Diploma in Underwater Welding
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Underwater Welding
This program prepares you to become a highly qualified professional in a high-demand, high-paying field. You will learn the most advanced welding techniques, from SMAW to GTAW, adapted to the underwater environment. Master the inspection and repair of structures, including oil platforms, pipelines, and ship hulls. This program provides you with the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to pass international certifications and excel in the industry.
Differential Advantages
- Simulations and real-world practice: dives in controlled environments to perfect your technique.
- Expert instructors: professionals with extensive experience in underwater welding and certification.
- Comprehensive knowledge: from the physics of diving to workplace safety and emergency procedures.
- Networking: connection with leading companies in the sector and job opportunities.
- Recognized certification: validates your skills and opens doors in the global market.
Who is it aimed at?
- Professional divers looking to expand their career opportunities with underwater welding certification.
- Certified welders who want to master the techniques and procedures specific to the underwater environment.
- Naval engineers and technicians interested in the repair and maintenance of marine structures and vessels.
- Marine construction and maintenance companies seeking highly qualified personnel for underwater projects.
- Offshore professionals seeking specialized certifications to work on underwater platforms and pipelines.
Flexibility and professional development
Adapted for working professionals: blended learning format (online and practical) intensive), flexible hours and access to a job bank in the sector.
Objectives and competencies
Perform high-quality underwater welding:
“Use specialized welding techniques (SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, FCAW) adapted to the underwater environment, guaranteeing the structural integrity and watertightness of the joints.”
Inspect and repair submerged structures using welding:
“To guarantee structural integrity through safe and efficient underwater welding techniques, complying with regulations and quality standards.”
Applying cutting and welding techniques in hyperbaric environments:
“Following hyperbaric safety protocols, selecting appropriate electrodes and parameters, and ensuring the structural integrity of the weld.”
Strictly comply with safety regulations in underwater welding operations:
“Identify hazards, assess risks and apply specific preventive measures for hyperbaric welding, ensuring the physical integrity of the welder and the environment.”
Mastering communication and coordination techniques in diving and welding teams:
“Use standard hand signals and underwater communication equipment to transmit clear and concise information, ensuring mutual understanding and the safe execution of tasks.”
Select and maintain specialized underwater welding equipment:
“By understanding the manufacturer’s specific preventive and corrective maintenance procedures, we guarantee the operability and safety of the equipment.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Underwater Inspection: Purpose, scope, and regulations.
- Physics of Diving: Pressure, buoyancy, breathing gases, and safety.
- Diving Equipment: Types, maintenance, pre- and post-dive inspection.
- Underwater Visual Inspection Techniques: Methodologies, tools, and data recording.
- Underwater Photography and Videography: Documentation techniques, lighting, and equipment.
- Underwater Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Principles, applications, and limitations.
- Underwater Ultrasound (UT): Operation, calibration, and interpretation of results.
- Underwater Magnetic Particles (MT): Process, defect detection, and safety.
Submarine Eddy Currents (ECT): Methodology, applications, and data analysis.
Submarine Repair Techniques: Welding, cementing, patching, and encapsulation.
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- Introduction to Hyperbaric Welding: History, Applications, and Safety
- Physics and Physiology of Diving: Pressure, Gases, Effects on the Human Body
- Diving Equipment for Welding: Masks, Suits, Umbilicals, Communication Systems
- Underwater Welding Equipment: Power Sources, Electrodes, Remote Control
- Underwater Cutting Techniques: Oxygen Arc, Plasma Arc, Hollow Electrode
- Underwater Metallurgy: Materials, Properties, Corrosion, Weldability
- Joint and Surface Preparation: Cleaning, Alignment, Visual Inspection
- Hyperbaric Welding Procedures: Variables, Pass Techniques, Pressure Control Quality.
- Inspection and non-destructive testing: Visual, magnetic particle, ultrasonic.
- Safety in hyperbaric welding operations: Emergency procedures, electrical hazards, flammable gases.
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- Introduction to Welding: Types, Applications, and Safety
- SMAW (Stick) Welding: Fundamentals, Techniques, Parameters, and Defects
- GMAW/FCAW (MIG/MAG) Welding: Equipment, Gases, Applications, and Common Problems
- GTAW (TIG) Welding: Electrodes, Inert Gases, Welding Techniques, and Alloys
- Visual Inspection (VT): Procedures, Acceptance Criteria, and Documentation
- Penetrant Testing (PT): Principles, Applications, Interpretation, and Standards
- Magnetic Particle Testing (MT): Techniques, Detection of Surface and Subsurface Discontinuities
- Ultrasound (UT) : Physical principles, scanning techniques, interpretation of results, and calibration
Welding safety: PPE, electrical hazards, fumes, gases, and fire prevention
Introduction to hyperbaric safety: Risks, protocols, and safety equipment
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- Introduction to NDT: Principles, applications, and relevant regulations in underwater environments.
- Physics of underwater NDT: Adapting techniques to aquatic conditions, pressure and visibility considerations.
- Equipment and tools for underwater NDT: Selection, maintenance, and calibration of specific equipment for underwater inspection.
- Underwater visual inspection techniques: Direct and indirect methods, underwater lighting, photography, and video.
- Underwater ultrasound: Application, data interpretation, and limitations in marine environments.
- Underwater magnetic particles: Techniques, equipment, and considerations for detecting defects in submerged structures.
- Underwater eddy currents: Principles, applications, and limitations in structural inspection metallic.
- Safety in underwater operations: Safety procedures, communication, and risk management in hazardous environments.
- Underwater cutting techniques: Oxygen-arc, coated electrode, and other techniques, risks, and precautions.
- Legislation and regulations: International and national standards applicable to underwater inspection and cutting.
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- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Hyperbaric Operations: Physics and Physiology of Diving
- Diving Equipment: Selection, Maintenance, and Safety Procedures
- Underwater Cutting Techniques: Electrodes, Oxyfuel Cutting, Plasma Cutting
- Wet Underwater Welding Techniques: Special Electrodes, Parameters, and Controls
- Dry Underwater Welding Techniques: Hyperbaric Chambers, Procedures, and Environmental Controls
- Surface Inspection and Preparation: Cleaning, Rust and Contaminant Removal
- Safety in Hyperbaric Operations: Emergency Protocols, First Aid, and Evacuation
- Regulations and Standards: ASME, AWS, IMCA, and Local Regulations
- Quality Control: Non-destructive testing (NDT) and documentation
- Risk and Mitigation: Risk assessment, contingency plans, and incident management
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Career opportunities
- Underwater Welder on Oil Platforms: Performing welding and structural repairs in marine environments.
- Underwater Welder in Shipbuilding: Participating in the construction and repair of ships and vessels.
- Underwater Welder in Maritime Works: Participating in the construction and maintenance of ports, docks, and other underwater infrastructure.
- Underwater Welding Inspector: Verifying the quality of welds and compliance with safety standards.
- Underwater Maintenance Technician: Performing preventive and corrective maintenance tasks on underwater structures.
- Professional Diver with Welding Specialization: Combining diving and welding skills for diverse underwater work.
- Welding Project Supervisor Underwater Welding: Management and coordination of underwater welding teams.
Underwater Welding Consultant: Technical advice on underwater welding and repair projects.
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Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
Documentation:
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Professional Certification: Obtain an internationally recognized accreditation in underwater welding, opening doors to global job opportunities..
- Advanced Techniques: Master the latest methodologies and cutting-edge technologies in hyperbaric and underwater welding.
- Safety and Regulations: Learn the most rigorous safety protocols and current regulations to ensure safe and efficient operations.
- Intensive Practice: Participate in realistic simulations and controlled environment training, developing essential practical skills.
- Expert Instructors: Learn from certified professionals with extensive experience in the field of underwater welding, receiving personalized guidance.
Testimonials
The Underwater Welding Diploma exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid practical and theoretical skills, from preparing and executing underwater welds to inspection and safety in high-pressure environments. Thanks to the comprehensive training and expert instructors, I obtained my certification and quickly joined a large-scale offshore project, where I successfully apply the knowledge I gained.
The Diploma in Naval Mechanics & Workshop exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid theoretical and practical knowledge, from naval design and construction to the maintenance and repair of marine engines. The practical experience in a real-world environment was key to consolidating what I learned and allowed me to develop essential skills for my current position as a maintenance supervisor in a shipyard.
The Underwater Welding Diploma exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid practical and theoretical skills, from equipment preparation to performing welds in different positions and depths. The expert instruction and focus on safety enabled me to obtain certification and secure a position as an underwater welder with a major offshore company.
“The Underwater Welding Diploma exceeded my expectations. I acquired essential practical and theoretical skills, from equipment operation to performing welds in different positions and depths. Thanks to the high-quality training, I immediately secured a position with a major offshore company, where I apply my newly acquired knowledge daily and contribute to challenging projects.”
Frequently asked questions
In an underwater environment, whether in fresh or salt water.
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.
Underwater environments, whether in fresh or salt water.
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 Subsea NDT Inspection of Pipelines: Objectives and Scope
- Regulations and Standards: ASME, API, DNV, ISO relevant to inspection and repair
- Subsea Pipeline Materials: Types, properties, corrosion, and degradation
- Subsea Visual Inspection Techniques: CCTV, photography, and video inspection
- Subsea NDT Techniques: UT, MT, PT, underwater radiography (considerations and limitations)
- Subsea Inspection Equipment: ROVs, AUVs, divers, and their applications
- Inspection Planning: Procedure development, safety, and logistics
- Interpretation of Results of Inspection: Acceptance/Rejection Criteria According to Standards
Subsea Pipeline Repair: Methods (composite wraps, mechanical sleeves, etc.)
Safety in Subsea Operations: Safety procedures for divers and equipment.
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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.