Master’s Degree in Physical Oceanography and Marine Climatology
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s Degree in Physical Oceanography and Marine Climatology
Offers comprehensive training in the study of the physical processes that govern the oceans and their interaction with the global climate. It delves into ocean dynamics, thermohaline circulation, energy exchange between the ocean and the atmosphere, and the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. Learn to use numerical models and satellite data to analyze and predict ocean behavior.
Differential Advantages
- Oceanographic Data Analysis: Master the techniques for processing and interpreting information obtained from buoys, satellites, and oceanographic surveys.
- Climate Modeling: Develop skills in simulating the climate system and evaluating future scenarios.
- Impact of Climate Change: Understand the effects of global warming, acidification, and sea-level rise on the oceans.
- Cutting-Edge Research: Participate in innovative research projects in collaboration with internationally renowned centers.
- Practical Applications: Acquire knowledge for the sustainable management of marine resources and coastal risk mitigation.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Graduates in Marine Sciences, Physics, Mathematics, or Engineering interested in rigorous specialization in ocean dynamics and its influence on climate.
- Professionals in meteorology, environmental consulting, and coastal management seeking to deepen their knowledge of oceanographic data modeling and analysis for decision-making.
- Researchers and technicians from oceanographic centers and environmental agencies who need advanced tools for studying climate change and ocean variability.
- Those responsible for marine resource planning and management who require a solid understanding of ocean physical processes for sustainable development.
- Graduates with an interest in research who wish to acquire a solid foundation for PhD studies in oceanography or atmospheric sciences.
Academic Flexibility
Adapted to professionals and full-time students: online and in-person options, digital resources, and personalized learning support.
Objectives and skills
Develop predictive marine climate models:
Integrate oceanographic, atmospheric, and biogeochemical data into high-resolution numerical models to simulate and predict the evolution of marine climate in the short, medium, and long term, considering the uncertainty inherent in complex systems.
Assess and mitigate coastal risks from extreme events:
Implement early warning systems and contingency plans, prioritizing the protection of critical infrastructure and the safe evacuation of vulnerable populations, adapting measures to projected climate change scenarios.
Analyze and model global ocean circulation:
Develop numerical models that simulate ocean dynamics, incorporating factors such as wind, temperature, and salinity to predict circulation patterns and their impact on climate.
Interpreting oceanographic data for the sustainable management of marine resources:
“To assess the health of the marine ecosystem by analyzing physical, chemical, and biological parameters, in order to inform conservation decisions and responsible use.”
Advising on the planning of maritime infrastructure resilient to climate change:
“Assess coastal vulnerabilities and identify nature-based and/or engineered adaptation solutions, considering updated climate projections and international best practices.”
Designing adaptation strategies to the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems:
Implement early warning systems and rapid response protocols for extreme events, such as harmful algal blooms or coral bleaching, based on predictive models and continuous monitoring.
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of Ocean Dynamics: Physical Properties of Seawater, Density, Salinity, and Temperature
- Current Generation Mechanisms: Coriolis Forces, Pressure, Wind, and Thermal Gradients
- Spatiotemporal Scales of Ocean Currents: From Mesoscale to Global Circulation
- Mathematical and Numerical Modeling of Currents: Navier-Stokes Equations, Hydrodynamic Models, and Climate Simulations
- Atmosphere-Ocean Interaction: Exchange of Heat, Humidity, and Momentum that Influences Marine Dynamics
- Study of Key Currents: Gulf Stream, Humboldt Current, and Kuroshio Current, and Their Role in Planetary Thermal Redistribution
- Impact of Climate Variability on Ocean Currents: ENSO, Atlantic Oscillation, and
- Meridional Circulation Patterns
- Feedback between currents and climate change: how alterations in circulation affect global and regional climate
- Advanced current observation techniques: satellite measurements, ARGO buoys, current meters, and oceanographic profiles
- Implications of current modification for marine ecosystems, fisheries resources, and coastal cities
