Master’s degree1,500 h · Online · 11 modules

Master's in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology

This master's offers an in-depth study of the history of naval warfare and maritime trade combined with the latest techniques for exploring and conserving submerged heritage. You will learn to read historical sources and ship typologies alongside the material evidence of shipwrecks, to survey and document underwater sites with geophysical and 3D methods, to conserve and restore recovered artifacts and to manage, protect and present naval heritage to the public, with a rigorous, interdisciplinary research approach.

Duration1,500 h

ModeOnline

Start1 December

Modules11

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About the program

What is the Master's in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology?

This master's connects naval history and underwater archaeology around the study of historic ships and wrecks. You will study historical and archival research methods, source criticism and the classification of ship typologies from sail to steam and motor; historical nautical cartography and its georeferencing; geophysical survey with multibeam and side-scan sonar, magnetometers, sub-bottom profilers and underwater LIDAR; ROVs and AUVs; underwater photogrammetry, laser scanning, GIS and 3D reconstruction of ships and sites; scientific diving protocols; degradation processes and in situ and laboratory conservation of wood, metals, ceramics and organic materials; digital conservation and AI-based monitoring; and the 2001 UNESCO Convention, protection against looting, underwater archaeological parks and site management plans.

What sets this master's apart: it uses the wreck as a historical document, reconstructing naval events, trade routes and shipbuilding traditions by combining archival evidence and old charts with geophysical and photogrammetric data; it gives specific weight to ship typologies and to 3D digital reconstruction of vessels and their context for scientific interpretation and museum use; it covers the full chain from survey and excavation to conservation, digital archiving, legislation and public presentation through museums, virtual reality and underwater cultural tourism; and it closes with a Final Project that integrates innovative technologies for the management, conservation and enhancement of naval and underwater archaeological heritage.

Program typeMaster’s degree

ModeOnline

Duration1,500 hours

Modules11

Start1 December

Program highlights

Historical and archival research, source criticism and classification of historic ship typologies.
Historical nautical cartography, georeferencing and overlay of old charts with modern geophysical data.
Geophysical and geomatic survey: multibeam and side-scan sonar, magnetometry, sub-bottom profiling, LIDAR, ROVs and AUVs.
Underwater photogrammetry, laser scanning, GIS and 3D reconstruction of ships and submerged contexts.
Conservation of wood, metals and ceramics, digital conservation, UNESCO 2001 and site management plans.
Final Project: integration of innovative technologies to manage, conserve and present naval and underwater heritage.

Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Advanced exploration and documentation techniques in underwater archaeology applied to historic ships

1.1. Foundations of underwater survey: geophysical and acoustic analysis applied to historical contexts
1.2. Advanced instrumentation: multifrequency echo sounders, underwater LIDAR and magnetometry for accurate detection of naval artifacts and structures
1.3. Three-dimensional mapping methods: underwater photogrammetry and 3D laser scanning for the digital reconstruction of sunken ships
1.4. International rules and ethical protocols for intervention and documentation at historic underwater sites
1.5. Scientific planning of archaeological campaigns: risk assessment, permits, logistics and interinstitutional coordination
1.6. Sedimentation processes and in situ conservation: identification of environmental conditions and biofouling for structural preservation
1.7. Metadata and document management systems: standards for cataloging, storing and sharing underwater archaeological data
1.8. Advanced safe diving techniques and team management in low-visibility environments and complex currents
1.9. Integration of autonomous underwater drones and ROVs for thorough exploration of inaccessible areas and continuous monitoring
1.10. Interpretation of finds: interdisciplinary analysis supported by artificial intelligence and big data for historical and cultural contextualization

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 2

Comprehensive analysis of naval heritage: scientific techniques for the conservation and restoration of historic submerged remains

