Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Masters · 1600 h · 11 modules
Master's in Climate Change and Coastal Adaptation
This program prepares you to lead the response to the environmental challenges facing our coasts. Learn to assess the vulnerability of coastal areas, design innovative adaptation strategies, and implement nature-based solutions…
Duration1600 h
FormatOnline
Starts7 December
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Master’s in Climate Change and Coastal Adaptation?
The Master in Climate Change and Coastal Adaptation
This program prepares you to lead the response to the environmental challenges facing our coasts. Learn to assess the vulnerability of coastal areas, design innovative adaptation strategies, and implement nature-based solutions. This program gives you the tools to understand the impacts of climate change, from sea-level rise to the intensification of extreme events, and to develop sustainable coastal management plans.
This program prepares you to lead the response to the environmental challenges facing our coasts. Learn to assess the vulnerability of coastal areas, design innovative adaptation strategies, and implement nature-based solutions.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integrates knowledge from environmental science, engineering, economics, and public policy.
- Real-World Case Studies: Analyzes concrete examples of coastal adaptation at a global level.
- Modeling Tools: Master the use of software to simulate climate scenarios and evaluate the impact of adaptation measures.
- Collaboration with Experts: Learn from leading professionals in the field of coastal adaptation.
- Project Development: Apply your knowledge to practical projects with real impact on coastal communities.
Programme type
Master's Degree
Study mode
Online
Duration
1,600 hours
Modules
11
Start date
07-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Advanced Climate Analysis: Master the tools and models to predict and understand the impacts of climate change on coastal areas.
- Innovative Adaptation Strategies: Design and implement effective and sustainable solutions for the protection of coastal infrastructure and ecosystems.
- Risk Management and Resilience: Learn to assess and mitigate the risks associated with sea-level rise, erosion, and extreme events.
- Legal Framework and Environmental Policies: Understand the key regulations and policies for integrated coastal zone management and climate change adaptation.
- Real-World Projects and Case Studies: Apply your knowledge to practical projects and analyze case studies of International success stories for immersive learning.
- Boost your career in coastal adaptation and become a leader in the fight against climate change.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 11 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Integrated Strategies and Advanced Technologies for Climate Change Mitigation in Coastal Areas
- Fundamentals of Climate Change Mitigation in Coastal Zones: Vulnerabilities and Specific Risks
- Integrated Adaptation Strategies: Ecosystem Approach, Nature-Based Solutions, and Territorial Planning
- Climate predictive models applied to coastal ecosystems: dynamics of atmospheric and oceanic processes
- Advanced monitoring technologies: remote sensors, drones, LiDAR and IoT systems for real-time environmental analysis
- GIS and remote sensing tools for climate impact assessment and coastal management
- Early Warning and Risk Management Systems in Vulnerable Coastal Areas: Design, Implementation and Maintenance
- Resilient infrastructure: Sustainable design and materials for coastal protection works and habitat restoration
- Public policies and international and local regulatory frameworks for mitigation and adaptation in coastal areas
- Multisectoral Integration and Community Participation: Environmental Governance and Collabourative Management Models
- Advanced Case Studies: Implementation of Emerging Technologies and Effective Strategies in Coastal Adaptation Against Climate Change
02
Predictive models and innovative tools for dynamic management of coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change
- Fundamentals and principles of climate predictive models: types, temporal and spatial scales, and key parametres in coastal ecosystems
- Hydrodynamic and sedimentological models: current simulation, waves, sediment transport and beach-delta dynamics
- Integration of geoenvironmental and oceanographic data in GIS platforms for predicting coastal impacts
- Advanced remote sensing tools and remote sensors: Satellite image acquisition, processing and analysis and LiDAR for coastal monitoring
- Application of machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques to improve the accuracy of climate change scenarios and ecological adaptability
- Coastal flood modelling and sea level rise: numerical methodologies and validation with global case studies
- Simulation of extreme events: risk analysis and impact of storms, storm surge and severe weather phenomena in coastal zones
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Design and application for integrated management and dynamics of vulnerable coastal ecosystems
- Development and implementation of collabourative digital platforms for real-time decision-making in coastal adaptation policies
- Economic and social models linked to coastal ecosystems: evaluation of the impact of climate change and sustainable adaptation strategies
03
