Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Masters · 1600 h · 11 modules
Master's in Green Certifications for Ships
This program prepares you to lead the transformation towards a sustainable maritime industry. Learn to implement and audit the main environmental certifications (ISO 14001, Green Award, EEDI, SEEMP), master emissions reduction…
Duration1600 h
FormatOnline
Starts30 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Master’s in Green Certifications for Ships?
The Master in Green Certifications for Ships
This program prepares you to lead the transformation towards a sustainable maritime industry. Learn to implement and audit the main environmental certifications (ISO 14001, Green Award, EEDI, SEEMP), master emissions reduction strategies (alternative fuels, energy efficiency), and understand the latest international legislation (IMO 2020, MRV Regulation). Become an expert in life cycle assessment (LCA) of ships and onboard waste management, boosting your company's competitiveness in an increasingly demanding market.
Differentiating Advantages
- Practical Approach: Real-world case studies and audit simulations.
- Expert Instructors: Leading professionals in maritime certifications and sustainability.
- Networking: Access to a global network of industry professionals.
- Tools and Software: Training in specialized software for the environmental management of ships.
- Technical Visits: To ports and facilities with environmental certification.
Programme type
Master's Degree
Study mode
Online
Duration
1,600 hours
Modules
11
Start date
05-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Specialization: Become an expert in ship sustainability assessment and certification, leading the transition to a greener maritime industry.
- Advanced Regulations: Master the latest international regulations and standards on energy efficiency, emissions, and marine environmental management.
- Tools and Methodologies: Learn to apply specialized calculation tools and software for ship environmental impact assessment and performance optimization.
- Case Studies: Participate in real-world projects and case studies that will allow you to apply your acquired knowledge and develop practical skills for ship certification.
- Networking: Connect with maritime industry professionals, sustainability experts, and representatives from certification bodies to expand your professional network.
- Boost your career in the maritime sector with a focus on sustainability and green certifications.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 11 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
International regulatory framework, climate governance and regulatory IMO/IMO
- IMO Strategy for the Reduction of GHG Emissions: Decarbonisation Targets by 2030, 2040 and Zero Net Emissions by 2050
- MARPOL Convention - Annex VI: Regulations for the prevention of air pollution by ships and ECA/Dry zones
- The European Union's "Fit for 55" package: impact of Community legislation on global maritime transport
- Inclusion of the maritime sector in the trading regime with emission rights (EU ETS): Calculation of rights, purchase of emission rights and allocation of costs
- Fueleu Maritime Regulation: Limits to the intensity of greenhouse gases of energy used on board and penalties for non-compliance
- Ballast Water Management Convention (BWM Convention): D-1 and D-2 standards, Approval of Treatment Systems (BWTS) and Compliance Sampling
- Hong Kong Convention and EU Regulation on Ship Recycling: Hazardous Materials Inventory (HYM) and Green Scrapping in Authorized Shipyards
- Regulations on anti-fouling systems (AFS Convention): Restrictions on biocides, organo-stancs, cyprotrin and new control amendments
- Regional Governance and Emission Control Zones (NECA/SOX ECA): Operation in the North Sea, Baltic, Mediterranean and North American Coasts
- Due Diligence Directives and Sustainability Report (CSRD) applied to ShipOwners: Impact of the European Taxonomy on the World Fleet
02
Energy Efficiency Indices, Carbon Intensity and Emission Monitoring
- Technical Index of Energy Efficiency for New Vessels (EEDI): Calculation, application phases and reduction requirements by type of ship
- Existing Vessel Energy Efficiency Index (EEXI): Calculation Methodologies, Technical Approval and Compliance Options (EPL/JPL)
- Operational Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII): Determination of reference value, annual reduction factor and A-E classifications
- Vessel Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP): Development of Parts I, II and III, Internal Audits and Corrective Action Plans for IIC D/E ratings
- IMO fuel consumption data collection system (IMO DCS): reporting obligations, verification by recognized bodies and certificate of compliance
- EU Monitoring, Reporting and Verification Mechanism (EU MRV): Monitoring Plan, Emissions Reporting and Annual Data Aggregation
- Instrumentation and telemetry for direct measurement of emissions: mass flowmetres, continuous exhaust gas analysers (CEMS) and torque monitoring in axle
- Normalization of operating data: correction for sea conditions, wind, fouling of the hull and Draught in the calculation of energy performance
- Technical Verification by Classification and Inspection Companies PSC: Port State Control Criteria with respect to EEXI, CII and Registry Books
