Master’s Degree in Climate Adaptation of Coastal Cities
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Climate Adaptation of Coastal Cities
This program prepares you to lead the resilient transformation of urban environments in the face of climate change challenges. You will learn to assess the vulnerability of coastal infrastructure and ecosystems, to design and implement nature- and engineering-based adaptation strategies, and to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders. This program will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to build safer, more sustainable, and more livable cities.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integrating engineering, urban planning, economics, and social sciences.
- Real-World Case Studies: Analyzing successful projects and lessons learned in cities around the world.
- Climate Modeling Tools: Using advanced software to simulate the impacts of climate change.
- Collaboration with Experts: Learning from leading professionals in the field of climate adaptation.
- Applied Master’s Thesis Project: Developing an innovative solution to a real-world challenge in a coastal city.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 29-09-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Architects and urban planners seeking to design resilient environments, incorporating nature-based solutions and urban adaptation strategies.
- Civil and environmental engineers wishing to manage coastal risks, implementing green infrastructure and mitigating the impact of extreme weather events.
- Local and regional public administration officials needing to plan adaptation to climate change, developing policies and strategies to protect populations and ecosystems.
- Consultants and private sector professionals seeking to develop sustainable projects, offering innovative solutions for climate adaptation in coastal environments.
- Graduates in environmental science, geography, or related disciplines aspiring to a specialized career in climate change management in cities coastal areas.
Flexibility and practical approach:
Designed for professionals and recent graduates: flexible online methodology, real-world case studies, and direct application of acquired knowledge.
Objectives and skills
Designing resilient strategies to address rising sea levels:
Implement early warning systems and evacuation protocols, prioritizing vulnerable communities and key coastal ecosystems.
Assessing the climate vulnerability of urban infrastructure:
Identify and prioritize critical infrastructures, analyzing their exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity to the impacts of climate change, using risk assessment methodologies and climate modeling tools.
Implement nature-based solutions for coastal protection:
“Design and implement artificial dune systems and restore coastal wetlands to mitigate erosion and protect infrastructure.”
Managing coastal risks through predictive modeling:
Analyze wave, tide and bathymetry data to calibrate flood and erosion models, anticipating impacts on vulnerable infrastructure and ecosystems.
Promote citizen participation in climate adaptation:
“Design and implement effective communication strategies to raise awareness and mobilize the community in adopting climate adaptation measures at the local level.”
Develop urban policies for climate change mitigation:
Promote smart urban densification and the use of sustainable building materials, encouraging the rehabilitation of existing buildings over new construction.
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of urban resilience: key concepts, theoretical framework, and specificities in coastal contexts
- Coastal vulnerability assessment: methodologies for identifying climate risks, exposure analysis, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity
- Advanced climate modeling tools applied to urban areas: simulation of sea-level rise scenarios, extreme storms, and coastal erosion
- Design and implementation of blue-green infrastructure: nature-based solutions to mitigate flooding and improve urban environmental quality
- Integrated land-use planning in coastal cities: adaptive zoning, regulatory framework, and sustainable shoreline management
- Early warning systems and continuous monitoring: IoT technologies, environmental sensors, and data platforms for rapid response
- Resilient coastal engineering strategies: breakwaters, flexible seawalls, renaturalization, and hybrid solutions for Defense against extreme events
Participatory governance and inter-institutional coordination: models of public-private collaboration and community participation in climate planning
Economic and financial evaluation of adaptation projects: cost-benefit analysis, climate finance, and green investment mechanisms
International case studies: detailed analysis of successful experiences and lessons learned in vulnerable coastal cities
- Fundamentals of comprehensive risk assessment in coastal areas: identification, analysis, and quantification of climate threats
- Advanced hydrodynamic modeling: simulation of tides, waves, and extreme events under future climate scenarios
- Tools and software for integrating climate and urban data into predictive models
- Ecosystem-based adaptation methodologies: green solutions for coastal resilience and impact mitigation
- Design and management of resilient infrastructure: technical criteria for adaptive coastal works in the face of storms and sea-level rise
- Analysis of socioeconomic vulnerability and its incorporation into adaptation and risk management plans
- Multicriteria assessment for prioritizing adaptation measures in coastal urban contexts
- Participatory planning and governance
Multiscale: Collaborative strategies for decision-making in climate adaptation
Monitoring and early warning systems: Integration of remote sensing, predictive models, and effective communication
International case studies and lessons learned on the practical implementation of integrated coastal risk management models
