Master’s Degree in Blue Economy and Coastal Development
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Blue Economy and Coastal Development
Offers comprehensive training to lead the sustainable transformation of coastal areas. You will learn to manage marine resources in an innovative and responsible way, driving economic growth without compromising the ecological balance. This program will provide you with the tools to design and implement effective public policies, develop blue entrepreneurship projects, and address the challenges of climate change on the coast.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: integrates economics, law, marine biology, engineering, and environmental management.
- Real-World Case Studies: analysis of successful blue economy projects globally.
- Strategic Networking: direct contact with experts and companies in the maritime-coastal sector.
- Skills Development: project management, communication, leadership, and negotiation.
- International Vision: global perspective on the challenges and opportunities of the blue economy.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 26-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Maritime, fishing, and port professionals seeking to lead sustainable projects and optimize marine resource management.
- Public administration officials and coastal local entities interested in planning territorial development, promoting responsible tourism, and mitigating the effects of climate change.
- Entrepreneurs and consultants wishing to identify business opportunities in the blue economy, develop innovative products and services, and access funding sources.
- Researchers and technicians seeking to deepen their scientific and technical knowledge of marine ecosystems, assess the environmental impact of human activities, and propose nature-based solutions.
- Graduates in environmental science, economics, law, or engineering seeking advanced specialization level in integrated coastal zone management and sustainable ocean development.
Flexibility and practical approach
Designed for working professionals: flexible online methodology, real-world case studies, networking with experts, and projects for immediate application.
Objectives and skills

Leading marine sustainability projects:
“Implementing strategies for reducing emissions and managing waste on board, complying with environmental regulations and optimizing the use of marine resources.”

Effectively manage coastal resources:
“Plan and execute operations considering the environmental vulnerability of the coastal zone and marine protection regulations.”

Boosting innovation in the blue economy:
“To promote public-private collaboration in R&D&I projects, facilitating access to financing and creating a favorable ecosystem for the development of new marine technologies and the sustainability of ocean resources.”

Develop coastal resilience strategies:
“To assess current and future coastal vulnerability, implementing nature-based and grey infrastructure solutions, with active participation of local communities and a long-term adaptive approach.”

Assess and mitigate marine environmental risks:
Implement response plans for spills of hydrocarbons and other hazardous substances, coordinating with authorities and using specialized equipment.

Promoting public-private collaboration in the maritime sector:
Establish regular dialogue forums and pilot projects involving authorities, businesses, and research centers to identify synergies and optimize resource management.
Study plan – Modules
- Conceptual Framework of the Blue Economy: Definition, Principles, and Scope in Sustainable Coastal Development
- Technological Innovation Applied to Marine Management: Remote Sensing, Big Data, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Environmental Monitoring
- Design and Evaluation of Public Policies for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Resources and Coastal Zones
- Integrated Coastal Management Models: Ecosystem Approaches and Strategic Marine Spatial Planning (SMSP)
- Economic and Financial Instruments to Incentivize the Blue Economy: Payments for Ecosystem Services, Blue Bonds, and Green Finance
- International Regulations and National Standards: Detailed Analysis of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and Related Multilateral Agreements
- Community Participation and Multilevel Governance in Coastal Management: Cooperation Mechanisms Among the Public, Private, and Civil Society Sectors
- Environmental and Social Impact Assessment in Projects Coastal areas: advanced methodologies and application in real-world case studies
Social and technological innovation for climate change mitigation in coastal areas: green infrastructure, early warning systems, and coastal resilience
Monitoring and adaptation of strategic policies through sustainability indicators and emerging technologies for the blue economy
- Fundamentals of the Blue Economy: definition, scope, and its relationship with sustainable coastal development
- International and national regulatory framework: agreements, public policies, and environmental legislation applied to marine and coastal ecosystems
- Comprehensive diagnosis of marine and coastal ecosystems: analysis of biodiversity, fisheries resources, water quality, and ecosystem services
- Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM): principles, participatory methods, and adaptive territorial planning
- Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) tools: delimitation of marine protected areas, multiple uses, and socio-environmental conflicts
- Vulnerability and climate risks in coastal ecosystems: threat assessment, impact modeling, and future scenarios
- Ecosystem-based climate adaptation (EbA) strategies: mangrove restoration, Dunes and reefs as natural barriers
Sustainable management of fisheries resources: responsible harvesting, artisanal fishing, co-management, and local governance
Technological innovation and environmental monitoring: use of geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and sensors for real-time monitoring
Environmental and social impact assessment in coastal development projects: methodologies, mitigation, and compensation mechanisms
Financing and the blue economy: economic instruments, carbon markets, blue bonds, and sustainable business models
Community participation and knowledge management: inclusion of local stakeholders, environmental communication, and education for coastal awareness
Case studies and integrated studies: analysis of successful projects and lessons learned in marine management and climate adaptation
Action plans and public policies for sustainable development: design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of programs Coastal areas
Future perspectives and global challenges: multi-level governance, international cooperation, and the 2030 Agenda for Ocean Sustainability
- Theoretical Foundations of the Blue Economy: Definition, Principles, and Scope in the Global Context
- Comprehensive Diagnosis of Marine and Coastal Ecosystems: Advanced Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Techniques
- Identification and Analysis of Public Policies for Sustainable Management: International and National Regulatory Frameworks
- Strategic Planning Tools: Methodologies for Developing Marine Management Plans and Spatial Zoning
- Technological Innovation in the Blue Economy: Applications of IoT, Big Data, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Coastal Management
- Participatory Governance Models: Integration of Local Communities, Productive Sectors, and Governments in Decision-Making
- Environmental and Socioeconomic Impact Assessment of Maritime Projects: Quantitative and Qualitative Methods
- Design and Application of Sustainability Indicators for Marine Resources and Coastal Areas
- Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies in the Face of Climate Change Climate: Public Policies for Coastal Resilience
Global Case Studies: Critical Analysis of Successful Programs and Lessons Learned in Coastal Strategy and Management
Integrating Marine Conservation with Economic Development: Circular Economy and Blue Bioeconomy Models
Financing and Economic Mechanisms for Sustainability: Incentives, Green Funds, and Ecosystem Services Markets
Legal Framework for the Protection and Management of Marine Resources: International Conventions, National Legislation, and Local Administration
Foresight and Trends in the Blue Economy: Future Scenarios and Their Implications for Coastal Management
Advanced Methodologies for Public Policy Formulation: Cost-Benefit Analysis, Multi-Criteria Evaluation, and Citizen Participation
- Fundamentals of the Blue Economy: definition, scope, and relevance in the current global context
- Financial models applied to blue economy projects: structures, instruments, and advanced methodologies
- Public and private financing strategies: international funds, impact investing, and public-private partnerships (PPPs)
- Economic valuation of coastal ecosystem services: contingent methods, externality analysis, and non-monetary valuation
- Comprehensive assessment of environmental and climate risks: identification, quantification, and mitigation in coastal areas
- Tools for environmental economic analysis: cost-benefit analysis (CBA), cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA), and scenario-based planning
- Sustainable financial management: integrating ESG (environmental, social, and governance) criteria into coastal economic projects
- Risk Assurance and Transfer Instruments in the Blue Economy: Parametric Insurance, Resilience Bonds, and Contingency Funds
- International Regulations and Financial Policies for the Sustainable Development of the Blue Economy and Coastal Protection
- Case Studies of Successful Financing and Investment: Analysis of Flagship Projects and Lessons Learned in Diverse Coastal Economies
- Implementation of Financial and Environmental Impact Indicators: Monitoring, Reporting, and Continuous Improvement in Blue Investments
- Advanced Financial Modeling Techniques: Simulations, Sensitivity Analysis, and Uncertainty Scenarios in Coastal Projects
- Evaluation of the Institutional Framework and its Impact on the Financial Viability of Blue Economy Initiatives
- Design and Structuring of Comprehensive Investment Plans for the Development of Sustainable Blue Infrastructure
- Integration of Technological Innovations in Financial Evaluation: Use of Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain for Transparency and efficiency
- Fundamentals of the Blue Economy: Key Concepts, Scope, and Relevance for Sustainable Coastal Development
- Remote Sensing Technologies: Remote Sensors, Satellite Imagery, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), and Their Application in Coastal Monitoring