- Digital tools and emission management software: integration of on-board IoT platforms with ground fleet control centres
03
Sustainable propulsion technologies and energy efficiency in the hull
- Hull hydrodynamic optimisation: advanced water lines, CFD-optimised bulbs, and high-efficiency governance appendices
- Assisted Wind Power Systems (WASP): Flettner rotors, rigid sails, traction kites (kites) and their impact on fuel consumption
- Air Lubrication Systems - ALS: Injection of microbubbles in the flat bottom of the hull and reduction of frictional friction
- High-performance anti-fouling coatings: low surface energy silicone paints, fluoropolymers and scale-release nanotechnology
- Maintenance and cleaning of the underwater hull: in-site cleaning robots (ROVs), effluent capture and biofouling management to reduce drag
- Residual heat recovery systems (WHRS): exhausted gas turbines, organic Rankine cycles (ORC) and thermal use for auxiliary services
- Optimisation of propellers and flow improver devices: ESD nozzles, pre-swirl fins, rudder bulb with fins and shovel cuts to mitigate cavitation
- Optimised speed and navigation management (Eco-Speed & Just-in-Time): Slow Steaming, Acceleration Profiles and Efficient Mooring
- Electrification of auxiliary services and hybridization of motors: permanent magnet motors, variable frequency drives (VFD) and reduction of electrical loads in port
- Retrofitting vs. Ships of new design: technical feasibility analysis, spatial integration of equipment and time of amortization of green modifications
04
Alternative fuels, energy vectors and carbon capture technologies
- Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Biomethane (LBG): Supply Chain, Dual Engines, Methane Leaks (Methane Slip) and SOX/NOx Reduction
- Liquefied petroleum gases (LPG) and green methanol: adaptation of two-stroke engines, low flash point storage and tank design
- Green ammonia ($NH_3) as a marine fuel: Toxicity, leakage mitigation systems, material corrosion and marine engine development Dedicated/Dual
- Green hydrogen ($H_2) Gas and liquid: cryogenics, high pressure storage, fuel cells (PEMFC, SOFC) and explosion safety
- Marine biofuels (FAME, HVO): Drop-in mixtures (B20-B100), storage stability, elastomer compatibility and impact on NOx emissions
- On-board carbon capture and storage technologies (OCCS): Chemical absorption with amines, liquefaction of $CO_2$, port storage and unloading tanks
- Exhaust gas treatment systems (scrubbers): open, closed and hybrid loop washers; Effluent management and regional download restrictions
- Selective Catalytic Reduction Systems (SCR) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR): MARPOL Level III Compliance for NOx Emissions
- Safety in the handling of low flash point fuels: IGF code, ATEX zoning, forced ventilation and fire-fighting installations specific
- Well-to-wake well-to-wake analysis: Calculation of fossil fuel life cycle emissions, synthetic e-fuels and renewables
05
Green Port Infrastructure, Electrical Grounding (PAHO) and Bunker Logistics
- Power Supply - PAHO / COLD IRONING (Onshore Power Supply): Standardization ISO/IEC/IEEE 80005 and Auxiliary shutdown in Port
- Power quality and synchronisation in OPS: Insulation transformers, 50Hz/60Hz frequency converters and connection automation
- Alternative Fuel Supplying Infrastructure (Bunkering): Bunker Ship-to-Ship Operations (STS), Truck-to-Ship (TTS) and Terminal-to-Ship
- Risk assessment in green bunkering operations: Hazid/Hazop methodologies, exclusion zones and simulation of gas leaks or ammonia
- Green Ports and Rate Incentive Schemes: Green Award, World Ports Climate Environmental Index (ESI) and Low Emissions Bonuses
- Port Waste Management and Reception Facilities (MARPOL): Delivery of MARPOL I to VI, Digitization of the Delivery Receipt and Circular Economy Port
- Decarbonisation of the port terminal machinery: electrification of STS/RTG cranes, eco-friendly autonomous vehicles and storage with thermal/electric batteries
- Digitization of the ship-port interface: Port Call Optimisation Systems, Electronic Data Interchange (FAL IMO) and Decrease of Wait Times in the anchorage
- Hydrogen recharging logistics and battery stations for ships of internal navigation and cabotage - change systems of battery containers (swapping)
- Climate change adaptation plans for port infrastructures: coastal protection, resilience to sea level rise and extreme weather events
06
Eco-Marine Labels, Green Class Notations and Voluntary Standards
- Classifications of Green Classification Companies: DNV Certifications (Clean/Silent), Bureau Veritas (Cleanship), Lloyd's Register and ABS
- The Maritime Environmental Index (Environmental Ship Index - ESI): Scoring Methodology for SOX, NOx, $CO_2$ and Grounding OPS
- Green Award certification for ships and shipowners: office and ship audit requirements, environmental safety criteria and commercial benefits
- Clean Shipping Index (CSI) certification programmes: Comprehensive impact assessment (emissions, chemicals, ballast water and waste)
- Poseidon Principles (Poseidon Principles): Framework for financial evaluation of bank loans aligned with the climate objectives of the IMO
- Sea Cargo Charter Initiative: Evaluation and reporting of climate alignment in chartering contracts by world chargers
- Class notations for acoustic signature and water-radiated noise (URN): Impact of underwater noise on marine fauna and mitigation techniques in propeller and machinery
