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

Master's in Psychology for Long-Haul Crews

This master's programme gives you the essential tools to understand and manage the challenges crews face on long voyages. It covers isolation, sleep and shift work, team dynamics and conflict on board, along with prevention, conversation skills and support resources.

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.

Your diagnosis

6of 6 to cover

You are starting from scratch in this subject. The programme is designed precisely for that.

About the programme

What is the Master's in Psychology for Long-Haul Crews?

This master's programme gives you the tools to understand and manage the challenges faced by professionals who work in isolated, highly demanding environments. It aims to improve the mental and emotional well-being of crews, communication and teamwork, and the management of stress and fatigue.

The programme also prepares you to intervene in crisis situations, build resilience and create a positive working climate on board.

Programme typeMaster’s degree

ModeOnline

Duration1,500 hours

Modules11

Start1 December

Programme highlights

Mental well-being at sea: strategies against isolation, fatigue and stress.
Effective communication: interpersonal and group techniques for cohesion and performance.
Crisis management and resilience: tools for deciding under pressure and developing individual and collective resilience.
Psychological intervention on board: protocols for psychological emergencies and emotional first aid.
Positive leadership: leadership centred on the well-being and motivation of the crew.
Preparation to promote the mental health and optimal performance of crews.

Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Psychology for Long-Haul Crews

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Comprehensive Stress Management and Psychological Resilience for Crews in Long-Duration Maritime Operations

1.1. Neuropsychological foundations of stress: physiological response, HPA axis, neurotransmitters and endocrine regulation in maritime contexts
1.2. Multifactorial assessment and diagnosis of stress in crews: psychometric tools, biomarkers and self-reports specific to isolated and confined environments
1.3. Theoretical models of adaptive resilience: biopsychosocial approaches and their application in long-duration offshore settings
1.4. Advanced psychological intervention techniques: mindfulness training, adapted cognitive behavioural therapy and proactive coping strategies to prevent burnout syndrome
1.5. Group dynamics and interpersonal cohesion: strategies to foster social support, effective communication and conflict management in multicultural and multilingual crews
1.6. Impact of isolation and family separation: contextualised psychological approach and design of psychoeducational programmes to promote emotional well-being and affective stability
1.7. Developing and sustaining motivation and commitment in prolonged operations: psychological factors, professional self-esteem and management of emotional exhaustion
1.8. Personalised programmes for the prevention and management of post-traumatic stress and adjustment disorders arising from critical incidents in maritime operations
1.9. Comprehensive management of personal resources: sleep, nutrition, physical exercise and relaxation techniques applied to improving cognitive and emotional performance
1.10. Psychosocial emergency protocols: immediate response, follow-up and social and occupational reintegration after critical incidents in contexts of prolonged isolation

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 2

Group Dynamics and Emotional Leadership in High-Pressure Maritime Teams

2.1. Theoretical foundations of group dynamics: interpersonal and systemic models applied in maritime contexts
2.2. Principles of emotional leadership: affect regulation, emotional intelligence and their impact on decision-making under pressure
2.3. Leadership styles at sea: comparative analysis and contextual adaptation for multidisciplinary crews
2.4. Effective communication and assertive feedback: advanced techniques for conflict management and group cohesion in isolated environments
2.5. Group dynamics in multicultural teams: influence of cultural diversity on performance and resilience
2.6. Stress management and burnout prevention in long-duration crews: psychological strategies and early intervention protocols
2.7. Implementation of psychosocial support programmes and emotional coaching for the continuous improvement of collective well-being
2.8. Diagnostic tools for assessing the working climate and interpersonal relationships on board: application and analysis of results
2.9. Advanced motivation techniques and situational leadership: optimising individual and group performance in critical scenarios
2.10. Case studies and integrated simulations: crisis resolution, collaborative decision-making and effective leadership under adverse conditions

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 3

Advanced Strategies for Stress Management and Psychological Resilience Development in Long-Stay Maritime Crews

3.1. Neurobiological foundations of stress: brain mechanisms, HPA axis and the response to chronic stress
3.2. Psychometric assessment of stress in crews: validated tools for measurement in maritime environments
3.3. Advanced theoretical models of resilience: protective and adaptive factors and effective coping strategies
3.4. Identification and management of stress-related psychophysiological disorders at sea: anxiety, insomnia, chronic fatigue and burnout
3.5. Evidence-based psychological interventions: mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy and biofeedback applied to long-haul crews
3.6. Design and delivery of resilience training programmes for the crew: practical workshops and crisis management simulations
3.7. Group dynamics and cohesion in confined spaces: techniques to strengthen social support and effective communication on board
3.8. Emotional leadership strategies and management of the psychosocial climate in seagoing teams
3.9. Protocols for the prevention and mitigation of post-traumatic stress in maritime emergency situations
3.10. Continuous monitoring and psychological follow-up through technology and telepsychology adapted to prolonged voyage conditions

