Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Masters · 1600 h · 11 modules
Master's in Climate Change and Oceans
This program provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the vital interconnection between global climate and ocean health. You will explore the impacts of global warming, acidification, and pollution on marine ecosystems…
Duration1600 h
FormatOnline
Starts14 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Master’s in Climate Change and Oceans?
The Master in Climate Change and Oceans
This program provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the vital interconnection between global climate and ocean health. You will explore the impacts of global warming, acidification, and pollution on marine ecosystems, as well as science-based solutions to mitigate and adapt to these challenges. This program prepares you to lead initiatives in research, conservation, and policy related to climate change and the oceans.
Differential Advantages
- Interdisciplinary Analysis: Integrates knowledge from oceanography, climatology, marine biology, and social sciences.
- Applied Research: Participate in cutting-edge research projects with experts in the field.
- Modeling Tools: Learn to use climate and oceanographic models to predict and analyze future scenarios.
- Policy Development: Understand the legal and regulatory framework for the sustainable management of marine resources.
- Global Networking: Connect with professionals and researchers from around the world at conferences and seminars.
Programme type
Master's Degree
Study mode
Online
Duration
1,600 hours
Modules
11
Start date
05-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Comprehensive Analysis: Master the science of climate change and its impact on the oceans.
- Adaptation Strategies: Learn to design and implement innovative solutions for ocean resilience.
- Regulatory Framework: Delve into environmental policies and international maritime law.
- Applied Research: Participate in cutting-edge projects with experts in oceanography and climatology.
- Professional Development: Boost your career in government organizations, NGOs, and the private sector.
- Turn your passion for the ocean into a career with impact.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 11 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Ocean physics and global climate system
- The ocean as the thermostat of the planet: heat capacity, radiative balance and energy distribution
- Global thermohaline circulation and ocean conveyor belt: structure and coupling mechanisms
- Seawater thermodynamics: temperature, salinity, density and mass of water
- Ocean-Atmosphere Interface: Heat Flows, Evaporation, Precipitation and Movement Transfer
- Dynamics of atmospheric circulation and coupling with surface ocean currents
- Modes of Natural Climate Variability: El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENOS), the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the Pacific Decal Oscillation (PDO)
- Coastal upwelling systems and their sensitivity to alterations in climate wind patterns
- Marine cryosphere: Arctic and Antarctic sea ice, floating glaciers and their influence on global albedo
- Historical trends of ocean warming observed in recent decades through ARGO networks
- Paleoceanographic climate reconstruction: geological indicators, stable isotopes, and ice/sediment controls
02
Marine biogeochemistry and ocean acidification
- The Global Carbon Cycle in the Ocean: Physical, Biological and Carbonate Carbon Pumps
- Absorption of $CO_2$ Anthropogenic by the ocean and chemistry of carbonate equilibria
- Acidification of the oceans: decreased pH and alteration of the saturation state of aragonite and calcite
- Impact of acidification in calcifier organisms: corals, molluscs, foraminifera and cocolithophores
- Dissolved oxygen cycle in the ocean and marine deoxygenation phenomenon
- Expansion of Minimum Oxygen Zones (ZMO) and their impact on pelagic trophic networks
- Biogeochemical cycles of nitrogen, phosphorus and silicon in a warmer and more stratified ocean
- Coastal eutrophication and its interaction with climatic variables in the proliferation of harmful algae (FAN)
- Non-$CO2$ CO2 from the ocean: nitrous oxide ($N_2O$) and methane ($CH_4$)
- Ocean Chemical Monitoring Methodologies: Fixed Networks, BGC-Argo Biogeochemical Sensors and Oceanographic Campaigns
03
Climate change impacts on ecosystems and marine biodiversity
- Marine heat waves: definition, frequencies, intensity and events of mass mortality
- Coral reef whitening: physiological mechanisms, structural degradation and loss of biodiversity
- Geographic redistribution of marine species and displacement of ranges to higher latitudes
- Tropicalization of temperate seas and invasion of exotic species favored by rising temperatures
- Phenological desynchronisation in marine ecosystems: decoupling between phytoplankton and its predators
- Impact on marine mammals, pelagic birds and turtles: loss of breeding habitat and alteration of migratory routes
- Alterations in the structure of marine food networks and energy transfer at higher trophic levels
- Resilience, phenotypic plasticity and potential for genetic adaptation of marine species to thermal stress
- Depth and abyssal ecosystems in the face of global change: vulnerability of cold water and bentos corals
- Evaluation of the loss of marine ecosystem services caused by biological degradation
04
Sea level rise and coastal process dynamics
- Mechanisms of sea level rise: thermal expansion (sterodynamics) and fusion of land ice masses
