Master’s Degree in International Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
Why this master’s programme?
The Master in International Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
This program offers you a comprehensive and applied understanding of the legal framework governing the oceans. It delves into the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), analyzing its implications in key areas such as maritime delimitation, exploitation of marine resources, protection of the marine environment, and dispute resolution. Prepare yourself to address emerging legal challenges in a constantly evolving maritime world.
Differential Advantages
- In-depth Analysis: Comprehensive study of UNCLOS and its relevant jurisprudence.
- Practical Approach: Application of the principles of the Law of the Sea to real cases and simulations.
- Multidisciplinary Perspective: Interaction with experts in law, marine science, and international policy.
- Networking: Opportunities to connect with professionals in the maritime sector and international organizations.
- Professional Development: Specialized skills for a successful career in the field of the Law of the Sea.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 26-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Lawyers and legal professionals seeking to specialize in ocean regulation, maritime boundary delimitation, and dispute resolution.
- Public officials and diplomats working in areas related to maritime policy, fisheries, maritime security, and marine environmental protection.
- Maritime professionals (shipowners, insurers, logistics companies) who need to understand the international legal framework governing their operations.
- Researchers and academics interested in deepening their study of the Law of the Sea and its application to current challenges.
- Graduates in Law, Political Science, International Relations, or related fields who wish to develop a professional career in the international maritime field.
Academic Flexibility Adapted to active professionals: modality online, access to asynchronous content and personalized tutoring to reconcile study and work.
Objectives and skills
Mastering the practical application of UNCLOS in the resolution of maritime disputes.
Critically analyze real and simulated cases, legally arguing the position of the conflicting parties and proposing solutions based on UNCLOS.
To provide strategic advice on the negotiation and delimitation of maritime borders.
Analyze international legislation (UNCLOS), relevant jurisprudence and geographical/cartographic data to support the negotiating position.
Effectively manage marine resources within the international legal framework:
Implement an onboard waste management plan, complying with MARPOL, minimizing environmental impact and properly documenting its treatment.
Leading research projects on the evolution of the Law of the Sea and its geopolitical implications:
“To define rigorous methodologies, mobilize multidisciplinary teams, and disseminate influential findings in international forums.”
Evaluate the conformity of national policies with international maritime obligations:
Analyze national legislation, international agreements and relevant case law to identify gaps and propose corrective measures.
Designing legal defense strategies in cases of piracy and transnational maritime crimes:
Assess applicable jurisdiction and extradition options, collaborating with Interpol and other international agencies.
Study plan – Modules
- International legal framework for sustainable management: detailed analysis of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and its specific provisions on the conservation and rational exploitation of living and non-living marine resources
- Fundamental principles of marine environmental management: precaution, prevention, non-degradation, and the responsibilities of coastal states regarding the protection of biodiversity and marine ecosystems
- Delimitation and legal regime of marine zones: Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), continental shelf, high seas, and their impact on resource management
- Regulation and control of sustainable fishing: maximum catch quotas, closed seasons, technical measures, and inspection and compliance mechanisms
- Scientific assessment and monitoring of fish populations and other marine organisms: advanced methodologies, biological indicators, and the use of satellite technology and electronic surveillance systems
- Conservation of protected species and marine areas
- Complementary legal instruments: sectoral agreements, environmental protocols, and regional conventions that strengthen the UNCLOS regime for the protection and sustainable use of the ocean
- Emerging trends in law and public policy for the blue economy: integration of technological innovation, marine bioeconomy, and corporate social responsibility criteria
- Design and implementation of national plans for the sustainable management of marine resources: legal structure, environmental impact assessment, and stakeholder participation
- Role of coastal and third-party states in conservation and wise use: powers, obligations, and limits under the exceptional powers of UNCLOS
Protected Marine Areas (PMAs): Designation criteria, integrated management, and coordination between national and international jurisdictions
International responsibility and dispute resolution: Binding mechanisms to sanction illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) extractive practices
Impact of marine pollution on resource management: Normative analysis of MARPOL and complementary agreements in the context of UNCLOS to mitigate pollution from land, air, and sea
Impact of climate change and ocean acidification on the availability and quality of marine resources: Adaptation and mitigation strategies contemplated in international law
