Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Diploma · 800 h · 8 modules
Diploma in Naval Simulation and 3D Modeling
This program provides you with the essential tools and knowledge to master the latest technologies in vessel design and analysis. Learn to create accurate 3D models of naval structures, simulate their behavior in various…
Duration800 h
FormatOnline
Starts30 November
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Diploma in Naval Simulation and 3D Modeling?
The Diploma in Naval Simulation and 3D Modeling
This program provides you with the essential tools and knowledge to master the latest technologies in vessel design and analysis. Learn to create accurate 3D models of naval structures, simulate their behavior in various scenarios, and optimize their performance using finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). This intensive program will allow you to excel in the naval industry, driving innovation and efficiency in every project.
Differentiating Advantages
- Industry-Leading Software: Master tools such as Rhinoceros, SolidWorks, Ansys, and OpenFOAM.
- Real-World Case Studies: Apply your knowledge to design and simulation projects for ships, offshore platforms, and marine systems.
- Advanced Methodologies: Learn parametric modeling techniques, structural optimization, and hydrodynamic simulation.
- Professional Certification: Earn a recognized diploma that validates your skills and opens doors in the job market.
- Networking with Experts: Interact with industry professionals and expand your professional network.
Programme type
Diploma
Study mode
Online
Duration
800 hours
Modules
8
Start date
27-11-2026
Programme highlights
- Tool Mastery: Learn to use industry-leading naval simulation and 3D modeling software.
- Design and Optimization: Develop skills to design vessels and optimize their performance through advanced simulation.
- Scenario Analysis: Master the creation and analysis of complex maritime scenarios for strategic decision-making.
- Realistic Modeling: Create high-fidelity 3D models of vessels and marine environments.
- Professional Certification: Earn a recognized diploma that will boost your career in naval engineering and the maritime industry.
- Boost your career in the naval sector with this comprehensive diploma in simulation and 3D modeling.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 8 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Naval Architecture Fundamentals and 3D Geometry of the Ship
- Introduction to Computer Aided Naval Design (CAD): History, Digital Workflow and Naval Software Platform Comparison
- Geometry of curves and surfaces Spline/Nurbs: generation of water lines, frames, diagonals and plane of three-dimensional shapes
- Hull Surface Modelling: Creation of Smooth Surfaces, Continuity Control ($g^0$, $g^1$, $g^2$) and Correction of Imperfections
- Calculation of Initial Hydrostatics: Determination of Displacements, Centre of Carena ($CB$), Centre of Gravity ($CG$) and Metacentro ($km$)
- Hydrostatic attribute curves: KN curve generation, Bonjean, wet surface and shape coefficients ($C_B$, $C_M$, $C_P$, $C_W$)
- File import and export: Exchange of neutral formats (IGES, STEP, DXF, OBJ) between modelling and analysis platforms
- Geometric quality criteria: Verification of surface tightness, manufacturing tolerances and preparation for numerical analysis
- Naval Design Software
02
Advanced 3D modelling of hulls, superstructures and interior spaces
- Parametric modelling of complex hulls: multi-hulled hulls (catamarans, trimaranes), hulls with reels (steps) and inverted bows
- Appendix and propeller design: 3D modelling of rudders, orzas, balance fins, nozzles and variable geometry propellers
- Modelling of superstructures and decks: aerodynamic shapes in yachts, command bridges and work boat structures
- Compartment and interior distribution: creation of bulkheads, double bottoms, fuel/water tanks and accommodation spaces
- Marine Component Libraries - Integration of Deck Accessories, Bits, Winches, Rescue Boats and Lifting Systems
- Piping 3D modelling: 3D routing of Bilge Pumping, Bilges, Fire and Fuel Systems
- Photorealistic rendering and presentation: application of marine materials, ambient lighting and virtual tour for clients
- Rendering and display of models
03
3D structural modelling and naval cutting for manufacturing
- Modelling of the internal structure: three-dimensional location of varengas, longitudinal, baths, bulkheads and primary/secondary reinforcements
- Assignment of profiles and slabs: application of naval profiles (L, T, HP) and ironing according to classification company standards
- Hull Sheet Development (Dishes): Three-dimensional flattening of complex curvature plates for CNC cutting (Unrolling/Flattening)
- Generation of cutting and nesting planes: optimisation of the use of steel and aluminium sheets for thermal/laser cutting
- Detailing of joints and welds: Preparation of bezels, openings (mouse holes) and marking of reference lines for assembly
- Materials List Management (BOM): Automatic Weight Extraction, Centres of Gravity by Block and Materials Reporting
- Block building strategy: 3D model subdivision for arming logistics in Shipyard
- Construction plans and bills of materials
04
Stability simulation, computational naval architecture and damage
- Intact stability simulation: ADRISING ARMS CURVES ($GZ$), IMO Criteria Assessment and Dynamic Load Condition
- Stability with fault and compartment: Progressive flood simulation, calculation of permeability and subdivision criteria
- Dry-docking and drying simulation: Distribution of reactions in riding, stability during the manoeuvre of raving and supports
- Simulation of movements of weights on board: virtual tilt test, transfer of tanks and effect of free surfaces
- Stability analysis in waves: simulation of the ship's balance in ridges and breasts of longitudinal waves
- Simulation of heavy load operations: stability in lifting manoeuvres with on-board crane and dynamic heel effects
- Automation of stability reports: generation of regulatory technical stability booklets directly from the 3D model
- Stability criteria without breakdown and fault
05
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Applied to Naval Hydrodynamics
- Fundamentals of Naval CFD: Naval-Stokes Equations Averaged by Reynolds (RANS), Discretization of Domain and Outline Conditions
- Generation of hydrodynamic meshes: structured, unstructured and adaptive meshes; Treatment of the boundary layer ($y^+$)
- Simulation of resistance to advance: calculation of resistance by wave formation, viscous friction and aerodynamic drag of the superstructure
- Free Surface Modelling (VOF): Simulation of water-air interaction, ship wave system generation and settlement (Trim/Squat)
- Simulation of appendices and interference: flow analysis around rudders, balance keels and hull-propeller interaction effect
- CFD-based hull shape optimisation: parametric modification of the bow (bulb) and stern for fuel consumption reduction
- Validation of CFD results: Comparison of numerical simulations with tests of hydrographic experience channels (EFD)
- CFD meshing and validation
06
Behaviour simulation at sea (Seakeeping) and manoeuvreability
- Seakeeping simulation: Response of the ship to the waves (RAOS in 6 degrees of freedom: Pitch, Roll, Heave, etc.)