2.1. Foundations of submerged naval heritage: definition, types and classification of underwater archaeological remains
2.2. Scientific methods for survey and documentation: topographic analysis, underwater photogrammetry and 3D scanning of historic naval sites
2.3. Degradation mechanisms in aquatic environments: electrochemical processes, biofouling, microbiological corrosion and physical and chemical environmental factors
2.4. Materials and composition of naval artifacts: metallurgical, ceramic, organic and synthetic materials in submerged archaeological contexts
2.5. Advanced in situ and ex situ conservation: stabilization, desalination, consolidation and preventive protection of ship structures and artifacts
2.6. Specialized restoration: scientific protocols for treating ship timber, ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ceramics and recovered glass
2.7. Applied scientific instrumentation: spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance and microscopy to diagnose condition
2.8. Legal dynamics and international rules: UNESCO, the Hague Conventions and national legislation on the management, custody and protection of submerged naval heritage
2.9. Design and execution of comprehensive heritage management plans: impact assessment, human and natural risks and sustainable mitigation strategies
2.10. Geospatial technologies and GIS for continuous monitoring and spatial analysis of underwater sites and their long-term conservation

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 3

Advanced methods for the exploration, documentation and conservation of historic naval remains in underwater environments

3.1. Foundations of underwater archaeology: theoretical principles, field techniques and international rules applicable to the exploration of historic naval remains
3.2. Advanced survey methods: magnetometry, multibeam acoustic sounding and geophysical techniques to detect and delimit underwater sites
3.3. Comprehensive planning of underwater campaigns: objectives, risk analysis, operational logistics and interdisciplinary coordination
3.4. Safe diving and access techniques: scientific diving protocols, breathing gas mixtures and time management to protect both the site and the researcher
3.5. Advanced digital documentation: underwater photogrammetry, 3D scanning, virtual modeling and GIS for mapping naval remains
3.6. In situ conservation of artifacts: condition assessment and chemical and physical stabilization techniques to minimize degradation in marine environments
3.7. Controlled recovery procedures: technical criteria for lifting, packing and specialized transport of underwater archaeological material
3.8. Post-recovery restoration: decontamination, consolidation and long-term conservation of organic and inorganic materials from the underwater environment
3.9. Documentary records and scientific reports: international standards, presentation rules and dissemination of underwater naval heritage
3.10. Ethics and law in underwater archaeology: permit management, international maritime law and protection of submerged cultural heritage

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 4

Historical and archival research, ship typologies and 3D digital reconstruction of vessels and underwater contexts for scientific and museum interpretation

4.1. Foundations of historical and archival research applied to naval history: primary and secondary sources, source criticism and validation methods
4.2. Advanced methods to identify and classify historic vessels by type: structural features, technological evolution and operational function
4.3. Detailed study of classical and modern ship typologies: from sailing ships to motor vessels and military, merchant and exploration craft
4.4. 3D digital reconstruction techniques: specialized software, archaeological data processing and parametric modeling of vessels and underwater environments
4.5. Integration of underwater surveys and scans with virtual modeling: photogrammetry, multibeam sonar and LIDAR to produce accurate, detailed representations
4.6. Geographic information systems (GIS) in underwater archaeology: georeferencing, spatial analysis and contextual reconstruction in digital maps
4.7. Scientific interpretation of 3D digital models for structural, functional and environmental analysis of submerged naval remains
4.8. Development of digital museum resources: virtual environments, augmented reality and interactive tours for science outreach and public education
4.9. Documentation, digital preservation and archival protocols for naval archaeology projects: international standards and specialized metadata
4.10. Practical case studies: full reconstruction of landmark historic vessels and their environmental and cultural context for scientific and museum purposes

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 5

Geophysical and geomatic survey technologies applied to underwater archaeology and historical naval cartography

