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
Propulsion Systems and Efficiency Course
courseThis course offers you an in-depth exploration of the technologies and strategies for optimizing the energy performance of vessels. Master the operating principles of marine diesel engines, hybrid systems, and electric…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts14 December
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Propulsion Systems and Efficiency Course?
The Propulsion Systems and Efficiency
course
This course offers you an in-depth exploration of the technologies and strategies for optimizing the energy performance of vessels. Master the operating principles of marine diesel engines, hybrid systems, and electric propulsion, and learn how to implement solutions for reducing emissions and fuel consumption. Prepare yourself to lead the transition to more sustainable and efficient shipping.
Differential Advantages
- Performance Analysis: Evaluation and optimization of existing propulsion systems.
- Emerging Technologies: Study of the latest innovations in marine propulsion (wind, hydrogen, etc.).
- Regulatory Compliance: Comprehensive knowledge of environmental regulations and energy efficiency standards.
- Practical Simulations: Use of specialized software to model and optimize the performance of different systems.
- Real-World Case Studies: Analysis of successful examples of energy efficiency technology implementation in the maritime industry.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
08-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Propulsion Fundamentals: Master the thermodynamic and mechanical principles that govern marine propulsion systems.
- Advanced Technologies: Explore the latest innovations in engines, propellers, and control systems to optimize performance.
- Energy Efficiency: Learn strategies to reduce fuel consumption and minimize environmental impact.
- Maintenance and Diagnostics: Acquire practical skills for inspecting, repairing, and troubleshooting propulsion systems.
- Operations Optimization: Improve navigational efficiency and onboard energy management for superior performance.
- Boost your career and contribute to a more sustainable maritime future with our Propulsion Systems and Efficiency course.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of propulsion systems, energy conversion and functional architecture of the propulsive train in marine platforms and technical vehicles
- Physical principles of propulsion: generation of thrust, power transmission, resistance to advance and energy balance of the system
- Typologies of propulsion systems: mechanical, electrical, hybrid, azimuthal, waterjets and special configurations according to operational mission
- Propulsive train components: primary motor, reducer, couplings, axle line, propeller and associated auxiliary systems
- Relationship between installed power, mission profile and operational performance: speed, load, manoeuvre, autonomy and continuity of service
- Key Propulsive Efficiency Parametres: Thermal Performance, Mechanical Performance, Global Propulsive Efficiency and Specific Consumption
02
Motors, power machines and primary power generation systems for efficient propulsion
- Propulsion-applied internal combustion engines: operating cycles, load curves, performance and transient behaviour
- Electric traction machines: Synchronous, asynchronous and permanent magnets in modern propulsion applications
- Turbines, generators and advanced power solutions - applications, advantages, limitations and compatibility with different mission profiles
- Influence of the operating regime on efficiency: idle, partial load, nominal load, peaks of demand and continuous operation
- Specific consumption, emissions and environmental performance of the propulsive system: technical and operational indicators for reference
03
Propellers, axle lines, manoeuvreing devices and hydrodynamic efficiency of the thrust system
- Typologies of propellants: fixed pitch propeller, controllable passage, waterjet, pods and transverse propellers according to application and manoeuvre required
- Propellers geometry, cavitation and performance: influence of design on thrust, vibration, noise and energy consumption
- Axle line and mechanical transmission: alignment, bearings, seals, couplings and losses due to friction or imbalance
- Hull-propulsor-environment interaction: resistance to advance, wake, loading conditions and effects of the sea state on efficiency
- Hydrodynamic improvement devices: ducts, fins, coatings, hull optimisation and parasitic resistance reduction
04
Automation, control, monitoring and energy management of propulsion systems with focus on operational optimisation
- Propulsive System Control Architecture: Sensors, Actuators, Controllers, Alarms and Centralized Performance Monitoring
- Automatic power and load management: energy distribution, load sharing, mode control and response to operational variations
- Continuous monitoring of critical variables: rpm, torque, temperature, pressure, vibration, consumption and instant efficiency of the system
- Integration between propulsion, navigation and mission profile: dynamic adjustment of setpoints, optimum speed and support to the operational decision
- Digital tools for performance optimisation: Dashboards, data analytics, trends, and predictive maintenance-oriented
05
Capstone Project for analysis, selection and optimisation of a propulsion system for a real or simulated application
- Definition of the case study: platform type, mission profile, power requirements, operational restrictions and efficiency objectives
- Characterization of the propulsive system Base: architecture, components, operating curves, consumption and critical points of energy loss
- Comparative evaluation of propulsion alternatives: performance criteria, reliability, technical integration and compatibility with the mission
- Design of an optimisation proposal: mechanical, operational, digital or energy improvements with impact on global performance
- Technical-economic and risk analysis of the proposed solution: Expected savings, total cost, implementation complexity and operational benefits
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
Mechanical and naval engineers seeking to delve deeper into the latest propulsion technologies and energy efficiency optimization.Ship operators and fleet managers interested in reducing operating costs through fuel efficiency and predictive maintenance.Maritime professionals involved in the implementation of environmental regulations and the transition to alternative fuels.Engineering stude
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
- 01Optimize the operation of propulsion systems
- 02Evaluate and improve the energy efficiency of vessels
- 03Diagnosing and troubleshooting faults in propulsion systems
- 04Apply safety and environmental regulations in the operation of propulsion systems
- 05Select and maintain propulsion system components
- 06Manage fuel and lubricant consumption
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Propulsion Systems Design Engineer: Design and optimization of naval and land propulsion systems.
02Energy Efficiency Specialist: Analysis and improvement of the energy performance of vehicles and machinery.
03Propulsion Systems Consultant: Technical advice on the selection and application of propulsion systems.
04Propulsion Technologies Researcher: Development of innovative and sustainable propulsion systems.
05Propulsion Systems Maintenance Technician: Diagnosis and repair of propulsion systems in various sectors.
06Energy Efficiency Project Manager: Planning and execution of projects to reduce energy consumption.
07Energy Auditor: Evaluation and certification of the energy efficiency of buildings and facilities.
08Specialist in renewable energies applied to propulsion: integration of renewable energy sources into propulsion systems.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
To generate movement or thrust to propel an object.
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 generate movement or thrust to propel an object.
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 Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Naval Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in the design, operation, or maintenance of propulsion systems.Recommended prior knowledge:Physics, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree, experience certificates (if applicable), ID/Passport, cover letter.Technical requirements (for online):Computer with camera/microphone, stable internet connection, software for viewing technical documents (PDF,
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Frequently Asked Questions
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