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 Cybersecurity in Naval Systems
Offers comprehensive training to protect critical maritime infrastructure against growing cyber threats. You will learn to secure everything from navigation and communication systems to machinery control and cargo management…
Duration1500 h
FormatOnline
Starts30 November
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Master’s in Cybersecurity in Naval Systems?
The Master's in Cybersecurity for Naval Systems
Offers comprehensive training to protect critical maritime infrastructure against growing cyber threats. You will learn to secure everything from navigation and communication systems to machinery control and cargo management. This program delves into the analysis of specific vulnerabilities, the implementation of multi-layered defense strategies, and incident response in complex naval environments, combining advanced theory with practical exercises and real-world case studies.
Differentiating Advantages
- Specialized Focus: Cybersecurity applied to naval industry systems and protocols (e.g., NMEA, ECDIS).
- Hands-on Labs: Simulation of attacks and defenses in replicated naval environments for hands-on training.
- Regulatory Compliance: In-depth knowledge of IMO, IEC, and other regulations relevant to maritime cybersecurity.
- Industry Experts: Instructors with real-world experience in the protection of ships, ports, and offshore infrastructure. Career Development: Preparation for key roles such as naval CISO, OT security analyst, and maritime cybersecurity consultant.
Programme type
Master's Degree
Study mode
Online
Duration
1,500 hours
Modules
11
Programme highlights
- Proactive Defense: Learn to protect critical naval systems with the latest threat intelligence and digital forensics techniques.
- Regulatory Compliance: Master the most demanding security regulations and standards, including NIS2 and ISO 27001, applied to the maritime environment.
- Advanced Simulations: Participate in hands-on exercises with realistic cyberattack simulators, designed to strengthen fleet resilience.
- Industry Experts: Receive training from industry leaders and ex-military personnel with experience in naval cybersecurity.
- Career Professional: Boost your career in a booming sector with high demand for professionals specializing in the protection of maritime infrastructure. Ensure the integrity and availability of naval systems against growing cyber threats.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 11 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Advanced Protection of Critical Networks and Systems on Board: Defence and Detection Strategies in Naval Cybersecurity
- Naval Network Architecture and Topologies Critical: Segmentation, Isolation and Redundancy
- Secure communication protocols: application of military and civilian standards (MIL-STD, NMEA, ACN), encryption and authentication in shipped systems
- Implementation of next-generation firewalls and intrusion prevention systems (NGFW, IPS) adapted to maritime environments
- Perimeter Defence and Access Controls: Use of VLANs, NAC (Network Access Control) and micro-segmentation to protect critical subsystems
- Advanced real-time monitoring tools: traffic analysis, detection of anomalies based on AI/ml and event correlation
- Incident and Response Management Systems (SIEM and SOAR): Architecture, integration and automation of workflows on naval platforms
- Containment and mitigation of cyberattacks in SCADA systems and industrial control Naval - segmentation practices and whitelists of applications
- Protection of navigation and communication systems: GNSS hardening, radar and radio frequency systems against interference and spoofing/jamming attacks
- Operational Resilience Strategies: Redundancy, Automatic Failover and Disaster Recovery on-Board and Critical Systems on Board
- Forensic analysis and post-incident traceability in naval environments: collection, preservation and analysis of digital evidence in maritime scenarios
02
Secure architectures and applied cryptography for the comprehensive protection of intelligent naval systems
- Fundamentals of safe architectures: principles of design, defence in depth and reduction of the attack surface in intelligent naval systems
- Advanced Models of Cyber Threats in the Naval Environment: Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), Targeted Attacks and Specific Maritime Vectors
- Implementation of robust access controls: Multifactor authentication, role-based control (RBAC) and Zero Trust policies in naval environments
- Key Crypto Protocols for Naval Communications: TLS/DTLS, IPSec and Specialised VPNs for Satellite Links and Radio Frequency
- Asymmetric and symmetric cryptography applied: RSA, ECC, AES algorithms and their optimisation for embedded systems on naval platforms
- Secure management of cryptographic keys: methods of generation, distribution, storage in secure hardware (HSM) and periodic rotation