- Predictive Models and Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Spatial Analysis, Integration of Environmental and Socioeconomic Data for Decision-Making
- IoT Platforms for Marine Environments: Real-Time Sensor Deployment, Collection and Transmission of Environmental and Oceanographic Data
- Big Data and Advanced Analytics: Data Mining Techniques, Machine Learning, and Their Contribution to Integrated Coastal Management
- Automated Monitoring of Coastal Ecosystems: Physicochemical, Biological, and Anthropogenic Parameters, Early Impact Detection, and Alerts
- Digital Tools
- For maritime planning: Decision Support Systems (DSS) and simulation of future scenarios in coastal development
- Collaborative and multi-sectoral platforms: Integration of public, private, and community actors through digital technologies
- International protocols and standards for integrating technologies in coastal management: Interoperability, open data, and security
- Advanced case studies: Practical application of digital technologies in successful blue development and sustainable coastal zone management projects
- Technological challenges and future perspectives: Innovation, scalability, and public policies supporting technology for the blue economy
- Technical training and certification: Specialized digital skills for professionals in the blue economy and coastal development
- Conceptual Framework and Foundations of the Blue Economy: Definition, Scope, Guiding Principles, and its Role in Sustainable Coastal Development
- Innovation in Marine Technologies: Remote Sensors, Real-Time Environmental Monitoring Systems, and Autonomous Platforms for Data Collection
- International and Regional Strategic Policies for Integrated Coastal Zone Management: Comparative Analysis of Regulatory Frameworks, Multilateral Agreements, and National Strategies
- Advanced Methodologies for the Assessment and Management of Renewable Marine Resources: Eco-hydrodynamic Models, Impact Simulation, and Adaptations to Climate Change
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing Applied to Coastal Management: Collection, Processing, and Analysis of Spatial Data
- Circular Economy in the Blue Economy: Innovation in Production Processes, Valorization of Marine Waste, and Generation of Bioactives
- Technologies for mitigation and adaptation to pollution and coastal erosion: biotechnologies, ecological restoration, and coastal geoengineering
- Legal framework and governance of the oceans: competencies, jurisdiction, and mechanisms for transboundary cooperation for marine sustainability
- Advanced tools for maritime spatial planning and coastal land-use planning: integration of scientific and technical data for strategic decision-making
- Success stories and emerging trends in technological innovation applied to sustainable management: pilot projects, blue sector startups, and public-private partnerships
- Assessment of socioeconomic and environmental impacts in coastal communities: methodology to ensure equity and resilience
- Big Data and predictive analytics in the Blue Economy: artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize resource management
- Development of public policies based on scientific evidence: design, implementation, and evaluation of effective strategies for Blue Development
- Adaptation to Climate Change in Marine and Coastal Ecosystems: Innovative Technologies for Risk Reduction and Increased Resilience
- Innovation for Sustainability in Aquaculture and Responsible Fishing: Clean Technologies, Resource Optimization, and Environmental Certifications
- Conceptual Framework of the Blue Economy: Principles, Objectives, and Relationship with Sustainable Development
- Strategic Public Policies for Integrated Coastal Zone Management: Planning, Legal Instruments, and Multilevel Governance
- Technological Innovation Applied to the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Resources: Remote Sensing, Remote Sensing, and Environmental Modeling
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Digital Cartography for Coastal Monitoring and Planning
- Digital Tools for Monitoring and Evaluating Marine and Coastal Environmental Health Indicators
- Big Data and Advanced Analytics in Marine Resource Management: Data Sources, Integration, and Decision-Making
- Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Predicting Marine Dynamics and Coastal Risk Management
- Operational Oceanography and Numerical Modeling for Adaptive Ecosystem Management Coastal Environments
Innovation in clean and sustainable technologies for aquaculture, fishing, and energy exploitation in marine environments
Development of circular economy policies for marine waste management and minimization of environmental impacts
Digital Governance: Collaborative platforms, citizen participation, and transparency in coastal management
Climate resilience and ecosystem-based adaptation strategies using spatial and digital technologies
Critical analysis of national and international case studies on innovative management and emerging technologies in the blue economy
Challenges and opportunities of the international regulatory framework for integrating digital technologies for marine sustainability
Design and implementation of technology projects for sustainable coastal development: methodologies, financing, and impact assessment