- Fundamentals of urban resilience in coastal environments: key concepts, definitions, and theoretical framework
- Advanced climate risk modeling: integration of hydrometeorological, geospatial, and socioeconomic data
- Urban vulnerability assessment: multiscale analysis of critical infrastructure, ecological systems, and human communities
- Extreme climate change scenarios: methodologies for projecting impacts on sea levels, storms, and extreme events
- Computational simulation tools: use of GIS software, hydro-mechanical modeling, and information systems for risk management
- Design and implementation of adaptive strategies: green infrastructure, gray infrastructure, and integrated hybrid solutions
- Inclusive planning and governance: integration of local actors, public policies, and financing strategies for urban resilience
- Continuous monitoring and evaluation: resilience metrics, performance indicators, and early warning systems
- International case studies: comparative analysis of coastal cities implementing advanced measures against extreme climate change
- Technological innovations and emerging trends: artificial intelligence, big data, and IoT sensors for dynamic risk management
- Fundamentals of Blue-Green Infrastructure: Definition, Characteristics, and Ecosystem Services Applied to Coastal Environments
- Design of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) for Climate Adaptation: Technical Criteria, Selection of Plant and Structural Species, and Integration into the Coastal Urban Fabric
- Advanced Hydrodynamic Modeling: Principles, Navier-Stokes Equations, Numerical Models (SWAN, Delft3D, ADCIRC), and Simulation of Water-Land Interaction in Sea Level Rise Scenarios
- Coastal Resilience Assessment: Quantitative Metrics for Evaluating the Effectiveness of Natural Infrastructure in Wave Dissipation, Erosion Reduction, and Flood Control
- GIS and Remote Sensing Tools for Mapping and Monitoring Blue-Green Solutions: Spatial Analysis, Calibration with Satellite Data and Drones
- Parameterization of Climate Change Scenarios: Regionalized Climate Projections, Extreme Events Hydrometeorological factors and their impact on coastal systems
Multidisciplinary integration in design: collaboration between coastal engineering, marine biology, landscape architecture, and sustainable urban planning
Adaptive design methodologies and dynamic management: incorporating environmental and socioeconomic feedback to optimize solutions in the face of climate uncertainties
International case studies: technical analysis and results of flagship blue-green infrastructure projects in sea-level rise contexts
Regulations, standards, and public policies for the implementation of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in urban coastal areas: legal assessment, environmental permits, and sustainable financing
- Fundamentals of urban coastal climate adaptation: analysis of vulnerabilities and risks specific to coastal environments
- International, national, and local regulatory framework for integrated climate risk management in coastal areas
- Design of public policies oriented towards urban resilience: principles, instruments, and key actors
- Multisectoral and multiscale governance: inter-institutional coordination and public-private partnerships in climate adaptation
- Effective mechanisms for citizen participation: inclusive methodologies for incorporating communities in decision-making
- Advanced environmental assessment tools: climate modeling, environmental impact assessment, and strategic assessment methodologies
- Assessment of social risks and vulnerabilities: integrated approaches for equity and environmental justice in adaptation policies
- Development and implementation of urban adaptation plans: phases, monitoring indicators, and results evaluation
- International case studies and best practices in governance and public policy for coastal cities adapted to climate change
- Technological innovation for environmental assessment and real-time monitoring: remote sensing, GIS, IoT sensors, and applied big data
- Financial models and financing mechanisms for adaptive public policies: green funds, economic incentives, and fiscal governance
- Effective communication of climate risks and adaptation: strategies to strengthen public awareness and social responsibility
- Advanced participatory planning: workshops, public consultations, and digital platforms for the co-creation of adaptation policies
- Legal and regulatory instrumentation: formulation, promulgation, and application of specific ordinances and regulations for coastal climate management
- Monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) of climate adaptation public policies: establishing environmental and social performance systems and metrics
- Fundamentals and conceptual framework of coastal urban resilience: definitions, components, and metrics applied to dynamic environments
- Comprehensive climate risk assessment: analysis of hydrometeorological hazards, socioeconomic vulnerabilities, and adaptive capacities
- Innovations in nature-based solutions (NbS): design, implementation, and monitoring of green and blue infrastructure for coastal impact mitigation
- Predictive modeling and simulation of future scenarios: integration of climate, geomorphological, and anthropogenic data for adaptive planning
- Advanced tools for integrating hybrid strategies: combining gray engineering with nature-based solutions to optimize protection and resilience
- Implementation of early warning systems and environmental monitoring: sensor networks, IoT, and Big Data techniques applied to coastal management
- Participatory methods and multi-level governance: approaches for community inclusion and decision-making Collaborative and effective public policies
Flagship cases and international comparative analysis: successes, challenges, and lessons learned in vulnerable coastal cities
