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
Course on the Evolution of Navigation Techniques
This course will guide you through the fascinating history and present of navigation. From ancient methods based on stargazing to the precision of global positioning systems, this course explores the transformation of navigation…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts4 January
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Course on the Evolution of Navigation Techniques?
The Evolution of Navigation Techniques Course
This course will guide you through the fascinating history and present of navigation. From ancient methods based on stargazing to the precision of global positioning systems, this course explores the transformation of navigation techniques over time. You will learn about the key instruments that have marked milestones in navigation, the influence of science and technology, and how traditional techniques are integrated with modern navigation. Prepare to understand the past, present, and future of navigation and how these evolutions impact the safety and efficiency of maritime and air navigation.
Differential Advantages
- Comparative Analysis: Evaluation of old vs. modern techniques.
- Practical Applications: Real-world examples of use in current navigation.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Exploration of GPS, inertial systems, and other technologies.
- Historical Perspective: Understanding the context and evolution of the methods.
- Multimedia Content: Videos, simulations, and interactive resources for dynamic learning.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Updated Fundamentals: Master the latest digital and traditional navigation techniques.
- Essential Tools: Learn to use GPS, electronic nautical charts, and cutting-edge software.
- Advanced Strategies: Refine your route planning, risk management, and navigation optimization.
- Practical Cases: Apply your knowledge in relevant realistic simulations and case studies.
- Professional Certification: Earn recognition that validates your navigation experience and skills.
- Prepare to face the challenges of the sea with knowledge, precision, and security.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Historical foundations of navigation and construction of maritime knowledge from ancient times to the modern age
- Historical perspective navigation concept: orientation, displacement, exploration and control of the maritime space
- First empirical navigation techniques: coastal observation, land references, currents and accumulated experience of navigators
- Primitive Astronomical Navigation: Use of the Sun, the Moon, the Stars and Constellations as an open sea orientation system
- Nautical traditions of ancient and medieval civilizations: Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Chinese and peoples of the North Atlantic
- Training of nautical knowledge: oral transmission, paths, seafaring routines and consolidation of operational practices
02
Traditional navigation instruments and development of classic methods of positioning, course and esteem
- The compass and its revolution in sea orientation: foundations, historical adoption and transformation of ocean navigation
- Astronomical Observation Instruments: Astrolabe, Quadrant, Ballet, Sextant and Its Role in Determining Position
- The estimation and calculation of the course: speed, time, defeat, correction of errors and construction of the planned defeat
- Nautical, Portulan and Path charts: Documentary evolution of maritime knowledge and support for cruise planning
- Chronometry and determination of the length: From the historical problem of the meridian to the precision in ocean navigation
03
Transition to scientific, hydrographic and instrumental navigation in the Contemporary Age
- Consolidation of advanced astronomical navigation: ephemeris, nautical almanacs and methods of reduction of observations
- Development of modern hydrography: surveys, probes, representation of submarine relief and safety of navigation
- Evolution of Nautical Scientific Cartography: Geodesic Precision, Scales, Symbolology and International Standardization
- Introduction of mechanical and electromechanical instruments: sliding, gyro, repeaters and precision aids on board
- Navigation in conditions of low visibility and open sea: procedures, operational discipline and progressive improvement of control of defeat
04
Electronic and digital navigation: radar, radio help, satellite positioning and bridge automation
- Appearance of radio navigation: radiogoniometres, Loran, Decca and first electronic positioning solutions
- Marine radar and defeat surveillance transformation: detection, echo identification and collision risk prevention
- Satellite navigation systems: GPS, GNSS and evolution of real-time position determination
- Electronic mapping and ECDIS: data integration, digital defeat planning and decision support
- AIS, maritime traffic ecosystems and situational awareness: exchange of information and navigation in congested environments
05
Evolutionary analysis of navigation techniques and final project of historical, technical and operational interpretation
- Comparison between traditional, instrumental, electronic and digital navigation: continuities, ruptures and effects on maritime safety
- Study of the relationship between technical innovation and transformation of the navigator's trade: competencies, responsibilities and professional culture
- Methodologies for analysing navigation techniques in historical and operational perspective: sources, cases and comparative criteria
- Development of a case applied on a technique, instrument or system of navigation relevant in maritime history
- Preparation of the Final Report: Analytical Structure, Historical Contextualization, Technical Assessment and Operational Conclusions
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
Experienced bridge officers and navigators seeking to update their knowledge of the latest technologies and methodologies in maritime navigation.Nautical and Maritime Transport students interested in gaining a comprehensive overview of the historical evolution and future trends in navigation.Shipping company and maritime consultancy staff wishing to better understand the impact of innovation o
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
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Student Reviews
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Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Interpret and apply up-to-date nautical information
- 02Use global positioning systems (GPS) and electronic charts (ECDIS)
- 03Operate traditional and modern navigation instruments
- 04Adapting navigation strategies to diverse weather and sea conditions
- 05Apply current maritime regulations and standards
- 06Optimize navigation efficiency and fuel consumption
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Navigation Software Developer: Design and programming of navigation applications and systems.
02Digital Cartography Specialist: Creation and updating of electronic nautical charts and geospatial databases.
03Navigation Technology Consultant: Advising companies and organizations on the implementation of advanced navigation systems.
04Navigation Researcher: Development of new navigation techniques and technologies.
05Navigation Equipment Maintenance Technician: Installation, repair, and maintenance of electronic navigation equipment.
06Advanced Navigation Techniques Trainer: Instructor in training courses on ECDIS, GPS, radar, and other navigation systems.
07Navigation Data Analyst: Interpretation and analysis of navigation data for route optimization and safety improvement. Maritime.
08Specialist in global positioning systems (GPS, Galileo, etc.): management and maintenance of global positioning systems.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
The magnetic compass.
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.
Dependence on clear weather conditions.
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:Interest in the history and development of navigation. or Experience in maritime, air, or land navigation.Prior Knowledge:Basic knowledge of geography, cartography, and positioning systems.Documentation:Updated CV (optional), letter of interest (optional).Skills:Ability to analyze and understand historical and technical texts.```
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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