- Fundamentals and principles of integrated governance in marine and coastal territories: conceptualization and multidisciplinary approaches
- Circular economy applied to coastal management: life cycle analysis, waste valorization, and closing-loop strategies in marine ecosystems
- Collaborative decision-making models: key actors, institutional roles, and participatory mechanisms for sustainable management
- Public policies and international regulations: regulatory frameworks, multilateral agreements, and their impact on blue governance
- Digital tools and geographic information systems (GIS) for coastal and marine monitoring and planning
- Sustainability indicators and strategic environmental assessment: design, implementation, and monitoring in coastal development projects
- Integrating the blue economy with the circular economy: analysis of synergies, innovation opportunities, and global success stories
- Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM): Principles, Advanced Methodologies, and Adaptability to Climate Change
- Economic Models for Valuing Ecosystem Services in Marine-Coastal Zones and Their Incorporation into Strategic Planning
- Financing and Financial Sustainability: Investment Mechanisms, Green Funds, and the Development of Public-Private Partnership Projects in the Circular Blue Economy
- Case Studies on the Implementation of Integrated Governance and Circular Economy Models in Different Regions of the World
- Emerging Challenges and Opportunities: Technological Innovation, Digitalization, the Collaborative Economy, and Their Role in Sustainable Coastal Management
- Design and Evaluation of Adaptive Management Strategies to Mitigate Anthropogenic Impacts and Foster Territorial Resilience to Climate Change
- Participatory Socioeconomic Models: Advanced Methodologies for Involving Local Communities and Stakeholders in Processes decision-makers
- Innovations in marine waste policies and sustainable management of seafood products in the blue circular economy
- Fundamentals of the Blue Economy: principles, scope, and relevance to sustainable coastal development
- Strategic policies for the integrated management of marine resources: international and national regulatory instruments
- Technological innovation applied to the management of marine and coastal ecosystems: remote sensing, IoT, and Big Data in environmental monitoring
- Digital models and simulation for forecasting and mitigating environmental impacts in coastal areas
- Implementation of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing in coastal planning and land-use planning
- Advanced methodologies for assessing the vulnerability and resilience of coastal communities to climate change
- Development and application of clean technologies and marine renewable energies in the sustainable management of the coastline
- Public policies and multi-level governance for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity
- Social innovation and community participation in decision-making regarding marine resources and coastal areas
- Digital tools for adaptive management: collaborative platforms, mobile applications, and early warning systems
- Analysis of success and failure cases in innovative blue economy projects: lessons learned and best practices
- Environmental impact assessment supported by digital technologies: continuous monitoring and real-time reporting
- Integration of blockchain technologies for traceability and sustainable certification in marine production chains
- Optimization of marine resource use through smart aquaculture technologies and sustainable fishing
- Regulatory and ethical framework for the implementation of disruptive technologies in the maritime and coastal sector
- Advanced Foundations of the Blue Economy: Definition, Scope, and Conceptual Framework for Sustainable Coastal Development
- Comprehensive Diagnosis of Marine and Coastal Ecosystems: Ecological Assessment Methods, Environmental Health Indicators, and Socioeconomic Analysis
- Multi-Level Governance Models: Institutional Structures, Stakeholder Participation, and Transdisciplinary Coordination Mechanisms for Adaptive Management
- Financial Innovations in the Blue Economy: Sustainable Financing, Blue Bonds, Impact Investing, and Market Mechanisms for Coastal Development
- Applied Technological Tools: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, Ocean Sensors, and Blockchain for Traceability and Transparency
- Risk Management and Coastal Resilience: Climate Threat Assessment, Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies Based on Scientific Evidence
- Public Policies and Frameworks International regulatory frameworks: comparative analysis of national and international regulations aimed at the sustainable use of marine resources
Development of innovative strategies for the integration of the circular economy in key sectors: aquaculture, blue tourism, and maritime transport
Quantitative and qualitative methods for the socioeconomic impact assessment of projects in coastal and marine areas
Design, planning, and development of the Master’s Thesis: formulation of original proposals that integrate governance, finance, and technologies for a sustainable Blue Economy
Career prospects
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- Blue Economy Project Manager: Design, implementation, and evaluation of sustainable projects in the marine and coastal environment.
