Master’s Degree in Ocean Policies and Global Governance of the Sea
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Ocean Policy and Global Governance
Offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective to address the critical challenges facing our oceans. You will explore the complex interactions between politics, economics, law, and science, acquiring the necessary tools to influence the decisions that impact the future of the sea. This program provides you with a deep understanding of international legal frameworks, sustainable marine resource management, biodiversity protection, and climate change mitigation in the ocean context.
Differentiating Advantages
- Global and Strategic Approach: Policy analysis at the local, regional, and international levels.
- Leading Experts: Learn from professionals with experience in government organizations, NGOs, and the private sector.
- Practical Skills: Develop negotiation, data analysis, and effective communication skills.
- Networking: Connect with a community of professionals committed to ocean sustainability.
- Career Opportunities: Prepare for careers in public administration, international organizations, Environmental consulting and research.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Legal, political, and public administration professionals seeking to specialize in the regulation and management of the oceans at a global level.
- Marine scientists, biologists, and oceanographers interested in understanding the political and socioeconomic implications of their work.
- Members of NGOs and international organizations working in marine conservation and sustainable development.
- Entrepreneurs and consultants operating in sectors related to the blue economy and marine resource management.
- Graduates in social sciences, environmental sciences, and law aspiring to a professional career in ocean governance.
Flexibility Academic
Adapted for professionals and students: online format, 24/7 accessible content, and personalized tutoring.
Objectives and skills
Develop and implement innovative strategies for the sustainable management of marine resources:
Promote multidisciplinary research and public-private collaboration to create solutions that balance the conservation of marine biodiversity with the economic development of coastal communities.
Leading international initiatives for the protection of marine biodiversity and the mitigation of climate change in the oceans:
“Actively participate in international forums and conventions, promoting science-based policies and multilateral cooperation to establish marine protected areas and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the maritime sector.”
Advising governments and organizations on the formulation of ocean policies based on science and international law:
“Develop regulatory impact analyses to ensure the compatibility of proposed policies with international treaties and available best scientific practices.”
Promoting multi-stakeholder collaboration for effective and equitable ocean governance:
“Establish strategic alliances between governments, NGOs, the private sector and local communities to develop and implement comprehensive and participatory ocean policies.”
Assess and mitigate the environmental and socioeconomic risks arising from maritime activities:
Implement environmental and socio-economic management plans, including environmental impact assessment (EIA) and consultation with local communities, to minimize the negative effects of maritime operations and promote sustainable development.
Design and implement action plans for adaptation to climate change in coastal areas:
“Identify coastal vulnerabilities, prioritize risk-based interventions, and build resilience through nature-based solutions and green infrastructure.”
Study plan – Modules
- Scientific and legal foundations of marine conservation: analysis of ocean ecosystems, biodiversity, and the international regulatory framework (UNCLOS, Barcelona Convention, among others)
- Integrated methodologies for assessing marine ecological status: biological, physicochemical, and socioeconomic indicators
- Design and management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): zoning criteria, remote monitoring tools, and community participation
- Evidence-based adaptive management strategies: ecosystem modeling, future scenarios, and adjustment of public policies
- Assessment of anthropogenic impacts on coastal and marine environments: sources of pollution, overfishing, and climate change
- Advanced tools for ocean resource governance: geographic information systems (GIS), big data applied to marine management, and satellite surveillance technologies
- Economic and legal instruments
- For sustainable management: market mechanisms, tax incentives, usage rights, and extended producer responsibility
- Multisectoral approach to ocean policies: inter-institutional coordination, multi-scale governance, and public-private partnerships
- International success stories of integrated management: comparative analysis of conservation and sustainable exploitation models in temperate, tropical, and polar areas