International regulations and standards on coastal climate adaptation: detailed analysis of legal frameworks, guidelines, and technical protocols
Economic and financial evaluation of integrated interventions: costing techniques, cost-benefit analysis, and tools for long-term financial sustainability
- Fundamentals of urban strategic planning: key concepts, objectives, and integrated processes in the coastal context
- Climate risk assessment: identification, quantitative and qualitative analysis of hydrometeorological and marine hazards
- Advanced methodologies for assessing environmental, economic, and social impacts in coastal cities
- Predictive modeling of climate change and its effects on urban infrastructure and coastal ecosystems
- Design and implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies based on scientific evidence and global best practices
- Participatory planning tools and multisectoral governance for building community resilience
- Evaluation and optimization of early warning systems and emergency protocols in coastal urban environments
- Integration of nature-based solutions (NbS) to strengthen adaptive capacity to extreme events
- Indicators of Urban resilience: design, continuous monitoring, and reporting for strategic decision-making
International case studies: comparative analysis and lessons learned for adaptive management in vulnerable coastal areas
Regulatory framework and public policies geared towards climate adaptation in coastal urban contexts: challenges and opportunities
Long-term planning and future scenarios: tools for integrating climate uncertainty into territorial development
Use of geospatial technologies (GIS, remote sensing) and big data for the assessment and monitoring of climate impacts in urban areas
Design of integrated adaptive action plans: objectives, indicators, resources, and timelines for coastal urban resilience
Post-implementation evaluation procedures and continuous feedback for adaptive improvement and sustainability
- Fundamentals of coastal hydroclimatic dynamics: physical, chemical, and biological processes in aquatic systems
- Advanced instrumentation for environmental monitoring: multiparameter sensors, automatic weather stations, and IoT applied to coasts
- Remote sensing technologies and satellite systems for monitoring extreme events and climate variability
- Numerical hydrodynamic and atmospheric modeling: Navier-Stokes equations, tidal modeling, wave action, wind, and ocean currents
- Integration of observational data and predictive models: data assimilation and machine learning techniques for improving real-time forecasts
- Analysis of future climate scenarios applied to sea level rise, storm events, and coastal erosion using IPCC AR6 and regionalized models
- Geospatial visualization platforms and geographic information systems (GIS) for territorial management and integrated decision-making
Development of coastal resilience indicators based on hydrometeorological and socioeconomic metrics
International case studies: ecosystem-based adaptation, resilient infrastructure, and integrated coastal management public policies
Design and evaluation of hydroclimatic early warning systems: protocols, risk communication, and community response
- Fundamentals of urban resilience in coastal contexts: definitions, principles, and scope
- Coastal vulnerability assessment: risk analysis for extreme events, hazard maps, and socioeconomic exposure
- Integrated design of green and grey infrastructure: synergies between civil engineering and nature-based solutions
- Restoration and conservation of ecosystems: wetlands, dunes, and reefs as natural barriers against sea-level rise
- Advanced hydrodynamic modeling: tools and software for simulating tides, waves, and coastal dynamics under future scenarios
- Application of geographic information systems (GIS) for spatial planning and monitoring of environmental interventions
- Innovations in materials and construction techniques for resilient and adaptive structures in coastal areas
- Evaluation of effectiveness and continuous monitoring: indicators Quantitative and qualitative data to measure the performance of implemented strategies
Integration of public policies, environmental regulations, and multi-scale urban planning for climate adaptation
International case studies: critical analysis of successful projects and lessons learned in vulnerable coastal cities
- Introduction to the Master’s Thesis: objectives, scope, and multidisciplinary methodology for integrating adaptive solutions in coastal contexts
- Advanced climate risk analysis in coastal cities: assessment of threats, vulnerabilities, and exposure to extreme events and sea-level rise
- Conceptual and scientific framework of Nature-based Solutions (NbS): principles, ecosystem functionalities, and socio-environmental benefits
- Design and implementation of green and blue infrastructure: restoration of mangroves, coastal dunes, intertidal wetlands, and artificial reefs
- Integration of innovative technologies for climate adaptation: IoT sensors, predictive modeling, early warning systems, and real-time monitoring
- Methodologies for co-creation and community participation in coastal adaptation projects: governance tools, social inclusion, and effective scientific communication
- Economic and financial evaluation of hybrid solutions: analysis Cost-benefit analysis, climate finance, and incentive mechanisms for urban resilience
Strategic planning for integrated resilience: adaptive management, future scenarios, and the design of public policies based on scientific evidence
International case studies and replicable strategies: comparative analysis of successful interventions in cities with similar coastal challenges
Technical writing and professional presentation of the final project: structure, APA style, advanced graphics, and oral defense before a specialized jury
Career prospects
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- Urban Climate Adaptation Technician: Design and implementation of adaptation strategies in coastal cities.