- Sustainable Coastal Development Consultant: Advising companies, public administrations, and NGOs on environmentally friendly development strategies.
- Coastal Planning and Management Technician: Development of integrated coastal zone management plans, environmental impact assessments, and risk analyses.
- Blue Economy Researcher: Development of research on emerging sectors such as marine biotechnology, ocean energy, and sustainable tourism.
- Marine and Coastal Public Policy Analyst: Design and evaluation of public policies for the sustainable management of marine resources and the protection of the coastal environment.
- Sustainability Manager in Maritime Sector Companies: Implementation of sustainable practices in fishing, aquaculture, maritime transport, and tourism companies.
Environmental educator in the marine and coastal sector: Design and development of environmental education programs to raise awareness about the importance of conserving marine and coastal ecosystems.
Entrepreneur in the blue economy sector: Creation of innovative companies in sectors such as sustainable aquaculture, nature tourism, and marine renewable energy production.
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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
- Comprehensive Analysis: Master the tools to assess and sustainably manage marine and coastal resources.
- Innovative Strategies: Learn to design and implement projects that drive blue economic growth while respecting the environment.
- Industry Experts: Receive training from leaders in blue economy, marine biology, environmental law, and project management.
- Global Networking: Connect with professionals worldwide and expand your career opportunities in a booming sector.
- Practical Application: Participate in real-world case studies and develop decision-making skills in the field of blue economy.
Testimonials
The Master’s in Blue Economy and Coastal Development provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a project to restore degraded coastal ecosystems. By applying the sustainability principles I learned, we not only restored the natural habitat but also boosted local economic development through ecotourism and sustainable fishing, generating new job opportunities and improving the community’s quality of life.
I applied the knowledge from the master’s program to the valuation of a sustainable aquaculture project, successfully securing an investment of 2 million euros thanks to a solid financial analysis and an understanding of the specific environmental risks and impacts of the sector.
“This master’s degree provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a project to restore degraded coastal ecosystems. By applying the principles of the blue economy, we not only restored the habitat, but also generated new sustainable economic opportunities for the local community, increasing ecotourism and responsible fishing.”
I applied the knowledge I gained in the Master’s program to develop a sustainable tourism management model for my coastal community. This model, based on the circular economy and the protection of marine ecosystems, attracted private investment, generated new jobs, and significantly reduced the environmental impact of tourism, achieving a balance between economic development and environmental preservation.
Frequently asked questions
The blue economy and sustainable coastal development.
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 training in environmental science, economics, engineering, natural resource management, tourism, environmental law, public policy and related areas who seek to specialize in the sustainable development of coastal areas and the blue economy.
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 Foundations of the Blue Economy: Definition, Scope, and Conceptual Framework for Sustainable Coastal Development
- Comprehensive Diagnosis of Marine and Coastal Ecosystems: Ecological Assessment Methods, Environmental Health Indicators, and Socioeconomic Analysis
- Multi-Level Governance Models: Institutional Structures, Stakeholder Participation, and Transdisciplinary Coordination Mechanisms for Adaptive Management
- Financial Innovations in the Blue Economy: Sustainable Financing, Blue Bonds, Impact Investing, and Market Mechanisms for Coastal Development
- Applied Technological Tools: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, Ocean Sensors, and Blockchain for Traceability and Transparency
- Risk Management and Coastal Resilience: Climate Threat Assessment, Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies Based on Scientific Evidence
- Public Policies and Frameworks International regulatory frameworks: comparative analysis of national and international regulations aimed at the sustainable use of marine resources
Development of innovative strategies for the integration of the circular economy in key sectors: aquaculture, blue tourism, and maritime transport
Quantitative and qualitative methods for the socioeconomic impact assessment of projects in coastal and marine areas
Design, planning, and development of the Master’s Thesis: formulation of original proposals that integrate governance, finance, and technologies for a sustainable Blue Economy
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
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor