Master’s Degree in Biodiversity and Conservation of Marine Ecosystems
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Biodiversity and Conservation of Marine Ecosystems
This program offers you an in-depth immersion in the study and protection of the oceans. You will learn to assess the health of ecosystems, identify threats, and design effective conservation strategies. This program combines a solid theoretical foundation with fieldwork and data analysis, preparing you to lead research and management projects in the marine environment.
Differentiating Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: integrates biology, ecology, oceanography, and environmental management.
- Innovative Technologies: use of drones, underwater acoustics, and modeling for biodiversity studies.
- International Collaborations: access to research projects and expert networks globally.
- Skills Development: scientific communication skills, leadership, and complex problem-solving abilities.
- Career Opportunities: opportunities in NGOs, government agencies, consultancies, and research centers research.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Marine biologists and environmental scientists seeking to specialize in the management and conservation of threatened marine ecosystems.
- Public administration and NGO professionals needing tools for the design and implementation of marine conservation policies.
- Environmental consultants and corporate technicians interested in the environmental impact assessment of activities in the marine environment.
- Researchers and academics wishing to deepen their knowledge of the scientific knowledge necessary for the protection of marine biodiversity.
- Graduates in environmental science, biology, engineering, or related fields aspiring to a professional career in marine conservation.
Flexibility and specialization
The Master’s program adapts to your needs. Needs: Choose personalized itineraries, combine online and face-to-face modules, and focus on the conservation areas that interest you most.
Objectives and skills
Design and implement effective strategies for the sustainable management of marine resources:
“Analyze scientific and socioeconomic data to establish sustainable fishing quotas, considering the impact on the ecosystem and local communities.”
Assess and mitigate the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems:
“Implement sustainable fisheries management strategies and coastal habitat restoration, monitoring key ecosystem health indicators and integrating climate predictive models.”
Lead innovative research projects in marine biology and coastal ecology:
“To define ambitious hypotheses, design rigorous experiments, and communicate impactful findings in high-level scientific forums, driving the advancement of knowledge and solutions for marine conservation.”
Develop and apply advanced techniques for the restoration of degraded marine habitats:
“Implement methodologies for coral planting and seagrass restoration, monitoring their effectiveness through biological and chemical indicators.”
Advise and participate in the formulation of public policies for marine conservation:
“Analyze current legislation, identify legal gaps, and propose modifications based on scientific evidence and international best practices.”
Effectively communicate scientific findings to the community and decision-makers:
“Adapt the language and format to the audience (papers, reports, presentations, policy briefs) emphasizing the relevance and practical implications of the research.”
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of Integrated Marine Conservation Management: Ecosystemic and Holistic Approaches to Sustainability
- Advanced Methodologies for the Assessment and Monitoring of Marine Biodiversity: Biological, Genetic, and Environmental Indicators
- Design and Application of Adaptive Strategies in Marine Conservation: Vulnerability Analysis and Climate Change Scenarios
- Technological Tools for Marine Management: Use of GIS Systems, Remote Sensing, and Predictive Modeling of Habitats and Populations
- International and Regional Legislation for the Protection of Marine Ecosystems: Relevant Treaties, Conventions, and Regulatory Frameworks
- Integration of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Marine Spatial Planning, Zoning, and Participatory Management with Local Communities
- Sustainable Management of Fisheries Resources: Stock Assessment, Quotas, Responsible Fishing Techniques, and Impact Mitigation
- Ecological Restoration in Marine Environments
Degraded areas: rehabilitation techniques, bioengineering, and invasive species control
Development of adaptive management plans: monitoring, continuous evaluation, and adjustments based on scientific evidence
Economic and social models for marine conservation: incentives, collaborative governance, and inclusive conservation policies
Advanced case studies in sustainable marine conservation: critical interpretation of successful experiences and lessons learned
Environmental communication and awareness for conservation: education strategies, citizen participation, and the use of new digital technologies
Environmental and social impact assessment: technical procedures, risk analysis, and mitigation for coastal and marine activities