Multidisciplinary strategies and innovative technologies for mitigation and adaptation in coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change
- Fundamentals of coastal resilience: definition, ecological and social principles applied to vulnerable ecosystems
- Multidimensional assessment of climate risk in coastal zones: hazard analysis, exposure and vulnerability
- Advanced predictive models of climate change and its application in coastal systems: hydrodynamic and thermal scenarios
- Innovative technologies for coastal monitoring: satellite remote sensing, LiDAR systems and integrated IoT sensors
- Design and application of integrated mitigation strategies: green infrastructure, nature-based solutions and mitigative geoengineering
- EcoSystem-Based Adaptation Coastal Adaptation, EBA: Restoration of mangroves, coral reefs and coastal dunes
- Implementation of early warning and rapid response systems for extreme weather events in coastal zones
- Evaluation of socioeconomic impact and governance in coastal adaptation: legal frameworks, public policies and community participation
- Big data integration and spatial analysis for adaptive planning and decision making in coastal environments
- International Case Studies and Best Practices: Lessons Learned in Adaptive Management Against Coastal Climate Change
04
Comprehensive planning and management of coastal resilience: protection engineering, nature-based solutions, risk assessment and climate financing
- Fundamentals of comprehensive planning in coastal resilience management: systemic analysis and multidisciplinary approach to climate adaptation
- Coastal protection engineering: design and evaluation of traditional hard structures (spikes, breakwaters, dikes), international technical and regulatory criteria
- Nature-Based Solutions (NBS): Restoration of dunes, wetlands, mangroves and coral reefs as natural strategies for coastal impact mitigation
- Advanced climate risk assessment: hydrodynamic modelling, vulnerability analysis, sea level rise scenarios and extreme events
- Tools for economic valuation and cost-benefit analysis for the prioritisation of investments in resilient infrastructure
- Development of regulatory frameworks and public policies for the comprehensive management of coastal adaptation in the face of climate change
- Climate financing: innovative financial instruments, international funds, payment mechanisms for ecosystem services and multilateral cooperation
- Monitoring and monitoring of coastal projects: resilience indicators, remote sensing technologies and applied GIS systems
- Participatory management and social inclusion in coastal planning: methodologies to involve local communities and key stakeholders
- Pilots and regional success studies in the implementation of comprehensive coastal adaptation plans based on cutting-edge scientific and technological evidence
05
Advanced monitoring and modelling of climate impacts in coastal environments for strategic decision making
- Fundamentals of climate change in coastal zones: physical, chemical and biological processes involved in environmental alteration
- Remote monitoring tools: Satellite remote sensing, LiDAR, coastal radar and drones techniques for continuous monitoring of coastal ecosystems
- Instrumentation and networks on site: design, installation and maintenance of weather stations, temperature sensors, salinity and waves, as well as oceanographic buoys
- Regional and global climate models: calibration, validation and application in coastal environments for the projection of future scenarios
- Numerical simulation of coastal processes: sedimentary dynamics, erosion, subsidence, sea level rise and extreme events
- Advanced Statistical Analysis: Techniques for Time Series Interpretation, Predictive Modelling and Uncertainty Assessment in Climatic and Oceanographic Data
- Multidisciplinary data integration: Frameworks to combine hydrodynamic, geomorphological and biological information in integrated risk assessment systems
- Development of early warning systems: algorithms, critical parametres and protocols to anticipate impacts associated with extreme weather events in coastal areas
- Application of geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing for territorial planning and adaptive management in vulnerable contexts
- Strategic decision making: scientific evidence-based methodologies for the formulation of public policies and tools of sustainable management in coastal adaptation
06
Technological innovation and integrated strategies for resilience and sustainable management in coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change
- Fundamentals of technological innovation in coastal management: review of emerging technologies, their application in mitigation and adaptation to climate change, and the impact on the resilience of coastal ecosystems.
- Integrated environmental monitoring systems: design and application of remote sensors, IoT technologies, and big data platforms for the continuous monitoring of physical, chemical and biological parametres in vulnerable coastal areas.
- Numerical modelling and advanced simulation: tools for predicting climate impacts, coastal dynamics, erosion and habitat changes, including machine learning techniques and spatial analysis for adaptive management.
- Integrated adaptive management strategies: Development of holistic plans that combine green and grey infrastructure, public policies, participatory governance and ecosystem-based management to increase coastal resilience.
