Master’s Degree in the History of Navigation and Expeditions
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in the History of Navigation and Expeditions
Immerse yourself in a fascinating journey through the centuries, exploring the sea routes that connected civilizations, the technological advances that propelled exploration, and the key figures who shaped the world. Discover the evolution of cartography, navigational techniques, and the cultural and economic impact of the great expeditions. This program will provide you with a deep understanding of maritime history and its relevance in today’s world.
Differential Advantages
- In-depth study of primary sources: analysis of historical documents, navigation logs, and antique maps.
- Global context: study navigation from different cultural and geographical perspectives.
- Experts in the field: learn from renowned maritime historians and naval archaeologists.
- Field trips: visit maritime museums, historical archives, and iconic navigational sites.
- Professional development: opens doors to careers in research, maritime heritage conservation, and cultural tourism.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date: 25-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Historians and archaeologists seeking to specialize in maritime history, exploring navigation techniques and the impact of expeditions on society.
- History and social science teachers interested in enriching their classes with a global perspective on the evolution of navigation and the discovery of new routes.
- Archivists and librarians wishing to deepen their knowledge of cataloging and preserving documents related to navigation and historical voyages.
- Writers and journalists seeking inspiration and historical rigor to create works of fiction or non-fiction about maritime exploration and great expeditions.
- History and sailing enthusiasts wishing to acquire in-depth and specialized knowledge about the development of navigation and its impact on the world.
Academic Flexibility
Adapted for professionals and students: flexible online format, access to digital resources, and personalized follow-up by experts in maritime history.
Objectives and skills
Critically analyze primary and secondary sources:
Evaluate credibility, bias, and historical-social context for an informed and well-founded interpretation.
Interpreting the global impact of maritime travel:
“Identify opportunities and challenges of maritime transport in international trade, geopolitics and sustainable development, considering international agreements and IMO regulations.”
Leading research projects on maritime history:
“To define rigorous methodologies, secure funding, and manage multidisciplinary teams to deliver relevant and academically impactful results.”
Designing outreach strategies for maritime heritage:
“Identify key audiences (locals, tourists, academics) and adapt messages/channels (networks, events, publications) to maximize impact and encourage participation.”
Advising on the conservation and management of historic naval sites:
“Implement preventive conservation strategies based on the analysis of site-specific risks and vulnerabilities.”
Evaluate the influence of naval technology on geopolitics:
Analyze how naval power, driven by technological innovation (submarines, aircraft carriers, missiles), redefines alliances, trade routes, and the control of strategic resources on a global scale.
Study plan – Modules
- Origins and evolution of maritime navigation: from the first voyages to the Renaissance
- Traditional nautical instruments: astrolabe, sextant, quadrant, and magnetic compass; physical principles and practical applications
- Historical cartography: development of portolan charts, portolan charts, and nautical atlantes; Symbolism, scale, projections, and precision
Dead reckoning and celestial navigation techniques: calculating position using a sextant, observing celestial bodies, and using nautical tables
Planning methodologies for large expeditions: route selection, provisions, crew, and risk management
Navigation on the high seas and uncharted oceans: strategies for dealing with extreme weather conditions, invisible currents, and storms
In-depth study of ocean currents and tides: their impact on the trajectories and travel times of historical expeditions
Technical innovations during the Age of Discovery: propellers, maneuverable sails, and the strategic use of the compass
Analysis of key historical routes: Vasco da Gama, Magellan-Elcano, Cook; Logistics, Obstacles, and Achievements
Documentation and Logbooks: Recording, Interpretation, and Historical Value of Ship’s Logs and Route Maps
Comparative Study of Different Indigenous Navigation Systems and Their Integration into European Expeditions
Advances in Shipbuilding and Their Impact on Exploration Capacity and Geographical Reach
