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

Master's in Naval Architecture and Ship Design

This master's programme gives you the tools and expert knowledge to lead innovation in ship design. You will work on hull lines, hydrostatics, stability, structural strength and propulsion sizing, with classification rules guiding the whole design process.

Duration1,500 h

ModeOnline

Start1 December

Modules11

Programme diagnosis

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.

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About the programme

What is the Master's in Naval Architecture and Ship Design?

This master's programme gives you the tools and expert knowledge to lead innovation in the maritime sector. You will learn to design, build and optimise high-performance ships, from the initial concept to final delivery, working with 3D modelling, hydrodynamic simulation and structural analysis.

Its strengths are integrated design, from merchant ships to leisure craft, covering every stage of the process; hands-on use of industry software such as AutoCAD, Maxsurf, Ansys and Star-CCM+; efficiency and sustainability, designing ships with lower environmental impact and fuel consumption; regulation and safety, with knowledge of international rules and best safety practice; and an applied final project, tutored by the academic team and oriented towards professional practice.

Programme typeMaster’s degree

ModeOnline

Duration1,500 hours

Modules11

Start1 December

Programme highlights

Innovative design: CAD/CAM/CAE tools and advanced 3D modelling and hydrodynamic simulation techniques.
Shipbuilding: manufacturing processes, materials, structures, and propulsion and steering systems.
Marine engineering: optimising performance, safety and efficiency in compliance with IMO regulations.
Real projects: taking part in ship designs from concept to construction.
Career prospects: a profile in high demand in shipyards, naval engineering firms, technical offices and research centres.
Advance your career and lead the next generation of ships.

Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Naval Architecture and Ship Design

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Advanced fundamentals of naval architecture and the ship design process

1.1. Advanced principles of naval architecture, evolution of ship design and the relationship between naval engineering, maritime operations and transport economics
1.2. Classification of commercial, military, offshore, scientific, fishing and auxiliary ships and special craft according to mission and operational requirements
1.3. Naval design methodology based on functional requirements, technical constraints, applicable regulations and performance objectives
1.4. Conceptual definition of the ship by mission, operational profile, endurance, speed, cargo capacity and service conditions
1.5. Development of the iterative design process from the conceptual phase to detailed engineering and construction
1.6. Integration of safety, energy efficiency, sustainability, maintenance and life-cycle criteria
1.7. Management of interfaces between naval architecture, structural engineering, marine systems and shipowner needs
1.8. Application of digital tools for planning, modelling, simulation and control of the design process
1.9. Evaluation of design alternatives through technical, economic and operational analysis
1.10. Building a comprehensive methodology to develop efficient, safe and competitive naval projects

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 2

Hydrostatics, stability and static behaviour of the ship

2.1. Advanced fundamentals of buoyancy, displacement, underwater volume, centres of gravity and centres of flotation
2.2. Development and interpretation of hydrostatic curves, Bonjean curves, displacement tables and trim diagrams
2.3. Calculation of transverse and longitudinal stability under different loading and operating conditions
2.4. Evaluation of intact stability and damage stability according to international criteria
2.5. Influence of tanks, liquid cargoes, goods, equipment and internal arrangement on the ship's equilibrium
2.6. Analysis of reserve buoyancy, freeboard and behaviour in different sea states
2.7. Design of watertight subdivision, bulkheads and flood protection systems
2.8. Application of naval software for hydrostatic simulation and stability analysis
2.9. Optimisation of weight distribution to improve safety and operational performance
2.10. Development of advanced criteria to guarantee stability throughout the ship's operational life

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 3

Naval hydrodynamics, resistance and ship propulsion

3.1. Advanced theory of resistance and hydrodynamic behaviour of the hull
3.2. Analysis of frictional, pressure, wave-making, appendage and viscous resistance
3.3. Experimental and numerical methods for predicting hydrodynamic performance
3.4. Flow dynamics around the hull through CFD simulations and experimental validation
3.5. Design and optimisation of hull forms aimed at energy efficiency
3.6. Selection and integration of conventional and alternative propulsion systems
3.7. Design of propellers, azimuth thrusters, pods, waterjets and hybrid systems
3.8. Hull-propeller-engine interaction and propulsive efficiency analysis
3.9. Evaluation of energy consumption, endurance and emissions associated with the propulsion system
3.10. Development of advanced hydrodynamic solutions to maximise performance and reduce operating costs

