Master’s Degree in Artificial Island Architecture
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Artificial Island Architecture
Prepares you to lead the future of territorial expansion and sustainable innovation. You will learn to design, plan, and build multifunctional artificial islands, from conception to execution, considering crucial aspects such as economic viability, environmental impact, and resilience to climate change. This program provides you with the tools to become an expert in an emerging field with enormous global potential, mastering coastal engineering, complex project management, and international regulations.
Differentiating Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: We integrate architecture, engineering, ecology, and maritime law.
- Real-World Case Studies: We analyze landmark projects worldwide, learning from their successes and challenges.
- Specialized Software: You will master 3D modeling tools, current simulation, and stability analysis.
- International Networking: You will connect with industry experts and potential employers around the world.
- Projects Practical: You will apply your knowledge to the design of a real artificial island, from concept to presentation.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Architects and urban planners seeking to specialize in the design and planning of innovative and sustainable spaces in marine environments.
- Civil and marine engineers interested in the technical and construction challenges of offshore structures and coastal management.
- Environmental consultants and sustainability experts wishing to lead responsible development projects in marine ecosystems.
- Entrepreneurs and real estate developers seeking investment opportunities in exclusive tourism and residential projects on the water.
- Researchers and academics wishing to delve deeper into the study of landscape integration, climate resilience, and maritime law applied to artificial islands.
Flexibility Academic
Program designed for active professionals: online format with live classes, multimedia resources available 24/7, and personalized tutoring to progress at your own pace.
Objectives and skills

Designing and managing self-sufficient island ecosystems:
Implement strategies for managing renewable water, energy, and food resources, optimizing efficiency and minimizing external dependence.

Develop resilient building solutions for extreme marine environments:
“Select materials and construction techniques that minimize corrosion and degradation from salinity, waves and storms, ensuring the durability and safety of the structures.”

Optimizing logistics and connectivity in remote island environments:
“Develop optimized routing strategies, considering factors such as tides, currents, local weather conditions and limited port infrastructure availability, prioritizing transport safety and efficiency.”

Implement innovative strategies for renewable energy generation on artificial islands:
“To evaluate the feasibility of hybrid wind-marine systems, optimizing integration with advanced energy storage (batteries, hydrogen) to guarantee continuous and resilient supply.”

Creating sustainable financial models for the development of artificial islands:
“Integrate environmental and social impact metrics into the economic valuation of the project, ensuring long-term profitability by considering maintenance costs, climate risks, and benefits for local communities.”

Leading urban planning and territorial development projects on artificial islands:
“Integrate environmental and socioeconomic risk analysis into urban and territorial decision-making, considering resilience to climate change and long-term sustainability.”
Study plan – Modules
- International fundamentals and regulations applicable to the construction of marine infrastructure: analysis of IMO and MARPOL regulations and specific environmental protection conventions for urbanized maritime zones
- Advanced geotechnical studies for the design of foundations in marine environments: characterization of the subsoil, analysis of sedimentation and resistance of dredged materials
- Structural engineering applied to floating platforms and docks: calculation of hydrodynamic loads, wave impact, and seismic design for island structures
- Innovative technologies in the construction of dikes and breakwaters: use of composite materials, geotubes, and modular coastal defense systems for resilience against extreme weather events
- Implementation of drainage and wastewater management systems on artificial islands: design of sanitation networks, ecological treatment techniques, and water resource recovery
- Energy optimization and use Marine renewable energy in island infrastructure: integration of tidal turbines, floating photovoltaic panels, and offshore wind systems
Environmental impact and mitigation strategies during construction: assessment of the effect on benthic ecosystems, habitat restoration, and continuous monitoring protocols
Advanced structural monitoring systems using IoT and smart sensors: early detection of deformations, corrosion, and material fatigue for predictive maintenance
Logistical planning and construction management in ocean environments: BIM models adapted to marine projects, multidisciplinary coordination, and advanced resource and time management