Determining Factors in the Survival and Success of Maritime Expeditions: Food, Health, Morale, and Communication
Geopolitical and Economic Effects of the Maritime Routes Opened During the Great Explorations
Modern Applications of Traditional Techniques: Restoration of Ancient Methods in Experimental Navigation and Advanced Training
- Fundamentals of Historical Cartography: Evolution of Cartographic Techniques and Representations from Antiquity to the 18th Century
- Classical Instruments of Astronomical Navigation: Sextant, Astrolabe, Quadrant, and Octant: Applied Physical and Mathematical Principles
- Coordinate Systems and Traditional Cartographic Projections: Mercator, Peters, and Other Projections Used in Early Nautical Charts
- Determination of Latitude: Astronomical Methods for Measuring the Altitude of the Sun and Principal Stars at Different Latitudes
- Calculation of Longitude: Development of the Marine Chronometer, Lunar Distance Methods, and Their Impact on the Accuracy of Transoceanic Routes
- Interrelationship Between Astronomical Observations and Nautical Records: Logbooks, Charts, and Historical Tide Tables
- Impact of Cartography and Astronomical Navigation on European Expansion: Analysis of the Main Transoceanic Expeditions and Maritime Routes from the 15th to the 18th Centuries
Studies of Emblematic Cases: Maps by Juan de la Cosa, Jodocus Hondius, and Historical Nautical Atlases
Pre-electronic Technological Advances and Their Influence on the Safety and Efficiency of Ocean Navigation
Critical Comparison Between Ancient and Modern Navigation Systems: Historical Lessons Applicable to Contemporary Navigation
Teaching and Knowledge Transmission Methods in Cartography and Celestial Navigation: Guilds, Institutions, and Historical Treatises
Preservation and Restoration of Cartographic Documents: Archival and Digital Techniques for the Conservation of Ancient Maps and Nautical Charts
Practical Application: Reconstruction of Historical Routes Through Digital Simulation and Geospatial Analysis
Exploration of the Limitations and Common Errors in Historical Cartography and Their Impact on the navigation
- Detailed examination of the celestial navigation systems applied in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, with emphasis on regional and climatological differences
- Historical Context of the Great Maritime Expeditions: Political, Economic, and Scientific Objectives
- Ship Design and Construction in the Age of Discovery: Innovation in Caravels, Galleons, and Carracks
- Cartography and Astronomical Navigation: Sextant, Astrolabe, Quadrant, and Positioning Techniques
- Navigation Instruments and Technologies: Magnetic Compass, Marine Chronometers, and a Chronology of Their Evolution
- Exploration Strategies and Maritime Routes: Analysis of Currents, Trade Winds, and Uncharted Oceans
- Coastal and Open Ocean Piloting Techniques: Bearings, Drift, Course Estimation, and Error Correction
- Resource Management and Logistics in Long-Duration Expeditions: Supplies, Maintenance, and Crew Conditioning
- Impact of Navigation on World Geopolitics: Establishment of Trade Routes and Colonization
- Key technological innovations and their influence on maritime expansion: from cartography to propulsion
- Critical analysis of historical sources: ship’s logs, old maps, and technical documentation
- Strategic analysis of expedition objectives: goal setting, geopolitical and scientific evaluation, and selection of optimized routes
- Design of the operational plan: timelines, task assignment, hierarchical leadership, and organizational structure in historical contexts
- Supply logistics: detailed calculation of consumables, efficient storage, food preservation, and potable water management on extended voyages
- Command and control of historical fleets: communication protocols, naval discipline, visual and acoustic signals, and coordination of multiple units
- Identification and mitigation of risks: analysis of natural (climatic, bathymetric) and human (conflict, piracy) threats, with the development of contingency plans
- Traditional navigation systems and their integration into logistical planning: use of astrolabes, sextants, nautical charts, and position estimation
- Evaluation and management of human resources: Crew selection, specialized training, onboard health and well-being management, and interpersonal conflict resolution.
Impact of technological innovations on the logistics of traditional expeditions: sails, rudders, fishing gear, and supplementary provisioning.
Planning and execution of critical maneuvers: anchoring, entering and leaving ports, and navigating in high-risk areas.
Analysis of successful and unsuccessful historical cases: lessons learned in integrated fleet management and adaptations to unforeseen conditions during the voyage.
