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Masters · 1600 h · 11 modules
Master's in Current and Tidal Observation
This program provides you with a deep understanding of ocean dynamics. You will learn to analyze and model currents and tides using the latest observation technologies, from satellites and radar to in-situ sensors. This program…
Duration1600 h
FormatOnline
Starts30 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Master’s in Current and Tidal Observation?
The Master in Current and Tidal Observation
This program provides you with a deep understanding of ocean dynamics. You will learn to analyze and model currents and tides using the latest observation technologies, from satellites and radar to in-situ sensors. This program will equip you to contribute to sustainable coastal management, safe maritime navigation, and the prediction of extreme events.
Differential Advantages
- Cutting-edge tools: intensive use of software and platforms for oceanographic data analysis.
- Practical approach: real-world projects and case studies to apply acquired knowledge.
- Renowned experts: faculty with extensive experience in oceanographic research and practical applications.
- Professional network: networking opportunities with companies and organizations in the maritime and environmental sectors.
- Flexibility: option to study the master's program full-time or part-time, adapted to your needs.
Programme type
Master's Degree
Study mode
Online
Duration
1,600 hours
Modules
11
Start date
07-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Advanced Analysis: Master the most innovative techniques for studying currents and tides.
- Predictive Modeling: Develop skills in creating accurate models to anticipate their behavior.
- Practical Applications: Learn to apply this knowledge in coastal engineering, navigation, and environmental management.
- Industry Experts: Training delivered by leading professionals with real-world experience in the field.
- Cutting-Edge Tools: Use specialized software and state-of-the-art technologies.
- Impulsa your career with a master's degree that prepares you for the challenges of the marine environment.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 11 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Advanced analysis of sea currents and tides: numerical modelling and prediction in the Master’s in current and tide observation
- Physical and mathematical foundations of sea currents: Fluid dynamics, Coriolis forces and pressure gradients
- Tidal Theory and Analysis: Harmonic Constituents, Frequency Spectra and Multicomponent Tidal Analysis
- Numerical hydrodynamic modelling: Navier-Stokes equations, 2D and 3D hydrodynamic tide models
- Implementation of numerical models: numerical methods, schemes of discretization and stabilisation
- Integration of Observational Data: Assimilation of data via buoys, tide stations and altimetric satellites
- Prediction and simulation models: short and medium-term forecasting techniques based on digital models and machine learning
- Tide-current interaction analysis and its impact on coastal processes: sedimentation, erosion and beach dynamics
- Applied case studies: modelling of currents in estuaries, bays and continental platforms
- Uncertainty assessment and model validation: metrics, calibration and verification using experimental data
- Optimisation and automation of observation and prediction systems: integration in oceanographic networks and early warning systems
02
Advanced remote sensing techniques and sensors for dynamic monitoring of sea currents and tides
- Fundamentals of Remote Sensing Applied to Oceanography: Physical and Technological Principles
- Active and passive remote sensors: specific characteristics, types and applications in the detection of currents and tides
- Satellite signal processing: advanced algorithms for oceanographic data extraction
- Spectral interpretation and multi-band analysis: Techniques to improve precision in dynamic monitoring
- Integration of LiDAR and Radar systems for detailed mapping of coastal stripes and tidal variation registration
- Numeric models coupled with sensor data for real-time simulation of current patterns and tidal experiences
- Calibration and validation of sensors in the field: operational protocols and data quality control
- On-site monitoring with complementary technologies: instrumented buoys, ADCP (Doppler current acoustic profiler) and coastal stations
- GIS tools and specialised software for three-dimensional visualisation and temporal analysis of oceanographic data
- Practical applications and case studies: Coastal risk management, current prediction for navigation, and environmental and port planning
03
Numerical modelling techniques and advanced prediction for sea currents and tides
- Fundamentals of numerical modelling: Navier-Stokes equations, hydrodynamic approaches and boundary conditions applied to coastal and oceanic environments
- Hydrodynamic models for currents and tides: types (one-dimensional, two-dimensional and three-dimensional), input parametres and technical limitations
- Tide simulation processes and methods: Harmonic analysis, TIDAL spectrum and advanced temporal decomposition techniques