International case studies: critical analysis of landmark artificial island projects in Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas, focusing on technical solutions and long-term sustainability
- Advanced Foundations in Ocean Engineering: Marine Fluid Dynamics, Soil-Water Interaction, and Hydrodynamic Modeling Applied to Artificial Structures
- Smart Materials and Adaptive Structures: Properties, Selection, and Behavior in Extreme Marine Environments
- Design and Optimization of Offshore Foundation Systems: Piles, Anchors, and Floating Modules for Artificial Islands
- Emerging Technologies in Underwater Construction: Autonomous Robotics, Naval 3D Printing, and Modular Assembly Systems
- Integration of Sustainable Energy Systems: Wind, Photovoltaic, and Wave Energy Farms for Island Self-Sufficiency
- Real-Time Sensing and Monitoring: IoT Sensor Networks, Underwater Drones, and Satellites for Environmental and Structural Control
- Advanced Computational Simulation: CAE Software for Modeling Stress, Corrosion, Sedimentation, and Resilience dynamic
- International standards and certifications applicable to marine and environmental constructions
- Comprehensive management of multidisciplinary projects: planning, execution, and supervision with BIM tools and digital twins
- Future perspectives and disruptive trends in smart island architecture: artificial intelligence, blockchain, and comprehensive automation
- Sustainability Fundamentals Applied to Marine Engineering: Ecodesign Principles and Life Cycle Analysis in Island Infrastructure
- Advanced and Eco-efficient Materials: Green Composites, Low Carbon Footprint Concretes, Nanotechnology for Resistance to the Marine Environment
- Application of Integrated Renewable Energies: Floating Photovoltaic Systems, Offshore Wind Turbines, and Wave Energy Technology
- Environmental Modeling and Simulation: Evaluation of Hydrodynamic and Sedimentological Impacts Using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and GIS Geospatial Models
- Design Strategies for Climate Resilience: Mitigation Against Storms, Sea Level Rise, and Extreme Events in Artificial Island Environments
- Automation and Intelligent Control: Integration of IoT, Neural Networks, and SCADA Systems for
- Real-time monitoring and autonomous infrastructure management
- Innovation in sustainable drainage systems and efficient water management: rainwater harvesting, reuse, and management on constructed islands
- Green infrastructure and applied biotechnology: biofilters, ecological restoration with artificial corals, and marine habitat design for biodiversity
- International regulations and regulatory frameworks: compliance with environmental standards, permits, and certifications for projects in marine environments
- Case studies and comparative analysis: review of pioneering smart artificial island projects with sustainable integration and performance evaluation
- Development of multidisciplinary prototypes and simulations: coordination between architecture, naval engineering, marine biology, and applied technology
- Cost and resource optimization: financial and logistical modeling for the construction and sustainable operation of island infrastructure
- Strategic planning for scalability and Adaptability: Modular design and technological flexibility in dynamic and changing environments
Data management and cybersecurity: Advanced protocols for protecting intelligent systems and ensuring operational continuity
Future trends and emerging technologies: Artificial intelligence in environmental management, new smart materials, and marine bioconstruction
- Fundamentals of geotechnical engineering applied to offshore foundations: properties of marine soil, geomechanical characterization, and in-situ testing
- Advanced foundation design: monopiles, composite piles, anchored platforms, and hybrid systems to support dynamic and static loads
- Structural analysis methodologies under extreme environmental loads: wind, waves, currents, and earthquakes
- Coastal protection systems: waves, erosion, and sedimentation; Implementation of physical barriers, submerged breakwaters, and innovative coastal defense technologies
Numerical modeling and CFD simulations for structural optimization and environmental impact mitigation in coastal environments
Dynamic stabilization using active and passive control technologies: use of dampers, adaptive anchoring systems, and real-time monitoring
Integration of IoT sensors and SCADA systems for continuous monitoring of structural stability and environmental conditions
Comprehensive environmental management: environmental impact assessment, mitigation plans, and ecological restoration in artificial island projects
International standards and sustainability parameters for offshore construction: ISO 14001, LEED certification standards, and life cycle assessments (LCAs)
Global success stories in smart and sustainable artificial islands; benchmarking analysis and development of continuous improvement strategies
- Hydrodynamic Foundations Applied to Coastal Engineering: Basic Principles of Fluid Dynamics in Marine Environments and Their Impact on the Morphology of Artificial Islands
- Advanced Computational Modeling: Use of CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) for the Simulation of Currents, Waves, and Sedimentation in Artificial Island Environments