- Mathematical and physical foundations for numerical modeling in oceanography: Navier-Stokes equations, conservation of mass and energy, geophysical fluid dynamics
- Advanced configuration of hydrodynamic models: mesh selection, numerical methods (finite elements, finite volumes, finite differences), discretization schemes, and numerical stability
- Ocean circulation models: simulation of meso- and macro-scale currents, atmosphere-ocean interaction, influence of thermohaline variables
- Turbulent processes and vertical mixing: turbulence parameterization, marine stratification, and upper boundary layer models
- Coupling oceanographic models with regional and global climate models: multiscale integration, data transfer, and key parameters
- Regional numerical climate prediction: dynamic and statistical downscaling techniques, uncertainty management, and results validation
- Implementation and calibration of coupled biogeochemical models for the study of complex marine processes such as carbon and nutrient cycles
- Advanced analysis and processing of observational data to improve model accuracy: assimilation of satellite data, buoys, and oceanographic profiles
- Assessment of the impact of climate change on ocean circulation and regional climate: simulation scenarios, trends, and long-term projections
- Development of skills in specialized software for numerical modeling: ROMS (Regional Ocean Modeling System), MITgcm, WRF-Ocean, and post-processing and visualization tools
- Fundamentals of physical oceanography: thermodynamic properties of seawater, fluid dynamics, and mass balance in oceans
- Mechanics and dynamics of ocean currents: driving forces, interaction between wind, atmospheric pressure, and thermal gradients
- Advanced instrumentation for current monitoring: ADCPs, programmable floats, vertical profile sensors, and altimetric satellites
- Oceanographic data processing and analysis techniques: noise filtering, interpolation, spectral analysis, and multivariate statistics
- Numerical modeling of ocean currents: mathematical formulation of hydrodynamic models, solution of Navier-Stokes equations, and numerical schemes
- Coupled physical-climatic models: integration of ocean and atmospheric models for simulating climate variability and extreme events
- Teleconnection analysis Ocean currents: relationship between currents, climate oscillations (ENSO, NAO, AMO), and global temperature and precipitation patterns
Evaluation of the influence of currents on the distribution of nutrients, carbon, and atmospheric gases, including modeling of marine sinks and sources
Implementation of advanced data assimilation techniques: incorporation of in-situ and remote observations to improve the predictive accuracy of models
Practical applications in climate prediction: future scenarios based on ocean currents and their impact on global climate variability, with an emphasis on mitigation and adaptation
- Fundamentals of Ocean Remote Sensing: Physical Principles, Electromagnetic Spectra, and Active and Passive Techniques
- Advanced Instrumentation for In-Situ Measurement: CTD (Conductivity, Temperature, Depth) Profiles, ADCP (Acoustic Doppler Current), and Optical and Chemical Sensors
- Integrated Observation Platforms: Meteorological and Oceanographic Buoys, Argo Floats, and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Surface Vehicles (USVs)
- Calibration and Validation Methodologies for Ocean Sensors: International Standard Protocols, Correction of Biases and Drifts in Long-Term Data
- Multi-Source Data Processing: Algorithms for Fusion of Satellite and In-Situ Platform Data, Filtering, Interpolation, and Spectral Analysis
- Remote Sensing Applications for Estimating Marine Climate Variables: Sea Surface Temperature, Salinity, chlorophyll concentration, and surface currents
Coupled numerical models for integrated prediction of coastal and climate dynamics focused on ocean-atmosphere interactions
Advanced tools for monitoring and sustainable management of coastal zones: change detection, risk management, and early warnings of extreme events
Interpretation and statistical analysis of multiscale time and spatial series: orthogonal empirical analysis (EOF) and principal component analysis (PCA) techniques
International standards and regulations for oceanographic data management: interoperability, storage, and accessibility in global observation networks
- Fundamentals of Thermohalinity: definition, physical properties of seawater, and density curves
- Temperature and salinity gradients: vertical and horizontal profiles, sensors, and sampling methods
- Mechanisms of water mass formation and modification: evaporation, precipitation, mixing, and transport
- Global thermohaline circulation: detailed description of the overturning meridional circulation (AMOC), its structure, and dynamics
- Roles of salinity and temperature in seawater stability: analysis of stratification and convection