- Complex sea current modelling: interaction between flows generated by winds, density gradients and underwater topography
- Integration of observational data: assimilation of satellite data, oceanographic buoys and remote sensors for forecast improvement
- Optimisation and calibration of numerical models: parametric adjustment techniques, validation by comparison with real data and sensitivity analysis
- Advanced prediction using coupled models: hydrodynamics and meteorology, incorporation of atmospheric forecasts for change scenarios
- Implementation of machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence applied to the prediction of currents and tides
- Operating systems for the execution of models: Computational performance evaluation, parallelization and use of HPC (High Performance Computing)
- Interpretation and advanced visualisation of results: Generation of dynamic maps, time charts and decision making tools for maritime planning
04
Oceanographic campaigns and real-time observation networks: instrumentation, calibration, quality assurance and data transmission applied to the operational study of currents and tides
- Design and planning of oceanographic campaigns: scientific objectives, selection of study areas and temporality
- Advanced instrumentation for current and tide measurement: ADCPS (Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers), tide and pressure sensors, HF radars and LiDAR systems
- Calibration and validation of sensors: metrological procedures, inter-instrumental comparison techniques and field adjustments
- Oceanographic data quality assurance and control: Anomaly detection, digital filtering, bias correction and international standard protocols (IOOS, GOOS)
- Real-time observation networks: design, architecture, and communication protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, MQTT) for efficient and secure multi-spectral data transmission
- Integration of autonomous and remote platforms: intelligent buoys, drifters, AUVs (autonomous submarine vehicles) and coastal fixed stations
- Maritime data acquisition and management systems: SCADA software, georeferenced databases and standardisation using ISO 19115
- Operational numerical modelling and processing: data assimilation in hydrodynamic models for current prediction and real-time tidal variation
- Satellite and terrestrial communication protocols for real-time transmission: use of GPRS, VSAT, Iridium, and LoRawan networks
- Practical applications in maritime operations: safe navigation, port planning, coastal impact mitigation and risk management associated with tides and currents
05
Integration of oceanographic systems and big data for the optimisation of predictive models of currents and tides
- Basics of Physical Oceanography: Dynamics of sea currents, tidal cycles and hydrodynamic forces
- Principles and architecture of oceanographic systems: on-site sensors, buoys, HF radars, and autonomous platforms
- Advanced Oceanographic Data Acquisition and Processing: Time Series Calibration, Validation and Correction
- Introduction to Big Data in Marine Science: Characteristics, Volume, Variety and Speed of Oceanographic Data
- Integration of heterogeneous sources: fusion of satellite data, numerical models and coastal stations
- Predictive current and tide models: numerical analysis, hydrodynamic models and statistical validation
- Machine learning methodologies applied to oceanography: supervised, unsupervised algorithms and deep neural networks
- Optimisation of models using artificial intelligence: parameter adjustment techniques, error reduction and generalization
- Data management and visualisation platforms: Use of GIS, interactive dashboards and early warning systems
- Practical applications: Extreme tide prediction, contaminant transport modelling, and support for maritime operations
06
Advanced numeric modelling and innovative technologies in real-time monitoring of currents and tides
- Fundamentals of numerical modelling applied to the dynamics of currents and tides: Navier-Stokes equations, hydrodynamic approaches and time scales
- Advanced hydrodynamic models: 2D and 3D models, Fluid-sediment coupling and multiscale
- Implementation of numerical schemes: finite differences, finite volumes and finite elements in coastal simulations
- Optimisation and calibration of numerical models from observational data: statistical methodologies and data assimilation techniques
- Integration of on-site and remote sensors for real-time monitoring: ADCP, tide buoys, coast radar and observation satellites
- Real-time data transmission protocols and systems: IoT architecture, satellite communications, and wireless sensor networks
- Dynamic processing and visualisation platforms: specialised software for real-time analysis, automated alerts and operational decision making
- Advanced Techniques for Prediction and Simulation in Extreme Scenarios: Analysis of Tidal Events, Tsunamis and Critical Coastal Flows
- Implementation of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the predictive analysis of tidal patterns and coastal currents
- Case studies and practical applications in international projects: evaluation of results, continuous improvements and technological standards
07
