Master’s Degree in the Psychology of Command and Decision Making at Sea
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s Degree in Psychology of Command and Decision-Making at Sea
This program prepares you to lead effectively in complex maritime environments. You will learn to optimize your team’s performance, manage stress, and make critical decisions under pressure. The program combines advanced psychological theory with practical simulations of real-world scenarios, providing you with the necessary tools for safe and efficient management.
Differentiating Advantages
- Adaptive Leadership: Develop skills to motivate and guide your team in diverse situations.
- Stress Management: Learn techniques to handle pressure and remain calm in emergencies.
- Critical Decision Making: Improve your ability to analyze risks and choose the best option under uncertainty.
- Effective Communication: Master the skills to convey information clearly and concisely, preventing errors.
- Psychology of Teamwork: Foster cohesion and optimal performance of your crew.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Merchant Marine and Navy officers aspiring to command positions who need to optimize their leadership, team management, and resilience at sea.
- Captains, Chief Engineers, and Operations Managers seeking to understand and mitigate the psychological impact of the maritime environment on decision-making.
- Maritime professionals (pilots, superintendents, inspectors) interested in improving communication and crisis management on board ships.
- Maritime safety consultants and trainers who wish to integrate the human and psychological dimension into their programs and audits.
- Graduates in Psychology, Nautical Studies, or Naval Engineering seeking a differentiating specialization in a sector with High demand for qualified professionals.
Flexibility and Applicability
Adapted to the demands of maritime life: flexible online methodology, real-world case studies, and experienced faculty.
Objectives and skills
Optimizing the psychological management of teams in critical maritime situations:
“To foster individual and collective resilience, facilitating effective communication and the management of post-traumatic stress within the team.”
Develop advanced skills for the assessment and mitigation of psychological risks in the maritime environment:
Implement effective communication and crisis management protocols, adapted to the particularities of stress, fatigue and isolation in the crew, fostering a positive and resilient work environment.
To enhance resilient and effective leadership under extreme pressure at sea:
Prioritize crew safety, manage critical resources, and effectively communicate decisions under stress.
Mastering psychological strategies for optimal decision-making in complex maritime contexts:
“Anticipating risk scenarios, assessing the emotional impact, and applying stress management techniques to maintain calm and objectivity under pressure.”
Promoting assertive communication and conflict management in hierarchical maritime environments:
“Clarify instructions, actively listen, and mediate disputes, prioritizing safety and regulatory compliance.”
Implement psychological well-being programs for maritime crews, preventing stress and improving performance:
“Design and deliver stress management and mindfulness workshops, providing personal and group coping tools.”
Study plan – Modules
- Neurobiological Foundations of Leadership: Key Brain Structures, Neuroplasticity, and Their Influence on Decision-Making Behavior
- Neural Mechanisms of Stress Management in Critical Maritime Situations: Prefrontal Cortex, Amygdala, and Their Interaction
- Advanced Cognitive Processes: Selective Attention, Working Memory, and Decision-Making Under Pressure in Marine Environments
- Neuropsychological Models Applied to Command: From Dual-Process Theory to Emotional Intelligence on the Bridge
- Impact of Fatigue and Sleep Deprivation on Executive Function and Responsiveness of the Maritime Leader
- Neurochemistry and Leadership: The Role of Neurotransmitters Such as Dopamine, Serotonin, and Cortisol in Emotional Regulation and Decision-Making Behavior
- Neuroscientific Strategies for Optimizing Decision-Making: Mindfulness, Biofeedback and emotion regulation techniques applied to naval command
Social neuroscience and collaborative leadership: empathy, effective communication, and building trust in crews
Practical implementation of protocols based on neuroscience evidence for the prevention of human error in critical maritime operations
Case studies and multidimensional analysis of maritime incidents from a neuroscience perspective applied to leadership and decision-making
- Psychological Foundations of Human Behavior in Maritime Environments: Cognitive, Emotional, and Behavioral Variables
- Leadership Models in Naval Command: Situational, Transformational, and Transactional Theories Applied to Maritime Management
- Dynamics and Structure of Teams at Sea: Roles, Hierarchies, Communication, and Coordination Under Pressure