International cooperation and multi-level governance mechanisms: Roles of the IMO, FAO, UNEP, and regional bodies for the development of integrated policies and joint action programs
International case studies and jurisprudential studies on the sustainable management of marine resources, including analysis of arbitral awards and court decisions International
- Legal Foundations of the Concept of Maritime Delimitation: A Comprehensive Analysis of Article 15 and Relevant Annexes of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
- Types and Classification of Delimitable Maritime Zones: Territorial Sea, Contiguous Zone, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Continental Shelf, and High Seas
- International Standards and Technical Criteria for Maritime Delimitation: Equity, Proportionality, Historicity, and Geodetic Methods Applied
- Practical Application of Modified Equidistance Techniques: Determination of Baselines, Median Lines, and Adjustments in the Presence of Unique Geographical Features
- Multilateral and Bilateral Mechanisms for Delimitation Agreements: Analysis of Landmark Cases and Their Impact on International Jurisprudence
- Legal Framework for the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes: Jurisdiction and Procedures Established by UNCLOS, Including the International Court of Justice and the International Court of Justice Law of the Sea and Ad Hoc Arbitrations
Procedure and stages in maritime disputes: filing of claims, admissibility, mediation, hearings, evidence, and judgment
Interrelationship between maritime delimitation and the protection of the marine environment: obligations under the regime of International Environmental Law and their influence on delimitation
Interpretation of judgments and arbitral awards: criteria for their execution, compliance, and respect for national sovereignty and jurisdiction
Advanced study of relevant international case studies for maritime delimitation and dispute resolution, including critical analysis of the underlying legal and technical issues
- Legal Foundations of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): Structure, Principles, and Normative Scope
- Concept and Classification of Maritime Zones: Territorial Sea, Contiguous Zone, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Continental Shelf, High Seas, and International Areas
- Regulation of the Exploitation of Living and Non-Living Resources: Rules for Fishing, Mining, Hydrocarbons, and Bioprospecting in Jurisdictional and International Waters
- Methodologies and Technical Criteria for Maritime Delimitation: Equidistance, Geographical Relevance, International Negotiations and Arbitrations
- Jurisdiction and Limits between Coastal States: Analysis of Landmark Cases and Jurisprudential Precedents of the ICJ and Arbitral Tribunals
- Mechanisms of Dispute Settlement in Maritime Matters: Negotiation, Conciliation, Arbitration, International Court of Justice, and International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea
- Detailed Analysis of UNCLOS Articles 74 and 83 on the Delimitation of the EEZ and Continental Shelf, with Emphasis on their Practical Interpretation
- Application of the Principle of Equitable and Sustainable Utilization of Marine Resources in Disputed Areas and Regional Cooperation
- Technical Procedures and Tools for Scientific Assessment and Validation in the Delimitation and Exploitation of Seabed Resources Beyond National Jurisdiction
- Impact of Advances in Oceanographic and Cartographic Technologies on the Definition of Maritime Boundaries and the Management of Shared Resources
- Critical Study of Exceptions and Restrictions to the Exercise of Sovereignty and Sovereign Rights in the Legal framework of the maritime regime
Legal and operational implications of international cooperation for conservation, navigation, and safety in delimited and disputed maritime areas
Evaluation of case studies and simulations of negotiation and conflict resolution related to the delimitation of maritime zones and marine resources
Legal strategies for defending national interests in multilateral forums and UNCLOS dispute settlement mechanisms
Role of regional and international organizations in the efficient and peaceful management of marine resources and in conflict prevention
- Fundamentals and scope of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): normative structure and basic principles
- Definition and classification of marine zones under UNCLOS: territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), continental shelf, and high seas
- Legal regime of the continental shelf: sovereign rights, delimitation, and declaration procedure before the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS)
- Legal framework and mechanisms for the responsible exploitation of marine resources: fisheries, mineral and energy resources in the EEZ and continental shelf
- Instruments for marine environmental protection: obligations for pollution prevention and control, biodiversity conservation, and marine protected areas under UNCLOS and complementary treaties
- Surveillance and Control in Jurisdictional Waters: Legal and Technical Tools for Naval Oversight and International Cooperation
- Legal Mechanisms for the Settlement of Disputes in the Law of the Sea: Arbitration Proceedings, the International Court of Justice, and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea
- Global Ocean Governance: The Role of the International Community, Intergovernmental Organizations, and the Participation of Non-State Actors
- Case Studies in Maritime Delimitation and Transboundary Conflicts: Comparative Analysis and Relevant Jurisprudence
- Current Challenges and Future Perspectives in the Legal Regime of the Sea: Climate Change, New Technologies, and the Right to Oceanic Space Exploration
- Legal framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) for marine conservation: fundamental principles and state obligations.
