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 Underwater Archaeology
The Diploma in Underwater ArchaeologyImmerse yourself in the fascinating world of submerged cultural heritage. Learn the survey, excavation, and conservation techniques used by underwater archaeologists. Master the international
Duration800 h
FormatOnline
Starts23 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Diploma in Underwater Archaeology?
The Diploma in Underwater Archaeology
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of submerged cultural heritage. Learn the survey, excavation, and conservation techniques used by underwater archaeologists. Master the international and national legislation that protects these sites, and develop skills in photographic and planimetric documentation. This program prepares you to participate in underwater heritage research and management projects, contributing to the preservation of our hidden history beneath the sea.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Methodology: excavation simulation, artifact analysis, and project design.
- International Experts: masterclasses with world-renowned archaeologists.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: use of side-scan sonar, ROVs, and underwater positioning systems.
- Emphasis on Conservation: techniques for stabilizing and preserving artifacts recovered from water.
- Field Opportunities: possibility of participating in real archaeological campaigns (subject to availability).
Programme type
Diploma
Study mode
Online
Duration
800 hours
Modules
8
Start date
26-11-2026
Programme highlights
- Explore the underwater world: Discover advanced excavation and documentation techniques in aquatic contexts.
- Master the legislation: Learn about the protection of underwater heritage and international regulations.
- Apply technology: Use sonar, ROVs, and photogrammetry for research and conservation.
- Participate in real-world projects: Gain hands-on experience at underwater archaeological sites globally.
- Become an expert: Develop the skills needed to lead underwater archaeology projects.
- Immerse yourself in the past and contribute to the preservation of our historical legacy hidden beneath the waves.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 8 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Foundations of Underwater Archeology, Submerged Cultural Heritage and Maritime Historical Context
- Underwater archeology concept and differences between terrestrial archeology, maritime archeology and submerged cultural heritage
- Historical evolution of underwater archeology and development of the main international methodological schools
- Typologies of underwater reservoirs: wrecks, historic ports, anchorages, coastal structures and submerged landscapes
- Relationship between navigation, trade, naval conflicts and formation of the underwater archaeological heritage
- Scientific, cultural, educational and patrimonial importance of submerged archaeological assets
- Main threats to underwater heritage: plundering, pollution, maritime works and environmental degradation
- Comprehensive approach to underwater archeology as a scientific, historical and heritage discipline
- History of Underwater Archeology
02
Legislation, legal protection and management of underwater cultural heritage
- International legal framework applicable to the protection of underwater cultural heritage
- Fundamental principles of conservation and protection established by international organisations
- Institutional Competencies and Responsibilities of Estate Protection Bodies
- Procedures for identification, catalogueing and inventory of submerged cultural goods
- Prevention of plunder, illicit traffic and unauthorized marketing of archaeological materials
- Administrative management of underwater archaeological projects and intervention authorizations
- Governance and sustainable conservation strategies of submerged archaeological heritage
- UNESCO Convention of 2001
03
Underwater prospecting, reservoir locations and reconnaissance techniques
- Archaeological prospecting methodologies applied to marine, coastal and river environments
- Previous documentary research through historical archives, cartography and maritime records
- Visual search techniques, systematic tours and establishment of inspection transects
- Use of sonar, magnetometres and geophysical systems for location of archaeological anomalies
- Application of marine drones, ROV and remote technologies in underwater reconnaissance
- Georeferencing of findings and elabouration of preliminary reservoir maps
- Initial evaluation of the scientific potential and state of conservation of localized sites
- Sonar and magnetometry
04
Archaeological documentation, underwater photography and digital photogrammetry
- Principles of archaeological documentation applied to underwater contexts
- Archaeological drawing techniques, sketches, surveys and underwater field records
- Underwater photography applied to scientific documentation and heritage conservation
- Basics of underwater photogrammetry and generation of three-dimensional models
- Elabouration of orthomosaics, archaeological plans and digital reconstructions of the site
- Management of databases, archaeological records and geographic information systems
- Document quality control and traceability of scientific information obtained
- Underwater archaeological drawing
05
Underwater excavation, material recovery and safety
- Methodological principles of archaeological excavation in submerged environments
- Grid design, reference systems and organisation of intervention areas
- Sediment removal techniques by hand tools and controlled suction systems