- Optimization of Geospatial Design: Integration of Hydrodynamic Models with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for Dynamic Planning and Adaptation of Island Design
- Implementation of Predictive Algorithms Based on Artificial Intelligence for the Anticipation of Extreme Hydrometeorological Events and Their Impact on Island Infrastructure
- Study of Fluid-Structure Interaction: Detailed Analysis of Hydrodynamic Forces in Emergent and Submerged Structures, with Emphasis on Resilience and Durability
- Coastal Erosion Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Innovative Technical Strategies and Materials for Perimeter Protection and Stabilization of
- Substrate
- Comprehensive simulation of climate change scenarios: modeling sea level rise, thermal variability, and their impact on smart island systems
- Real-time monitoring and adaptive control systems: design of integrated sensor networks for continuous monitoring and automatic adjustment of structures and defenses
- Energy optimization of hydraulic and wind power systems on artificial islands: analysis of efficiency and use of renewable resources through predictive modeling
- Advanced protocols for predictive maintenance: use of big data and machine learning to anticipate wear and schedule interventions in marine infrastructure
- Implementation of urban-marine resilience frameworks: integration of natural and artificial components to ensure the long-term sustainability of smart islands
- International regulations and technical standards related to the hydrodynamics and construction of artificial islands: compliance and best operating practices
- Case studies and comparative analysis: comprehensive review of flagship projects of Artificial islands with a focus on hydrodynamic optimization and intelligent adaptation
Advanced visualization tools for presenting results: augmented reality techniques and 3D simulators for the strategic interpretation of hydrodynamic behavior
Development of integrated models for multi-criteria decision-making: weighting of technical, environmental, and economic variables in the design and operation of resilient artificial islands
- Fundamentals of coastal engineering applied to artificial islands: marine geotechnics, sediment dynamics, and structural analysis
- Advanced materials: use of geotextiles, innovative marine concretions, lightweight composites, and self-healing technologies in submerged structures
- Integrated renewable energy systems: design and optimization of floating solar farms, offshore wind turbines, and tidal power generation for energy self-sufficiency
- Digital modeling and simulation: applications of Building Information Modeling (BIM) with a focus on marine ecosystems, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations for currents and waves
- Implementation of artificial intelligence and IoT for real-time monitoring: environmental sensors, predictive analytics platforms for maintenance and operational optimization
- International standards and certifications: compliance with ISO, MARPOL, and international conventions International projects focused on environmental impact and sustainable construction in coastal areas
Biophilic design and ecological restoration strategies: integration of marine habitats, artificial reefs, and natural filtration systems for the purification of surrounding water
Advanced construction technologies: deep foundations, use of drones and autonomous robots for construction and maintenance in extreme marine conditions
Life cycle assessment (LCA) and carbon footprint: methodologies to minimize environmental impact from material extraction to operation and decommissioning
Comprehensive risk management: strategies for resilience to extreme weather events, underwater earthquakes, and the effect of climate change on island stability
- Advanced Foundations in Structural Design and Geomorphology applied to artificial islands
- Integration of emerging technologies in marine engineering for the creation of resilient infrastructures
- Numerical modeling and hydraulic simulation for the study of coastal dynamics and their impact on island stability
- Innovative and sustainable materials: properties, durability, and adaptability in harsh marine environments
- Design of intelligent environmental and structural monitoring systems based on IoT and distributed sensors
- Integrated environmental management strategies to ensure the ecological and social sustainability of artificial islands
- Climate risk analysis and adaptation through resilient architecture and rapid recovery solutions
- Energy optimization: incorporation of renewable energies and self-consumption systems in island infrastructure
- Implementation of international standards and best practices Best practices for the safety and viability of coastal engineering projects
- Case studies and international benchmarking on innovation in design and technologies applied to the creation and maintenance of smart islands
- Fundamentals of Integrated Management in Artificial Island Architecture Projects: Definition, Scope, and Multidisciplinary Objectives
- Feasibility Analysis and Environmental Impact Studies: Advanced Methodologies for Marine Ecosystem Assessment and Sustainability
