Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Water Sampling Techniques Course
This course provides you with the essential tools to obtain representative and reliable samples. Master the most commonly used sampling methods, from surface water collection to groundwater extraction. You will learn to minimize…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts21 December
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Water Sampling Techniques Course?
The Water Sampling Techniques course
This course provides you with the essential tools to obtain representative and reliable samples. Master the most commonly used sampling methods, from surface water collection to groundwater extraction. You will learn to minimize contamination, select the appropriate materials, and apply preservation and transport protocols to ensure the integrity of your samples. Ideal for environmental professionals, laboratory technicians, and students seeking a solid foundation in water quality analysis.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Approach: simulation exercises and real-world case study examples.
- Standardized Protocols: application of national and international standards (ISO, EPA).
- Specialized Equipment: knowledge of sampling instruments and devices.
- Risk Management: identification and control of error sources during the process.
- Certification: obtain a certificate of completion that validates your knowledge and skills.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
10-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Mastery of Techniques: Learn the most accurate and effective sampling methods for different types of water sources.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the validity of your results by understanding current regulations and standards for sampling.
- Resource Optimization: Reduce costs and time by selecting the most appropriate sampling technique for each situation.
- Analysis of Practical Cases: Apply the knowledge acquired through real-world examples and relevant case studies.
- Interpretation of Results: Gain a deep understanding of the data obtained and its significance for water quality.
- Apply these techniques to ensure water quality and safety in your professional environment.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of Hydrology and Strategic Planning for Water Sampling
- Introduction to hydrological cycles and the importance of representativeness in taking samples of environmental water.
- Design of monitoring networks: criteria for the selection of sampling points in rivers, lakes, estuaries and coastal waters.
- Definition of the objectives of sampling: Operational surveillance, investigation of accidental discharges or regulatory compliance.
- Determination of the frequency and timing of sampling as a function of seasonal variability and tidal cycles.
- Preparation of the Sampling Plan (PDM): Logistics, human resources allocation and security protocols on the ground.
02
Typologies of samples, containers and procedures for chemical stabilisation
- Technical differentiation between point samples (Grab samples), composite samples and samples integrated over time.
- Container selection criteria: Use of high-density polyethylene containers, borosilicate or Teflon glass according to the analyte.
- Procedures for cleaning and decontamination of containers to avoid cross-contamination in metal or organic traces.
- In situ preservation techniques: Addition of chemical reagents (acids, bases or biocides) for the stabilisation of parametres.
- Cold chain management: Refrigeration and transport protocols to ensure the thermal integrity of the samples.
03
Field instruments and measurement of physicochemical parametres in situ
- Calibration and preventive maintenance of multi-parameter probes for the measurement of pH, conductivity and dissolved oxygen.
- Techniques for measuring the transparency and turbidity of water through the use of the Secchi disk and portable turbidimetres.
- Determination of the temperature and the redox potential (ORP) as indicators of the biological and chemical activity of the medium.
- Use of equipment for the measurement of flow rates and velocity profiles in surface water currents and discharges.
- Procedures for the detection of residual chlorine, ammonia and other volatile parametres that require immediate analysis.
04
Specific techniques for collecting in surface and marine waters
- Manual sampling procedures in the shore area and direct immersion techniques to avoid the surface layer of the water.
- Use of deep sampling bottles (Niskin, Van Dorn or Kemmerer) to obtain samples in different strata of the column.
- Sampling techniques of the surface microlayer and their importance in the detection of hydrocarbons and floating pollutants.
- Operation of automatic samplers and pumping systems for continuous monitoring of water quality in fixed stations.
- Sampling protocols in boats: Positioning by GPS and manoeuvres to avoid interference from the hull or engines.
05
Quality assurance, traceability and documentation management
- Implementation of quality controls in the field: use of travel targets, equipment targets and duplicate (blind) samples.
- Chain of custody management: documentation of the sample trail from the point of origin to reception in the labouratory.
- Preparation of sampling minutes and coded labelling to guarantee the absolute traceability of the information collected.
- Validation of the sampling process: internal audits and detection of possible sources of systematic or random error.
- Management of waste generated during sampling: Management of reagents and contaminated disposable materials.
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 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
Laboratory technicians seeking to master sampling techniques and ensure water quality.Environmental consultants needing to obtain representative samples for accurate analysis and regulatory compliance.Engineers and managers of water treatment plants requiring to optimize quality control and process efficiency.Students and recent graduates in environmental science, chemistry, or biology seeki
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
- 01Apply representative sampling methods
- 02Ensure the traceability of the collected samples
- 03Evaluate water quality through sample analysis
- 04Comply with current environmental regulations
- 05Minimize variability in sample collection
- 06Optimize the representativeness of the samples obtained
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Environmental Laboratory Technician: Water quality analysis and control in specialized laboratories.
02Environmental Inspector: Sampling and monitoring compliance with water resource regulations.
03Environmental Consultant: Preparation of reports and management plans for companies and institutions.
04Water Resources Manager: Water quality control and management in public and private organizations.
05Water Treatment Technician: Optimization of treatment processes in drinking water and wastewater treatment plants.
06Environmental Researcher: Participation in research projects on water quality and its impact on the environment.
07Environmental Educator: Dissemination of knowledge and awareness about the importance of water quality.
08Worker in drinking water supply companies: Quality control and management of the distribution network.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
In simple random sampling, every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. In stratified random sampling, the population is divided into subgroups (strata) based on shared characteristics, and then a simple random sample is taken from each stratum.
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.
Composite sampling combines several individual samples taken at different times or places to create a single representative sample, while discrete sampling collects individual samples at a specific time and place, providing information about point conditions.
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 Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Engineering, or related field; or Advanced Technician in Laboratory Analysis and Quality Control, or demonstrable professional experience in water sampling.Specific Knowledge:Basic knowledge of water chemistry, microbiology, and water quality regulations (national and international).Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree or professional certificate, ID/Passport, cover letter (optional). In case of professional experience, supporting documentation.
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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