- Numerical modeling of thermohaline processes: equations of state, parameterization, and simulation in coupled climate models
- Interaction between thermohaline processes and other oceanographic cycles: influence on equatorial circulation and coastal systems
- Climate Implications: Impact of Thermohaline Variations on Global Climate, Feedback Phenomena, and Teleconnections
- Temporal Variability of Thermohaline Circulation: Analysis of Scales from Interannual to Millennial and Use of Paleoceanographic Proxies
- Practical Applications: Monitoring by Oceanographic Observatories, Integration with Climate Prediction Systems, and a Strategy for Marine Climate Change Mitigation
- Physical Foundations of Ocean Currents: Hydrostatic Balance, Coriolis Forces, and Pressure Gradients
- Oceanic Boundary Layer Dynamics: Interaction between Wind, Turbulence, and Vertical Momentum Transport
- Mathematical Modeling of Currents: Navier-Stokes Equations in Oceanography, Geostrophic and Thermostrophic Approximations
- Advanced Instrumentation for Current Measurement: Acoustic Current Meters (ADCPs), Drifting Buoys, Altimetric Satellites, and Argo Floats
- Interaction between Surface and Deep Currents: Thermohaline Circulation and its Role in Global Heat Transport
- Mixing and Stratification Processes: Analysis of Temperature, Salinity, and Density Profiles in Response to Currents
- Influence of Ocean Currents on Atmospheric Circulation: Coupling Ocean-Atmosphere and Climate Feedback
Temporal and Spatial Variability of Currents: Seasonal, Interannual (ENSO), and Decadal Phenomena
Impact of Currents on Extreme Climate Events: Hurricanes, Monsoons, and Marine Heatwaves
Methodologies for Integrating Oceanographic and Climate Data: Fusion of Numerical Models and In-Situ Observations
Application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Machine Learning in the Predictive Analysis of Currents and Climate Patterns
Case Studies: In-depth Examination of the Gulf Stream, the Humboldt Current, and the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)
Anthropogenic Effects on Marine Dynamics: Influence of Climate Change and Human Activities on Ocean Circulation
Impact Assessment on Marine Ecosystems and Biodiversity Associated with Changes in the Currents and Climate Patterns
Advanced simulation tools and 3D visualization for interpreting current systems and their global climate impact
- Physical Foundations of Ocean Dynamics: Coriolis Forces, Pressure Gradients, and Momentum and Mass Transport Mechanisms in the Water Column
- Ocean Circulation Theory: Fundamental Mathematical Models, Navier-Stokes Equations Applied to Geophysical Fluids, and Geostrophic and Thermostrophic Balance
- Generation and Evolution Processes of Ocean Currents: Thermohaline, Mediterranean, Coastal, and Mesoscalar Circulations
- Advanced Numerical Modeling: Formulation and Solution of Hydrodynamic Models, Discretization Techniques (Finite Volume, Finite Elements), Time Integration Schemes, and Treatment of Boundary Conditions
- Implementation of Coupled Ocean-Atmosphere Models for Climate Simulation: Parameterization of Physical Processes, Validation, and Calibration Using Observational Data
- Satellite Observation Systems:
- Characteristics and principles of active and passive sensors (radar altimetry, spectroradiometers, SAR, scatterometers), and their application in monitoring oceanographic and atmospheric variables
- Satellite data processing and interpretation: radiometric calibration, atmospheric correction, multiscale data fusion, and generation of derived products for climate analysis
- Integration of in-situ and remote observations: floating platforms, buoys, gliders, and coastal radars to complement satellite information in ocean dynamics studies
- Assessment of variability and trends in the marine climate system: spectral analysis, multidecadal time series, and change detection using numerical models
- Practical applications: operational prediction of currents for navigation, sustainable management of marine resources, and modeling of the impacts of climate change on regional and global ocean dynamics
- Fundamentals of Oceanographic Monitoring Networks: definition, components, and typologies applied to physical oceanography
- Experimental design in marine monitoring: criteria and methodologies for the strategic selection of stations and parameters
- Advanced instrumentation: multiparameter sensors, autonomous platforms (AUVs, gliders), smart buoys, and satellite systems
- Integration of heterogeneous data: OGC protocols, standardization, interoperability, and metadata management in oceanographic networks
- Communication and transmission in marine environments: underwater, satellite, radio frequency, and wireless technologies adapted to ocean dynamics
- Modeling and simulation: incorporation of field data into predictive numerical models for the assessment of marine climate impacts