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 4

Advanced Protocols for Mental Health Assessment, Intervention and Prevention in Long-Haul Crews (Operational Telepsychology, Fatigue and Sleep Disorders, Addictions, Critical Crises and Return-to-Work Plans)

4.1. Theoretical foundations and regulatory basis of mental health for long-haul crews: comprehensive review of applicable international protocols and maritime standards
4.2. Advanced mental health assessment: specific protocols for the early detection of psychological disorders in maritime environments, including validated psychometric tools and structured interviews adapted to the operational context
4.3. Operational telepsychology: implementation of remote care models, secure communication technologies, confidentiality management and ethical boundaries in the remote psychological follow-up of embarked crews
4.4. Common pathologies in long-haul crews: differential diagnosis and assessment tools for chronic fatigue, sleep and circadian disorders, adjustment disorders and post-traumatic stress
4.5. Specialised psychotherapeutic interventions: application of cognitive behavioural and adaptive coping techniques to manage fatigue, insomnia and emotional disturbances in maritime contexts
4.6. Prevention and management of addictions: specific protocols for psychoactive substance use and dependence in crews, brief intervention strategies and referral to specialised services
4.7. Critical crisis care: design and execution of immediate psychological support plans in response to traumatic incidents, accidents or emergencies on board, with emphasis on emotional stabilisation and reducing post-traumatic impact
4.8. Comprehensive return-to-work plans: multidisciplinary assessment and personalised programmes to facilitate the return to operational duty after psychological disability or severe stress, including follow-up and social reintegration
4.9. Multidisciplinary management and effective communication: coordination with medical teams, safety officers and the vessel's command to ensure compliance with psychotherapeutic and bioethical interventions
4.10. Continuous monitoring and evaluation: reporting systems and longitudinal analysis of psychological, fatigue and well-being indicators for the continuous improvement of protocols and regulatory compliance

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 5

Applied Neuropsychology and Advanced Emotional Regulation Techniques for Optimising Performance in Long-Duration Maritime Crews

5.1. Foundations of applied neuropsychology in maritime contexts: brain structure and function under prolonged stress
5.2. Neurobiological mechanisms of chronic stress and their impact on decision-making and attention during long-duration voyages
5.3. Advanced neuropsychological assessment for the early identification of cognitive and emotional impairments in crew members
5.4. Advanced emotional regulation techniques: neurofeedback, mindfulness and biofeedback-based interventions to optimise psychological state
5.5. Application of neural models for the management and prevention of mental fatigue in isolated and confined environments
5.6. Optimising cognitive performance: neuropsychological strategies to enhance working memory, sustained concentration and adaptability to unforeseen situations
5.7. Psychotherapeutic interventions integrated into team dynamics to manage anxiety, irritability and interpersonal conflict in crews
5.8. Implementation of neuropsychological protocols for the continuous monitoring of emotional and cognitive well-being on board
5.9. Use of emerging technologies in marine neuropsychology: virtual and augmented reality for emotional and resilience training
5.10. Design of personalised post-voyage neuropsychological prevention and recovery programmes, considering the neuroendocrine impact of isolation and long working days

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 6

Innovation in Psychological Intervention, Resilience and Emotional Well-being for Maritime Teams in Long-Duration Operations

6.1. Theoretical foundations of psychological intervention in maritime contexts: specific psychological characteristics of crews in long-duration environments
6.2. Advanced psychological assessment strategies: instruments and techniques for the early detection of emotional disorders and chronic stress in seafarers
6.3. Contemporary resilience models applied to offshore work teams: theory, variables and protective factors
6.4. Design and implementation of emotional well-being programmes for crews: integration of cognitive behavioural techniques, mindfulness and biofeedback
6.5. Application of positive psychology and strengthening of emotional competencies in isolated and confined environments
6.6. Stress management and burnout prevention in prolonged maritime operations: scientific protocols and empirical evidence
6.7. Development of assertive communication and conflict resolution skills in multidisciplinary and multicultural teams on board
6.8. Group interventions and socio-emotional support: group dynamics, cohesion and effective leadership in isolated crews
6.9. Technological innovation in maritime psychology: use of digital platforms, virtual reality and telepsychology for remote psychological follow-up and support
6.10. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of crew mental health during long-duration operations: indicator analysis and emergency intervention protocols