- Fundamentals of marine ecological dynamics: biotic and abiotic interactions, ecological succession, and spatial patterns in coastal and pelagic ecosystems
- Mechanisms of resilience and recovery in marine ecosystems: response to natural and anthropogenic disturbances
- Mathematical and statistical modeling applied to population dynamics and marine food webs
- Use of predictive models in adaptive management and marine conservation planning
- Scenario simulation for ecological restoration: impact assessment and mitigation strategies
- Spatial data analysis using geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing for marine habitat mapping
- Models of larval dispersal and ecological connectivity: Implications for the design of marine protected areas
Application of integrated ecosystem models for the assessment of marine ecosystem services
Advanced computational tools: R, MATLAB, and specific software for marine ecological modeling
Case studies in the restoration of reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangroves: methods, success, and limitations
- Fundamentals of marine biodiversity: ecological, genetic, and functional characteristics of marine ecosystems
- Environmental diagnostics: advanced methodologies for inventorying and assessing the status of marine ecosystems, including benthic and pelagic sampling
- Remote and field monitoring tools: applications of remote sensing, in-situ aquatic sensors, and photogrammetry techniques for detecting changes in biodiversity
- Ecological modeling: simulation of population dynamics and ecosystem processes for predicting responses to anthropogenic and climate impacts
- Design and evaluation of integrated coastal-marine management strategies: concepts of ecological zoning, marine protected areas, and adaptive management
- Marine ecological restoration: innovative techniques for rehabilitating degraded habitats, including the restoration of coral reefs and seagrass meadows Marine ecosystems and mangroves
- Legal framework and international policies for marine conservation: analysis of legal instruments such as the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Ramsar Convention, and regional fisheries management agreements
- Community participation and inclusive governance: strategies for the involvement of local actors and indigenous peoples in decision-making and co-management of marine resources
- Sensors and emerging technologies for continuous monitoring: implementation of underwater drones, acoustic systems, and autonomous platforms for long-term data collection
- Impact assessment and management plan development: integration of biological, chemical, and physical indicators for the creation of sustainable strategies and concrete action plans
- Case studies and multidisciplinary studies of successful restoration and adaptive management in marine ecosystems globally
- Fundamentals of marine biodiversity: concepts, levels of organization, and spatial patterns
- Biodiversity inventories: sampling design, traditional and modern techniques for collecting biological data in marine ecosystems
- Introduction to remote sensing: physical principles, optical sensors, radar, and satellites applied to marine environmental monitoring
- Processing and analysis of remote sensing data: atmospheric correction, supervised and unsupervised classification, and extraction of relevant indices for ecosystem assessment
- Applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS): spatial modeling, distribution analysis, and mapping of marine habitats and ecosystem services
- Evaluation and valuation of marine ecosystem services: quantitative and qualitative methodologies for the economic, cultural, and regulatory valuation of marine biodiversity
- Advanced methodologies for assessing integrity Ecosystemic: biological, functional, and physical indicators integrated into spatial platforms
Tools for monitoring and restoring marine ecosystems: emerging technologies, underwater drones, and remote sensors for continuous monitoring
Spatial predictive models for ecological restoration: simulation of future scenarios under different management and conservation strategies
Case studies: implementation of inventories and remote sensing techniques in real-world marine conservation and restoration projects globally
International standards and protocols for the capture, management, and dissemination of spatial data on marine biodiversity
Multidisciplinary integration in marine conservation: collaboration among ecologists, geoscientists, economists, and public managers for evidence-based decision-making
Development of skills in specialized software: ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI, Google Earth Engine, and R for spatial statistical analysis and ecological modeling
Preparation of technical and scientific reports focused on the assessment and management of marine ecosystem services with an applied and impact-based approach
- Remote Sensing and Remote Sensors: physical principles, types of sensors (optical, radar, LiDAR), multisensor integration for monitoring critical marine habitats
- Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and GNSS Technology: accuracy, differential corrections, applications in spatial tracking of species and delineation of protected areas