- Stress Management and Individual and Collective Resilience: Psychological Strategies for Maintaining Optimal Performance in Crisis
- Cognitive Processes in Decision-Making Under Uncertainty: Heuristics, Biases, and Mitigation of Human Error
- Conflict Management and Negotiation in Crews: Advanced Techniques for Effective Resolution and Maintaining Cohesion
- Effective Communication in Critical Situations: Protocols, Nonverbal Language, and the Use of Technology to Avoid Misunderstandings
- Simulation and Analysis of Maritime Crisis Scenarios: Practical Application of Command and Control Techniques Psychological
- Intervention and leadership during emergencies: rapid decision-making and mobilization of human and technical resources
- Optimizing group performance: continuous evaluation, feedback, and development of psychological competencies for maritime leadership
- Neurobiological Foundations of Decision-Making: Brain Structures Involved, Neuroplasticity, and Stress Response
- Cognitive and Neurobehavioral Models Applied to Critical Maritime Environments: Dual-Process Theory, Heuristics, and Biases
- Impact of Acute and Chronic Stress on Executive Functions: Attention, Working Memory, and Inhibitory Control on the Bridge
- Neuropsychological Assessment of Decision-Making Capacity Under Pressure and Fatigue in Maritime Commanding Officers
- Interaction Between Emotional and Cognitive Factors in Rapid Decision-Making in Emergency Situations at Sea
- Integration of Biometric Signals (Heart Rate, Heart Rate Variability, Galvanic Skin Response) for Monitoring Neurobehavioral State During Critical Operations
- Applications of Neurotechnology in Maritime Training and Simulation: Immersive Virtual Reality for Decision-Making Training decisions
Advanced time and cognitive load management protocols to optimize decision-making in high-uncertainty environments
Use of artificial intelligence and predictive algorithms to support complex decisions and risk management in adverse maritime scenarios
Critical analysis of real-world maritime incident cases from a neurobehavioral perspective and lessons learned for improving operational protocols
- Fundamentals of Operational Psychology Applied to Maritime Command: Neurocognitive and Behavioral Bases of Leadership in High-Pressure Environments
- Advanced Human Factor Assessment: Psychometric Methods, Operational Stress Analysis, and Early Detection of Cognitive Fatigue in Maritime Crews
- Decisional Communication Models on the Bridge: Protocols, Leadership Styles, Influence, and Persuasion in Collaborative Decision-Making
- Strategies for Effective Team Management in Critical Operations: Team Building, Conflict Resolution, and Performance Optimization Under Uncertainty
- Cognitive Resilience and Human Error Management: Emotional Self-Regulation Techniques, Operational Mindfulness, and Reprogramming Cognitive Biases in the Maritime Context
- Impact of Environmental Stress and Adverse Maritime Conditions on the Psychological Processes of Command and Crew
- Advanced Tools for Real-Time Mental State Assessment: Biomarkers, neurophysiological feedback, and artificial intelligence applications in human factor monitoring
Decision-making planning under pressure: risk analysis frameworks, probabilistic scenarios, and cognitive simulation for contingency anticipation and mitigation
Assessment and strengthening of situational confidence: building shared mental models and assertive communication in bridge management and critical maneuvers
Protocols for operational recovery and post-incident syndrome management: psychological intervention, debriefing, and continuous learning in maritime safety culture
- Fundamentals of Cognitive Psychology: Perceptual Processes, Distributed Attention, and Working Memory Applied to Maritime Navigation
- Decision-Making Models Under Uncertainty: Prospect Theory, Heuristics, and Cognitive Biases in the Maritime Context
- Risk Assessment and Situational Awareness: Advanced Techniques for Anticipating Hazards in Dynamic and Constraining Environments
- Neurobiological Mechanisms of Stress and Their Impact on the Cognitive and Behavioral Performance of Command Personnel
- Tools and Protocols for the Objective and Subjective Measurement of Stress in Maritime Leaders: Biomarkers, Validated Questionnaires, and Simulation
- Stress Management Interventions and Techniques: Mindfulness, Biofeedback, and Resilience Strategies Adapted to Complex Naval Operations
- Implementation of Decision Support Systems (DSS) Integrated with Psychological Analysis to Optimize Tactical and Strategic Judgment
- Group dynamics, situational leadership, and effective communication within the crew during crises and critical maneuvers
- Real-life case studies and immersive simulations for intensive practice in decision-making under pressure and evaluation of psychological responses
- Development of customized continuous improvement plans for maritime leaders, based on cognitive profiles and advanced emotional management
- Neurobehavioral Foundations Applied to Leadership in Maritime Environments: Neuroanatomical and Neurophysiological Bases of Managerial Behavior.