- Recovery, labelling and initial preservation of extracted archaeological materials
- Sample management, stratigraphy and conservation of the archaeological context
- Security in underwater archaeological operations and coordination of work teams
- Closure procedures, protection and documentation after excavation
- Excavation techniques with dredges
06
Conservation, restoration and management of recovered archaeological materials
- Processes of physical, chemical and biological deterioration of submerged archaeological materials
- Initial conservation of wood, metals, ceramics, glass and recovered organic materials
- Desalination techniques, stabilisation and treatment of archaeological objects
- Management of conservation labouratories and monitoring of specialised treatments
- On-site conservation as a sustainable heritage protection strategy
- Coordination between archaeologists, curators, museums and heritage entities
- Design of long-term preservation programmes for underwater archaeological collections
- Desalination of materials
07
Historical interpretation, musealization and dissemination of underwater heritage
- Historical analysis and interpretation of wrecks, cargoes and submerged structures
- Reconstruction of historical contexts related to navigation, trade and maritime activity
- Elabouration of scientific narratives based on underwater archaeological evidence
- Design of exhibitions, interpretation centres and specialised museographic programmes
- Underwater archaeological tourism, heritage routes and models of sustainable management
- Strategies for education, public communication and awareness of submerged cultural heritage
- Evaluation of the social, cultural and educational impact of underwater archaeological projects
- Underwater archaeological parks
08
Final Applied Underwater Archeology Project
- Definition of the case study related to a wreck, historic port, anchorage or submerged deposit
- Historical, archaeological, environmental and legal diagnosis of the selected site
- Design of the prospecting plan, documentation and initial evaluation of the reservoir
- Development of the Excavation, Conservation and Estate Management Strategy
- Elabouration of the programme of historical interpretation, musealization and public dissemination
- Drafting of the comprehensive technical report with methodology, results and management recommendations
- Presentation of the final project
- Presentation and defence of the final project with scientific, patrimonial and operational validation of the developed proposal
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
Archaeologists and archaeology students seeking to specialize in the research of submerged sites, from shipwrecks to prehistoric settlements.Professional and recreational divers interested in the documentation and conservation of underwater cultural heritage, and in collaborating on research projects.Historians and anthropologists wishing to expand their field of study to the analysis of subme
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
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Documenting and interpreting underwater cultural heritage
- 02Applying archaeological research methodologies in underwater contexts
- 03Manage underwater archaeology projects in compliance with regulations and ethical standards
- 04Use advanced technologies for the prospecting and recording of submerged archaeological sites
- 05To preserve and disseminate knowledge of underwater archaeological heritage for its social enhancement
- 06Identify and assess the state of conservation of underwater archaeological materials
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Underwater Archaeologist: Participation in excavations, documentation, and analysis of submerged archaeological sites.
02Underwater Heritage Consultant: Environmental impact assessment in coastal areas and advice on the management of shipwrecks and sites of interest.
03Underwater Archaeological Project Manager: Planning, coordination, and supervision of research and conservation projects.
04Archaeological Materials Conservator-Restorer: Treatment and preservation of artifacts recovered from aquatic environments.
05Museum and Interpretation Center Technician: Design and installation of exhibitions on underwater archaeology and dissemination of heritage.
06Academic Researcher: Development of research projects at universities or specialized research centers.
07Science Educator and Communicator: Teaching Workshops, courses, and lectures on underwater archaeology for diverse audiences.
08Scientific Diver: Supporting underwater archaeological research by carrying out documentation, sampling, and recovery of materials.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Submerged or flooded sites, such as shipwrecks, sunken cities, ancient ports, and prehistoric structures.
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.
Maritime
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/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Archaeology, History, Anthropology or related field; or demonstrable experience in terrestrial archaeology or diving.Specific Competencies:Basic diving knowledge (self-contained diving certification desirable), familiarity with archaeological documentation techniques, interest in the conservation of underwater heritage.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree (if applicable), diving certification (if applicable), letter of motivation expressing interest in underwater archaeology.Physical/Medical Requirements
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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