- Wave spectra modelling: Irregular sea simulation using jonswap and Pierson-Moskowitz spectra
- Comfort and operability assessment: calculation of on-board accelerations, MSI criteria (dizziness index) and Helideck operability criteria
- Simulation of extreme phenomena: prevention of violent landing (slamming), water shipment in deck and balance codaste (parametric rolling)
- Manoeuvreability and governance: simulation of evolution tests (evolution curve, zigzag, spiral manoeuvre) using dynamic models
- Simulation of stabilisation systems: effectiveness of active stabiliser fins, balance tanks (anti-roll tanks) and gyroscopes
- Simulation of ship-bottom/channel interaction: shallow water effect, wall effect and suction forces during overtaking in channels
- Virtual manoeuvreing tests
07
Nautical simulators, virtual environments and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR)
- Nautical simulator architecture - real-time ship dynamics integration with 3D rendering engines
- Development of virtual marine scenarios: 3D modelling of ports, navigation channels, navigation aids (marks/headlights) and weather-ocean conditions
- Integration with control consoles: connection of control hardware (telegraphy, rudder, joysticks) with the physics of the simulated ship
- Dynamic Positioning Simulation (DP): Modelling of Azimuthal Propellers, Bow Thrusters and Open Sea Position Control Algorithms
- Virtual reality application (VR) in design: immersive 1:1-scale tours for ergonomics assessment on the bridge and engine rooms
- Augmented Reality (AR) for Naval Maintenance: Overlay of 3D Technical Data on Real Machinery to Guide Repairs on Board
- Simulation of towing and mooring manoeuvres: dynamic cable modelling, interaction between tugs and assisted ships
- Bridge Simulation and Training Environments
08
Capstone Project for 3D modelling and naval hydrodynamic simulation
- Definition of the study case: Selection of the design of a hull or boat for its integral modelling and performance simulation
- Parametric 3D modelling and watertight distribution: hull surface generation, appendixes and 3D internal compartment
- Calculation of Naval Computational Architecture: Preparation of hydrostatic analyses and simulation of stability intact and faulty
- Execution of CFD simulation: Preparation of the mesh, calculation of resistance to advance at different speeds of operation and optimisation of shapes
- Seakeeping simulation and dynamic behaviour: obtaining RAO curves and evaluation of the behaviour of the hull in a specific sea state
- Display and Digital Twin (Digital Twin): Preparation of the 3D model for final rendering, virtual tour or real-time simulator integration
- Presentation and defence of the project
- Final presentation: Technical defence of the three-dimensional model and the results of the simulations before a committee of naval engineers and designers
Workload
Study Time and Workload
800 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 engineers and naval architects seeking to master 3D simulation and modeling tools to optimize designs and evaluate ship performance.Naval designers and 3D modelers interested in creating accurate and detailed representations of vessels for use in engineering and visualization projects.Naval engineering students and related fields wishing to acquire practical skills in 3D simulation and m
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
- 01Develop accurate naval models
- 02Optimizing vessel design and performance
- 03Assessing and mitigating risks in maritime operations
- 04Implementing simulation solutions in naval decision-making
- 05Mastering 3D modeling tools for the visual representation of naval scenarios
- 06Integrate naval simulation with control and navigation systems
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Naval 3D Modeler: Creation of accurate models of ships, ports, and marine environments for simulations.
02Naval Simulation Developer: Design and programming of realistic scenarios for training and analysis.
03Naval Simulation Consultant: Advising companies and organizations on the use of simulation to improve safety and efficiency.
04Modeling and Simulation Researcher: Development of new techniques and algorithms for naval simulation.
05Computer-Aided Naval Designer (CAD/CAM): Use of specialized software for ship design and modeling.
06D Visualization Specialist for the Naval Industry: Creation of presentations and visual materials for the promotion and marketing of naval products and services.
07Simulator Support Technician Naval Simulation: Maintenance and repair of simulation equipment and technical support to users.
08Naval Simulation Trainer: Instructor in the use of simulators for training maritime and naval personnel.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
It focuses on both, combining the design and operation of naval simulators with the 3D modeling necessary to create them.
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.
It focuses on both aspects, both on the 3D design of virtual vessels and on the simulation of their behavior in various maritime environments.
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 Engineering (Naval, Mechanical, Industrial, or similar), Architecture, 3D Design, or related fields; or demonstrable professional experience in 3D modeling, simulation, the naval industry, or related sectors.Technical Competence:Basic knowledge of 3D modeling (CAD/CAM software), simulation, and naval concepts. Familiarity with naval simulation software (optional but valued).Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree (if applicable), portfolio (optional, with examples of 3D modeling or simulation projects), ID/Pas
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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