5.1. Foundations of geophysics applied to underwater archaeology: physical principles, material properties and their response in aquatic media
5.2. Geophysical survey instrumentation: magnetometers, multibeam sonar, sub-bottom profilers, gravimeters and underwater LIDAR, with their technical features, advantages and limitations
5.3. Geophysical data acquisition methods: campaign planning, equipment calibration and design of grids and transects for maximum coverage and resolution
5.4. Advanced signal processing: filtering, noise correction, interpolation, spectral analysis and generation of three-dimensional seabed models
5.5. Geomatic systems in underwater archaeology: digital cartography, geographic information systems (GIS) and specialized spatial databases
5.6. Integration of geophysical and geomatic data for archaeological interpretation: identification of man-made structures, location of naval remains and contextual analysis
5.7. Historical naval cartography: analysis of old charts and georeferencing and digitization of historical plans for overlay with modern geophysical data
5.8. Remote sensing in the marine environment: satellite imagery, underwater drones and unmanned underwater vehicles (AUV/ROV) in archaeological exploration
5.9. Scientific documentation protocols: technical reports, digital seabed models, thematic maps and international presentation standards
5.10. Regulatory and ethical aspects of underwater geophysical survey: international legislation, conservation of submerged cultural heritage and interdisciplinary collaboration

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 6

Innovative techniques for the exploration, documentation and conservation of historic naval heritage in underwater environments

6.1. Technical foundations of underwater archaeology: specific methods for the identification, excavation and in situ preservation of historic naval heritage
6.2. Innovations in underwater exploration technology: advanced multibeam systems, digital photogrammetry and side-scan sonar for high-resolution mapping
6.3. Autonomous vehicles and ROVs (remotely operated vehicles) for inspection and documentation of underwater sites
6.4. Recording and documentation techniques: 3D models, precise georeferencing and GIS applied to submerged naval remains
6.5. Advanced protocols for preventive conservation and laboratory restoration of recovered naval artifacts, focusing on chemical and biological deterioration specific to marine environments
6.6. International rules and legal frameworks for the protection of underwater naval heritage: the UNESCO Convention, national legislation and their practical application in archaeological projects
6.7. Interdisciplinary analysis: integration of historical, cartographic and oceanographic data to contextualize finds and build accurate chronologies
6.8. Sustainable management and professional ethics in exploring submerged heritage: strategies to minimize environmental impact and ensure long-term conservation
6.9. Landmark case studies and recent advances in naval archaeology worldwide: innovative methods and scientific results
6.10. Development of research proposals and projects for the management and dissemination of historic underwater naval heritage using emerging technologies and interdisciplinary methods

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 7

Multidisciplinary techniques for the exploration, documentation and conservation of underwater naval and civil heritage

7.1. Foundations of underwater exploration: multidisciplinary methods and international protocols for researching naval sites
7.2. Advanced detection technologies: multibeam sonar, magnetometers, underwater LIDAR and autonomous vehicles (AUV/ROV) in archaeological survey
7.3. Underwater mapping and georeferencing: integration of GIS, differential GPS and 3D mapping for accurate documentation of submerged structures
7.4. Scientific diving methods: technical dive planning, safety protocols, decontamination and equipment handling for underwater archaeologists
7.5. In situ recording and conservation: advanced digital photography, photogrammetry, underwater laser scanning and three-dimensional modeling of naval heritage
7.6. Conservation materials and techniques: chemical and biological analysis to stabilize and preserve metal, organic and ceramic remains in marine environments
7.7. Management of underwater cultural heritage: legal applications, UNESCO rules and international policies for the protection and custody of naval heritage
7.8. Historical and archaeological interpretation: contextual analysis, shipwreck typologies and interdisciplinary study of remains to reconstruct naval events
7.9. Databases and digital systems to manage and share the knowledge generated in archaeological explorations and campaigns
7.10. Research projects and case studies: design, execution, critical evaluation and scientific publication in underwater archaeology and naval heritage

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 8

Integrated strategies for advanced digital restoration and conservation in underwater naval archaeology