- Development of strategic plans for mitigation and adaptation to ocean risks: community resilience, coastal protection, and ecosystem-based adaptation
- Conceptual and theoretical framework of ocean governance: definitions, guiding principles, and historical evolution
- Maritime geopolitical analysis: state and non-state actors, strategic interests, and spheres of influence
- International law of the sea: the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and its practical application in global governance
- Power dynamics in key maritime regions: the Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic, and Oceania
- Maritime conflicts and territorial disputes: causes, actors involved, and resolution mechanisms
- Maritime security and naval defense: strategies, unconventional threats, and international cooperation
- Impact of globalization on ocean governance: maritime trade, strategic routes, and access to resources
- Contemporary environmental challenges: climate change, ocean acidification, biodiversity conservation, and protection of vulnerable habitats
- Multilateral and multilateral policies: the role of international organizations such as IMO, FAO, UNEP, and ONUBS in ocean governance
- Technological innovation and governance: satellite surveillance, ocean monitoring systems, and data-driven governance
- Sustainable blue economy: responsible exploitation of marine resources and the balance between economic development and conservation
- Social responsibility and citizen participation in maritime governance: mechanisms for inclusion and transparency
- Regulatory framework and governance of marine protected areas and marine areas of special interest
- Governance challenges in the face of new activities: deep-sea mining, bioprospecting, and marine renewable energy
- Strategies for strengthening regional and global cooperation in ocean and coastal management
- Geopolitical Contextualization of the Oceans: Historical and Contemporary Analysis of Territorial and Economic Disputes in Strategic Maritime Zones
- Key International Instruments: Detailed Examination of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Regional Treaties, and Relevant Multilateral Agreements
- Integrated Models for Ocean Governance: Design and Application of Multidisciplinary Conceptual Frameworks Addressing Sustainability, Security, and International Cooperation
- Power Dynamics and Global Actors: Assessment of the Influence of Coastal States, International Organizations, NGOs, and the Private Sector on Maritime Decision-Making
- Strategies for Sustainable Conservation: Development of Evidence-Based Policies for the Protection of Marine Biodiversity, Management of Protected Areas, and Mitigation of Anthropogenic Impacts
- Analysis of Emerging Risks and Threats: Climate Change, Ocean Acidification, Illegal Fishing, and Pollution as Transnational Challenges to Effective Governance
- Integrated management tools: remote monitoring technologies, geographic information systems (GIS), and collaborative platforms for the implementation and monitoring of public policies
- Maritime dispute resolution mechanisms: mediation, arbitration, and international tribunals as instruments for peacebuilding and regulatory compliance
- Innovations in collaborative governance: multi-level cooperation networks that foster the inclusion of local communities, the private sector, and scientists in decision-making processes
- Socioeconomic impact assessment: models for evaluating the balance between economic development, equitable access to resources, and environmental conservation in shared ocean spaces
- Conceptual framework and fundamental principles of holistic ocean governance: integration of actors, jurisdictions, and marine ecosystems
- International legal regimes of maritime law: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), multilateral and complementary treaties
- Sovereign rights and coastal jurisdictions: maritime zones, continental shelf, and areas beyond national sovereignty
- Sustainable blue economy: theoretical foundations, development models, and innovation opportunities in strategic marine sectors
- Econometric analysis of marine resources and maritime value chains: fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energies, and emerging marine sectors
- Marine Spatial Planning (MSP): methodology, GIS tools, conflict analysis, and transboundary cooperation
- Instruments and policies for integrated marine spatial planning: strategic environmental assessment and consensus-building Multilateral
Maritime security in a geostrategic context: hybrid threats, piracy, illicit trafficking, and resilience of critical infrastructure
International cooperation in maritime security: regional organizations, treaties, and rapid response protocols
Risk and emergency management in the ocean: predictive models, interagency coordination, and the application of advanced technologies
Impact of geopolitics on ocean governance: competition for resources, spheres of influence, and maritime diplomacy
Future trends in global ocean governance: inclusive governance, digitalization, artificial intelligence, and climate change