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 4

Naval structural design and hull strength

4.1. Advanced principles of structural strength applied to ship hulls
4.2. Design of longitudinal and transverse members: keel, frames, beams, floors and stiffeners
4.3. Analysis of global and local loads produced by navigation, waves, cargo and operation
4.4. Calculation of longitudinal bending, torsion stresses and structural vibrations
4.5. Advanced selection of naval materials: special steels, aluminium, composites and hybrid materials
4.6. Analysis of fatigue, fracture, corrosion and structural degradation over the life cycle
4.7. Application of the finite element method (FEA) to naval structures
4.8. Structural optimisation for weight reduction while maintaining strength and safety
4.9. Structural assessment according to classification society rules
4.10. Development of naval structures optimised for strength, durability and construction efficiency

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 5

Advanced hull design, manoeuvrability and seakeeping

5.1. Geometric definition of the hull through lines plans, coefficients and main parameters
5.2. Optimisation of bow, stern, bulbs and appendages to improve hydrodynamic efficiency
5.3. Hull design for different operational profiles: speed, cargo, endurance and seaworthiness
5.4. Analysis of the ship's dynamic behaviour in regular and irregular waves
5.5. Evaluation of roll, pitch, yaw and heave motions and vertical accelerations
5.6. Study of manoeuvrability, directional stability and steering capability
5.7. Design of auxiliary systems to reduce motions and improve comfort
5.8. Application of advanced simulations to predict operational behaviour
5.9. Validation through hydrodynamic tests and scale models
5.10. Development of hull configurations adapted to real maritime operating conditions

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 6

Ship systems, functional integration and intelligent ship design

6.1. General architecture of ship systems and multidisciplinary integration criteria
6.2. Design of propulsion, power generation and energy distribution systems
6.3. Auxiliary systems: fuel, cooling, water, waste treatment and technical services
6.4. Integration of automation, control, sensors and intelligent operating systems
6.5. Engine room design and optimisation of technical space
6.6. Navigation, communications, safety and digital ship management systems
6.7. Design for maintainability, accessibility and reduced downtime
6.8. Application of digital twins and advanced life-cycle monitoring
6.9. Integration of autonomous technologies and decision-support systems
6.10. Development of intelligent, efficient naval architectures ready for future technological developments

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 7

Shipbuilding, advanced manufacturing and shipyard management

7.1. Modern shipbuilding processes from block fabrication to ship delivery
7.2. Industrial organisation of the shipyard, production planning and resource management
7.3. Advanced manufacturing technologies: automation, robotics, digital cutting and modular fabrication
7.4. Naval welding, surface treatments, anti-corrosion protection and dimensional control
7.5. Quality management, inspections, destructive and non-destructive testing
7.6. Integration of digital design, production and industrial control through PLM systems
7.7. Planning of harbour trials, sea trials and contractual acceptance
7.8. Management of costs, schedules, risks and deviations during construction
7.9. Optimisation of construction processes to improve shipyard productivity and competitiveness
7.10. Development of advanced strategies for sustainable and efficient shipbuilding

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 8

Sustainable design, decarbonisation and new naval technologies

8.1. Sustainability principles applied to the design and operation of modern ships
8.2. Emission reduction through hydrodynamic efficiency, energy optimisation and new fuels
8.3. Electric, hybrid and hydrogen propulsion, synthetic fuels and alternative systems
8.4. Design to reduce consumption, maintenance, emissions and costs over the life cycle
8.5. Application of artificial intelligence, automation and predictive analytics in smart ships
8.6. Development of autonomous ships and advanced assisted navigation systems
8.7. Integration of auxiliary renewable energies and clean generation technologies
8.8. Adapting naval design to international maritime decarbonisation targets
8.9. Assessment of environmental impact during construction, operation and decommissioning of the ship
8.10. Development of innovative naval solutions geared towards the future of maritime transport

