Master’s Degree in Oceanic Climate Diplomacy
Why this master’s programme?
The Master in Ocean Climate Diplomacy
This program prepares you to lead climate action from an ocean perspective, a crucial but often underestimated area. You will learn to negotiate international agreements, understand the scientific complexities of marine climate change, and develop adaptation and mitigation strategies to protect our oceans. This program gives you the tools to become a change agent in global climate diplomacy.
Differential Advantages
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Combines ocean science, international law, economics, and climate policy.
- Negotiation Simulations: Participate in realistic simulations of international climate negotiations.
- Practical Case Studies: Analyze real-world cases of success and failure in ocean climate diplomacy.
- Expert Network: Connect with leaders in diplomacy, science, and marine conservation.
- Skills Development: Enhance your communication, negotiation, leadership, and strategic analysis skills.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 29-09-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Maritime and fisheries professionals seeking to understand the impact of climate change on the oceans and strategies to mitigate it.
- Diplomats and international negotiators interested in specializing in ocean governance and climate policy.
- Environmental and sustainability policymakers who need tools to implement nature-based solutions in the marine environment.
- Researchers and academics who wish to delve deeper into the intersection of climate change, oceans, and diplomacy.
- Representatives of NGOs and civil society organizations working to protect the oceans and advocate for climate justice.
Flexibility and applicability
Master’s program designed for working professionals: online format, 24/7 access to resources, and a focused approach practical with real case studies.
Objectives and skills
Leading successful ocean climate negotiations:
Understanding the international legal framework (UNCLOS, regional agreements) and geopolitical dynamics to build strategic alliances and defend national interests in protecting the oceans from climate change.
Mobilize financial resources for ocean adaptation:
“Establish innovative public-private partnerships, promoting investment in coastal resilience projects and nature-based solutions.”
Promote ocean policies based on scientific evidence:
“To promote multidisciplinary research and the dissemination of results to inform decision-making and the sustainable management of the oceans.”
Building coastal resilience through innovative solutions:
Implement early warning systems and evacuation protocols adapted to extreme weather scenarios, strengthening community response capacity.
Promote international cooperation for sustainable ocean governance:
Establish strategic alliances with intergovernmental organizations and NGOs to promote the implementation of science-based ocean policies.
Empowering coastal communities in ocean climate action:
Promote the creation of community-led blue economy projects, prioritizing sustainability and resilience to climate change.
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of Integrated Marine Resource Management (IMRM): principles, international legal framework, and its application in ocean climate diplomacy
- Ecosystem analysis for marine conservation: habitat assessment, environmental health indicators, and advanced scientific monitoring methods
- Adaptive management tools in ocean ecosystems: predictive modeling, early warning systems, and rapid response protocols for extreme weather events
- Impact of climate change on marine biodiversity: acidification, temperature increase, species migration, and loss of critical habitats
- Design and management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in transnational contexts: technical criteria, multilevel governance, and international compliance mechanisms
- Integrating biodiversity conservation with the sustainable exploitation of marine resources: strategies for responsible fishing and the management of mineral and energy resources on the high seas
- Negotiation and environmental diplomacy in multilateral forums: advanced techniques for formulating binding agreements and resolving marine environmental conflicts
Satellite monitoring systems and emerging technologies for ocean surveillance: applications in tracking fishing fleets, pollution, and biodiversity
Innovative financial mechanisms for marine conservation: green funds, blue bonds, and public-private partnerships in climate diplomacy
Case studies in ocean climate diplomacy: critical analysis of successful experiences and lessons learned for integrated management and effective conservation
- Foundations of Ocean Climate Diplomacy: Global Context and Emerging Challenges in Maritime Governance