- Origins and Foundations of Ancient Navigation: Primitive Instruments and Empirical Methods
- Development of the Magnetic Compass: Technical Evolution, Calibration, and its Impact on Maritime Navigation
- Positioning Systems Based on Astronomical Observation: Use of the Astrolabe, Sextant, and Maritime Chronometer
- Early Cartography: Geographic Representation Techniques, Projections, and Symbols in the First Nautical Charts
- Methodologies for the Creation and Updating of Navigational Maps: Portolan Charts, Portolan Charts, and Route Charts
- Innovations in the Measurement of Currents and Tides: Tide Gauge Tables and their Interpretation for Ocean Route Planning
- Instrumentation and Techniques for Depth Measurement: From Manual Sounders to Rudimentary Echosounders
- Evolution of Exploration Routes: Analysis of Tracks, Landmarks, and Coastal Navigation versus Open Ocean Navigation
- Adaptation and Improvement of Piloting Methods: Bearings, Destinations, and Handling in Restricted Waters
- Impact of Cartographic Innovations and Navigation Techniques on Great Expeditions: Advancement of Geographical Knowledge and Global Maritime Expansion
- Fundamentals and historical evolution of exploration techniques: from classical antiquity to the modern era of maritime exploration
- Advanced instrumentation in navigation: sextant, astrolabe, marine chronometer, and their impact on astronomical accuracy during expeditions
- Astronomical calculations for navigation: methods for determining latitude, longitude, and solar time using celestial bodies
- Applied historical cartography: analysis of emblematic maps and nautical charts, surveying techniques, and representation of unknown territories
- Triangulation and maritime survey techniques: methods for mapping coastlines and underwater features in pioneering expeditions
- Logistics in large expeditions: resource planning, provisioning, and long-term crew management
- Organization and management of onboard space: efficient storage of provisions, water, spare parts, and scientific equipment
- Handling and repair of navigational instruments: preventive and corrective maintenance during extended voyages
- Communication and signaling systems in the pre-technological era: codes, flags, and messages for coordination between vessels
- Strategies for dealing with meteorological and geographical contingencies: adapting exploration techniques according to the environment and climate
- Application of dead reckoning and astronomical observation techniques in situations of technological failure
- Integration of astronomical and cartographic data for strategic decision-making en route
- Technical documentation and preparation of exploration reports: use of logbooks and navigation journals
- Study of historical cases: detailed analysis of the techniques used in significant expeditions such as those of Magellan-Elcano, Cook, and Humboldt
- Technological innovations in maritime exploration and their impact on cartography and logistics
Contemporary
Ethical and cultural aspects in the planning and execution of large exploratory voyages
Advanced simulation of astronomical navigation and logistics: practical exercises with digital tools based on historical scenarios
Critical evaluation of historical sources and methods for a rigorous scientific interpretation of maritime expeditions
- Technical and Scientific Background: The qualitative leap in naval technology during the 15th and 16th centuries, including the development of caravels, galleons, and carracks, and their impact on transoceanic exploration capabilities.
- Evolution of Astronomical Navigation Techniques: From the use of the astrolabe and quadrant to the invention of the sextant and marine chronometer, and their crucial role in the precise determination of latitude and longitude at sea.
- Historical Cartography and its Transformation: Detailed analysis of portolan charts, the influence of Islamic and European nautical charts, and the cartographic revolution driven by the Sagres School and the Casa de Contratación of Seville.
- Cartographic Tools and Methods: Interpretation of nautical symbols, map projections used, triangulation and surveying techniques, and the incorporation of topographic and oceanographic information into maps of the period.
- Strategies Logistics for large expeditions: advanced route planning, provisioning, weapons and crew management, and logistics for dealing with weather contingencies and diseases on board.
The strategic role of knowledge of seas and currents: study of ocean circulation, trade winds and monsoons, and their decisive influence on the choice of routes and time windows for transatlantic and transpacific voyages.
Navigation systems in restricted and coastal waters: piloting methods, use of bearings, and soundings to ensure safety in poorly charted or dangerous ports, and the training of expert pilots in each region of exploration.
Innovations in measuring and recording devices: from the logbook and chronometer to the first communication and signaling systems between ships of the same fleet during voyages.
Impact of new technologies on expanding geographical knowledge: how innovations in Navigation and cartography facilitated expeditions of conquest, colonization, and trade, redefining the world’s political and economic map.