Advanced numerical modelling, remote sensing and monitoring techniques for accurate current and tide prediction
- Fundamentals of numerical modelling applied to currents and tides: Navier-Stokes equations, hydrodynamic governance equations, and principles of conservation of mass and energy
- Implementation of two-dimensional and three-dimensional hydrodynamic models: spatial and temporal discretization, advanced numerical schemes, and stabilisation techniques
- Dynamics of sea currents and tides: harmonic analysis, tidal interaction and meteorological effects on coastal circulation
- Introduction and management of remote sensing data for monitoring ocean parametres: optical sensors, long-wave radars, satellite altimetry and advanced processing
- Digital processing of satellite and aerial images for the detection and monitoring of current fronts, emergences and oceanographic parametres
- Integration and fusion of multiple data from satellite platforms, oceanographic buoys and on-site systems for the validation and calibration of numerical models
- Development and optimisation of real-time monitoring systems through integrated sensor networks with IoT (Internet of Things) systems and Big Data platforms
- Application of machine learning techniques and predictive algorithms for continuous improvement of precision in the estimation of currents and tides
- Advanced Data Assimilation Strategies: Kalman's Variational Methods and Filters in Dynamic Update of Oceanographic Numerical Models
- Design and configuration of early alerts for coastal risk management based on real-time forecasts of currents and tides
08
Comprehensive analysis of coastal and estuarine dynamics: advanced modelling, real-time monitoring and practical applications in environmental management and maritime safety
- Physical-mathematical fundamentals of coastal dynamics: Navier-Stokes equations, mass and moment conservation theorems, and their applications in coastal and estuarine environments
- Advanced hydrodynamic modelling: numerical techniques (finite element method, finite differences and finite volumes) for simulation of currents, tides, and freshwater and salt water flows
- Integration of atmospheric and oceanographic forcing: winds, barometric pressure, and extreme weather events in coastal dynamics models
- Real-time monitoring systems: on-site and remote sensors (ADCP, tide gauges, weather stations and satellites), data acquisition and processing for current monitoring and tidal variability
- Spectral and harmonic analysis of tides: harmonic decomposition, tidal prediction and validation of models through historical time series and observational data
- Sedimentary dynamics and sediment transport: modelling of particle displacement, erosion and deposit processes, and its impact on coastal geomorphology
- Interaction between sea and river currents in estuaries: hydrodynamic configuration, stratification, mixing and transport of nutrients and pollutants
- Applications in environmental management: evaluation of the impact of coastal infrastructures, design of mitigation measures based on predictive modelling, and sustainable management of marine resources
- Sea safety and coastal navigation: integration of hydrodynamic models with decision support systems for the planning of safe routes and emergency management
- Case studies and applied simulations: Applied analysis in critical zones, response to polluting spills, and monitoring protocols for early alerts and rapid response
09
Fundamentals and advanced technologies for real-time monitoring and prediction of sea currents and tides
- Fundamental Physical Principles: Fluid Dynamics Applied to Marine Currents and Tides, Coriolis Forces, Pressure Gradients and Its Influence on Water Displacement
- Advanced Mathematical and Numerical Models: Navier-Stokes Equations, 2D and 3D Hydrodynamic Models, Parameterization Techniques and Simulation for Precise Prediction of Current and Tidal Patterns
- Real-time monitoring systems: on-site sensors (ADCP, tide gauges, oceanographic buoys), telemetry and data transmission technologies, sensor integrity and calibration
- Advanced signal processing and data analysis: digital filters, statistical methods, harmonic and spectral analysis for the interpretation of time series of currents and sea level
- Applied remote sensing technologies: use of altimetric satellites, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and coastal radars for remote detection of surface currents and tidal variability
- Integration of systems and platforms: Development of integrated sensory networks, SCADA systems for control and supervision, Interoperability of data with geographic information systems (GIS)
- Predictive algorithms and artificial intelligence techniques: machine learning, neural networks and adaptive models for continuous improvement in the prediction of tidal events and changes in currents
- Implementation of early warning systems: operational protocols, effective communication and mitigation strategies based on real-time data and probabilistic predictions
- International normative aspects and standards: IMO, ISO, data quality standards and certification of oceanographic monitoring systems