- International Regulations: Analysis of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Paris Agreement, and other key treaties related to the protection of marine ecosystems
- Multilateral Negotiation Mechanisms: Design, Main Actors, Power Dynamics, and Coalition Strategies in International Forums
- Scientific Assessment for Negotiation: Interpretation of Oceanographic Data, Climate Models, and Their Impact on Diplomatic Decision-Making
- Developing Evidence-Based Negotiation Strategies: Integrating Environmental Science with Diplomacy to Achieve Sustainable Commitments
- Public Policy and Citizen Diplomacy: Building Narratives that Promote the Inclusion of Coastal Communities and Indigenous Peoples in International Processes
- Advanced Tools of Negotiation: Interest-based negotiation, conflict resolution, objection handling, and persuasion techniques in an intercultural context
Crisis management and negotiation in climate change scenarios: Adaptation, mitigation, and strategies for coping with extreme events in marine ecosystems
The role of technology and innovation in diplomacy: Satellite monitoring, big data, and early warning systems to strengthen international agreements
Results evaluation and follow-up: Mechanisms for monitoring and verifying international commitments for the sustainable protection of marine ecosystems
- Fundamentals of Ocean Climate Diplomacy: Historical Background and Conceptual Evolution
- International Regulatory Framework: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Barcelona Convention, Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment and Coastal Area of the North-East Atlantic (OSPAR), and other relevant multilateral treaties
- Binding and Non-Binding Legal Instruments for Marine Conservation: Comparative Analysis and Practical Application
- Global Governance Mechanisms for Marine Ecosystems in the Context of Climate Change: International Agencies, Coalitions, and Cooperation Networks
- Advanced Analysis of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Marine and Coastal Areas of Ecological Importance: Design, Management, and Monitoring under Increasing Climate Pressures
- Dynamics and Strategies of International Negotiation: Theoretical Models and Practical Tools for Building Multilateral Consensus on Ocean Issues
- Assessment of National Positions and Blockades
- Advanced simulation of multilateral negotiations: preparation, role-playing, results analysis, and improvement strategies
- Critical and prospective evaluation of the current regulatory and diplomatic framework: emerging trends, legal gaps, and opportunities for institutional innovation
Regional: Profiling key actors, strategic interests, and priorities in ocean climate negotiations
Advanced techniques of environmental diplomacy: effective communication, mediation, alliance building, and conflict management in international forums
Impact of climate change on ocean biogeochemistry and the vulnerability of marine ecosystems: implications for conservation and mitigation policies
Integrating science and technology into international policymaking: environmental monitoring systems, climate modeling, and evidence-based decision-making
In-depth study of landmark cases: successful climate negotiations and persistent challenges in protecting oceans from global warming
The role of non-state actors and civil society in climate diplomacy: NGOs, the private sector, and marine indigenous communities
Developing integrated policy proposals for the sustainable management of marine resources in future scenarios: resilience, adaptation, and mitigation
- Fundamentals of Blue Geopolitics: Conceptual Evolution, Key Actors, and Power Dynamics in Maritime Spaces
- International Law of the Sea: UNCLOS, Maritime Zones, Sovereignty, Jurisdiction, and Territorial Disputes in Critical Oceanic Contexts
- Scientific Diplomacy: Integrating Multidisciplinary Knowledge for Negotiating and Designing Climate-Sustainable Ocean Policies
- Advanced Climate Modeling Tools Applied to Marine Ecosystems: Predictive Scenarios, Impact Simulations, and Resilience Analysis
- Risk and Vulnerability Assessment of Ocean Ecosystems: Quantitative and Qualitative Methodologies for Prioritizing Actions
- Designing Public Policies Based on Scientific Evidence and Climate Modeling: Adaptive Management and Mitigation Tools in the Face of Global Change
- Instruments of Diplomatic Advocacy: Report Writing Technical skills, participation in multilateral forums, and building strategic alliances.
Case studies: success and challenges in implementing protection and resilience policies in marine reserves and international protected areas.
Emerging technologies in ocean monitoring: remote sensing, open data platforms, and early warning systems for decision-making.
Developing skills for technical and political communication: scientific storytelling, intercultural negotiation, and environmental conflict management in ocean environments.