- Alternative Fuel Preparation Notation (Fuel Ready): Ammonia-Ready, LNG-Ready and Methanol-Ready Certifications in New Constructions
- Vessel Ecological Passports and Hazardous Materials Inventory (IHM): Maintenance of Part I of the IHM throughout the life of the vessel
- Green Certification Audits: Preparation of onboard documentation, technical inspection and periodic renewal of accreditations
07
Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), Circular Economy and Sustainable Materials
- Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) methodology according to ISO 14040/14044: Application to the construction, operation and recycling of ships
- Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) for Marine Components: Impact Assessment of Engines, Paints, Steel and Auxiliary Systems
- Shipbuilding carbon footprint: energy consumption in Shipyard, origin of steel (green/hydrogen steel) and low consumption welding processes
- Bio-based materials and advanced compounds in naval architecture: use of natural fibres, recyclable resins and structural weight reduction
- Design for recycling oriented vessels: Selection of traceable materials, minimisation of toxics and ease of disassembly
- Management of the circular economy on board: minimisation of single-use plastics, waste compaction, crushing and management of used oils
- Environmental Toxicity Assessment of Operating Supplies: Analysis of Biodegradability of Horn Tube, Deck Greases and Detergents
- Reuse and remanufacturing of large mechanical components: re-agreement of pistons, jackets, turbochargers and their certification by class
- Treatment of effluents and grey water/black Advanced: Membrane bioreactors (MBR), advanced oxidation and compliance with MARPOL Annex IV in special areas
- Water footprint quantification in fleet operation: optimisation of seawater desalination plants (evaporators/osmosis)
08
Environmental management systems (ISO 14001, ISO 50001) and ISM code green
- ISO 14001:2015 Implementation of Standards in Shipping Companies and Vessels - Identification of Significant Environmental Aspects and Operational Control
- ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management Systems: Energy Review, Consumption Baselines (ENB) and Energy Performance Indicators (ENPI)
- Integration of environmental objectives in the International Security Management Code (ISM Code): The Environmental Security and Protection Management System (SMS)
- Internal and external environmental audits: audit techniques in the shipping company and on board, management of non-conformities and corrective action plans
- Management of environmental risks and incidents due to pollution: Emergency plans on board due to hydrocarbon contamination (SOPEP/SMPEP) and simulation of discharges
- Leadership, green culture and crew training: training in ecological driving (eco-driving), environmental awareness and human factor in decarbonisation
- Supplier monitoring and green supply chain integration: Sustainable purchase criteria for supplies, spare parts and maintenance services
- Maritime Sustainability Reports According to GRI and SASB standards: Environmental, Social and Governance Metrics (ESG) for companies in the maritime sector
- Digitization of on-board environmental documentation: paper removal, electronic record books (ORB, GRB, Cargo Record Book) approved by the Administration
- Management review and continuous improvement of environmental performance: Evaluation of compliance with emission reduction targets and SMS adjustment
09
Green Finance, EU Taxonomy and Business Models for Energy Transition
- European Union sustainability taxonomy: technical review criteria for the maritime transport of goods and passengers
- Green bonds and bonds linked to sustainability (SLBs) in the maritime sector: structuring of debt emissions for the financing of zero-emission ships
- Asset Assets and Risk of Technological Obsolescence (Stranded Assets): Impact of IIC/EEXI ratings on the market value of ships
- Financing models for decarbonisation projects (Green Ship Finance): structured leasing, export credit (ECA) and public subsidies (EU Innovation Fund)
- Ecological chartering contracts (Green CharterParties): BIMCO clauses for EEXI, CII, EU ETS and cost-sharing efficiency between charterer and shipowner
- Calculation of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for Zero Emissions Vessels: Comparative Analysis of CAPEX and OPEX considering the price of the new e-Fuels and Carbon Penalties
- Carbon pricing mechanisms and impact freight rates: Carbon surcharge modelling (ETS Surcharges) and impact on global logistics chains
- Alternative Fuels Purchase Hedge Strategies: Long Term Contracts (Offtake Agreements), Swap Options, and Markets
- Insurance of advanced technology vessels: P&I risk subscription and hull for ships powered by ammonia, hydrogen, batteries or rigid sailing
- Entrepreneurship and innovation in the green maritime ecosystem: startup accelerators, impact technologies and new AS-A-Service business models (eg power-by-the-hour at WASP)
10
Capstone Project: Master Plan for Decarbonisation, Energy Transition and Green Fleet Certification
- Selection and characterisation of the study fleet: definition of the type of ships (eg container ships, Bulker, Tanker, Ro-Ro), Trade routes and fuel consumption history