Case studies and comparative studies: critical analysis of regional and global experiences in ocean governance
Development of public policies based on scientific and socioeconomic evidence for the protection and sustainable use of the oceans
Evaluation of ocean governance indicators and mechanisms accountability for transparent and efficient management
- Fundamentals of emerging technologies in marine monitoring: remote sensors, ocean IoT, and distributed observation networks
- Advanced applications of satellite systems: synthetic aperture radar (SAR), altimetry, and multispectral spectrometry for environmental monitoring and analysis
- Integration of big data and machine learning in oceanographic data management: predictive algorithms and real-time pattern analysis
- In situ sensor networks: acoustic profilers, smart buoys, and autonomous underwater systems for ecosystem monitoring and early detection of natural phenomena
- Marine observation platforms: autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) in environmental exploration and monitoring
- Innovations in remote sensing for the identification and control of illegal activities: unauthorized fishing, pollution, and illicit maritime trafficking
- Development and application of integrated numerical models
- For ocean and meteorological prediction: atmosphere-ocean coupling and simulation of currents and tides
- Implementation of blockchain and distributed ledger technologies for traceability and transparency in maritime governance
- Application of GIS platforms and oceanographic information systems for strategic decision-making in public policy
- Regulatory and ethical aspects in the implementation of disruptive technologies: maritime sovereignty, data privacy, and international cooperation
- Case studies and critical analysis on the effectiveness of emerging technologies in mitigating environmental impacts and ocean conflicts
- Future perspectives and trends in technological innovation for global ocean governance: artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and marine biotechnology
- Fundamentals of Ocean Sustainability: Ecological, Economic, and Social Principles Applied to Marine Resource Management
- Analysis of Emerging Technologies in Ocean Monitoring: Remote Sensors, Autonomous Observation Systems, and Satellite Platforms
- Innovative Strategies for Marine Biodiversity Conservation: Design of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), Ecological Corridors, and Restoration of Critical Habitats
- Environmental Modeling and Assessment Tools: Predictive Simulations, Impact Analysis, and Adaptive Management in Marine Ecosystems
- Interaction Between Technological Development and Global Governance: International Regulation, Multilateral Treaties, and Compliance Mechanisms
- Geopolitics of the Oceans: Power Dynamics, Sovereignty Conflicts, and Cooperation in Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and the High Seas
- Application of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Management: Resource Optimization, Detection of Illegal Activities, and Decision-Making strategic
- Effects of climate change on marine resource management: policy adaptation, impact mitigation, and ecosystem resilience
- Development of integrated public policies: inter-institutional coordination, stakeholder participation, and sustainable financing
- International case studies: analysis of successful experiences and lessons learned in collaborative governance and sustainable ocean use
- Fundamentals of technological innovation applied to marine ecosystems: principles, trends, and recent developments in ocean technologies.
- Advanced environmental monitoring tools: remote sensors, acoustic systems, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and data integration for monitoring marine biodiversity.
- Application of artificial intelligence and big data techniques for predictive modeling and decision-making in sustainable ocean management.
- Innovative strategies for mitigating anthropogenic impacts: clean technologies for the management of marine protected areas and pollution reduction.
- Regulatory framework and international policies that promote technological adoption in global ocean governance: analysis of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and multilateral agreements.
- Development and evaluation of marine renewable energy systems: offshore wind, tidal power, and reverse osmosis energy as sustainable alternatives for the responsible exploitation of resources.
Innovation in marine habitat restoration and conservation techniques: biotechnological methods for the recovery of reefs, seagrass meadows, and fish stocks.
Integration of geoinformation technologies (GIS) and ocean information systems for the design and dynamic management of marine protected areas (MPAs).
Technology-supported adaptive governance mechanisms: digital platforms for citizen participation, transparency, and real-time monitoring of ocean management.
Case studies and critical analysis of technological projects implemented in different regions of the world that demonstrate successful results in the conservation and governance of ocean resources.