- Scientific Foundations of Ocean Diplomacy: Key Concepts on Climate Change, Acidification, and Global Warming in the Marine Environment
- Analysis of International Frameworks: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Convention on Marine Biodiversity, and Relevant Climate Agreements
- Innovation in Public Policy: Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of Strategies for Mitigating Climate Impacts in Marine Ecosystems
- Advanced Tools of Multilateral Governance: Diplomatic Negotiation, Consensus Building, and Conflict Resolution in Global Ocean Forums
- Integrating Ocean Science into Climate Diplomacy: Using Climate Models, Satellite Data, and Environmental Monitoring for Decision-Making
- Financial and Economic Instruments for Ocean Protection: Market Mechanisms, Green Incentives, and Sustainable Climate Finance
- Protocols of Regional and transnational cooperation in marine conservation and adaptive management in the face of climate change
Development and promotion of inclusive public policies: rights of coastal communities, indigenous peoples, and citizen participation in diplomatic processes
Environmental and social impact assessment: methodologies to measure and mitigate adverse effects on biodiversity and human populations
Case studies and success stories: analysis of innovative initiatives in ocean climate diplomacy and the protection of marine ecosystems at a global level
- Fundamentals of Science Diplomacy in the Ocean Context: Definition, Key Actors, and Multidisciplinary Methodology
- Scientific and Technical Integration Tools for Decision-Making in Climate Diplomacy: Numerical Models, Marine Sensors, and Remote Sensing Systems
- Detailed Analysis of the Current International Legal Framework Related to the Oceans: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), IMO Agreements, and Multilateral Environmental Treaties
- Specific Legal Instruments for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Ecosystems in Coastal Zones and the High Seas: Marine Reserves, Jurisdictional Suffrages, and Environmental Protection Measures
- Assessment of the Impact of Climate Change on Ocean Ecosystems and the International Regulatory Response to Mitigate Adverse Effects and Foster Resilience
- Role of Intergovernmental Organizations and Global Platforms (IPCC, UNFCCC, UNEP) in the Coordination of Policies and Actions
Ocean Climate Diplomacy
Negotiation and conflict resolution mechanisms in scenarios of opposing interests: strategies for mediation, arbitration, and transnational cooperation in marine governance
Advanced knowledge of marine ecosystem services and their legal and economic valuation for the formulation of sustainable public policies
Common errors and practical challenges in the implementation of international agreements: compliance, monitoring, reporting, and recent case studies in ocean climate diplomacy
Diplomatic simulation workshops and the development of comprehensive proposals for the conservation and sustainable management of marine ecosystems within the framework of the global climate crisis
- Foundations and regulatory framework of sustainable ocean policies: analysis of international treaties, multilateral conventions, and regional legislation applicable to ocean governance and marine conservation.
- Strategic assessment of international cooperation instruments: functioning of global bodies (UN, UNEP, OSPAR Commission, Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources) and their role in mitigating marine climate change.
- Multi-level governance models for integrated ocean management: coordination among state, non-state, and local community actors in the face of emerging environmental and social challenges.
- Advanced analysis of climate change impacts on ocean ecosystems: acidification, sea-level rise, alterations in ocean currents, biodiversity loss, and their implications for food and economic security.
- Development and application of climate adaptation and resilience strategies in vulnerable coastal and marine areas, including blue infrastructure, marine habitat restoration, and early warning systems.
Diplomatic negotiation and policy formulation to promote effective multilateral agreements that integrate environmental, economic, and social objectives linked to ocean sustainability.
Quantitative and qualitative methodologies for assessing climate risks and vulnerability in coastal communities and strategic maritime activities.
Integration of scientific and technological knowledge into the design of sustainable policies: climate modeling, geographic information systems (GIS), and environmental monitoring using satellites and remote sensors.
Study of emblematic case studies and critical analysis of international cooperation programs for marine protection and mitigation of impacts due to extreme weather events.
Preparation of technical reports and policy proposals for international organizations, with an emphasis on presenting evidence-based recommendations for the effective implementation of ocean climate action plans.