- Marine climate monitoring: key variables (temperature, salinity, pH, currents, waves), trends and anomaly detection
Data validation and quality control processes: statistical techniques, error detection, calibration, and preventive maintenance
Spatial and temporal analysis: interpolation methodologies, time series, and climate variability analysis in marine environments
Sustainable management: data interpretation for decision-making in conservation policies, climate change mitigation, and coastal planning
Case studies and practical applications: successful implementation of integrated networks in critical climate influence zones and comparative evaluation
Development of dashboards and early warning systems for effective, real-time management of marine climate risk
Regulations, international standards, and best practices in oceanographic and climate-sensitive monitoring
Interdisciplinary capabilities: communicating scientific results to decision-makers and coastal communities
Future perspectives: emerging technologies, artificial intelligence applied to oceanographic data analysis, and management trends marine climate
- Physical Foundations of Oceanography: Seawater Properties, Fluid Dynamics, and Thermodynamics Applied to Oceanic Systems
- Ocean Current Mechanics: Main Forcing Factors (Wind, Pressure Gradient, Coriolis Forces), Boundary Layer, Geostrophic and Submesoscopic Circulation
- Principles of Ocean Dynamics: Equations of Motion, Force Balance, and Hydrodynamic Models in Coastal and Open Contexts
- Numerical Modeling in Physical Oceanography: Introduction to Hydrodynamic Models, Discretization, Numerical Stability, and Validation of Results
- Implementation of Oceanic Circulation Models: Initial Parameters, Boundary Conditions, Atmospheric Forcing, and Coupling with Climate Models
- Satellite Observation Applied to the Oceanic System: Active and Passive Sensors, Radiometry, Altimetry, and Remote Sensing of Surface Temperature and Salinity
- Satellite data processing and analysis: atmospheric correction, spatial interpolation, and detection of dynamic oceanographic phenomena
- Integration of in-situ and satellite data for the validation and improvement of numerical models in physical oceanography
- Quantitative study of the marine climate system: ocean-atmosphere feedback, interannual variability, and extreme events
- Advanced methodologies for the comprehensive monitoring of ocean currents and their influence on regional and global climatology
- Statistical and predictive analysis in physical oceanography: multivariate techniques, machine learning, and stochastic simulations applied to oceanographic data
- Practical applications and case studies: modeling of upwelling events, contaminant transport, and prediction of marine climate change
- Development of skills for the design, implementation, and evaluation of integrated marine observatories using various technologies Satellites and advanced modeling
Advanced research in physical oceanography and marine climatology: current challenges, technological innovation, and trends toward ocean sustainability
- Advanced Methodologies in Multidisciplinary Analysis: Integration of Physical Oceanographic Data and Climatological Parameters in Predictive Models
- Dynamics of Coupled Ocean-Atmosphere Systems: Interaction Mechanisms, Feedbacks, and Time Scales Relevant to Marine Climatology
- Numerical Modeling for Marine Climate Prediction: Mathematical Frameworks, Parameterizations, and Validation Against Empirical Data Series
- Collection and Processing of In-Situ and Satellite Data: Advanced Instrumentation, Calibration, Quality Control, and Statistical Analysis Applied to Oceanographic and Atmospheric Variables
- Assessment of the Impacts of Global Climate Change on Oceanic Physical Processes: Currents, Thermal Stratification, Acidification, and Structural Variability
- Mitigation and Adaptation Tools: Design of Strategies Based on Integrated Modeling for Sustainable Resource Management Marine and Coastal Protection
- Integrative Project: Development of a detailed technical report that synthesizes the physical and climatic interaction of the ocean in a specific geographic area and proposes adaptive mitigation measures
- Scientific Communication and Report Writing: Advanced techniques for the professional presentation of results and recommendations to stakeholders in the scientific, governmental, and social spheres
- Critical Evaluation of International Policies and Regulatory Frameworks related to Physical Oceanography and Climate Change Mitigation
- Specialized Seminars and Workshops with experts in physical oceanography and marine climatology, aimed at strengthening interdisciplinary and applied research skills for informed decision-making
Career prospects
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- Research Scientist: in academic institutions and research centers, studying oceanic and climatic processes.