- Innovations in the maritime zone regime for environmental protection: territorial waters, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and continental shelf.
- Legal instruments for the integrated management of marine ecosystems: management plans, environmental impact assessments, and precautionary measures.
- Mechanisms for international cooperation in marine conservation: regional commissions, multilateral agreements, and ocean governance systems.
- Development and application of emerging principles in the conservation of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ).
- Legal instruments for the protection of vulnerable marine species and critical habitats: species lists, marine protected areas, and biological corridors.
- Challenges and advances in the integration of marine science and technology in international regulations for the sustainable management of living and non-living marine resources.
International responsibility and reparation regime for damage to the marine environment: assessment, compensation, and dispute settlement mechanisms.
Implications of the UNCLOS regime for the regulation of human activities impacting marine ecosystems: fishing, deep-sea mining, maritime transport, and pollution.
Critical analysis of landmark cases and international jurisprudence that shape best practices in management and conservation based on the law of the sea.
- Fundamentals of the legal regime of the sea: structure, general principles, and scope of UNCLOS
- Maritime zones: definition, characteristics, and rights in internal waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and continental shelf
- Maritime delimitation: legal and technical methods for demarcation between neighboring States, including equidistant lines, bilateral agreements, and equitable solutions
- Procedures and standards for the sustainable exploration and exploitation of living and non-living marine resources in accordance with the conservation principle
- Regulatory framework for integrated fisheries resource management: quotas, closed seasons, technical measures, and national vs. international jurisdiction International
Mechanisms and bodies for the peaceful settlement of disputes: International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, arbitration, mediation, and negotiation pursuant to Articles 279-299 of UNCLOS
Impact of technological development on the monitoring and control of marine resources, including the use of satellites, coastal monitoring systems, and electronic surveillance
Analysis of landmark cases and international jurisprudence on marine resource disputes and maritime delimitation in strategic regional contexts
Environmental responsibility and preventive measures in maritime exploitation: environmental impact assessment, hydrocarbon pollution, and marine debris
Integration of national and international strategies for the conservation of marine biodiversity and the preservation of vulnerable habitats according to conventions complementary to UNCLOS
- Fundamental Concepts of the International Law of the Sea: Definition, Historical Evolution, and Legal Scope of UNCLOS
- Essential Principles of the Legal Regime of the Sea: Sovereignty, Jurisdiction, and Sovereign Rights in Maritime Spaces
- Delimitation of Maritime Zones: Detailed Analysis of the Territorial Sea, Contiguous Zone, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and Continental Shelf
- Technical and Legal Criteria and Methods for State Delimitation: Baselines, Equidistance, Proportionality, and Geographical Adjustments
- Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation: International Obligations, Common Regime, and Responsibility for the Protection of the Marine Environment
- Mechanisms for Cooperation and Consultation between Coastal States in Delimited and Overlapping Zones
- Dispute Resolution under UNCLOS: Jurisdictional and Non-Jurisdictional Procedures for Disputes Maritime Disputes
Analysis of the role of the International Court of Justice, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, and arbitrations under the UNCLOS framework
Detailed study of the annexes and supplementary provisions governing the peaceful settlement of maritime disputes
Case studies and relevant jurisprudence illustrating the application of the established principles and dispute resolution mechanisms
- Fundamental Principles of International Law of the Sea: Sovereignty, Jurisdiction, and State Competence
- Definition and Delimitation of Maritime Zones according to UNCLOS: Territorial Sea, Contiguous Zone, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Continental Shelf, and High Seas
- State Jurisdiction and Sovereign Competence in Each Maritime Zone: Civil, Criminal, Administrative, and Conservation Aspects
- International Obligations in the Protection of the Marine Environment: Prevention, Control, and Reduction of Marine Pollution
- Legal Responsibilities of Coastal States and Host States in Maritime Activities and Resource Exploitation
- Legal Mechanisms for the Settlement of Disputes in the Maritime Domain: International Tribunals, Arbitration, and Conciliation Procedures
- Regulations Concerning the Conservation and Management of Marine Living Resources in the EEZ and High Seas
- Role of Regional Management Organizations Fisheries (RFMO) and its integration within the UNCLOS legal framework
International responsibility for damages arising from unlawful or negligent maritime activities
Complementary instruments and protocols to UNCLOS on environmental and oceanographic protection
Implications of the Law of the Sea for the sustainable exploitation of marine mineral and energy resources
Analysis of relevant case law and landmark cases on jurisdiction and state responsibility
Current challenges and future perspectives in ocean governance under the international legal regime of the sea
- Foundations of the International Law of the Sea: Historical Evolution and Essential Principles of the UNCLOS Regime
- Marine Zones under UNCLOS: Definition, Delimitation, and Characteristics of Internal Waters, Territorial Sea, Contiguous Zone, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone, and High Seas
- Regulation and Sustainable Exploitation of Marine Living Resources: Fisheries, Conservation, and Preservation of Marine Biodiversity
- Non-Living Resources and Marine Minerals: Exploration and Extraction on the Continental Shelf and the International Seabed Area (“The Area”)
- Protection and Conservation of the Marine Environment: Marine Environmental Law, Pollution Prevention, and Environmental Liability under UNCLOS
- Multilateral Dispute Settlement Mechanisms: Diplomatic Procedure, Arbitration, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), and Other International Forums
- Roles and Competencies of National and International Authorities in Implementation
of the UNCLOS regime
Technical and legal analysis of landmark cases and relevant jurisprudence from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and other arbitral bodies
Complementary and binding instruments related to UNCLOS: sectoral conventions and protocols
Contemporary challenges and future perspectives in ocean governance: climate change, technological advancement, and new marine protected areas
- Contextualization of the Master’s Thesis: Objectives, Scope, and Methodology Applied in the Maritime Legal Analysis of the UNCLOS
- Advanced Methodologies for the Integration of International, Regional, and National Normative Sources Applicable to the International Law of the Sea
- Critical Analysis of Key Jurisprudence Regarding the Legal Regime of Maritime Spaces under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
- Identification and Evaluation of Contemporary Challenges in the Practical Application of the UNCLOS: Maritime Delimitation, Conservation, and Sustainable Management of Living Marine Resources
- Incorporation of Mechanisms for the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes Established in the UNCLOS: Arbitral, Judicial, and Mixed Procedures
- Development of Legal Strategies for the Protection and Preservation of the Marine Environment Against Polluting and Extractive Activities That Are Not Adequately Regulated
- Comprehensive Study of State Jurisdiction and Competencies on the High Seas and in Exclusive Economic Zones Exclusive: Implications for Sovereignty and Sovereign Rights
Development of normative and public policy proposals based on comparative analyses of practical cases concerning innocent passage and safe navigation
Evaluation of the interrelationship between the International Law of the Sea and other related legal regimes: marine pollution, marine biodiversity, international security
Systematization and formal presentation of the Final Paper: academic structuring, advanced legal argumentation, and criteria for scientific originality
Career prospects
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- Lawyer/Legal Advisor in International Organizations: Specialization in the interpretation and application of UNCLOS.
- Consultant in International Maritime Law: Advising companies, governments, and NGOs on maritime delimitation, fishing, navigation, and marine environmental protection.
- Diplomat/Public Official: Representing the interests of a State in international forums related to the Law of the Sea.
- Researcher/Academic: Conducting research and teaching at universities and research centers specializing in International Law of the Sea.
- Legal Advisor in Companies in the Maritime Sector: Advising on maritime transport, insurance, shipbuilding, and offshore activities.
- Expert in Maritime Dispute Resolution: Participating in international arbitrations and litigation related to The interpretation and application of UNCLOS.
Marine Natural Resources Manager: Sustainable planning and management of living and non-living marine resources within the framework of international law.
Marine Environmental Law Specialist: Advising and managing issues related to marine environmental protection and combating pollution.
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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
- Delve Deeper into UNCLOS: Gain expert knowledge of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, its history, interpretation, and application.
- Real-World Case Analysis: Study practical cases and international jurisprudence relevant to the resolution of maritime disputes.
- Skills Development: Acquire negotiation, legal writing, and critical analysis skills to excel in the field of maritime law.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from leading academics and practitioners in the field of international maritime law.
- Career Opportunities: Expand your career prospects in international organizations, governments, maritime companies, and specialized law firms.
Testimonials
“Applying the knowledge gained from the Master’s in International Law of the Sea was crucial in resolving a complex maritime boundary dispute between two nations. My analysis, based on UNCLOS, enabled successful negotiations and a mutually beneficial agreement, preventing an international conflict. The solid training I received in the program was fundamental to my contribution to this achievement.”
During the Master’s in Maritime Law and Legislation, I acquired a deep understanding of the legal framework applicable to maritime transport, which allowed me to successfully lead the negotiation of an international chartering contract, ensuring advantageous conditions for my company and avoiding potential legal disputes.
“I applied the knowledge from the Master’s in International Law of the Sea directly to my work in defending my country’s maritime sovereignty, achieving a favorable ruling in an international arbitration on maritime boundary delimitation, based on solid arguments regarding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.”
I applied the knowledge from the Master’s in International Law of the Sea to successfully advise a government on the delimitation of its extended continental shelf, securing sovereign rights over resources in a previously disputed area, resulting in a significant increase in the country’s exclusive economic zone.
Frequently asked questions
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
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.
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
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.
- Contextualization of the Master’s Thesis: Objectives, Scope, and Methodology Applied in the Maritime Legal Analysis of the UNCLOS
- Advanced Methodologies for the Integration of International, Regional, and National Normative Sources Applicable to the International Law of the Sea
- Critical Analysis of Key Jurisprudence Regarding the Legal Regime of Maritime Spaces under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
- Identification and Evaluation of Contemporary Challenges in the Practical Application of the UNCLOS: Maritime Delimitation, Conservation, and Sustainable Management of Living Marine Resources
- Incorporation of Mechanisms for the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes Established in the UNCLOS: Arbitral, Judicial, and Mixed Procedures
- Development of Legal Strategies for the Protection and Preservation of the Marine Environment Against Polluting and Extractive Activities That Are Not Adequately Regulated
- Comprehensive Study of State Jurisdiction and Competencies on the High Seas and in Exclusive Economic Zones Exclusive: Implications for Sovereignty and Sovereign Rights
Development of normative and public policy proposals based on comparative analyses of practical cases concerning innocent passage and safe navigation
Evaluation of the interrelationship between the International Law of the Sea and other related legal regimes: marine pollution, marine biodiversity, international security
Systematization and formal presentation of the Final Paper: academic structuring, advanced legal argumentation, and criteria for scientific originality
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.