- Foundations and historical evolution of ocean environmental diplomacy: conceptual frameworks, multilateral agreements, and key actors
- Emerging technologies in ocean monitoring: remote sensors, autonomous underwater systems, and satellite platforms for real-time assessment of oceanographic and climate parameters
- Advanced modeling of ocean-atmospheric processes: ocean current dynamics, carbon exchange, and climate feedbacks in global marine ecosystems
- International diplomatic and legal instruments: detailed analysis of binding treaties, conventions, and protocols in sustainable ocean management
- Integrated climate resilience strategies in coastal and marine areas: ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) and transnational marine spatial planning
- Advanced data management and GIS tools for environmental mapping and strategic planning in multidimensional contexts Ocean Governance
Critical analysis of conflicts and cooperation in maritime governance: emblematic cases and resolution mechanisms in scenarios of environmental and geopolitical pressure
Optimization and evaluation of public policies for climate change mitigation in the marine environment, including performance indicators and environmental monitoring mechanisms
Integration of artificial intelligence and big data in environmental diplomatic decision-making and sustainable ocean management
Design and implementation of science diplomacy: methodologies for promoting international cooperation and technology transfer in the protection of marine ecosystems
Advanced negotiation skills: techniques, protocols, and specific dynamics for reaching agreements in international forums on ocean climate change management
Climate risk assessment and mitigation: vulnerability and resilience analysis of coastal infrastructure and strategic marine resources
Development of strategic frameworks for climate diplomacy based on scientific evidence and sectoral environmental responsibility
Innovation in clean technologies and marine renewable energies: impact and diplomatic possibilities for sustainability and reduction of blue carbon emissions
Applied case studies: in-depth analysis of international negotiations, treaties, and collaborative projects in ocean climate diplomacy
- Foundations of Ocean Climate Diplomacy: historical background, key actors, and conceptual evolution
- International Regulations for Marine Conservation: detailed analysis of treaties such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and relevant sectoral agreements
- Global Governance Regimes: multilateral structures, specialized agencies, and intergovernmental coordination mechanisms in the management of marine ecosystems
- Legal Framework for Climate Adaptation and Mitigation: international obligations, national commitments, and climate finance mechanisms geared toward ocean resilience
- Public Policy and Strategic Planning: development of integrated, evidence-based policies for the protection and restoration of vulnerable marine habitats
- Environmental Management Instruments: environmental impact assessments in marine projects, marine ecological zoning, and the establishment of marine protected areas
Protected Areas (PAs)
Methodologies for Climate Risk Assessment: scenario modeling, vulnerability indicators, and ecosystem resilience analysis tools in coastal and ocean environments
International Compliance and Monitoring Mechanisms: monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems applied to marine conservation status and associated emissions
International Negotiation and Environmental Diplomacy: advanced negotiation techniques, conflict resolution, and consensus building in multilateral forums on ocean climate governance
Case Studies: strategic analysis of successful global initiatives in ocean conservation and climate change adaptation, identifying best practices and lessons learned
Policy and Technology Innovation for Resilience: integrating scientific advances, ocean technologies, and nature-based solutions to address emerging challenges
Ethics and Environmental Justice in Climate Diplomacy: approaches Critical analysis of the social, cultural, and economic dimensions in the sustainable management of marine ecosystems
Design and Evaluation of International Programs: criteria for the effective implementation of multilateral projects aimed at ocean recovery and conservation in the climate context
Strategic Communication and Citizen Participation: tools to strengthen the involvement of stakeholders, local communities, and global actors in maritime climate policies
Future Perspectives and Emerging Challenges: a prospective analysis of geopolitical, environmental, and technological trends that will influence ocean governance and diplomacy in the face of climate change
- Fundamentals of Ocean Climate Diplomacy: definition, historical evolution, and international regulatory framework
- Analysis of the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems: acidification, temperature increase, sea level rise, and biodiversity loss
- Advanced modeling of ocean climate scenarios: projections, uncertainties, and use of satellite and oceanographic data
- Legal instruments and global policies for ocean governance: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Paris Agreement, and the 2030 Agenda
- Innovative multi-level governance strategies: integration of state actors, international organizations, the private sector, and local communities
- Design and implementation of climate finance mechanisms geared towards marine conservation and coastal resilience
- Diplomatic tools for international negotiation and cooperation on ocean issues: preventive diplomacy, building Coalitions and conflict resolution
Evaluation of marine policies and programs based on the adaptive governance and integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) approach
Capacity building and leadership in climate diplomacy: strategic communication, use of scientific evidence, and intersectoral relations management
Methodology for the Master’s Thesis: formulation of objectives, applied research, interdisciplinary methodology, critical analysis, and innovative public policy proposals
Career prospects
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- Diplomat specializing in ocean climate: Negotiation in international forums, development of climate policies.