- Greenland and Antarctica Ice Mantles Dynamics: Tipping Points and Instabilities
- Regional sea level variability: gravitational effects, tectonic elevation/sinking, and coastal subsidence
- Extreme storms, storm surges and their coupling with the rise of the average sea level
- Coastal erosion processes, coastline retreat and alteration of transport littorial sediment
- Salt intrusion in coastal aquifers, estuaries and river deltas: impacts on water resources
- Vulnerability of small developing islands (SIDS) and megadense deltas in the face of permanent flooding
- Episodic coastal flood versus permanent flooding: modelling of flood maps
- Sea level measurement techniques: coastal tide gauges, satellite altimetry and GNSS geodetic networks
- Medium and long-term sea level projections based on IPCC scenarios (SSPS)
05
Satellite oceanography, big data and climate modelling
- Marine Remote Sensing Fundamentals: Earth Observation Satellites, Passive and Active Sensors
- Satellite measurement of sea surface temperature (SST) and ocean colour (chlorophyll-A)
- Satellite altimetry for current study, sea level, wind and significant wave height
- Salinity of the sea surface and soil moisture through dedicated satellite missions (SMOS, Aquarius)
- Architecture of the models of oceanic general circulation (OGCMS) and its coupling with the atmosphere
- Coupled Model Comparison Initiative (CMIP6) Models of the Coastal Downscaling
- Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to the prediction of oceanic climate patterns
- Processing of large volumes of marine data (Big data) through cloud platforms (Google Earth Engine, Copernicus)
- Assimilation of observational data in oceanographic numerical models for reanalysis generation
- Verification, calibration and uncertainty analysis in marine climate projections
06
Ocean-Based Mitigation: Blue Carbon and Removal of $CO_2$
- Blue carbon concept: Definition, importance and key ecosystems
- Carbon dynamics in mangroves, brackish marshes and marine prairie meadows (eg Posidonia oceanica)
- Long-term organic carbon sequestration and storage rates in coastal marine sediments
- Methodologies for accounting and measuring carbon flow in coastal restoration projects
- Development of blue carbon projects for the voluntary and regulated carbon credit markets
- Macronutrients and fertilization of the ocean with iron: removal potential and ecological risks
- Increased ocean alkalinity (OAE) by adding silicate or carbonate minerals
- Direct Capture Technologies of $CO_2$ from the atmosphere using marine electrochemical solutions
- Injection and geological storage of $CO_2$ under the seabed (Offshore Carbon Capture and Storage)
- Evaluation of the life cycle and analysis of environmental safeguards for marine geoengineering technologies
07
Adaptation of coastal areas and maritime infrastructure
- Conceptual frameworks of adaptation: Managed withdrawal, accommodation, hard defence and soft defence
- Nature-Based Solutions (SBN) on the Coast: Restoration of Dunes, Artificial Reefs and Bioengineering
- Coastal protection by restoration of coral reefs and mangrove forests as wave energy sinks
- ENGINEERING OF DIKES, CONTAINMENTS AND BARRIERS AGAINST SURGE: Adaptation of traditional structures to sea level rise
- Adaptation of commercial ports and maritime terminals to climate change: dock lifting and operability
- Integrated coastal zone management (GIZC) in an accelerated climate variability context
- Maritime Space Management Plans (OEMs) that incorporate criteria for climate change and conservation
- Assessment of climate risks for coastal tourism, recreational boating and coastal cultural heritage
- Design of early warning systems against extreme marine events and civil protection plans
- Economic evaluation of adaptation measures: cost-benefit analysis, cost-effectiveness and decision-making under uncertainty
08
Sustainable maritime sectors and renewable marine energies
- Decarbonisation of global maritime transport: energy efficiency, ship design and assisted wind propulsion
- Low or zero-emission alternative marine fuels: E-methanol, green hydrogen, ammonia and biofuels
- Implementation of Electrification of Vessels in the (Onshore Power Supply - PAHO) and Green Ports
- Offshore Wind: Fixed foundations, floating platforms and their development on the high seas
- Wave (Wave) and Tidal Energies (Tide-Motor): Capture and Industrial Viability Technologies
- Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) and Salt Gradient: Potential in Tropical and Coastal Regions
- Impact of climate change on marine aquaculture and adaptation strategies (resistance species, relocation)
- Sustainable desalination of seawater: energy efficiency, brine management and use of renewable energy
- Underwater mining of critical minerals for the energy transition: assessment of climate and ecological risks
- Assessment of the cumulative environmental impact of renewable infrastructure in the marine environment
09
Ocean Governance, International Law and Climate Finance
- The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Convemar) and the protection of the marine environment
- The Marine Biological Diversity Agreement Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ / Deep Sea Treaty)
- The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the inclusion of the ocean in the Paris Agreement
- The role of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in the regulation of GHG emissions from the global fleet
- Compensation and climate justice mechanisms for those displaced by rising sea levels
- Sustainable Blue Finance: Blue Bonds, Impact Investment Funds and the UNEP Finance Initiative (UNEP FI)