- Data integrity and authenticity: use of digital signatures, MAC codes and hash functions (SHA-2/3) in the protection of critical information naval
- Security in real-time data transfer: encryption of multimedia streams and telemetry for control and control systems
- Design and implementation of segmented and perimeter networks defended in ships and coastal systems with firewalls, IDS/IPS and SDN
- Failure and attack resistant system architectures: redundancy, isolation and recovery strategies for cyber incidents
03
Implementation and management of advanced cyber defence strategies in naval infrastructures critical
- Critical Naval Infrastructure Security Fundamentals: Features, Threat Vectors and Attack Surface
- Depth defence model applied to maritime environments: protection layers, network segmentation and access control
- Implementation of incident detection and response systems (IDS/IPS) adapted to hybrid naval networks and in real time
- Advanced cryptography for secure communications in shipped systems: protocols, key management and device certification
- Resilient architectures - design and maintenance of redundant and fault-tolerant infrastructures in naval control systems
- Threat response automation and orchestration: use of SOAR and analysis of big data in complex naval contexts
- Integration and management of security policies based on Zero Trust for naval critical assets: multifactor authentication and micro-segmentation
- Continuous monitoring and digital forensic analysis in naval systems: specific tools, techniques and procedures for maritime environments
- Cyber risk assessment and security audits in naval infrastructures: frameworks, methodologies and international regulatory compliance
- Planning and execution of cyber attack simulation exercises (Red Team/Blue Team) in real naval operating environments to improve resilience
04
Cyber Intelligence Operational and Incident Response on Naval Platforms: Digital Forensics, OT/ICS and PLC Analysis, Red/Blue Exercises, GNSS/Spoofing Mitigation, and Recovery of Critical Shipment Systems
- Fundamentals of Cyber Intelligence Operational: Key Concepts, Intelligence Cycle and Information Sources in Naval Environments
- Advanced digital forensic analysis methodologies applied to naval embarked systems: acquisition, preservation and analysis of digital evidence
- Architecture and security in OT/ICS systems in naval platforms - industrial communication, SCADA protocols and specific vulnerabilities
- Analysis and defence of PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers): Identification of attack vectors, malicious firmware modification and assurance strategies
- Design and execution of Red/Blue Team exercises in naval environments: simulation of cyber attacks and coordinated response to strengthen the operational defence
- GNSS and Spoofing Threat Mitigation Techniques in Maritime Navigation Systems: Detection, Countermeasures and Recovery of Positioning Integrity
- Protocols and Strategies for Recovery of Critical Embedded Systems Onboard: Post-Incident Functional Restoration and Operational Continuity of Vital Systems
- Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning for the proactive detection of cyber threats on naval platforms
- International regulations and standards applicable to cybersecurity in naval systems - compliance, auditing and best practices
- Pilots and Forensics of Real Incidents on Naval Platforms: Lessons Learned and Application of Response Protocols
05
Design and evaluation of secure communication protocols for integrated naval control systems
- Fundamentals of communication protocols in naval systems: OSI and TCP/IP models adapted to maritime networks
- International standards and regulations for secure communications in maritime and military environments
- Advanced cryptographic design for data protection: symmetrical, asymmetric, and hybrid key algorithms
- Implementation of robust authentication mechanisms and authorization in naval control systems
- Development and analysis of specific cryptographic protocols for CAN, MIL-STD-1553 and Ethernet networks on naval platforms
- Assessment of vulnerabilities and specific attacks on naval communication protocols: Spoofing, Man-in-the-Middle, Replay, and Two
- Integration of quantum and post-quantum encryption technologies to ensure communication in naval critical systems
- Simulation and modelling of attacks in communication protocols through virtualized naval labouratory environments
- Implementation and monitoring of intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS) systems in integrated naval control networks
- Forensic analysis and traceability of communication protocols for rapid response and risk mitigation
06
Advanced Cyber Defence Strategies and Operational Response in Autonomous Naval Infrastructures
- Fundamentals and Evolution of Cyber Threats in Autonomous Naval Systems: Historical Analysis and Emerging Trends