- Advisor to international organizations: Technical support in the implementation of ocean climate agreements, policy analysis.
- Ocean sustainability consultant: Environmental impact assessment, design of climate change adaptation strategies in coastal areas.
- Ocean climate project manager: Planning, execution, and monitoring of climate change mitigation and adaptation projects in the marine environment.
- Climate change and ocean researcher: Data analysis, climate modeling, publication of scientific studies.
- Sustainability manager in maritime sector companies: Implementation of sustainable practices, emissions reporting, waste management.
- Science Educator/Communicator: Disseminating knowledge about ocean climate change and raising public awareness.
- Public Policy Analyst: Developing and evaluating policies related to ocean management and climate change.
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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
- Marine Climate Strategies: Master ocean policies and their impact on the fight against climate change.
- International Negotiation: Develop key skills for climate diplomacy in multilateral forums.
- Law of the Sea and Sustainability: Delve into the legal framework and practices for a sustainable ocean.
- Ocean Governance: Learn to design and implement effective policies for ocean management.
- Climate Leadership: Become a influential leader in global ocean diplomacy.
Testimonials
The Master’s in Ocean Climate Diplomacy provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead the negotiation of an international agreement for the protection of a vulnerable marine ecosystem. I successfully forged consensus on climate change mitigation and adaptation measures among multiple stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and industries, resulting in the creation of a marine protected area and a fund for its sustainable management. This has strengthened the region’s climate resilience and set a precedent for future international collaborations.
During my Master’s degree in Climate and Marine Global Change, I developed a predictive model of ocean acidification in the North Atlantic, integrating data on temperature, salinity, and currents. This model, with 95% accuracy in short-term predictions, was presented at an international conference and has been considered for implementation in an environmental monitoring project.
This master’s degree provided me with the tools and network necessary to advance my career in ocean climate diplomacy. I applied the knowledge I gained to design an ecosystem-based coastal adaptation strategy, which was adopted by my government and internationally recognized for its innovative approach and replication potential.
The Master’s in Ocean Climate Diplomacy provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead the negotiation of an international agreement for the protection of a vulnerable marine ecosystem. We achieved the signing of a binding treaty between six countries, ensuring the long-term conservation of the region and setting a precedent for future collaborations in the sustainable management of the oceans.
Frequently asked questions
The main focus is the intersection between diplomacy, climate change and the oceans, empowering professionals to address the challenges and opportunities of ocean governance in a climate change context.
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.
Diplomacy is crucial to addressing climate change in the ocean context, as it facilitates the international cooperation needed to manage the impacts of climate change on the oceans, such as acidification, sea level rise and biodiversity loss, as well as to promote joint solutions, including emissions reduction, ecosystem-based adaptation and sustainable management of marine resources.
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.
- Fundamentals of Ocean Climate Diplomacy: definition, historical evolution, and international regulatory framework
- Analysis of the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems: acidification, temperature increase, sea level rise, and biodiversity loss
- Advanced modeling of ocean climate scenarios: projections, uncertainties, and use of satellite and oceanographic data
- Legal instruments and global policies for ocean governance: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Paris Agreement, and the 2030 Agenda
- Innovative multi-level governance strategies: integration of state actors, international organizations, the private sector, and local communities
- Design and implementation of climate finance mechanisms geared towards marine conservation and coastal resilience
- Diplomatic tools for international negotiation and cooperation on ocean issues: preventive diplomacy, building Coalitions and conflict resolution
Evaluation of marine policies and programs based on the adaptive governance and integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) approach
Capacity building and leadership in climate diplomacy: strategic communication, use of scientific evidence, and intersectoral relations management
Methodology for the Master’s Thesis: formulation of objectives, applied research, interdisciplinary methodology, critical analysis, and innovative public policy proposals
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.