- Pilots and professional applications: design and implementation of monitoring projects, analysis of real cases in coastal and marine areas of high complexity, management of coastal risks
10
Applications of current and tide prediction to navigation and engineering
- Tide tables and yearbooks
- Current prediction for navigation
- Port Ticket Planning
- Tides and Draught available
- Currents in channels and narrows
- Applications in tidal energy
- port works design
- Offshore operations and work windows
- Salvage and drift of objects
- Oceanographic Information Services
11
Master’s Final Project in Current and Tidal Observation
- Advanced fundamentals of numerical modelling applied to currents and tides: Navier-Stokes equations, coastal and oceanic hydrodynamics, scalability and spatial-temporal resolution
- Remote sensing in operational oceanography: physical principles, active and passive sensors, satellite image processing, spectral interpretation, and specific radiometric calibration for current and tidal phenomena
- Remote and on-site data integration: Multi-source data fusion techniques, cross validation, time series correction, and real-time adaptive hybrid model generation
- Big Data Applied to Oceanography: Data Architecture, Large Volume Management of Hydroceanographic Information, Machine Learning Algorithms for Pattern Detection and Predictive Forecast
- Integrated system development: Modular design, human-machine interface (HMI), communication protocols and synchronisation between sensors, observation stations and data processing centres
- Implementation of predictive models in real time: data assimilation techniques, dynamic parameter adjustment, uncertainty analysis and automated generation of operational alerts
- Computational optimisation and use of HPC (High Performance Computing): parallelization of calculations, reduction of latency and load balancing for simulations in complex coastal environments
- Practical applications and case studies: Extreme tide prediction, current tracking for safe navigation, port planning, and coastal environmental management
- Performance evaluation and system validation: Precision metrics, sensitivity, temporal and spatial consistency, and procedures for post-implementation iterative adjustments
- Future perspectives and technological trends: Artificial intelligence applied to oceanography, Internet of Things (IoT) in marine observatories, and sustainable development based on real-time oceanographic data
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
Oceanographers and physicists interested in numerical modeling, spectral analysis, and the prediction of currents and tides.Coastal and port engineers seeking to optimize the design and management of maritime infrastructure, considering littoral dynamics.Environmental consultants and natural resource managers who need to assess the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems.Marine and r
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
- 01Optimizing marine resource management
- 02Predicting and mitigating coastal risks
- 03Design and implement early warning systems for extreme ocean events
- 04Accurately model ocean dynamics
- 05Advising on the planning and construction of resilient coastal infrastructure
- 06Leading innovative oceanographic research projects
Careers
Career Opportunities
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02Oceanographer/Researcher: Analysis of oceanographic data, modeling of currents and tides, research on climate change and its impact on coastal areas.
03Environmental Consultant: Environmental impact studies, modeling of pollutant dispersion, design of early warning systems for extreme events.
04Coastal Resource Manager: Planning and management of coastal areas, development of climate change adaptation strategies, coastal risk assessment.
05Coastal Engineer: Design and construction of maritime infrastructure, optimization of ports and navigation channels, coastal erosion protection.
06Marine Data Analyst: Processing and analysis of satellite and oceanographic buoy data, development of visualization and prediction tools for currents and tides.
07Renewable Energy Technician
08Marine Engineering: Assessment of tidal and current energy potential, design and operation of marine power plants.
09Marine Cartographer/Hydrographer: Production of nautical charts and current maps, hydrographic surveys, management of marine geographic information.
Questions
Entry Requirements
Currents and tides.
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.
Typically, a Master's in Current and Tidal Observation includes both on-site physical observation and data analysis and numerical modeling, combining theory, fieldwork and computational tools.
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 Marine Sciences, Oceanography, Physics, Mathematics, or Engineering with a maritime focus; or demonstrable professional experience in marine meteorology, hydrography, or numerical modeling.Prior Knowledge:Recommended: basic knowledge of fluid dynamics, statistics, programming (Python, MATLAB), and geographic information systems (GIS).Language Proficiency:B2 level of English (reading and listening comprehension) for consulting scientific literature and participating in conferences.Documentation:Up
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