- Maritime Industrial Network Architecture (OT/IT): Segmentation, Specific Protocols (NMEA 2000, Can Bus, Industrial Ethernet) and Attack Vectors
- Advanced Intrusion Detection in Embarred Systems: Implementation of IDS/IPS with Machine Learning and Anomalous Behaviour Analysis in Real Time
- Cryptography applied to the protection of communications in autonomous naval systems: standards, key management and quantum encryption in maritime environments
- Integration of active and passive defence systems: specific firewalls for low-latency environments and sandboxing techniques in naval control devices
- Operational response to cyber incidents: containment, eradication and recovery protocols adapted to autonomous navigation and combat scenarios
- Digital forensics and post-incident analysis in naval infrastructures: collection, preservation and analysis of evidence in systems with restricted connectivity
- Simulation and training in naval cyber defence environments: use of digital twins and virtual environments for continuous vulnerability assessment
- International regulations and standards of cyber defence in autonomous naval systems - compliance with IMO, NATO, and military regulatory bodies
- Safe development of embedded software for naval systems: SDLC methodologies, penetration tests and hardening to avoid critical vulnerabilities
07
Integrated defence, detection and response strategies in critical naval networks and autonomous platforms
- Naval network architecture Critical: design, segmentation and access control in marine environments
- Advanced Threat Models: Cyberattacks targeted at navigation, communications and control of autonomous platforms
- Implementation of specialised IDS/IPS systems for naval networks: real-time detection of intrusions and anomalies
- Authentication and encryption protocols in naval systems communications - applied military and civilian standards
- SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) Technologies Integration with Autonomous Platforms and Maritime Sensors
- Development of playbooks and response protocols for specific cyber incidents for naval systems
- Continuous monitoring and forensic analysis in naval networks: advanced techniques and specialised tools
- Autonomous platform security - protection of control systems, navigation and automated propulsion
- Post-incident Recovery and Resilience Procedures: Strategy to Maintain Operation in Attack Scenarios
- International regulations and standards applied to cybersecurity in critical naval systems and autonomous platforms (NIST, STIG, IEC 62443)
08
Proactive monitoring and management of cyber threats in intelligent naval defence systems
- Fundamentals of network monitoring in naval systems: specific protocols, network topologies in military environments and secure segmentation
- Implementation of IDS/IPS systems on naval platforms: detection rules, false positives and automated responses to intrusions
- Use of telemetry and smart sensors for early threat identification - IoT device integration with artificial intelligence
- Application of machine learning techniques and predictive analysis in the proactive detection of cyberattacks
- Architecture and advanced configuration of SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) for naval defence: Correlation of events, normalization and prioritisation of alerts
- Vulnerability assessment methods in embedded navigation and control systems: static and dynamic analysis of critical software
- Secure protocols and encryption for the protection of communications between naval modules: implementation of quantum cryptography and PKI in high threat scenarios
- Incident Management and Rapid Response: Development of Specialised Playbooks for Attacks Directed to Critical Naval Infrastructures
- Integration of Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) with naval operations: sources, feeds, and automation of reactive and proactive defence
- Regulation and compliance in naval cybersecurity: international military regulations, IEC 62443 safety standards and their practical application
09
Advanced Strategies for Protection and Response in Integrated Naval Critical Infrastructures
- Identification and classification of naval critical infrastructures: control of SCADA systems, command centres and strategic assets
- Modelling of Cyber Threats Specific for Integrated Naval Systems: Attack Vectors, Persistence, and Privilege Escalation
- Security protocols and standards applied to naval military systems: STANAG, MIL-STD and NATO standards
- Implementation of in-depth defence strategies in maritime environments: network segmentation, advanced firewalls and specialised IDS/IPS systems
- Hardening and continuous monitoring of shipped devices and naval industrial control systems (ICS)
- Automation and orchestration of incident responses on naval platforms: use of SOAR and specific playbooks for maritime cyber incidents