- Innovation in sustainable coastal infrastructure: design and evaluation of nature-based solutions (NBS), diffuse barriers, mangrove and reef restoration, together with engineering technologies for risk mitigation and coastal consolidation.
- Climate risk and vulnerability assessment: Advanced methods for the identification, quantification and mapping of socio-environmental vulnerabilities, including multi-criteria analysis and modelling of future scenarios under different RCP (Representative Concentration Pathways).
- Public policies and regulatory frameworks for coastal adaptation: critical study of international, national and local regulations; climate financing mechanisms; and strategies for the effective implementation of innovative projects in coastal environments.
- Evidence-based decision-making tools: Use of geographic information systems (GIS), collabourative platforms and multi-criteria decision-making for territorial planning and sustainable development in coastal regions affected by climate change.
- Global study cases and best practices: Extensive analysis of successful experiences in technological innovation and sustainable management in coastal ecosystems, critical evaluation of results and lessons learned that allow replicability and scalability.
- Capacities for implementation and technology transfer: Strategies to strengthen technical skills, change management, and interdisciplinary collabouration between scientists, managers, local communities and private sectors to guarantee the sustainability and continuity of adaptive interventions.
07
Innovative strategies and cutting-edge technologies for resilience and sustainability of coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change
- Scientific foundations of coastal climate change: associated atmospheric, oceanic and geological processes
- Climate risk assessment in coastal zones: predictive models, impact scenarios and vulnerability analysis
- Emerging technologies for environmental monitoring: remote sensors, drones, automated weather stations and advanced remote sensing systems
- Implementation of coastal early warning systems: design, sensor integration, communication and community response
- Green and blue infrastructure innovations: Bioinspired design for erosion mitigation, habitat restoration and improved ecosystem resilience
- Numerical models for wave simulation, surge surge and sedimentary dynamics: principles, calibration and practical applications
- Intelligent coastal engineering technologies: adaptive structures, advanced materials and distributed infrastructure solutions
- Big data and machine learning integration in coastal management: predictive analytics, resource optimisation and real-time decision making
- International regulatory framework and public policies for coastal sustainability: evaluation of legal instruments and strategies aligned with the SDGs
- Participatory methodologies and adaptive governance: social cohesion, inter-institutional cooperation and co-design of solutions based on scientific evidence
08
Climate governance and public policies for the adaptation and sustainable management of coastal zones
- Fundamentals of climate governance: key definitions, actors involved and international and local institutional structures
- Regulatory and regulatory framework: Analysis of legal instruments for adaptation to climate change in vulnerable coastal areas, including international conventions, multilateral agreements and national policies
- Assessment of coastal climate risks: methodologies for the identification and quantification of socio-environmental and economic vulnerabilities in coastal contexts
- Public policy formulation processes: stages, actors and participatory mechanisms in the development of adaptation and mitigation strategies
- Economic and financial instruments for coastal adaptation: tax incentives, green funds, climate insurance and innovative sustainable financing mechanisms
- Ecosystem-based adaptation (EBA) and integrated management: integration of natural and anthropogenic solutions in territorial planning and risk management
- Monitoring, evaluation and reporting tools: indicators to measure the effectiveness of public policies and adaptation projects in coastal contexts
- Citizen participation and multilevel governance: coordination between local, regional and national governments; Role of local communities, NGOs and private sector
- International and regional case studies: critical analysis of successful experiences and challenges in the implementation of policies for coastal adaptation
- Future perspectives and trends in climate governance: technological innovation, dynamic adaptation and scaling of solutions for coastal resilience in accelerated climate change scenarios
09
Technological innovation and integrated strategies for resilience and sustainable management in coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change
- Scientific foundations of climate change and its impact on coastal zones: analysis of climate variables, atmospheric modelling and advanced oceanic
- Emerging technologies for coastal monitoring: remote sensors, networks of meteorological and oceanographic stations, drones and satellites
- Digital tools for coastal risk and vulnerability assessment: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), 3D modelling and spatial analysis
- Design and application of integrated adaptation strategies: ecosystem approaches, green infrastructure and nature-based solutions
- Innovation in resilient infrastructure: advanced materials, adaptive systems and sustainable building technologies
- Planning and management of coastal resilience projects: life cycles, resource management, climate financing and regulatory framework