- Strategic and Territorial Planning Applied to Marine Environments: Zoning, Regulation, and International Standards
- Technological Innovation in Island Construction: Advanced Materials, Filling Techniques, and Seabed Stabilization
- Integration of Smart Systems for Urban Management: Environmental Sensors, Energy Control, and IoT Communication Networks
- Sustainable Development and the Circular Economy: Principles Applied to Island Architecture Projects, Material Recycling, and Waste Minimization
- BIM Modeling and GIS Software Applied to the Creation and Monitoring of Smart Artificial Islands
- Risk Management and Resilience to Natural Phenomena
- Natural hazards: tsunamis, storms, coastal livelihoods, and climate adaptation
- Advanced project management methodologies: PMI, Agile, and Lean Construction adapted to complex maritime contexts
- Economic and financial-environmental assessment: long-term cost-benefit analysis and financial sustainability of island infrastructure
- Comprehensive construction supervision and control: dynamic schedules, quality assurance, and remote monitoring using drones and satellites
- International regulations and governance: maritime legislation, multilateral agreements, and collaborative management between states and private entities
- Implementation of renewable energy systems and water management: photovoltaic integration, offshore wind, and sustainable desalination
- Innovation in urban design and bioclimatic architecture for island environments: thermal comfort, sustainable mobility, and green spaces Adapted
- Comprehensive Operation and Maintenance Planning: Lifecycle, Predictive Maintenance, and Digitized Asset Management
- International Case Studies: Detailed Analysis of Successful Artificial Island Projects and Their Management Models
- Development and Management of Stakeholder Engagement: Communication, Negotiation, and Consensus Building in Complex Projects
- Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Transparency Policies in the Management of Smart Artificial Island Architecture Projects
- Future Trends and Disruptive Technologies: Artificial Intelligence, Automation, and Digital Twins Applied to Artificial Islands
- Preparation for Professional Certifications and International Audits: LEED and WELL Standards and Sustainability Regulations for Island Environments
- Fundamentals of coastal engineering applied to artificial islands: geotechnical analysis and sedimentary dynamics
- Sustainable design: climate resilience criteria, adaptation to sea level rise, and mitigation of environmental impacts
- Advanced construction technologies: dredging techniques, hydraulic filling, and marine terrain stabilization
- Innovative materials: use of geotextiles, high-durability concretes, and prefabricated modular systems for island structures
- Integration of renewable energy systems: photovoltaics, offshore wind, and energy storage in island infrastructure
- Numerical modeling and simulation: tools for studying waves, currents, and erosion in artificial coastal areas
- Implementation of IoT technologies for real-time monitoring: environmental, structural, and water quality sensors
- Water resource management and wastewater treatment systems adapted for closed island ecosystems
- International standards and regulatory frameworks for the construction and operation of artificial islands
- Strategies for ecological regeneration: design of marine habitats and biological corridors integrated into infrastructure
- Risk planning and management: vulnerability analysis to extreme events and rapid response models
- Real-world case studies and international prototypes: lessons learned and future perspectives in island architecture
- Fundamentals of urban design and planning in maritime environments: territorial integration, multi-use zoning, and environmental impact assessment
- Applied geotechnical and marine engineering: special foundations, soil stabilization, and seismic mitigation in island structures
- Advanced design of smart infrastructure: renewable energy networks, water management systems, and efficient waste management on artificial islands
- Digital modeling and environmental simulation: 6D BIM tools, CFD analysis for ocean currents, and prediction of extreme weather events
- Innovative materials and sustainable construction technologies: marine composites, high-durability concretes, and modular prefabrication techniques
- Implementation of resilience and adaptation systems to climate change: smart coastal barriers, sustainable drainage, and sea-level rise protection
- Integration of IoT and automation: distributed sensors for structural monitoring and real-time energy management Real and centralized control of critical systems
Regulatory assessment and compliance: international frameworks, LEED certifications, and ISO standards applicable to artificial island architecture projects
Comprehensive project management: agile methodologies, risk control, life cycle analysis, and development of long-term operational and maintenance plans
Presentation and technical defense of the final project: preparation of technical reports, construction drawings, sustainability reports, and advanced functional simulations
Career prospects
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- Artificial Island Designer: Creation of plans, 3D modeling, and conceptual design of new islands.