- Digital forensic analysis in maritime environments: collection, preservation and analysis of evidence in naval systems for post-incident research
- Real-time Threat Intelligence Application: Integration of Specialised Feeds, Anomalous Behaviour Analysis and Early Warning
- Operational resilience through redundancy and recovery from disasters - design and testing of contingency plans in naval centres and warships
- Conformity and audit in cybersecurity for naval infrastructures Critical: specific frameworks and periodic evaluation of implemented controls
10
Governance, regulations and management of maritime cybernetic risk
- IMO Resolution MSC.428(98)
- BIMCO Guidelines on Cybersecurity on Board
- Requirements IACS UR E26 and E27
- Integration of cyber risk in the ISM
- IEC 62443 standard in maritime systems
- Vessel Cyber Risk Assessment
- Supplier and Supply Chain Management
- Crew awareness and training
- Cybersecurity audits and certification
- Business continuity and recovery plans
11
Master’s Final Project in Cybersecurity in Naval Systems
- Conceptualization of the final work: objectives, scope and delimitation in the naval context
- Regulatory framework and international standards applicable to cybersecurity in naval systems: STANAG, NATO Cyber Defence, IMO Guidelines
- Advanced cyber risk analysis methodologies in naval platforms - identification, evaluation and prioritisation
- Design and implementation of integrated cyber defence strategies: proactive and reactive measures for the protection of critical infrastructure
- Resilient architectures for naval control and control systems: segmentation of networks, redundant systems and secure communication protocols
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning application for early detection of threats in complex naval environments
- Simulation and modelling of cyber attacks: scenarios, attack vectors and coordinated response
- Implementation of strategies for operational recovery and continuity of mission against cyber incidents
- Cyber defence integration with physical and electronic security - multidisciplinary approach to holistic protection
- Preparation of technical reports and documentation: best practices for the professional presentation of the final work
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 and systems engineers seeking to specialize in protecting critical maritime infrastructure against cyber threats.Merchant and military marine officers interested in understanding and mitigating cyber risks in navigation and port operations.IT and cybersecurity professionals who wish to apply their knowledge in a highly specialized and constantly evolving sector such as maritime.Securit
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
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Student Reviews
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Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Protecting critical naval infrastructure
- 02Detecting and responding to naval cyber incidents
- 03Implement defense-in-depth strategies
- 04Managing security in naval communications
- 05Assess and mitigate cyber risks specific to the naval environment
- 06Develop and implement cybersecurity policies for ships and naval bases
Careers
Career Opportunities
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02Naval Cybersecurity Analyst: Protection of systems and networks of ships and offshore platforms.
03Cybersecurity Consultant in the Maritime Sector: Advising on the implementation of security measures.
04Information Security Specialist in Shipyards: Protection of intellectual property and sensitive data.
05Network Security Officer in the Navy or other naval forces: Defense against cyberattacks.
06Secure Software Developer for Naval Systems: Creation of robust and vulnerability-resistant applications.
07Maritime Cybersecurity Researcher: Identification of new threats and development of countermeasures.
08Cybersecurity Auditor in Port Infrastructures: Evaluation of the security of critical systems.
09Cybersecurity Incident Manager in Naval Environments: Rapid and effective response to attacks.
Questions
Entry Requirements
Yeah.
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.
Naval and maritime sector.
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 Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field; or demonstrable professional experience in cybersecurity, naval systems, or related areas.Technical Skills:Solid knowledge of networks, operating systems, computer security, and programming. Experience in naval environments will be valued.Language proficiency:B2 level of English (reading comprehension and ability to follow classes in technical English).Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree, academic transcript,
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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