- Initial Energy Audit and Fleet Compliance Diagnosis: Calculation of the EEDI/EEXI Baseline, IIC Path Estimation for the Next 5 Years and Balance EU ETS / Fueleu Maritime
- Selection of the technological combination of efficiency and retrofit: technical evaluation by CFD/simulation of the implementation of WASP, ALS, silicone coatings and WHRS
- Conversion feasibility study or use of alternative fuels: Selection of the energy vector (methanol, ammonia, LNG/LBG, HVO) according to bunker availability on the chosen routes and safety design (IGF code)
- Formulation of the Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP III): detailed draughting of operational measures, annual carbon intensity targets and deviation correction plan
- Selection and processing of the green class notation and certifications: Definition of the roadmap for obtaining specific notations of class (DNV Clean / BV Cleanship / Green Award)
- Design of the Investment Plan and Financial Modelling (CAPEX/OPEX): Budget for the Technical Conversion, Estimation of Savings by Fuel, Calculation of the TCO, Amortization Analysis and Return on Investment
- Development of the integrated environmental management system (ISO 14001 / ISO 50001): design of on-board operating procedures, crew training and preparation of the environmental contingency plan
- Evaluation of impact on chartering contracts and compliance with the EU ETS: Drafting of personalised BIMCO clauses, purchase plan of emission rights and assignment of commercial surcharges
- Presentation and technical defence of the Master's project before the Court: Oral presentation of the Comprehensive Plan for Decarbonisation and Green Certification before a jury of experts from Classification Societies, Shipowners and Environmental Consultants
11
Master’s Final Project in Green Certifications for Ships
- Choice of topic and definition of the research problem
- Formulation of objectives, hypotheses and scope of work
- Review of the state of the art and specialised bibliography
- Analysis of the applicable regulatory and technical framework
- Design of the methodology and the work plan
- Data collection, processing and validation
- Technical development and analysis of results
- Discussion, conclusions and future lines of work
- Drafting of the memory in accordance with academic standards
- Presentation and public defence before the Court
Workload
Study Time and Workload
1600 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—
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Who it is for
Naval engineers and naval architects seeking to specialize in the design and construction of eco-efficient and sustainable vessels.Merchant marine officers and captains interested in implementing and managing operational practices that reduce the environmental impact of their vessels.Maritime consultants and auditors wishing to certify and verify compliance with international environmental reg
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
- 01Evaluate and select eco-efficient technologies
- 02Manage and audit environmental management systems
- 03Implement strategies for reducing polluting emissions
- 04Monitor compliance with maritime environmental regulations
- 05Design and implement onboard waste management plans
- 06Optimize the ship's energy consumption and efficiency
Careers
Career Opportunities
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02Maritime Sustainability Consultant: Advising shipping companies and shipyards on the implementation of green practices and technologies.
03Green Certification Auditor: Verifying compliance with environmental regulations on ships and in port operations.
04Maritime Eco-Innovation Project Manager: Developing and implementing projects to reduce emissions and energy consumption in the maritime sector.
05Marine Renewable Energy Specialist: Designing and installing renewable energy systems on ships (wind, solar, etc.).
06Environmental Compliance Officer in Shipping Companies: Monitoring and controlling compliance with environmental legislation in ship operations.
07Researcher in Clean Technologies for Maritime Transport: Developing new technologies to reduce the carbon footprint of shipping. Maritime.
08Onboard Waste Management Technician: Implementation of waste management and treatment systems on ships to minimize their environmental impact.
09Marine Environmental Regulations Expert: Analysis and application of international and national regulations on maritime environmental protection.
Questions
Entry Requirements
The maritime or shipping industry.
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.
Maritime sector or shipbuilding industry.
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
```htmlAcademic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Naval Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Naval Architecture, or a related maritime field; or demonstrable professional experience in shipbuilding, vessel operation, or environmental consulting.Specific Knowledge:Basic knowledge of the maritime industry, environmental regulations (IMO), energy management systems, and sustainability principles.Documentation:Updated Curriculum Vitae, copy of university degree or proof of professional experience, ID card/residence permit/Passport, cover letter explaining
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Frequently Asked Questions
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