aquaculture Research Centers: Development of new cultivation techniques, genetic improvement, study of diseases and nutrition of aquatic organisms.
- Quality Control Technician in Aquaculture Processing Industries: Analysis of product quality, implementation of HACCP systems, traceability control.
- R&D Manager in companies in the sector Aquaculture: New product development, process improvement, and the search for innovative solutions.
Public Administration Technician (Aquaculture): Management of permits and authorizations, health control, and support for research and development in the sector.
Aquaculture Trainer: Delivery of courses and seminars, staff training, and dissemination of aquaculture knowledge.
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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
- Sustainable Aquaculture: Master the most innovative techniques for responsible and environmentally friendly production.
- Nutrition and Feeding: Learn to optimize the feeding of aquatic species for healthy and efficient growth.
- Water Quality Management: Control the crucial parameters for a balanced and productive aquatic ecosystem.
- Aquaculture Health: Identify and prevent diseases by applying biosecurity and health control strategies.
- Innovation and Technology: Explore the latest technologies and tools for the aquaculture of the future, from genetics to automation.
Testimonials
This master’s program provided me with the necessary tools to optimize the performance of my fish farm. I applied the knowledge I gained in nutrition and health management, achieving a 15% reduction in mortality and a 20% increase in production in the first year. Furthermore, the sustainability training enabled me to implement environmentally friendly practices, obtaining ASC certification, which opened new market opportunities and increased the profitability of my business.
During my Master’s degree in Energy and Marine Resources, I developed a predictive model for optimizing the installation of floating wind farms, taking into account metocean and logistical variables. This project, notable for its innovation and applicability, allowed me to obtain a research grant at an internationally renowned center, where I currently collaborate on the development of technologies for the sustainable exploitation of marine resources.
This master’s program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a shrimp production optimization project at my company. I implemented a recirculating aquaculture system that reduced water consumption by 60% and increased productivity by 25%, results that led to my promotion to Production Director.
This master’s program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to design and implement a recirculating aquaculture system for shrimp farming. Thanks to the training I received, I was able to optimize production parameters, minimizing environmental impact and maximizing profitability, resulting in a 30% increase in production compared to traditional systems at my workplace.
Frequently asked questions
Aquaculture sector.
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 focuses on modern and sustainable methods, including advanced and environmentally friendly production.
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 current perspectives of advanced aquaculture: global trends, challenges, and technological opportunities
- Design and optimization of integrated aquaculture systems: computational modeling, selection of compatible species, and nutrient flow
- Implementation of IoT sensor technologies for real-time monitoring: physicochemical, biological, and environmental parameters
- Automation and intelligent control in feeding and water quality systems using IoT and machine learning
- Application of modern biotechnologies for genetic improvement and animal health: CRISPR, gene editing, vaccines, and probiotics
- Sustainable management of water and energy resources: recirculation systems, energy recovery, and waste minimization
- Advanced environmental impact assessment and mitigation strategies through eco-toxicophysiological models and life cycle assessment (LCA)
- Integration of renewable energies in aquaculture: solar, wind, and hybrid systems to optimize energy efficiency
- Economic and financial models for sustainable profitability: analysis of costs, risks, and returns under ESG criteria
- Design, development, and presentation of the Master’s Thesis: applied research methodologies, technical writing, and oral defense with advanced visual support
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.