- Hydrodynamic and Oceanographic Models: simulation of currents, sediment and nutrient transport, effects on benthic and pelagic ecosystems
- Implementation of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Remotely Operated Robots (ROVs): design, onboard sensors, mapping missions, and deep-sea ecosystem sampling
- Marine Photogrammetry and 3D Seabed Mapping: advanced techniques of Mapping, stereoscopic reconstruction, and temporal analysis to detect habitat changes
Acoustic Monitoring and Passive Bioacoustics: detection and tracking of cetaceans, fish, and other organisms; signal interpretation; use of hydrophones and early warning systems
Satellite Remote Sensing Tools in Marine Conservation: multispectral analysis, detection of spills and algal blooms, habitat classification, and assessment of anthropogenic impacts
Big Data and Geospatial Analysis: data mining techniques, artificial intelligence, and machine learning applied to large volumes of environmental data
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for the management and planning of marine ecosystems: creation of thematic layers, risk modeling, and zoning for effective conservation
Innovative Methodologies for Assessment Biodiversity: Molecular techniques (eDNA, metabarcoding), remote sensing of benthic communities, and integrated ecological indicators
Real-Time Monitoring and Marine IoT Technologies: In-situ sensors, environmental monitoring networks, data transmission, and applications for adaptive management
Application of Drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the assessment and protection of coastal zones and coral reefs: Advantages, limitations, and case studies
Innovations in Marine Ecological Restoration Techniques: Bioengineering, habitat restoration, use of smart artificial structures, and post-restoration monitoring
Technologies for Mitigating Anthropogenic Threats: Detection of illegal fishing, pollution control, environmental monitoring, and technological strategies for policy implementation
Design and Implementation of Ecological Monitoring Protocols: quantitative and qualitative indicators, temporal and spatial scales, data validation and quality assurance
Practical Case Studies: implementation of technologies in the management of marine parks, sanctuaries, and marine protected areas with proven results in effective conservation
Impact and Future of Advanced Technologies: emerging trends, multidisciplinary integration, and scientific and ethical challenges in marine conservation
- Fundamentals of Integrated Marine Ecosystem Management: Key Concepts, Objectives, and Ecological Principles
- Advanced Assessment of Marine Biodiversity Status: Biological, Genetic, and Ecosystem Indicators
- Remote Monitoring and Remote Sensing: Applications of Satellites, Underwater Drones, and In-Situ Sensors for Environmental Monitoring
- Ecological Modeling Technologies: Dynamic Simulation of Populations, Habitats, and Nutrient Flows
- Innovations in Marine Habitat Restoration: Bioengineering Techniques and Coral Rehabilitation Using Artificial Structures
- Geospatial Tools for Marine Zoning: GIS, Multitemporal Spatial Analysis, and Ecosystem-Based Planning (EBM)
- Application of Big Data and Machine Learning for Environmental Impact Prediction and Adaptive Management
- Climate Change Mitigation Measures in Marine Ecosystems: Blue Carbon Capture and Conservation of Marine carbon sinks
International policies and regulatory frameworks: integrating technologies for environmental compliance and monitoring
International case studies: implementation and results of innovative strategies in sustainable marine conservation
- Fundamentals and theoretical bases of predictive models in marine ecology: differential equations, stochastic algorithms, and multivariate methods applied to population dynamics
- Advanced computational tools: use of specialized software such as R, Python, and MATLAB for ecosystem modeling and predictive simulations of environmental change
- Monitoring techniques of marine ecosystems: remote technologies (satellite sensors, drones, autonomous vehicles) and in-situ systems (oceanographic buoys, continuous monitoring stations, scientific SCUBA)
- Application of genomic and metagenomic techniques for the identification and monitoring of key species in conservation processes
- Design and implementation of environmental monitoring programs: sampling protocols, multiscale statistical analyses, and evaluation of biological and physical indicators
- Development of Restoration strategies: active vs. passive restoration, marine revegetation techniques, cultivation and reintroduction of structural and functional species
- Methodologies for evaluating the effectiveness and sustainability of restoration projects using metrics of biodiversity, ecological functionality, and provision of ecosystem services
- International case studies and practical experiences in the restoration of ecosystems such as coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangroves
- Regulatory framework and public policies in marine conservation: interfaces between science, environmental legislation, and adaptive management based on monitoring and modeling results
- Integration of predictive models into the design of marine reserves and protected areas: spatio-temporal optimization for effective conservation and ecosystem resilience