- Transfer of technology, capacity development and ocean scientific diplomacy within the framework of the UN Ocean Decade
- The role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and civil society in the conservation of the climate ocean
- Regulatory frameworks for the marine carbon market and social safeguards for indigenous coastal communities
- Total economic valuation of climate regulation services provided by the global ocean
10
Capstone Project: Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Plan for a Marine or Coastal Region
- Selection of the study area: Coastal area, archipelago, port or marine region of high vulnerability
- Diagnosis of baseline environmental status and collection of climate, physical-chemical and biological data from the area
- Assessment of vulnerability and exposure to sea level rise, acidification or extreme events
- Generation of future climate impact scenarios through the application or analysis of oceanographic/satellite models
- Design of an ocean-based mitigation plan (blue carbon, marine energies, or decarbonisation of activities)
- Formulation of coastal adaptation measures (solutions based on nature and hybrid/hard infrastructure)
- Marine Spatial Management Plan and Uses Compatible with Climate Resilience
- Analysis of economic viability, investment budget (Capex/Opex) and blue financing strategy
- Identification of the governance framework, key stakeholders, regulatory compliance and monitoring plan
- Preparation of the Final Technical Report and Public Defence of the Capstone Project before a Court of Experts on Climate Change, Oceanography and Coastal Management
11
Master’s Final Project in Climate Change and Oceans
- Choice of topic and definition of the research problem
- Formulation of objectives, hypotheses and scope of work
- Review of the state of the art and specialised bibliography
- Analysis of the applicable regulatory and technical framework
- Design of the methodology and the work plan
- Data collection, processing and validation
- Technical development and analysis of results
- Discussion, conclusions and future lines of work
- Drafting of the memory in accordance with academic standards
- Presentation and public defence before the Court
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
Maritime and fisheries professionals who want to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change on their operations.Environmental scientists and marine biologists seeking to deepen their research and management of ocean ecosystems in the face of climate change.Policymakers and coastal managers who need tools for the adaptation and resilience of coastal communities.Environmental consul
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
- 01Lead ocean mitigation strategies
- 02Assess coastal vulnerability to climate change
- 03Develop predictive models of ocean climate impact
- 04Managing resilient coastal adaptation projects
- 05Design ocean policies based on scientific evidence
- 06Effectively communicating the science of ocean climate change
Careers
Career Opportunities
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02Climate Change Consultant: Advising companies, public administrations, and non-governmental organizations on climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
03Research Scientist: Participating in research projects on the effects of climate change on the oceans, climate modeling, and developing innovative solutions.
04Environmental Project Manager: Designing, implementing, and managing projects related to marine conservation, sustainable management of ocean resources, and climate change adaptation.
05Marine Renewable Energy Technician: Developing and evaluating marine renewable energy projects (wind, wave, tidal) with environmental sustainability criteria.
06Environmental Educator: Designing and implementing education and awareness programs on climate change and the importance of environmental sustainability. Oceans for different audiences.
07Sustainability Manager in Maritime Sector Companies: Implementation of sustainability strategies in shipping companies, ports, shipyards, and other companies in the maritime sector.
08Environmental Policy Analyst: Preparation of reports and analyses on public policies related to climate change and the oceans, both nationally and internationally.
09Science Communicator: Scientific dissemination about climate change and the oceans through different media (press, radio, television, social media).
Questions
Entry Requirements
The oceans absorb much of the excess heat and carbon dioxide generated by human activities, causing acidification, warming of the water, deoxygenation and rising sea levels, impacting marine life and coastal communities.
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.
Climate change and its impact on the oceans.
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 Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate degree in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Oceanography, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering (Environmental, Civil, Chemical, etc.) or a related field.Other degrees with relevant experience in climate change and/or oceans will be considered.Recommended Prior Knowledge:Basic knowledge of physics, chemistry, biology, and statistics.Interest in research and scientific outreach.Documentation:Updated CV, academic transcript, copy of university degree, ID/Passport, letter of motivation explaining interest in the Master's
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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