- Evaluation of public policies and international regulations for coastal adaptation and mitigation of climate change
- Integrated Coastal Zone Management (GIZC): Principles, Participatory Planning, Multiscale Governance and Socio-Economic Impact Assessment
- Advanced modelling and simulation of future scenarios: coastal dynamics, sea level rise and extreme weather events
- Case studies and best practices in technological innovation applied to coastal adaptation and conservation of marine ecosystems
10
Climate risk communication, participation and coastal climate justice
- Social perception of climate risk
- communication of risk to citizens
- Participatory processes in adaptation
- Planned withdrawal and relocation of communities
- Climate justice and vulnerable groups
- Local and traditional knowledge
- Coastal environmental education
- Media and climate change
- Territorial conflict management
- Citizen Participation Plan
11
Master’s Final Project in Climate Change and Coastal Adaptation
- Fundamentals and conceptual framework of climate change: physical principles, greenhouse gases, forcings and climate feedback
- Coastal dynamics under climate scenarios: geomorphological processes, hydrodynamic modelling, erosion, sedimentation and sea level rise
- Vulnerability assessment and coastal risks: indicators, analysis methodologies, multiscale evaluation and socio-environmental integration
- Predictive models and simulations: numerical tools for climate projections and impact scenarios in ecosystems and coastal communities
- Design and evaluation of integrated coastal adaptation strategies: ecosystem approaches, green engineering and nature-based solutions
- Innovative technologies and sustainable materials for impact mitigation, including resilient infrastructure and active restoration of marine habitats
- Public policies, governance and international and national legal frameworks for coastal adaptation in the face of climate change
- Participatory management and environmental communication: community involvement, environmental education and collabourative decision making
- Monitoring, monitoring and evaluation of adaptation projects: performance indicators, early warning systems and adaptive adjustment
- Development and presentation of the Master’s Final Project: Development of a comprehensive plan that combines technical, social and ecological solutions for coastal resilience in the face of climate change
Workload
Study Time and Workload
1600 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
Maritime and coastal professionals seeking to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change on their operations.Engineers, architects, and urban planners needing to develop adaptation and resilience strategies for coastal infrastructure.Environmental managers and public policy makers requiring tools for the sustainable planning and management of coastal areas.Consultants and engineer
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
- 01Leading the transition towards resilient coastal models
- 02Designing mitigation strategies for vulnerable ecosystems
- 03Assess and communicate the risks of coastal climate change
- 04Implement innovative solutions for coastal adaptation
- 05Develop policies and regulations for the sustainable management of the coastline
- 06Efficiently manage threatened coastal natural resources
Careers
Career Opportunities
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02Climate Change and Coastal Adaptation Consultant: Risk assessment, design, and implementation of adaptation strategies.
03Coastal Adaptation Project Manager: Planning, execution, and monitoring of projects related to climate change adaptation in coastal areas.
04Public Administration Technician (Local, Regional, National): Development of climate change adaptation policies and plans in coastal areas.
05Climate Change and Coastal Areas Researcher: Development of scientific research in academic institutions or research centers.
06Environmental Educator in Climate Change: Design and implementation of education and awareness programs on climate change and coastal adaptation.
07Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist: Advising companies on integrating climate change adaptation strategies into their operations coastal areas.
08Climate Risk Analyst: Assessing the risks associated with climate change in coastal infrastructure and marine ecosystems.
09Sustainability Auditor in Coastal Areas: Verifying compliance with sustainability regulations and standards in coastal projects.
Questions
Entry Requirements
The main focus is the study of climate change and its impacts on coastal areas, along with the development of adaptation strategies for these areas.
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.
Professionals with an interest in coastal management, urban and territorial planning, environmental engineering, marine sciences, biology, geography, environmental law, economics, or politics, who seek to specialize in climate change adaptation in coastal areas.
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 Environmental Sciences, Biology, Geography, Engineering (Civil, Environmental, Agricultural), Economics or related field; or accredited professional experience in environmental management, land-use planning, or sectors related to climate change.Language proficiency:Recommended English level B2 (CEFR) for understanding scientific literature and participating in international forums.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree, academic transcript, ID/Passport, cover letter explaining interest in climate change a
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Frequently Asked Questions
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