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 9

Naval regulations, certification and design project management

9.1. International conventions applicable to the design, construction and safe operation of ships
9.2. Classification society requirements and technical approval processes
9.3. Document management for the naval project: drawings, calculations, revisions and change control
9.4. Assessment of technical and operational risks during design development
9.5. Contract management between shipowners, shipyards, engineering firms and specialised suppliers
9.6. Economic planning, cost estimation and financial control of the naval project
9.7. Leadership of multidisciplinary engineering and construction teams
9.8. Technical audits, statutory inspections and quality assurance
9.9. Ship life-cycle management from design to decommissioning
9.10. Development of leadership skills to manage complex naval projects

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 10

Design of special and offshore vessels

10.1. Design requirements for offshore support vessels
10.2. Design of passenger ships and ferries
10.3. Gas carriers and chemical tankers
10.4. Oceanographic research vessels
10.5. High-speed craft
10.6. Ships for navigation in ice
10.7. Cranes, decks and special equipment
10.8. Design of ships with dynamic positioning
10.9. Stability during lifting operations
10.10. Practical cases of special vessel projects

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 11

Master's Final Project in Naval Architecture and Ship Design

11.1. Definition of the ship concept according to mission, operational requirements and service profile
11.2. Development of the conceptual design with main dimensions, capacity, general arrangement and functional characteristics
11.3. Analysis of hydrostatics, stability, resistance and operational behaviour of the design
11.4. Structural design of the hull through materials, loads, scantlings and regulatory criteria
11.5. Integration of main systems, propulsion, power, automation and auxiliary equipment
11.6. Evaluation of energy efficiency, sustainability, emissions and innovative technologies incorporated
11.7. Development of the construction model with industrial planning, costs, resources and schedule
11.8. Preparation of technical documentation through drawings, digital models, calculations and specifications
11.9. Writing of the comprehensive technical report of the naval project with economic, operational and strategic analysis
11.10. Presentation and defence of the final project with technical, structural, hydrodynamic, regulatory and functional validation of the designed ship.

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Naval Architecture and Ship Design

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 instalment plan.

Faculty

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 Coordinator

Objectives

Objectives of the Master's in Naval Architecture and Ship Design

01Develop innovative and efficient ship designs.

02Manage complex shipbuilding and ship repair projects.

03Optimise the performance and safety of vessels.

04Apply international regulations and standards in the shipbuilding industry.

05Lead multidisciplinary teams in large-scale naval projects.

06Assess and mitigate the risks associated with ship design and operation.

Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Naval Architecture and Ship Design

01Ship designerdrawings, stability and strength calculations, hull form optimisation.

02Project engineerend-to-end management of construction and repair, team supervision.

03Naval consultantadvice on safety, energy efficiency and regulatory compliance.

04Ship inspector or surveyorassessing the condition of ships, accident investigation and technical reports.

05Shipyard technical officedesign, calculation and supervision of construction and repair.

06Classification societiesverifying compliance with safety and quality rules.

07Maritime administrationregistries, ship inspection and regulatory work.

08Engineering and consultancydesign and analysis of structures, propulsion and equipment.

09R&Dtechnological innovation projects in the shipbuilding sector.

Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Naval Architecture and Ship Design

Maritime industry

Yes. The pathway includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with port, ocean, fog, heavy weather and SAR scenarios.

Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator placements/internships through agreements.

It covers both aspects: the structural design of the ship as well as propulsion engineering, hydrodynamics and other related areas.

Functional SMCP is recommended. We provide support materials for standard phraseology.

Yes, with a related qualification or experience in maritime/port operations. The admission interview will confirm your fit.

Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Partnerships and the Alumni Network.

Simulator exercises (rubrics), passage plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and an applied master's thesis.

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Online admission

Admission process

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

Entry requirements

Academic or professional profile: degree in Naval Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture or a related field, or accredited professional experience in the shipbuilding sector.
Technical knowledge: computer-aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEM) and programming skills are valued.
Documentation: up-to-date CV, copy of your degree, academic transcript, identity document or passport, letter of motivation and, optionally, letters of recommendation.
Skills: analytical ability, problem solving, teamwork and effective communication.

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