Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Diploma · 800 h · 8 modules
Diploma in History of Navigation and Exploration
The Diploma in the History of Navigation and ExplorationImmerse yourself in a fascinating journey through the centuries, unraveling the stories of daring explorers and the innovations that transformed the world. From the earlie
Duration800 h
FormatOnline
Starts16 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
Prior Knowledge Assessment
These are the skills this programme builds. Tick the ones you already have and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is really for you.
Your profile
Tick what you already know to see your result.
Programme overview
What is the Diploma in History of Navigation and Exploration?
The Diploma in the History of Navigation and Exploration
Immerse yourself in a fascinating journey through the centuries, unraveling the stories of daring explorers and the innovations that transformed the world. From the earliest vessels to epic voyages, this program offers a deep understanding of maritime evolution and its impact on society. Explore the trade routes, geographical discoveries, naval battles, and key figures who shaped the history of navigation. Analyze the navigational technologies, nautical charts, and instruments that enabled navigators to push the boundaries of the known world.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integrates history, geography, archaeology, and technology.
- Analysis of Primary Sources: Examines historical documents, maps, and firsthand accounts.
- Case Studies: Delves into the expeditions of Magellan, Columbus, Cook, and other explorers.
- Global Perspective: Explores the contributions of different cultures to navigation.
- Practical Application: Develops research, critical analysis, and communication skills.
Programme type
Diploma
Study mode
Online
Duration
800 hours
Modules
8
Start date
26-11-2026
Programme highlights
- Mastery of Historical Narrative: Immerse yourself in the stories of the great navigators and explorers who shaped the world.
- Analysis of Routes and Techniques: Discover the navigation methods and exploration strategies that propelled the advancement of civilization.
- Cultural and Geopolitical Impact: Understand how navigation and exploration transformed societies and international relations.
- Research Tools: Acquire skills to analyze primary sources and construct rigorous historical narratives.
- Practical Application: Use the knowledge acquired to interpret the present and contextualize the challenges of the future.
- Delve deeper into the maritime past and uncover the secrets of global expansion with our **Diploma in History Navigation and Exploration**.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 8 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Navigation in ancient times
- First boats
- Egyptian and Phoenician navigation
- Greece and Rome in the Mediterranean
- Guidance Techniques
- Ancient Maritime Trade
- Navigation in the Old Indian
- Ancient Chinese Navigation
- Polynesians and ocean navigation
02
Medieval navigation
- Vikings and their voyages
- Arabic navigation in the Indian
- Italian maritime republics
- Compass and Portulans
- Medieval shipbuilding
- Hansa and Baltic Trade
- Majorcan cartography
- Medieval Coastal Navigation
03
The Age of Discoveries
- Portuguese explorations
- Columbus Travel
- First around the world
- Caravels, ships and galleons
- Navigation Schools
- Pacific Exploration
- Spice routes
- TornaTravel of Urdaneta
04
Navigation Instruments and Techniques
- Astrolabe, quadrant and crossbow
- SEXTANT
- Latitude calculation
- The problem of length and stopwatch
- Historical cartography
- MAREER LETTERS
- Astronomical tables
- Marine watches
05
Scientific Explorations
- Cook's trips
- Illustrated Expeditions
- Malaspina and other Spanish expeditions
- Polar scan
- Historical Oceanography
- Humboldt Expeditions
- Challenger Expedition
- Arctic exploration
06
Of steamed candle
- Industrial Revolution and Navigation
- Steamships and Propeller
- Iron and Steel Hulls
- Suez and Panama Canals
- Regular transoceanic navigation
- Great ocean liners
- Late commercial sailing
- th century merchant navy
07
Contemporary Navigation
- Radio and Radar
- Satellite Navigation
- Depth Exploration
- Space and Ocean Exploration
- Autonomous navigation
- Underwater exploration
- Sports ocean navigation
- Modern expeditions
08
HERITAGE AND SOURCES
- Naval Archives and Museums
- Underwater archeology
- Navigation Journals
- Historical dissemination
- Libraries and Historical Archives
- Oral history
- Historical recreations
- Final Project: Research on a Historical Expedition
Workload
Study Time and Workload
800 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
History lovers who want to delve deeper into maritime epics, geographical discoveries, and the legacy of navigation.History and geography teachers looking for innovative teaching resources and a global perspective on exploration.Tourism and culture professionals interested in enriching their knowledge of naval heritage and trade routes.Writers, screenwriters, and content creators who need in
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
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Critically analyze primary and secondary sources
- 02Understanding the evolution of nautical technologies
- 03Evaluate the social, economic, and cultural impact of navigation
- 04Interpreting historical maps and nautical charts
- 05Contextualizing geographical discoveries within their historical framework
- 06Research and reconstruct historical maritime routes
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Maritime Heritage Manager: cataloging, conservation, and dissemination of assets related to navigation and exploration.
02Archivist or Documentalist: organization and management of historical archives related to navigation and exploration.
03Specialized Tour Guide: design and implementation of routes and guided tours focused on the history of navigation and exploration.
04Historical Consultant: advising companies or institutions on projects related to maritime history and exploration.
05Researcher or Academic: development of research on the history of navigation and exploration, with the possibility of university teaching.
06Science Communicator: creation of educational content (books, articles, documentaries, exhibitions) on the history of navigation and exploration.
07Cultural Manager: design and management of cultural projects related to maritime history and exploration. in museums, cultural centers, or public institutions.
08Editor or proofreader: specializing in historical texts related to navigation and exploration.
09```
Questions
Entry Requirements
The search for alternative trade routes to the East to obtain spices, silk, and other luxury goods, avoiding Ottoman control over traditional land routes.
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 depends on the specific diploma program, but it could cover everything from ancient to modern navigation, including the Age of Discovery.
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
Academic Profile/Interests:Bachelor's Degree in History, Humanities, or related fields; Demonstrated interest in maritime history and exploration.Previous Knowledge:Basic knowledge of historical geography and world chronology is desirable. Documentation: Updated CV, copy of degree (if applicable), ID/Passport, short essay on interest in navigation and exploration.Skills (for online): Basic proficiency in online search tools, word processing, and presentation software.
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Leave your details and admissions will write back. If you already know this is the one, go straight to the application and pay in the same session.