Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Introduction to Naval Design Course
This course provides you with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of naval architecture. You will learn to understand and apply the key concepts of stability, structural strength, and hydrodynamics, crucial for the…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts21 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Introduction to Naval Design Course?
The Introduction to Naval Design
This course provides you with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of naval architecture. You will learn to understand and apply the key concepts of stability, structural strength, and hydrodynamics, crucial for the design of safe and efficient vessels. This program introduces you to the world of naval design, from the initial conception to the creation of technical drawings, using specialized software tools.
This course provides you with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of naval architecture. You will learn to understand and apply the key concepts of stability, structural strength, and hydrodynamics, crucial for the design of safe and efficient vessels.
What will you learn?
- Theoretical Foundations: Static and dynamic stability, resistance calculations, behavior in water.
- Design Process: Stages of naval design, from defining requirements to final documentation.
- CAD Software: Introduction to computer-aided design tools for creating 3D models and technical drawings.
- Regulations and Standards: Knowledge of maritime regulations and classification standards applicable to naval design.
- Case Studies: Analysis of real-world design examples of different types of vessels.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Fundamentals of Naval Design: Learn the basic principles of naval architecture, hydrostatics, and stability.
- Specialized Software: Master key tools for 3D modeling, performance analysis, and structural design.
- Standards and Regulations: Understand international standards and safety standards in shipbuilding.
- Case Studies: Apply your knowledge to real-world projects, from recreational craft to merchant ships.
- Professional Development: Boost your career in the shipbuilding industry with comprehensive and up-to-date training.
- Enroll now and take the first step towards your future in naval design!
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of Naval Design, Vessel Typologies, and General Principles of Ship Configuration
- Concept, scope and objectives of naval design: relationship between shape, function, operational mission and technical feasibility of the boat
- Main typologies of boats and ships: recreation, fishing, transport, offshore support, defence and specialised units
- Phases of the naval design process: conceptual, basic, detail design, technical validation and construction preparation
- Main configuration variables: Length Overall, Manga, Strut, Draught, Displacement and its influence on the behaviour of the ship
- Operational, functional and environmental requirements that condition the design: load, speed, autonomy, navigation zone and mission profile
02
Hull geometry, naval shapes and hydrostatic principles applied to the preliminary design of boats
- Basic geometry of the hull: water lines, sections, profiles, bow, stern, pantoques and formal continuity of the submerged volume
- Principles of naval hydrostatics: flotation, displacement, thrust, buoyancy reserve and characteristic centres of the ship
- Relationship between hull shapes and performance: resistance to advance, load capacity, stability and behaviour in different sea conditions
- Form coefficients and fundamental geometric parametres: block, prismatic, master and tuning for different design typologies
- Interpretation of planes of shapes and hydrostatic curves: technical reading of the base geometry of the ship and its application to pre-sizing
03
Stability, weight, volume distribution and basic safety conditions in the initial naval design
- Elementary Principles of Transverse and Longitudinal Stability: Balance, Hearing, Seat and Response of the Ship to Cargo Changes
- Centres of gravity, hull and metacentre: basic interpretation and effect on the initial stability of the boat
- Weight distribution and preliminary estimate of displacement: structure, machinery, cargo, consumables and superstructure
- Compartmentation, buoyancy and basic security of the design: tightness, subdivision and control of faults in preliminary configuration
- Influence of interior and deck design on stability and operability: high weights, accesses, functional distribution and safety of use
04
Naval structure, building materials and basic principles of resistance and constructibility of the ship
- Naval structure fundamentals: keel, frames, baths, bulkheads, longitudinal reinforcements and resistant organisation of the hull
- Usual materials in shipbuilding: steel, aluminium, wood, composites and initial selection criteria by type of boat
- Main efforts acting on the ship: global bending, torque, hydrostatic pressures, impacts and operating loads
- Principles of structural strength and preliminary sizing: rigidity, load distribution and basic structural continuity
- Relationship between design and construction process: modularity, accessibility, material bonding and manufacturing simplification
05
Capstone Project of Introduction to Naval Design with conceptual definition, general configuration and technical presentation of the ship
- Selection of the type of boat and definition of the case study: mission, users, operating profile and main requirements
- Development of the general configuration of the ship: main dimensions, basic shape of the hull and preliminary functional distribution
- Initial estimation of weights, displacement, basic stability and propulsion needs according to the concept adopted
- Structural approach and preliminary selection of materials and main systems compatible with the proposed boat
- Preparation of conceptual documentation: general scheme, sketch, descriptive memory and justification of design decisions adopted
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Naval engineering students seeking a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of ship design.Junior engineers wishing to specialize in naval design and gain practical experience in the process.Maritime industry professionals needing a general understanding of naval design for better decision-making.Sailing enthusiasts wishing to explore the world of ship design and understand the techn
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Interpreting naval plans and technical specifications
- 02Understanding the principles of stability and buoyancy of a vessel
- 03Identify the structural components of a ship and their function
- 04Apply design criteria to optimize the hydrodynamic efficiency of a vessel
- 05Select the appropriate materials for shipbuilding considering strength, durability, and cost
- 06Develop the ability to conceptualize and graphically represent the shape of a ship
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Junior Naval Designer: Assisting in the creation of plans and 3D models of vessels.
02Naval Technical Drafter: Preparing detailed plans of naval structures and systems.
03Naval Engineer Assistant: Supporting calculations of ship stability, strength, and efficiency.
04Naval 3D Modeler: Creating visual representations of vessels for design and marketing.
05Shipyard Technician: Collaborating in the construction, repair, and maintenance of vessels.
06Technical Consultant: Advising on naval design and construction projects (experience required).
07Naval Inspector: Verifying compliance with regulations and safety standards for vessels.
08Project Offices Naval: Participation in the conceptual design and development of new vessels.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Create a ship or vessel that meets the requirements of performance, safety, cost and construction feasibility.
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.
To create a ship or vessel that meets the specific requirements of the owner or user in a safe, efficient, and economical manner.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Naval Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering or related field; or demonstrable professional experience in naval design or construction.Prior Knowledge:Basic knowledge of geometry, calculus, fluid mechanics, and strength of materials is recommended.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree (if applicable), work experience certificate (if applicable), ID/Passport, letter of interest (optional).Skills:Analytical skills, attention to detail, and basic computer skills.```
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Frequently Asked Questions
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