Analysis of emblematic cases: logistics and technology applied in expeditions such as those of Magellan-Elcano, Vasco da Gama, and James Cook, highlighting the technical challenges overcome and the significant advances in scientific navigation.
- Historical Context: A detailed analysis of the temporal and geographical framework of the great maritime expeditions from the late 15th to the 18th centuries.
- Pre-expedition geopolitical dynamics: An assessment of the rivalries, alliances, and tensions between emerging and established powers that drove the voyages of exploration.
- Impact on the configuration of territorial borders: A meticulous study of the delimitation of maritime and land spaces resulting from post-expedition treaties and agreements.
- Global economic transformations: The influence of maritime routes on the establishment of transoceanic trade networks, the inclusion of products and raw materials, and the rise of mercantile capitalism.
- The strategic role of maritime routes in the expansion of empires: An analysis of how the control of routes and ports impacted the global balance of power.
- Sociopolitical consequences in territories
- Explored: Processes of colonization, administration, and Indigenous resistance following contact with European powers.
- Navigation as a tool of diplomacy and war: A study of naval military expeditions and their repercussions on treaties and the international order.
- Technological and scientific innovations promoted by the expeditions: Advances in cartography, nautical astronomy, shipbuilding, and celestial navigation.
- Demographic effects: Forced migrations, slavery, and displacements resulting from maritime expeditions and their impact on the formation of current populations.
- Contemporary legacy and reinterpretations: A critical analysis of historical memory and current narratives about the expeditions and their global impact.
- Historical Contextualization of Technological Innovation in Navigation: Evolution from Medieval Nautical Instruments to the Age of Discovery
- Astronomical Instruments: Development and Application of the Astrolabe, Quadrant, Sextant, and Octant in Determining Latitude and Longitude at Sea
- Historical Nautical Cartography: Analysis of Portolan Charts, Piri Reis Maps, and Letters of Iberian Explorers, with Emphasis on Their Accuracy and Interpretive Symbolism
- Advances in Time Measurement: The Invention of the Marine Chronometer and Its Decisive Impact on Longitudinal Navigation During 18th-Century Expeditions
- Development of Astronomical Cartography Techniques: Observation and Calculation Methods for Geospatial Representation in Oceanic Uncertainty Environments
- Logistical Principles and Practices in the Great Expeditions: Provisioning, crew organization, and resource management on long voyages
Planning and risk management strategies applied in maritime expeditions: analysis of weather contingencies, geographical obstacles, and social conflicts
Innovations in shipbuilding that enabled logistical sustainability: from caravels and galleons to steamships, focused on cargo capacity and autonomy
Integration of astronomical and technological cartography for the optimization of maritime routes: a study of emblematic cases such as the Magellan and Cook expeditions
Scientific and technological legacy: the influence of expeditions on the modern evolution of navigation and geospatial cartography
- Fundamentals of Celestial Navigation: History, Principles, and Classical Tools
- Precision Instruments in Historical Navigation: Sextant, Astrolabe, Octant, and Marine Chronometers
- Calculating Celestial Position: Observation Methods, Error Correction, and Atmospheric Adjustments
- Integration of Celestial Navigation into Cartography: Evolution of Maps, Projections, and Geographic Accuracy
- Analysis of the Great Expeditions: Technical Contributions to Navigation and Cartography by Explorers such as Magellan, Cook, and Vasco da Gama
- Advanced Techniques for Deciphering and Using Historical Nautical Charts: Symbols, Scales, and Cartographic Resources
- Impact of the Scientific Revolution on Navigation: Transition from the Empirical Method to the Use of Scientific Instruments
- Practical Application: Development of Navigational Routes Based on Observations Astronomical and historical cartographic data
Detailed study of the integration between astronomical instruments and cartographic tools in the planning of transoceanic expeditions
Final project: development of an integrative project that simulates the planning and execution of a historical expedition applying advanced techniques of astronomical navigation and precise cartographic representation
Career prospects
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- Archivist/Documentarian: Management and preservation of historical archives related to navigation and expeditions.