- Fundamentals of Ocean Policies: Historical Evolution and Contemporary Geopolitical Contexts
- Applied Law of the Sea: UNCLOS and Complementary Conventions, Delimitation of Maritime Zones and Sovereignty
- International Legal Instruments: Multilateral Treaties, Regional Agreements and their National Implementation
- Blue Economy: Analysis of Renewable and Non-Renewable Marine Resources, Sustainable Exploitation Models
- Marine Environmental Impact Assessment: Advanced Techniques, Ecological Indicators and Adaptive Management
- Multi-Level Governance: Coordination among Global, Regional and Local Entities for Integrated Management
- Economic Policy Instruments and Regulation for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Marine Environment
- Strategic Management of Marine Protected Areas: Selection Criteria, Functional zoning and continuous monitoring
Innovation in Marine Public Policy: digital governance, satellite data, and technologies for decision-making
Case Study: legal, economic, and environmental challenges in the management of the Arctic Ocean and high seas
- Fundamentals of marine conservation: ocean biodiversity, key ecosystems, and marine protected areas (MPAs)
- International legal framework for ocean governance: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), regional treaties, and multilateral agreements
- Integrated conservation strategies: ecosystem approaches, adaptive management, and environmental impact assessment in marine areas
- Technological innovation applied to ocean surveillance and monitoring: maritime observation systems, satellites, remote sensing, and underwater drones
- Advanced models of sustainable governance: intersectoral collaboration, multilevel governance, and community participation in coastal management
- Contemporary ocean geopolitics: analysis of strategic competition for marine resources, trade routes, and maritime territories
- Financial and economic instruments for marine conservation: incentives, ecosystem services markets, and compensation mechanisms Environmental
- Integrated Marine Spatial Planning (MSP): Methodology, GIS Tools, and Practical Applications in Transboundary Areas
- Climate Resilience and Adaptation in Ocean Policies: Impacts of Climate Change, Ocean Acidification, and Local-Global Mitigation Strategies
- Indicators and Reporting Systems for Assessing Compliance with Sustainability Objectives and Blue Development Goals
- Role of International Organizations and Regional Agreements in the Coordination of Marine Policies and Global Conservation
- Case Studies and Analysis of Successful Experiences in Marine Governance and Conservation, Integrating Technological, Social, and Political Aspects
- Emerging Challenges and Trends in Global Ocean Governance: Deep-Sea Mining, Bioprospecting, and Maritime Security in Protected Areas
- Ethics and Responsibility in Ocean Policies: Rights of Indigenous Communities, Equitable Access to Resources, and Transparency in Decision-Making
- Introduction to the final project: objectives, scope, and relevance in global ocean governance
- Critical analysis of existing international regulatory frameworks: UNCLOS, IMO Conventions, and regional agreements
- Assessment of the dynamics of marine socio-ecological systems in the context of climate change
- Methodological design for multidisciplinary integration: interfaces between science, policy, and international maritime law
- Development of sustainable indicators for the adaptive management of renewable and non-renewable marine resources
- Application of emerging technologies in monitoring and control: remote sensing, big data, and geographic information systems (GIS)
- Integrated modeling of environmental and socio-economic impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems
- Formulation of inclusive public policies: incorporation of local actors, indigenous communities, and global stakeholders
- Strategies for governance Multilevel coordination among supranational bodies, coastal states, and non-governmental organizations.
Proposal for a dynamic and flexible regulatory framework capable of responding to climate uncertainties and extreme events.
Innovative financing mechanisms for ocean sustainability: blue bonds, green funds, and public-private partnerships.
Planning for resilience and ecosystem restoration: restoration of reefs, mangroves, and vulnerable coastal areas.
Design of governance systems for the conservation of marine biodiversity: marine protected areas and marine ecological corridors.
Protocols for the resolution of maritime conflicts and disputes in contexts of overexploitation and transboundary pollution.
Evaluation of implementation and monitoring: key indicators, environmental audits, and international reporting.
Development of technical reports and executive presentations for the effective communication of results to decision-makers and the general public.
- Integration of ethics, equity, and environmental justice into ocean governance
- Simulation and study of real-world case studies to validate the proposed framework
- Critical review and adjustments based on multidisciplinary feedback
- Oral and written defense of the final project before a panel of experts in ocean policy and global maritime governance
Career prospects
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- Ocean Policy Officer in Public Administrations (National, Regional, Local): Design, implementation, and evaluation of policies related to marine resource management, marine environmental protection, and sustainable development.
- Marine and Coastal Management Consultant: Advising companies, non-governmental organizations, and public administrations on the development of integrated coastal zone management strategies, environmental impact assessments of marine projects, and the resolution of conflicts related to the use of the sea.
- Marine Science and Ocean Policy Researcher: Participation in research projects on oceanography, marine biology, maritime economics, and the law of the sea, with the aim of generating scientific knowledge to support decision-making in ocean management.
- Project Manager in International Organizations (UN, EU, etc.): Coordination of initiatives related to the Conservation of marine biodiversity, combating marine pollution, promoting sustainable fishing, and regional cooperation on maritime security.
Marine Data Analyst: Collection, analysis, and interpretation of oceanographic, fisheries, socioeconomic, and environmental data to prepare reports, studies, and models that allow for a better understanding of the functioning of marine ecosystems and assess the impact of human activities on the marine environment.
Science Educator and Communicator: Design and development of educational programs and outreach activities to raise public awareness about the importance of the oceans and promote the adoption of sustainable practices.
Maritime Stakeholder: Advocacy for the interests of companies, non-governmental organizations, or local communities before public administrations and international bodies regarding issues such as fisheries regulation, port management, marine resource exploration, and the protection of the marine environment.
- Marine Spatial Planning Technician: Development of maps and zoning plans for maritime space to optimize the use of marine resources, minimize conflicts between different users, and protect the most valuable marine ecosystems.
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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
- Comprehensive Analysis: Understands ocean policies from a global and multidisciplinary perspective.
- Sea Governance: Delves into the legal instruments and international cooperation mechanisms for the sustainable management of the oceans.
- Marine Challenges: Addresses the environmental, economic, and social challenges facing the ocean in the 21st century.
- Strategic Skills: Develops leadership, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills in the maritime field.
- Global Networking: Connects with leading experts, institutions, and organizations in the sector oceanic.
Testimonials
This master’s degree provided me with the tools and network necessary to drive real change in fisheries management in my country. I applied my knowledge of the blue economy and international maritime law to design a sustainable fisheries program that was adopted by the government, resulting in a 15% increase in fish stocks within two years and a significant improvement in the incomes of local fishing communities.
During my Master’s degree in Maritime Law and Governance, I gained in-depth knowledge of the international maritime legal framework, which enabled me to successfully lead the negotiation of a complex charter party for a major shipping company, securing favorable terms and avoiding potential legal disputes. My expertise in maritime environmental regulations was also key to obtaining important international certifications for the company.
The Master’s in Ocean Policy and Global Marine Governance provided me with the analytical tools and specialized knowledge to lead an international coral reef conservation project. I applied the principles of ocean governance learned in the program to negotiate collaborative agreements between NGOs, local governments, and coastal communities, achieving a significant increase in ecosystem protection and sustainable fishing in the region.
This master’s degree provided me with the analytical tools and specialized knowledge necessary to lead an international coral reef conservation project. We successfully secured funding and collaboration from multiple stakeholders, resulting in effective ecosystem protection and a replicable model for other regions.
Frequently asked questions
Ocean policies and global governance of the sea.
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.
International.
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 final project: objectives, scope, and relevance in global ocean governance
- Critical analysis of existing international regulatory frameworks: UNCLOS, IMO Conventions, and regional agreements
- Assessment of the dynamics of marine socio-ecological systems in the context of climate change
- Methodological design for multidisciplinary integration: interfaces between science, policy, and international maritime law
- Development of sustainable indicators for the adaptive management of renewable and non-renewable marine resources
- Application of emerging technologies in monitoring and control: remote sensing, big data, and geographic information systems (GIS)
- Integrated modeling of environmental and socio-economic impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems
- Formulation of inclusive public policies: incorporation of local actors, indigenous communities, and global stakeholders
- Strategies for governance Multilevel coordination among supranational bodies, coastal states, and non-governmental organizations.
Proposal for a dynamic and flexible regulatory framework capable of responding to climate uncertainties and extreme events.
Innovative financing mechanisms for ocean sustainability: blue bonds, green funds, and public-private partnerships.
Planning for resilience and ecosystem restoration: restoration of reefs, mangroves, and vulnerable coastal areas.
Design of governance systems for the conservation of marine biodiversity: marine protected areas and marine ecological corridors.
Protocols for the resolution of maritime conflicts and disputes in contexts of overexploitation and transboundary pollution.
Evaluation of implementation and monitoring: key indicators, environmental audits, and international reporting.
Development of technical reports and executive presentations for the effective communication of results to decision-makers and the general public.
- Integration of ethics, equity, and environmental justice into ocean governance
- Simulation and study of real-world case studies to validate the proposed framework
- Critical review and adjustments based on multidisciplinary feedback
- Oral and written defense of the final project before a panel of experts in ocean policy and global maritime governance
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.