- Fundamentals of marine food webs: structures, levels, and energy flows in benthic and pelagic ecosystems
- Dynamic modeling of food webs: mathematical applications and computational simulation for ecological prediction
- Complex trophic interactions: competition, predation, mutualism, and their influence on ecosystem stability
- Ecosystem resilience analysis: biological indicators, ecological functions, and responses to anthropogenic and natural disturbances
- Evaluation of marine ecosystem services linked to trophic biodiversity: sustainable fishing, carbon sequestration, and climate regulation
- Advanced tools for monitoring food webs in marine protected areas: satellite technologies, remote sensing, and genetic analysis
- Adaptive management strategies: integrating predictive models for decision-making in the conservation of marine ecosystems
Impact of climate change and ocean acidification on the trophic dynamics and resilience of marine communities
Planning and design of marine protected areas based on the optimization of trophic connectivity and functional biodiversity
Case studies and success stories: application of trophic web optimization in the restoration and effective management of vulnerable marine ecosystems
- Fundamentals of planning in marine protected areas (MPAs): environmental diagnosis, identification of ecological values, and analysis of anthropogenic threats
- Advanced methodologies for the design of MPAs and ecological corridors: biological, spatial, and socioeconomic criteria
- Geoprocessing and remote sensing tools for mapping and dynamic zoning in marine ecosystems
- Adaptive management models in MPAs: integration of monitoring, evaluation, and feedback for continuous improvement
- Participatory governance and co-management strategies: legal, political, and community implications for marine conservation
- Effects of ecological connectivity and migratory corridors on the resilience of marine populations
- Marine population dynamics: population analysis based on population genetics and demographic structure
- Application of genetic models and metapopulations for
- Assessment of gene flow and genetic diversity in key marine species
- Genetically informed conservation strategies: in situ and ex situ conservation, management of gene banks, and population recovery
- Assessment of ecosystem resilience to human impacts and climate change: indicators and critical thresholds
- Predictive tools for sustainable management: spatial modeling, simulation of future scenarios, and ecological risk analysis
- Monitoring and tracking protocols for biological and environmental indicators in marine protected areas
- Integration of social and ecological sciences for effective conservation: an interdisciplinary and multidimensional approach
- International and regional case studies on successful management of MPAs and ecological corridors based on scientific evidence and genetic models
- Development and presentation of management plans for MPAs: structure, objectives, actions, and sustainable financing
- Technological innovations for the management and monitoring of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Use of drones, remote sensors, and environmental genomic analysis
Impact of fishing, tourism, and resource exploitation on population dynamics and strategies to minimize their ecological footprint
International regulations and conventions on marine conservation: implementation and challenges in national contexts
Integrated marine landscape planning: reconciling conservation, development, and sustainable use
Capacity building and professional development for managers and specialists in marine conservation and biodiversity
- Methodological Design of the Final Project: Establishing objectives, hypotheses, and research questions applied to marine conservation
- Critical Review of Emerging Technologies: Satellite Remote Sensing, UAV Systems, In-situ Sensors, and Genomic Methodologies for Biodiversity Monitoring
- Multidisciplinary Integration: Combining Oceanographic, Biological, and Geospatial Data to Model Marine Ecosystem Dynamics
- Application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in the Identification, Classification, and Monitoring of Marine Species at Risk
- Development of Early Warning Systems for Ecological Threat Events Using Predictive Analysis and Environmental Big Data
- Environmental Impact Assessment with a Focus on Mitigating the Effects of Human Activities Using Innovative Technologies
- Design and Optimization of Restoration and Conservation Strategies Based on Technological Data and Advanced Spatial Modeling
- Implementation of collaborative digital platforms for participatory management and information exchange between scientific communities and marine resource managers
- Ethical and regulatory protocols for the use of technologies in research and conservation, including international legal considerations and global agreements
- Presentation, advocacy, and dissemination of results based on rigorous scientific criteria and proposals for public policies for the sustainability of marine ecosystems
Career prospects
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- Marine Conservation Project Manager: Design, implementation, and evaluation of projects for the protection of marine species and habitats.
