Cybersecurity in Nautical Systems Course
Learn to protect vessel navigation, communication and control systems against cyber threats. A private online professional programme with a Navalis Institute certificate.
Prior knowledge check
These are the skills this programme gives you. Tick the ones you already master and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is for you.
You are starting from scratch in this subject. The programme is designed precisely for that.
What is the Cybersecurity in Nautical Systems Course?
This course is designed to protect vessels and maritime operations against growing digital threats. It gives you a thorough understanding of the cyber risks specific to the maritime sector, including the vulnerability of navigation systems, engine control and communications. You will learn to implement proactive security measures, to detect and respond effectively to cyber incidents, and to comply with international security regulations.
It is aimed at bridge officers, naval engineers and onboard IT staff who want to protect critical navigation and machinery systems. It is an online professional programme with an applied final project and a private Navalis Institute certificate.
Programme highlights
- Cyber risk assessment: identify and analyse the vulnerabilities in your nautical systems.
- Implementing defences: configure firewalls, intrusion detection systems and secure access policies.
- Incident response: develop a response plan for cyber attacks and minimise their impact.
- Regulatory compliance: ensure compliance with IMO regulations and other maritime security standards.
- Security awareness: train the crew in best practices to prevent cyber attacks.
- Constant updating: keep up with the latest trends and vulnerabilities for proactive, continuous protection.
Syllabus of the Cybersecurity in Nautical Systems Course
5 modules. Select a module to see its content.
Fundamentals of Cybersecurity in the Maritime Sector
- 1.1. Fundamentals of cybersecurity: definition, objectives and key principles
- 1.2. The importance of cybersecurity in the maritime sector: risks and vulnerabilities in navigation and communication systems
- 1.3. Critical infrastructure in the nautical sector: networks, control systems, automation and interconnected devices
- 1.4. Cyber threats in the maritime industry: cyber attacks, hacking of navigation systems, ransomware and malware
- 1.5. International cybersecurity regulations and standards: ISO 27001, NIST, IACS and IMO guidelines
Maritime Navigation and Communication Systems: Vulnerabilities and Protections
- 2.1. Electronic navigation systems: ECDIS, GPS, AIS, radar and their vulnerabilities to cyber attacks
- 2.2. Communication protocols in the maritime sector: VHF, GMDSS, satellites and their exposure to cyber risks
- 2.3. Security of onboard control networks: vessel control systems, automation and industrial control system (ICS) security
- 2.4. Communication protection techniques: encryption, authentication and access control in critical systems
- 2.5. Cybersecurity in satellite use: vulnerabilities in satellite communications and mitigation measures
Cybersecurity in Fleet Management and Predictive Maintenance Systems
- 3.1. Digital fleet management: interconnected platforms and systems for remote vessel management
- 3.2. Cybersecurity in vessel monitoring: vulnerability analysis of remote monitoring and fleet control systems
- 3.3. Predictive maintenance: how AI-based systems can be attacked and preventive measures
- 3.4. Risks of integrating IoT technologies on vessels: sensors, cameras and internet-connected equipment
- 3.5. Security in fleet software platforms: management platforms and the risks of storing sensitive data
Protection and Prevention Strategies in Nautical Systems
- 4.1. Strengthening cyber infrastructure: policies and best practices for protecting maritime systems
- 4.2. Password management and multi-factor authentication: best practices for access to critical onboard systems
- 4.3. Protection against malware and ransomware: tools and technologies to defend against malicious software
- 4.4. Security of remote access to vessels: VPNs, access control and auditing of remote sessions
- 4.5. Constant monitoring of networks and systems: tools for early intrusion detection and traffic analysis
Final Project and Best Practices in Nautical Cybersecurity
- 5.1. Designing a cybersecurity plan for a vessel: risk identification, preventive measures and response protocols
- 5.2. Implementing an onboard communications protection system: encryption, authentication and access control
- 5.3. Assessing onboard systems to identify critical vulnerabilities: analysis of a vessel's digital infrastructure
- 5.4. Developing a cyber attack response plan: steps to follow, response team, notification and impact mitigation
- 5.5. Final project presentation: defence of the designed cybersecurity plan and simulation of a controlled cyber attack
Duration and format of the Cybersecurity in Nautical Systems Course
It is 300 hours. Tell us how many you can study each week and we will tell you when you will really finish.
This is the pace at which most students finish. It fits well with the instalment plan.
Academic leadership and faculty
The Navalis teaching team: working professionals who teach and supervise the programmes.
Dra. Marina AlcoverAcademic Director and Head of Quality Assurance
Ing. Diego CifuentesSenior Lecturer in Naval Welding and Non-Destructive Testing; Head of QA/QC for Welded Joints
Cap. 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
Dra. Nuria LlobregatSenior Lecturer in Marine Meteorology, SAR and Operational Safety; Navigation Risk Management Coordinator
Ing. Javier BañulsSenior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering, Automation and ETO Engineering; Electronic Integration and Engine Alarms Coordinator
Ing. Sofía MarquinaSenior Lecturer in Materials, Composites and Corrosion Protection; Coordinator of the Advanced Paints and Coatings Line
Ing. Tomás RieraSenior Lecturer in Propulsion, Alternative Energy and Hybrid Systems; Energy Performance and Vibration CoordinatorObjectives of the Cybersecurity in Nautical Systems Course
Career opportunities after the Cybersecurity in Nautical Systems Course
Questions about the Cybersecurity in Nautical Systems Course
To protect the navigation, communication and control systems of vessels against cyber threats, safeguarding the crew, the cargo and the environment.
The programme covers ISO 27001, NIST, IACS and IMO guidelines, together with international cybersecurity best practices applicable to the maritime sector.
Online with live sessions; a hybrid option is available for practical placements through agreements.
For example, denial-of-service (DoS) attacks aimed at navigation and communication systems, which can disrupt operations and endanger the safety of the vessel.
ECDIS, GPS, AIS, radar, VHF, GMDSS, satellite communications, onboard control networks (ICS), fleet management platforms and IoT devices.
Yes, if you hold a related qualification or professional experience in IT security, nautical systems or maritime or port operations. The admission interview will confirm the fit.
No. The programme is studied entirely online and does not include work placements; Navalis Institute does not arrange internships or jobs.
Through practical exercises, short tests and an applied final project in which you design a cybersecurity plan for a vessel.
More programmes in Bridge and navigation
Admission process
No waiting for a call back. If your documents are in order, you can enrol in the same session.
- Profile: a qualification in Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, Cybersecurity, Nautical Science/Maritime Transport or a related field, or proven professional experience in IT security, nautical systems or related areas; basic knowledge of networks, operating systems and the architecture of nautical systems (ECDIS, radar, AIS) is recommended.
- Language: sufficient command of the language of instruction; basic technical English is recommended.
- Technical resources: a computer with camera and microphone, a high-speed internet connection and up-to-date videoconferencing software.
- Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.
- 01ApplicationYour details, background and documents.
- 02Instant reviewWe check that everything is complete and in order.
- 03EnrolmentChoose full payment or instalments and reserve your place.
Admission is provisional until the committee validates the documents provided. If you do not meet the requirements, the full amount is refunded.
Ask us before you enrol
Leave your details and admissions will write to you to answer any questions. If you are already sure, you can apply and pay in the same session.