- Decision-Making Mechanisms Under Operational Stress: Activation of the HPA Axis, Influence of Cortisol, and Dopaminergic Modulation in Critical Situations at Sea.
- Advanced Models of Neuroplasticity for the Development of Cognitive and Emotional Skills in Naval Commanders.
- Psychological Resilience in Navigation and Maritime Operations: Emotional Self-Regulation Strategies and Neurofeedback Applied to Stress and Fatigue Management.
- Integration of Mindfulness and Behavioral Neuroscience Techniques to Optimize Concentration, Working Memory, and Sustained Attention in Complex Operational Conditions.
- Application of Neuro-Leadership to Crew Management: Influence of Empathy and Emotional Intelligence on the Group cohesion and the prevention of human error.
Evaluation and mitigation of specific cognitive biases in maritime command decision-making: dangerous heuristics and their impact on operational safety.
Design of personalized neurobehavioral interventions to enhance adaptability and decision-making under pressure in high-uncertainty scenarios.
Advanced use of biometric technologies and neurophysiological monitoring systems for real-time monitoring of the mental and emotional state of commanders and crew.
Practical case studies and neurobehavioral simulations for the continuous improvement of leadership and resilience, including post-mission analysis and feedback based on neurobehavioral metrics.
- Neuroscientific Foundations of Decision-Making in Maritime Environments: Brain Structures Involved and Neuroplasticity in the Face of Operational Stress
- Neurobehavioral Models Applied to Maritime Command: Dual-Process Theory, Cognitive Biases, and Heuristics in Critical Decisions
- Neuropsychological Assessment of the Human Factor: Advanced Techniques for Detecting Fatigue, Stress, and Cognitive Block in Crews
- Behavioral Dynamics in Bridge and Engine Room Teams: Analysis of Coordination, Nonverbal Communication, and Situational Leadership in High-Demand Scenarios
- Biometric and Neurotechnological Tools for Continuous Monitoring of the Cognitive and Emotional State of Command Personnel
- Quantitative and Qualitative Methodologies for Assessing Human Performance in Complex Maritime Operations: Simulations, Neurocognitive Tests, and Behavioral Analysis
- Design and Application of Neurobehavioral Intervention Protocols to Optimize Decision-Making in the Face of Critical Incidents and Emergencies
Integrating the Human Factor into Onboard Systems: Brain-Machine Interfaces and Their Impact on Reducing Operational Errors
Case Studies and Review of Incidents at Sea from a Neurobehavioral Perspective: Identifying Patterns and Contributing Factors
Developing Advanced Cognitive Skills: Resilience, Emotional Control, and Situational Anticipation in Dynamic Maritime Environments
- Neuropsychological Foundations of Leadership in Maritime Environments: Brain Circuits Involved in Decision-Making Under Stress
- Advanced Models of Behavioral Assessment in Commanding Officers: Psychometric Tools, Profile Analysis, and Group Dynamics in Crews
- Psychology of Acute and Chronic Stress: Physiological and Cognitive Responses in Critical Maritime Operations
- Advanced Emotional Regulation Techniques for Commanders: Applied Mindfulness, Biofeedback, and Anchoring Techniques in High-Pressure Situations
- Dynamics of Authority and Communication on the Bridge: Strategies to Improve Assertiveness and Minimize Interpersonal Conflicts
- Psychological Aspects of Teamwork at Sea: Cohesion, Collective Resilience, and Situational Leadership for Safe and Efficient Operations
- Assessment of Psychological Performance on Mission: Quantitative and Qualitative Methods for Continuous Monitoring During
- operation
- Decision-making under uncertainty: cognitive models, heuristics, and biases in complex maritime environments
- Psychological interventions in crises on board: containment protocols, trauma management, and immediate psychological support
- Ethical and legal implications in the psychology of maritime command: confidentiality, autonomy, and responsibility in emotional and behavioral management
- Neurobiological Foundations of Leadership: Functional Anatomy of the Brain in Decision-Making and Emotional Regulation
- Advanced Psychological Models of Behavior in Maritime Environments: Dual-Process Theory and its Application in High-Pressure Situations
- Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Training for Improving Resilience in Naval Operators
- Emotional Control and Stress Management: Neurofeedback and Mindfulness-Based Techniques to Optimize Response to Maritime Crises
- Group Dynamics and Situational Leadership: Influence of Mirror Neural Networks on the Cohesion of Multidisciplinary Teams in Complex Maritime Operations
- Impact of Neuroendocrine Variables on Decision-Making Under Uncertainty and Prolonged Fatigue
- Application of Neurobehavioral Strategies for Mitigating Cognitive Biases and Strengthening Evidence-Based Rational Decision-Making
- Psychotherapeutic Interventions Aimed at Command resilience: a comprehensive approach from neuropsychology and operational psychiatry
Advanced techniques for developing emotional intelligence and social skills in maritime leaders: case studies and implementation protocols
Psychophysiological assessment and monitoring during critical operations: technological tools and methodologies to ensure optimized performance and well-being
- Neuropsychological Foundations Applied to Maritime Leadership: Brain Structure, Limbic Systems, and Prefrontal Cortex in Stress Management and Decision-Making
- Advanced Models of Decision-Making Under Pressure: Analysis of Cognitive Biases, Heuristics, and Adaptive Strategies in Critical Naval Operational Contexts
- Integration of Neurofeedback and Emotional Self-Regulation Techniques to Optimize Attention, Concentration, and Resilience in Maritime Commands
- Group Dynamics and Social Neurobehavior: Neural Mechanisms that Underpin Cohesion, Effective Communication, and Distributed Leadership in Crews
- Application of Dual-Process Theory for Conflict Management and Rapid Incident Resolution in Complex Maritime Scenarios
- Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment of Psychological Resilience: Neurobehavioral Metrics and Their Implications for Operational Adaptability
- Design and Implementation of Neurobehavioral Protocols for
- Prevention of cognitive fatigue and burnout in prolonged offshore operations
- Immersive simulations based on virtual and augmented reality for neurobehavioral training in decision-making and leadership in maritime crisis situations
- Integrated case studies: neurobehavioral analysis of real incidents and continuous improvement strategies in naval operational command
- Development of a final work plan that combines research, practical application, and innovative proposals for improving leadership, decision-making, and resilience in the maritime field
Career prospects
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- Merchant Marine/Navy Officer: Application of psychology in team leadership, stress management, and decision-making in critical situations.
- Maritime Safety Consultant: Evaluation of human factors in accidents, design of safety protocols, and improvement of communication on the bridge.
- Trainer in Maritime Simulation Centers: Development of training programs in decision-making under pressure and risk management.
- Head of Maritime Personnel Selection and Training: Design of psychometric tests and development programs to improve performance and safety.
- Maritime Crisis and Emergency Management Advisor: Psychological support for crews and communication management in crisis situations.
- Human Factors in Maritime Transport Researcher: Analysis of the influence of psychological factors on the safety and efficiency of Maritime operations.
- Management and leadership positions in shipping companies: Application of psychological principles to optimize leadership, motivation, and team performance.
- Expert in mediation and conflict resolution on board: Facilitating communication and dispute resolution to improve the work environment and safety.
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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
- Strategic Leadership at Sea: Master the key psychological skills for effective command in complex and high-pressure maritime environments.
- Optimized Decision Making: Learn to assess risks, manage crises, and make crucial decisions under stress, maximizing safety and efficiency.
- Managing Multicultural Teams: Develop the ability to lead and motivate diverse teams, fostering intercultural communication and collaboration.
- Applied Emotional Intelligence: Enhance your self-awareness, empathy, and social skills to build strong relationships and manage conflict effectively.
- Simulations and Case Studies: Apply the knowledge gained in realistic scenarios, preparing you to face the challenges of command at sea.
Testimonials
This Master’s program provided me with the necessary tools to lead high-performing teams in complex maritime environments. Thanks to the combination of theory and practice, I was able to significantly improve my communication, stress management, and decision-making skills under pressure, resulting in greater efficiency and safety in onboard operations.
The Master’s in Leadership & Captain Training provided me with the tools and strategic perspective I needed to advance to my current position as Team Captain. I learned to manage high-performing teams, communicate effectively under pressure, and make strategic decisions that have significantly improved my team’s productivity and well-being.
This master’s program provided me with the necessary tools to lead teams effectively in high-pressure situations. I applied the decision-making principles I learned during a complex rescue operation in adverse weather conditions, successfully coordinating the team and culminating in a safe and efficient rescue. Understanding group dynamics and stress management, both key aspects of the program, were fundamental to my performance.
This master’s program provided me with the necessary tools to lead high-performing teams in complex maritime environments. I learned to manage stress, communicate effectively under pressure, and make strategic decisions quickly and accurately, resulting in a significant improvement in the efficiency and safety of the operations under my responsibility.
Frequently asked questions
The main professional focus of this master’s degree is leadership and decision-making in maritime environments, especially in the naval sector, including the management of teams on ships, oil platforms and other offshore facilities.
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.
Navy officers, Coast Guard personnel, and maritime professionals involved in decision-making.
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.
- Neuropsychological Foundations Applied to Maritime Leadership: Brain Structure, Limbic Systems, and Prefrontal Cortex in Stress Management and Decision-Making
- Advanced Models of Decision-Making Under Pressure: Analysis of Cognitive Biases, Heuristics, and Adaptive Strategies in Critical Naval Operational Contexts
- Integration of Neurofeedback and Emotional Self-Regulation Techniques to Optimize Attention, Concentration, and Resilience in Maritime Commands
- Group Dynamics and Social Neurobehavior: Neural Mechanisms that Underpin Cohesion, Effective Communication, and Distributed Leadership in Crews
- Application of Dual-Process Theory for Conflict Management and Rapid Incident Resolution in Complex Maritime Scenarios
- Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment of Psychological Resilience: Neurobehavioral Metrics and Their Implications for Operational Adaptability
- Design and Implementation of Neurobehavioral Protocols for
- Prevention of cognitive fatigue and burnout in prolonged offshore operations
- Immersive simulations based on virtual and augmented reality for neurobehavioral training in decision-making and leadership in maritime crisis situations
- Integrated case studies: neurobehavioral analysis of real incidents and continuous improvement strategies in naval operational command
- Development of a final work plan that combines research, practical application, and innovative proposals for improving leadership, decision-making, and resilience in the maritime field
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.