- Researcher/Historian: Development of research projects in universities, research centers, or cultural institutions.
- Lecturer/Professor: Teaching at university or vocational training levels on maritime history and exploration.
- Maritime Heritage Manager: Conservation and promotion of cultural heritage related to navigation in museums, historical sites, or public entities.
- Historical Consultant/Advisor: Participation in outreach projects, audiovisual production, or tourism development related to the history of navigation.
- Cultural Manager: Design and organization of exhibitions, events, and cultural activities on maritime and historical themes.
- Editor/Communicator Scientist: Writing and editing books, articles, and digital content on the history of navigation and expeditions.
Museum/Interpretation Center Technician: Designing museum displays, managing collections, and providing visitor services in spaces dedicated to maritime history.
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Entry requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Bachelor’s degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering or a related qualification; or proven professional experience on the bridge/in operations.
Language proficiency:
Functional Maritime English (SMCP) recommended for simulations and technical materials.
Documentation:
Updated CV, copy of qualification or seaman’s book, national ID/passport, motivation letter.
Technical requirements (for online):
Device with camera/microphone, stable internet connection, monitor ≥ 24” recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admissions process and dates
Online
application
(form + documents).
Academic review and interview
Admissions decision
Admissions decision
(+ scholarship offer if applicable).
Place reservation
(deposit) and enrolment.
Induction
(access to the virtual campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and financial support
- Master maritime history: From the earliest explorations to the Age of Discovery.
- In-depth expedition analysis: Study the strategies, challenges, and consequences of the most important voyages.
- Social and economic context: Understand the influence of navigation on global development.
- Research and primary sources: Learn to analyze historical documents and artifacts.
- Multidisciplinary perspectives: Integrate knowledge of geography, cartography, and naval archaeology.
Testimonials
This master’s degree provided me with a solid foundation for my current work researching 16th-century maritime trade routes. The analytical skills and specialized knowledge of historical cartography that I acquired were fundamental to deciphering original documents and reconstructing the complex exchange networks of the period. Thanks to the training I received, I have been able to publish my first article in a prestigious academic journal and make a significant contribution to the understanding of early globalization.
The Master’s degree in Naval History and Heritage provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead an underwater archaeological recovery project. Applying the research methodologies learned during the program, we were able to document and preserve an 18th-century shipwreck of great historical value, the findings of which were published in a prestigious scientific journal and presented at an international conference. The training I received was key to the project’s success.
This master’s program provided me with the tools and specialized knowledge to publish my research on 17th-century Atlantic maritime trade routes, which was awarded the John Cabot Prize for the best maritime historical research of the year. The depth of the program and access to unique resources were fundamental to this achievement.
This master’s program provided me with the tools and in-depth knowledge necessary to publish my research on 16th-century maritime trade routes in the Mediterranean. The academic rigor of the program and access to previously unpublished primary sources were key to the success of my work, which has been recognized by the international academic community.
Frequently asked questions
The history of navigation and expeditions.
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 covers both aspects, naval technology and exploration voyages, as they are interdependent.
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.
- Fundamentals of Celestial Navigation: History, Principles, and Classical Tools
- Precision Instruments in Historical Navigation: Sextant, Astrolabe, Octant, and Marine Chronometers
- Calculating Celestial Position: Observation Methods, Error Correction, and Atmospheric Adjustments
- Integration of Celestial Navigation into Cartography: Evolution of Maps, Projections, and Geographic Accuracy
- Analysis of the Great Expeditions: Technical Contributions to Navigation and Cartography by Explorers such as Magellan, Cook, and Vasco da Gama
- Advanced Techniques for Deciphering and Using Historical Nautical Charts: Symbols, Scales, and Cartographic Resources
- Impact of the Scientific Revolution on Navigation: Transition from the Empirical Method to the Use of Scientific Instruments
- Practical Application: Development of Navigational Routes Based on Observations Astronomical and historical cartographic data
Detailed study of the integration between astronomical instruments and cartographic tools in the planning of transoceanic expeditions
Final project: development of an integrative project that simulates the planning and execution of a historical expedition applying advanced techniques of astronomical navigation and precise cartographic representation
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.