- Marine Environmental Consultant: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for coastal and marine projects, advising companies and public administrations.
- Scientific Researcher: Development of research in marine ecology, biodiversity, climate change, and conservation of marine ecosystems.
- Sustainable Aquaculture Technician: Implementation of aquaculture practices that respect the environment and marine biodiversity.
- Marine Environmental Educator: Design and development of educational and awareness programs on the importance of marine conservation.
- Marine Protected Area (MPA) Manager: Planning and management of MPAs, monitoring of ecosystems and species, and control of Activities.
- Working in NGOs and environmental foundations: Participation in conservation projects, awareness campaigns, and advocacy.
- Technical advisor in public administrations: Development of policies and regulations for the protection of the marine environment and the sustainable management of resources.
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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
- Advanced Specialization: Delve deeper into marine ecology, resource management, and conservation strategies.
- Cutting-Edge Research: Participate in innovative projects and contribute to scientific knowledge about marine ecosystems.
- Practical Tools: Master monitoring, data analysis, and ecological modeling techniques applied to marine conservation.
- Field Experience: Complete professional internships at leading institutions and organizations in marine environmental protection.
- Exit Professional: Boost your career in environmental management, consulting, research, and public policy. Become an expert in the protection and sustainable management of our oceans.
Testimonials
This master’s degree provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a coral restoration project in the Red Sea. By applying the principles I learned about population genetics and marine ecology, we achieved a 40% increase in coral cover in the study area in just two years, exceeding initial expectations and laying the foundation for the long-term recovery of the ecosystem.
During the Master’s in Environment and Sustainability, I developed a project to optimize waste management in a textile industry, achieving a 30% reduction in waste sent to landfill and a 25% increase in the recycling rate, results that were successfully implemented by the company.
This master’s degree provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a coral restoration project in the Caribbean. By applying the principles I learned about population genetics and marine ecology, we achieved a 60% increase in coral cover in the study area in just two years, exceeding the project’s initial expectations and laying the foundation for the long-term recovery of the ecosystem.
This master’s program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a coral restoration project in the Caribbean. By applying the principles I learned about population genetics and marine ecology, we managed to increase coral cover by 30% in two years, exceeding initial expectations and laying the foundation for the long-term recovery of the ecosystem.
Frequently asked questions
The main focus is on biodiversity and the conservation of marine ecosystems.
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.
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.
- Methodological Design of the Final Project: Establishing objectives, hypotheses, and research questions applied to marine conservation
- Critical Review of Emerging Technologies: Satellite Remote Sensing, UAV Systems, In-situ Sensors, and Genomic Methodologies for Biodiversity Monitoring
- Multidisciplinary Integration: Combining Oceanographic, Biological, and Geospatial Data to Model Marine Ecosystem Dynamics
- Application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in the Identification, Classification, and Monitoring of Marine Species at Risk
- Development of Early Warning Systems for Ecological Threat Events Using Predictive Analysis and Environmental Big Data
- Environmental Impact Assessment with a Focus on Mitigating the Effects of Human Activities Using Innovative Technologies
- Design and Optimization of Restoration and Conservation Strategies Based on Technological Data and Advanced Spatial Modeling
- Implementation of collaborative digital platforms for participatory management and information exchange between scientific communities and marine resource managers
- Ethical and regulatory protocols for the use of technologies in research and conservation, including international legal considerations and global agreements
- Presentation, advocacy, and dissemination of results based on rigorous scientific criteria and proposals for public policies for the sustainability of marine ecosystems
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.