- Climate Change Consultant: Advising companies and public administrations on risk assessment and the design of adaptation plans.
- Adaptation Project Manager: Direction and coordination of projects related to climate change adaptation in coastal urban environments.
- Climate Change Researcher: Participation in research projects on the impacts of climate change and adaptation strategies.
- Corporate Sustainability Manager: Implementation of sustainable policies and practices in companies with a presence in coastal areas.
- Public Administration Technician: Development and implementation of public policies for climate change adaptation in coastal cities.
- Environmental Educator: Dissemination and Raising awareness about the impacts of climate change and adaptation strategies in coastal communities.
Urban resilience specialist: Analysis and improvement of the resilience of coastal cities to extreme weather events.
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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
- Innovative Strategies: Master the latest techniques for resilient urban planning and coastal risk management.
- Cutting-edge Tools: Learn to use climate models, geographic information systems (GIS), and other key technologies.
- Hands-on Experience: Participate in real-world case studies and adaptation projects to apply your knowledge.
- Global Networking: Connect with international experts, policymakers, and industry professionals.
- Career Opportunities: Boost your career in Environmental consulting, public administration, research, and non-governmental organizations. Prepare to lead the transformation of coastal cities in the face of climate change.
Testimonials
This master’s program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead the development of a coastal resilience plan in my city. Thanks to the training I received, we were able to secure funding to implement green infrastructure solutions that protect the coast from erosion and flooding, while also improving the community’s quality of life.
During my Master’s degree in Climate & Global Marine Change, I developed a predictive model of ocean acidification in the North Atlantic, integrating temperature, salinity, and CO2 data. This model, with 95% accuracy, allowed for the identification of highly vulnerable areas for coral ecosystems and was subsequently used by an NGO to design conservation strategies.
This master’s program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead the development of a climate adaptation plan for my coastal city. Thanks to the training I received, we secured significant international funding to implement nature-based coastal protection measures, significantly reducing our vulnerability to sea level rise and storms.
Applying the knowledge I gained from my Master’s in Climate Adaptation of Coastal Cities allowed me to lead the redesign of my city’s coastal infrastructure, integrating nature-based solutions. The project, which included mangrove restoration and the creation of artificial dunes, reduced erosion by 60% and improved the community’s resilience to sea-level rise, becoming a replicable model at the national level.
Frequently asked questions
The adaptation of coastal cities to the impacts of climate change, including sea level rise, increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and coastal erosion.
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.
Adaptation to its effects.
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.
- Introduction to the Master’s Thesis: objectives, scope, and multidisciplinary methodology for integrating adaptive solutions in coastal contexts
- Advanced climate risk analysis in coastal cities: assessment of threats, vulnerabilities, and exposure to extreme events and sea-level rise
- Conceptual and scientific framework of Nature-based Solutions (NbS): principles, ecosystem functionalities, and socio-environmental benefits
- Design and implementation of green and blue infrastructure: restoration of mangroves, coastal dunes, intertidal wetlands, and artificial reefs
- Integration of innovative technologies for climate adaptation: IoT sensors, predictive modeling, early warning systems, and real-time monitoring
- Methodologies for co-creation and community participation in coastal adaptation projects: governance tools, social inclusion, and effective scientific communication
- Economic and financial evaluation of hybrid solutions: analysis Cost-benefit analysis, climate finance, and incentive mechanisms for urban resilience
Strategic planning for integrated resilience: adaptive management, future scenarios, and the design of public policies based on scientific evidence
International case studies and replicable strategies: comparative analysis of successful interventions in cities with similar coastal challenges
Technical writing and professional presentation of the final project: structure, APA style, advanced graphics, and oral defense before a specialized jury
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
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.