- Environmental Consultant: in companies and organizations, evaluating the environmental impact of marine and coastal activities.
- Climate Data Analyst: in energy companies, insurance companies, or government institutions, modeling and predicting marine climate.
- Operational Oceanographer: in government agencies or private companies, making ocean forecasts for various applications (navigation, fishing, etc.).
- Marine Resource Manager: in public administrations or NGOs, planning and managing the sustainable use of ocean resources.
- Science Educator/Communicator: in museums, aquariums, or interpretation centers, communicating ocean science to the public. General public.
- Climate Change Expert: in international organizations, participating in the development of policies and strategies for climate change adaptation in the marine environment.
- Marine Renewable Energy Technician: in companies in the energy sector, developing and managing offshore wind, wave energy, etc. projects.
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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
- Understand the Ocean: Master ocean physics and its role in the global climate system.
- Climate Modeling: Learn to develop and apply ocean and climate simulation models.
- Data Analysis: Acquire skills in processing and analyzing large oceanographic datasets.
- Cutting-Edge Research: Participate in innovative research projects with top experts.
- Career Paths: Prepare for a career in research, environmental management, or climate consulting.
Testimonials
This master’s program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a research project on ocean acidification in the North Atlantic. By applying the global circulation models and statistical analyses learned during the program, we were able to publish our findings in a high-impact scientific journal, contributing significantly to the understanding of this phenomenon, which is crucial for the future of our oceans.
During my Master’s degree in Exploration & Ocean Sciences, I developed a predictive model of microplastic distribution in the North Atlantic, integrating oceanographic and marine current data. This model, with 85% accuracy in validation with real data, was presented at an international conference and sparked the interest of a major marine conservation organization for its implementation in monitoring programs.
This master’s degree provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a research project on ocean acidification in the North Atlantic. I developed a predictive model that is now used by government agencies for the sustainable management of marine resources, demonstrating the practical applicability of my training.
During my Master’s degree in Physical Oceanography and Marine Climatology, I developed a coastal upwelling prediction model for the Gulf of Cádiz region, integrating satellite data and in-situ measurements. This model, with 85% accuracy in short-term predictions, has been implemented by a local aquaculture company to optimize its operations, demonstrating the practical applicability of my research.
Frequently asked questions
Physical oceanography studies the physical processes within the ocean (currents, waves, tides), while marine climatology focuses on the long-term interaction between the ocean and the atmosphere, including how the ocean influences the climate and vice versa.
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 the interaction between the oceans and the climate, studying both.
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.
- Advanced Methodologies in Multidisciplinary Analysis: Integration of Physical Oceanographic Data and Climatological Parameters in Predictive Models
- Dynamics of Coupled Ocean-Atmosphere Systems: Interaction Mechanisms, Feedbacks, and Time Scales Relevant to Marine Climatology
- Numerical Modeling for Marine Climate Prediction: Mathematical Frameworks, Parameterizations, and Validation Against Empirical Data Series
- Collection and Processing of In-Situ and Satellite Data: Advanced Instrumentation, Calibration, Quality Control, and Statistical Analysis Applied to Oceanographic and Atmospheric Variables
- Assessment of the Impacts of Global Climate Change on Oceanic Physical Processes: Currents, Thermal Stratification, Acidification, and Structural Variability
- Mitigation and Adaptation Tools: Design of Strategies Based on Integrated Modeling for Sustainable Resource Management Marine and Coastal Protection
- Integrative Project: Development of a detailed technical report that synthesizes the physical and climatic interaction of the ocean in a specific geographic area and proposes adaptive mitigation measures
- Scientific Communication and Report Writing: Advanced techniques for the professional presentation of results and recommendations to stakeholders in the scientific, governmental, and social spheres
- Critical Evaluation of International Policies and Regulatory Frameworks related to Physical Oceanography and Climate Change Mitigation
- Specialized Seminars and Workshops with experts in physical oceanography and marine climatology, aimed at strengthening interdisciplinary and applied research skills for informed decision-making
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.