- Artificial Island Project Engineer: Comprehensive project management, from planning to construction and commissioning.
- Artificial Island Development Consultant: Advising governments, companies, and organizations on the feasibility, environmental impact, and development opportunities of artificial islands.
- Artificial Island Technology Researcher: Development of new technologies and materials for the construction, sustainability, and habitability of artificial islands.
- Artificial Island Environmental Impact Specialist: Assessment and mitigation of the environmental impacts of the construction and operation of artificial islands.
- Artificial Island Infrastructure Manager: Planning, maintenance, and operation of infrastructure (energy, water, transportation) on islands artificial.
- Urban planner specializing in artificial islands: Design of sustainable and livable urban spaces on artificial islands, considering social, economic, and environmental aspects.
- Landscape architect for artificial islands: Creation of green spaces and resilient landscapes on artificial islands, adapted to specific climatic and environmental conditions.
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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
- Design the Marine Future: Master the techniques of planning, designing, and constructing sustainable and functional artificial islands.
- Innovation and Sustainability: Learn about new technologies, innovative materials, and strategies to minimize environmental impact.
- Global Perspective: Analyze international case studies and explore the legal, economic, and social implications of these projects.
- Hands-on Experience: Participate in workshops and simulations that will allow you to apply your knowledge to real-world challenges in the sector.
- Professional Networking: Connect with leading experts in the industry and build your network for the future.
Testimonials
This master’s degree provided me with the necessary tools to lead the design and development of a sustainable artificial island in the Maldives. Applying my knowledge of ocean engineering, marine biology, and project management, we created a climate-resilient habitat that integrates the local community and protects the marine ecosystem. The project has received international recognition for its innovation and sustainability, opening up new professional opportunities for me and my team.
During the Master’s program in Maritime Architecture and Urban Planning, I led the development of a coastal regeneration project in an area affected by erosion. Applying the knowledge I acquired in coastal dynamics, sustainable design, and land-use planning, we were able to propose innovative solutions that minimized the environmental impact while integrating the local community into the process. The project was awarded for its comprehensive approach and viability, demonstrating the effectiveness of the methodologies learned during the program.
I designed a self-sustaining artificial island in the Maldives that not only provides sustainable housing for a community displaced by rising sea levels, but also revitalized the local coral ecosystem, resulting in a 30% increase in marine biodiversity in just two years. The project, praised for its holistic and innovative approach, has been internationally recognized as a model for future sustainable development initiatives in vulnerable environments.
“During the Master’s program in Artificial Island Architecture, I exceeded my expectations by designing a prototype of an energy self-sufficient island, integrating wave and solar energy technologies. This project, which won the innovation award, demonstrated the viability of my design and opened the door to a collaboration with a leading marine engineering firm.”
Frequently asked questions
The design and construction of artificial islands, considering the technical, environmental, social and economic aspects.
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.
Design, construction and management projects for artificial islands, including floating infrastructure, islands for renewable energy, urban extensions over the sea and environmental restoration projects.
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 urban design and planning in maritime environments: territorial integration, multi-use zoning, and environmental impact assessment
- Applied geotechnical and marine engineering: special foundations, soil stabilization, and seismic mitigation in island structures
- Advanced design of smart infrastructure: renewable energy networks, water management systems, and efficient waste management on artificial islands
- Digital modeling and environmental simulation: 6D BIM tools, CFD analysis for ocean currents, and prediction of extreme weather events
- Innovative materials and sustainable construction technologies: marine composites, high-durability concretes, and modular prefabrication techniques
- Implementation of resilience and adaptation systems to climate change: smart coastal barriers, sustainable drainage, and sea-level rise protection
- Integration of IoT and automation: distributed sensors for structural monitoring and real-time energy management Real and centralized control of critical systems
Regulatory assessment and compliance: international frameworks, LEED certifications, and ISO standards applicable to artificial island architecture projects
Comprehensive project management: agile methodologies, risk control, life cycle analysis, and development of long-term operational and maintenance plans
Presentation and technical defense of the final project: preparation of technical reports, construction drawings, sustainability reports, and advanced functional simulations
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
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor