Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Masters · 1500 h · 11 modules
Master's in Conceptual Design of Ships of the Future
The Master in Conceptual Design of Ships of the FuturePrepares you to lead innovation in the naval industry. Learn to integrate disruptive technologies, such as alternative propulsion, advanced automation, and smart materials,
Duration1500 h
FormatOnline
Starts14 December
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Master’s in Conceptual Design of Ships of the Future?
The Master in Conceptual Design of Ships of the Future
Prepares you to lead innovation in the naval industry. Learn to integrate disruptive technologies, such as alternative propulsion, advanced automation, and smart materials, to create more efficient, sustainable, and safer ships. Master state-of-the-art modeling and simulation tools and develop a design approach focused on the ship's lifecycle. This program empowers you to become a leader in the transformation of the maritime sector, capable of anticipating and responding to the challenges of the future.
Differentiating Advantages
- Practical Approach: development of real-world projects and innovative case studies.
- Leading Experts: professors with extensive experience in industry and research.
- Networking: connection with companies and professionals in the naval sector globally.
- Comprehensive Vision: from initial conception to operational optimization of the vessel.
- Professional Certification: recognition of your skills and knowledge in naval design.
Programme type
Master's Degree
Study mode
Online
Duration
1,500 hours
Modules
11
Programme highlights
- Naval Innovation: Master the most advanced tools and methodologies for designing the ships of the future.
- Maritime Sustainability: Learn to integrate energy efficiency criteria and emissions reduction into naval design.
- Advanced Simulation: Use state-of-the-art software to simulate and optimize the performance of your designs.
- Comprehensive Final Project: Develop a complete conceptual design project, applying all the knowledge acquired.
- Career Opportunities: Boost your career in the naval industry, marine engineering, and the Research and Development.
- Become a leader in the design of ships of the future, prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 11 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of conceptual design and prospective vision of the naval sector
- Naval Conceptual Design Methodology: From the Mission Profile to the Digital Ship
- Traditional design spiral versus concurrent and model-based design (MBSE)
- Global megatrends: decarbonisation, digitization, automation and new trade flows
- Zero-Emission Ship Design (Zero-Emission Ship Design)
- Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and Holistic Environmental Impact Assessment
- Evaluation of technical, economic and regulatory feasibility in early phases
- Multi-object optimisation tools in the General Array Definition (GA)
- Regulatory framework of the future: IMO regulations (EEDI, IIC, IMO 2050) and classification companies
- Human-centreed design philosophy for small crews
- Prospective techniques and construction of scenarios for the maritime industry to 2050
02
Zero emissions propulsion and clean energy sources
- Synthetic fuels e-Fuels: e-methanol, e-ammonia, e-diesel and biofuels
- Marine hydrogen: cryogenic storage (LH2), high pressure gas (CGH2) and safety systems
- Fuel cells (Fuel Cells): PEMFC, SOFC and its integration into naval power plants
- Direct and assisted wind propulsion: rigid candles, Dynarig, Flettner turbines, kites and dynamic suction
- Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage - OCCS
- Modular nuclear micro-reactors (SMRs) and fusion propulsion applied to large ships
- Massive energy storage in solid-state batteries and super capacitors
- Hybrid powertrain architectures, power electronics, and direct current microgrids (DC-Grid)
- Flexible thin film solar collectors and photovoltaic integration on hull surfaces
- Comparative analysis of energy density, supply logistics and safety
03
Advanced hydrodynamics, biomimetics and extreme hull forms
- Ultra-low resistance hull designs: wave penetration forms (wave-piercing) and x-bow proas
- Biomimetics applied to naval architecture: hydrodynamics inspired by marine fauna
- Advanced Multihull Hulls: Trimaranes, Swath (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) and Pentamarans
- Air Friction Reduction: Bubble Lubrication Systems (ALS)
- Hydrofoils (Hydrofoils) Computer-assisted for large ships and fast transport
- Topological and generative hull optimisation through artificial intelligence and CFD
- Low-friction nanotechnological coatings and advanced anti-fouling properties
- Hull-propeller interaction in unconventional configurations (Azipods contra-launched, conduit propellants)
- Marine hydrodynamics in extreme conditions: polar navigation, ice interaction and manoeuvreability
- Active Wake Wash Reduction for Coastal and Interurban ships
04
Autonomous ships, artificial intelligence and unmanned systems (Mass)
- Classification and levels of autonomy according to the IMO (Mass Boats - Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships)
- Central control architecture for autonomous navigation and decision making without human intervention
- Fusion of state-of-the-art sensors: LiDAR, solid-state radar, hyperspectral cameras and 3D Sonar
- Artificial vision and AI systems for situational awareness and real-time obstacle detection
- Colreg Compliant navigation algorithms for autonomous approach prevention
- Integration of unmanned vehicles on board: aerial drones (UAV), surface (USV) and submarines (ROV/AUV)
- Autonomous systems of docking, anchoring and handling of moorings by port and on-board robotics
- Real-time Digital Operational Twin (Digital Twin) and Ultra-Low Latency Satellite Connectivity
- Man-Machine Interfaces (HMI) for Remote Control Centres on Ground (REMOTE Operations Centres - ROC)
- Testing, simulation in virtual environments and validation of self-contained navigation software
05
Disruptive materials, intelligent structures and advanced maintenance
- Advanced Composite Materials: Large-scale Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymers (CFRP)
- High-strength metamaterials and light alloys for naval structural applications
- Self-healing materials for crack mitigation and corrosion
- Large format additive manufacturing (3D printing) applied to the construction of blocks and naval components
- Adaptive structures and morphological notches: intelligent materials with memory of form (SMA)
- Structural Health Monitoring (Structural Health Monitoring)
- Advanced lightweight thermal and acoustic insulation by aerogels and porous materials
- Structural design for maximum recyclability and circular economy (Cradle to Cradle criteria)
- Corrosive protection by nanotechnology and intelligent sacrificial anodes
- Fatigue analysis and dynamic behaviour against impacts, explosions and dry-dockings
06
Futuristic interior architecture, habitability and ergonomics of the future
- Reconfiguration of the interior space after the removal of the conventional engine and control bridges
- Design of spaces for small crews or itinerant maintenance centres
- Interchangeable modular architecture: Loading and accommodation spaces based on standardised modules
- Biophile environments and psychological well-being in long-term autonomous crossings
- Circadian lighting, passive acoustic conditioning and control of the indoor microclimate
- Sustainable, fire-retardant and toxic emission-free (VOC) inner materials
- Security, evacuation and accessibility in environments without permanent personnel
- Integration of vertical farms on board and water/waste recycling systems in closed circuit
- Floating or virtual built-in augmented/mixed reality control bridges
- Adaptation of the interior design to the new professional profiles of the Navy of the future
07
Integrated logistics, automated loading and port operation
- Modular and adaptive ships (reconfigurable vessels) for multiple types of cargo
- Fully automated ship-port interface: loading and unloading by robotics and autonomous cranes
- Automatic container and hyperstructure lashing and fixing systems
- Motherships (motherships) and ocean-river combined transport systems
- Port clean energy supply networks: Cold Ironing, Battery Exchange and Bunkering E-Fuel
- Ship integration in smart supply chains powered by IoT and Blockchain
- Maintenance and installation vessels for advanced offshore infrastructure (wind, marine mining)
- Optimisation of cargo space through intelligent cryogenic and volumetric storage
- Stability and ballast management in real time during ultra-fast charging operations
- Modelling and simulation of the global logistics chain in urban and river environments
08
Cybersecurity, resilience and futuristic maritime security
- Cyber threats on the hyperconnected ship: Zero-Trust network architectures on board
- Protection of Industrial Control Systems (ICS), Operational Technology (OT) and Propulsion Systems
- GPS/GNSS signal loss resilience: quantum inertial navigation and optical positioning
- Detection of physical and cyber-physical intrusion through sensor networks and artificial intelligence
- Emergency and recovery protocols for catastrophic failures on ships without crew
- Critical redundancy and fault tolerance in power and governance systems
- Fully automated fire extinguishing systems for new fuels (hydrogen, lithium, ammonia)
- Environmental safety: absolute prevention of spills and filtration of microplastics
- Regulation of civil liability and insurance for autonomous ships powered by new energies
- Cyber risk assessment and compliance with naval cybersecurity standards
09
Advanced simulation methods, virtual reality and digital twins
- Multidisciplinary modelling and simulation of complex systems in conceptual phases
- Development of the digital twin (Digital Twin) from the design phase to the operation
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) environments for design review and ergonomics
- Massive cloud simulation in the cloud (High Performance Computing - HPC)
- Co-simulation of propulsion systems, hull and sea conditions in real time
- Automatic generation of technical documentation and Naval BIM models
- Optimisation by genetic algorithms and reinforcement learning in naval design
- Cloud collabourative design platforms for global multidisciplinary teams
- Concept validation by simulating complex marine scenarios and extreme phenomena
- Creation of interactive digital prototypes for the presentation to investors and customers
10
Future regulations, viability and presentation of ship concepts
- IMO regulatory trends
- Future decarbonization requirements
- Regulation of autonomous ships
- Technical Feasibility Analysis
- Economic feasibility analysis
- Life cycle evaluation
- Risk analysis of new technologies
- Alternative design approval
- Presentation and communication of concepts
- Concept Ship Project
11
Master’s Final Project in Conceptual Design of Ships of the Future
- Selection and definition of the innovative concept (e.g. Autonomous Wind Container, Hydrogen Passage Ship, Explorer Modular)
- Analysis of the mission profile, operational requirements, commercial viability and projected regulatory framework
- Development of hull shape design, weight estimation and general layout (GA)
- Selection and integration of the zero emission propulsion plant and energy efficiency analysis
- Naval architecture calculation: hydrostatic, stability, resistance to advance and power estimation
- Defining the automation architecture, navigation systems and cybersecurity strategy
- Proposal for advanced materials, structural scheme and life cycle analysis (LCA)
- Elabouration of the conceptual digital twin, hyperrealistic 3D renders and animation of the operational concept
- Drafting of the complete technical memory, ship specification and return-of-investment analysis
- Public presentation, oral defence and interactive demonstration of the concept designed before a court of experts
Workload
Study Time and Workload
1500 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Naval engineers and naval architects who wish to lead innovation in ship design, exploring new technologies and fuels.Maritime professionals (shipowners, shipyards, classification societies) seeking to anticipate regulations and market demands in sustainability and efficiency.Researchers and academics interested in deepening their knowledge of modeling and simulation of complex naval systems a
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Leading innovation in naval design
- 02Optimizing the energy efficiency of vessels
- 03Integrating emerging technologies into naval design
- 04Developing sustainable naval design solutions
- 05Managing complex naval design projects
- 06Modeling and simulating the behavior of ships
Careers
Career Opportunities
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02Conceptual Ship Designer: Development of new ideas and concepts for innovative ships.
03Naval Project Engineer: Participation in ship design and construction projects, overseeing systems integration.
04Naval Design Consultant: Technical advice to shipyards, shipowners, and companies in the maritime sector on optimizing ship design.
05Maritime Technology Researcher: Development of new technologies and materials for the construction of more efficient and sustainable ships.
06Simulation and Modeling Specialist: Creation of virtual models for evaluating ship performance and safety.
07Technical and Economic Feasibility Analyst: Evaluation of the feasibility of ship design projects, considering technical and economic aspects.
08Innovation Manager in the Naval Industry: Identifying and developing innovation opportunities in the naval sector, driving the adoption of new technologies.
09Maritime Regulations and Standards Expert: Advising on compliance with national and international regulations and standards regarding ship design and construction.
Questions
Entry Requirements
Innovative and futuristic vessels, with a focus on sustainability, new technologies and adaptation to the future challenges of the maritime 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 both, combining aesthetic design with naval engineering principles to conceive futuristic ships.
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 Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
```htmlAcademic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Naval Engineering, Naval Architecture, Industrial Design, or related field; or demonstrable professional experience in ship design and development.Technical Skills:Solid knowledge of CAD/CAM software, 3D modeling, and naval simulation tools.Familiarity with shipbuilding regulations and sustainability criteria.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree, academic transcript, cover letter detailing interest in conceptual ship design. Portfolio (optional).Skills:Teamwork, creativity, problem-solving, a
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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