8.1. Theoretical foundations of restoration and digital conservation in underwater contexts: applied physical, chemical and biological principles
8.2. Advanced 3D digital documentation: photogrammetry, underwater laser scanning and multispectral mapping of naval artifacts
8.3. Processing and analysis of digital data: specialized software for virtual reconstruction, modeling and interactive simulations
8.4. Integrated consolidation and digital stabilization strategies for archaeological materials: protocols to protect submerged metal, ceramic and wooden structures
8.5. Non-invasive technologies for continuous condition monitoring: remote sensors, hydroacoustics and hyperspectral imaging
8.6. International rules for the digital conservation of underwater heritage: UNESCO, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the guidelines of the UNESCO Convention on Underwater Cultural Heritage
8.7. Design and implementation of secure databases and digital archives to store and manage naval archaeological information
8.8. Artificial intelligence and machine learning for automatic detection of deterioration and risk prediction in underwater contexts
8.9. Case studies: successful applications of advanced digital conservation to landmark shipwrecks and related museum collections
8.10. Planning and execution of multidisciplinary digital restoration projects: coordination between archaeologists, conservators, engineers and computer science specialists

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 9

Advanced techniques for the exploration, documentation and conservation of historic naval remains in underwater environments

9.1. Foundations of underwater archaeology: history, evolution and scientific principles applied to naval exploration
9.2. Advanced diving techniques and safety protocols for archaeological divers in highly complex environments
9.3. Underwater geophysical survey methods: multibeam sounding, magnetometry, underwater LIDAR and side-scan sonar
9.4. Comprehensive planning of underwater archaeological campaigns: risk assessment, permits and interinstitutional coordination
9.5. Three-dimensional documentation and underwater photogrammetry: design, capture and digital processing of naval remains and structures
9.6. GIS mapping and 3D modeling for the reconstruction and interpretation of wrecks and submerged artifacts
9.7. In situ preventive conservation: stabilization techniques, biofouling control and continuous environmental monitoring
9.8. Post-excavation laboratory treatments: metallurgical analysis, restoration of ship timber and conservation of ceramics and organic materials
9.9. International rules and professional ethics in the management and protection of submerged naval heritage: UNESCO, the Hague Convention and national legislation
9.10. Preparation of scientific technical reports: quality standards, graphic documentation and multidisciplinary communication for outreach and cultural management

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 10

Legislation, management and public outreach of underwater archaeological heritage

10.1. The 2001 UNESCO Convention
10.2. National legislation on underwater heritage
10.3. Looting and the legal protection of wrecks
10.4. Underwater archaeological maps
10.5. In situ management versus recovery
10.6. Underwater archaeological parks
10.7. Museum display and interpretation centers
10.8. Outreach and virtual reality
10.9. Underwater cultural tourism
10.10. Management plan for a site

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 11

Final Project

11.1. Foundations of emerging technologies in underwater archaeology: artificial intelligence, machine learning and big data analysis applied to research and conservation
11.2. Advanced geolocation systems: differential GNSS, multifrequency sonar and underwater LiDAR for high-resolution mapping of naval heritage
11.3. Integration of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs): planning, deployment and data collection for detailed archaeological survey
11.4. Digital processing of archaeological data: 3D photogrammetry, volumetric modeling and augmented reality for the virtual reconstruction of submerged sites and artifacts
11.5. Computer management systems for preventive conservation: georeferenced databases, documentary records and predictive analysis of environmental risks
11.6. Innovative protocols for intervention at underwater sites: non-invasive methods, controlled sampling techniques and collaborative management with local communities and international bodies
11.7. Legal and regulatory frameworks for the use of technology in preserving naval heritage: international rules, maritime legislation and ethical standards in digital underwater archaeology
11.8. Outreach and enhancement strategies through virtual platforms: interactive exhibitions, educational applications and sustainable cultural tourism supported by technology
11.9. Real-time monitoring of environmental and human pressures: integrated sensors to track corrosion and sedimentation and protect against illicit activities
11.10. Advanced case studies: critical analysis of multidisciplinary projects that have integrated innovative technologies for the comprehensive management of underwater naval heritage, including results, challenges and lessons learned

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology

It is 1,500 hours. Tell us how many you can study each week and we will tell you when you will really finish.

Hours per week

4 h30 h

With 12 h per week

months to finish

125 weeks

weeks in total

This is the pace at which most students finish. It fits well with the installment plan.

Faculty

Academic leadership and faculty

The Navalis teaching team: working professionals who teach and supervise the programs.

Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic Director and Head of Quality Assurance

Eng. Diego CifuentesSenior Lecturer in Naval Welding and Non-Destructive Testing; Head of QA/QC for Welded Joints

Capt. Javier Abaroa (MCA)Senior Lecturer in Ship Handling, Electronic Navigation (ECDIS/Radar/ARPA) and GMDSS; STCW Compliance and Bridge Resource Management Coordinator

Dr. Pau FerrerSenior Lecturer in Naval Architecture and Simulation; Director of the Hydrodynamics and CFD Laboratory

Dr. Nuria LlobregatSenior Lecturer in Marine Meteorology, SAR and Operational Safety; Navigation Risk Management Coordinator

Eng. Javier BañulsSenior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering, Automation and ETO Engineering; Electronic Integration and Engine Alarms Coordinator

Eng. Sofía MarquinaSenior Lecturer in Materials, Composites and Corrosion Protection; Coordinator of the Advanced Paints and Coatings Line

Eng. Tomás RieraSenior Lecturer in Propulsion, Alternative Energy and Hybrid Systems; Energy Performance and Vibration Coordinator

Objectives

Objectives of the Master's in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology

01Lead innovative maritime research, developing and validating research methods that integrate emerging technologies and advanced data analysis.

02Conserve and share submerged naval heritage by documenting, researching and protecting wreck sites to preserve maritime history and raise awareness of their cultural and scientific value.

03Critically analyze the evolution of naval warfare, understanding the technological, strategic and geopolitical changes that have shaped combat at sea and their influence on later doctrines and capabilities.

04Manage underwater archaeology projects with scientific rigor, using standardized research methods, thorough documentation and careful data analysis.

05Reconstruct historical contexts through the analysis of naval artifacts, identifying the technological, socioeconomic and cultural evolution reflected in the design, construction and use of ships.

06Assess the socioeconomic impact of past maritime activities and how the evolution of the maritime industry has shaped coastal communities, economies and cultures.

Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology

01Underwater cultural heritage managercataloging, conservation and outreach for submerged archaeological remains.

02Underwater archaeologistresearch, excavation and analysis of archaeological sites in aquatic environments.

03Naval historianresearch and dissemination of maritime, naval and navigation history.

04Archaeological impact consultant for marine engineering and construction projectsassessment and risk management in coastal and subsea projects.

05Museum and interpretation center specialistexhibitions and educational activities on naval history and underwater archaeology.

06Science communicatorarticles, documentaries and books on naval history and underwater heritage.

Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Naval History and Underwater Archaeology

Naval history and underwater archaeology, studied together: the history of ships, naval warfare and maritime trade read through both historical sources and the material evidence of wrecks.

Yes. Archival research, ship typologies and historical cartography are integrated with geophysical survey, photogrammetry, excavation methods, conservation and site management.

No. Diving experience is useful, and the program covers scientific diving protocols, but much of the work involves survey data, documentation, 3D modeling, conservation and research that do not require diving.

No. Navalis teaches the methods and safety protocols of scientific diving as part of the subject, but diving qualifications are issued by the competent certifying bodies.

Multibeam and side-scan sonar, magnetometers, sub-bottom profilers, underwater LIDAR, ROVs and AUVs, photogrammetry, laser scanning, GIS, 3D modeling software and AI tools for monitoring.

Online, with digital resources available at any time and personalized tutoring.

Through case studies, documentation and modeling exercises and reports in each module, plus a Final Project that integrates innovative technologies for the management and enhancement of naval and underwater heritage.

A Navalis Institute master's certificate and a Final Project that you can use as a professional portfolio in heritage management, research and outreach.

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Online admission

Admission process

No waiting for a call back. If your documents are in order, you can enroll in the same session.

Entry requirements

Profile: a degree in history, archaeology, anthropology or a related field, or professional experience in underwater archaeology, professional diving or maritime research.
Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
Technical resources: a computer with camera and microphone, a stable internet connection and software to view 3D models.
Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.

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