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 7

Advanced Strategies for Assessment, Intervention and Prevention in Comprehensive Mental Health for Maritime Crews in Long-Duration Operations

7.1. Neuropsychological foundations of chronic stress in maritime crews: neuroendocrine and neuroimmunological mechanisms
7.2. Advanced psychometric assessment models adapted to isolated and confined environments: validity and reliability analysis in seagoing crews
7.3. Design and implementation of multidimensional protocols for the early identification of affective and anxiety disorders in long-duration crew members
7.4. Psychological interventions based on contextualised cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for managing operational fatigue syndrome and burnout in maritime contexts
7.5. Comprehensive management of insomnia and circadian rhythm disturbances in crews: applications of chronotherapy techniques and melatonin in work environments with constant artificial light
7.6. Resilience strategies and group psychological strengthening: social skills and effective communication training for cohesion and the prevention of interpersonal conflict on board
7.7. Integration of digital technologies and telepsychology for continuous mental health support during prolonged operations: platform evaluation and real-time application
7.8. Psychoeducational interventions for self-care and emotional regulation: design of specific materials for crews in the maritime context
7.9. Secondary prevention protocols: handling emotional crises and psychological emergencies at sea, with a focus on psychological first aid and specialised referral
7.10. Assessment of the impact of environmental and operational factors on mental health: analysis of variables such as isolation, monotony and exposure to extreme weather conditions and their influence on psychological well-being

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 8

Operational Behavioural Psychology and Advanced Management of Emotional Crises in Long-Duration Maritime Crews

8.1. Neuropsychological foundations of operational behaviour in maritime environments: analysis of executive function, sustained attention and emotional regulation under high-demand conditions
8.2. Advanced models of chronic stress and their impact on crews: stress physiology, adaptation mechanisms and occupational burnout in prolonged missions
8.3. Specific psychological assessment for long-haul crew members: quantitative and qualitative tools, structured interviews and emotional resilience scale
8.4. Real-time intervention techniques for managing emotional crises: early identification protocols, de-escalation techniques and assertive communication in confined spaces
8.5. Group dynamics and emotional leadership in crews: analysis of psychosocial factors, group cohesion, interpersonal conflict and advanced mediation strategies
8.6. Programmes for the prevention of mental disorders and psychophysiological fatigue: design, implementation and evaluation of psychological well-being plans on board
8.7. Management of critical crises at sea: preparation of operational manuals for emotional emergencies, specialised drills and multidisciplinary coordination
8.8. Influence of psychocultural and temporal factors on team resilience: cultural adaptations, circadian rhythms and management of social isolation
8.9. Use of technologies applied to psychological monitoring: mobile applications, biofeedback and telepsychology for continuous support of crew members en route
8.10. Analysis of clinical cases and lessons learned: thorough review of relevant incidents, differential diagnosis and continuous improvement strategies for mental health at sea

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 9

Advanced Strategies in Psychological Intervention, Resilience and Mental Health for Long-Duration Maritime Crews

9.1. Neuropsychological foundations of chronic stress in long-duration crews: neuroendocrine and cognitive mechanisms
9.2. Advanced psychometric assessment: standardised tools for measuring burnout, anxiety, depression and mental fatigue in maritime environments
9.3. Design and application of cognitive behavioural intervention protocols adapted to the reality of maritime crews
9.4. Psychological resilience: theoretical models and practical application to strengthen adaptive capacity in adverse conditions at sea
9.5. Positive psychology and mindfulness techniques applied to the continuous improvement of emotional well-being during prolonged periods of work
9.6. Group and individual interventions: strategies to promote cohesion, effective communication and conflict management in confined spaces
9.7. Crisis management and psychological first aid in critical situations: specific approaches for emergencies at sea
9.8. Protocols for post-voyage follow-up and continuous mental health assessment: analysis of results and adjustment of strategies
9.9. Cultural and socio-psychological influences on multinational crew dynamics: intercultural adaptation and sensitivity in psychological intervention
9.10. Integration of technology in the remote monitoring of psychological state: telepsychology and digital resources as complementary tools

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 10

Psychological Selection, Living Together on Board and Return Ashore

10.1. Psychological profiles for prolonged deployments
10.2. Selection tests and fitness assessment
10.3. Adapting to confinement and isolation
10.4. Multicultural coexistence on board
10.5. Prevention of harassment and violence
10.6. Communication with family and connectivity
10.7. Managing grief and bad news at sea
10.8. Use of alcohol and other substances
10.9. Family and work reintegration after signing off
10.10. Peer support programmes

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 11

Master's Final Project: Design and Implementation of an Integrated Psychological Intervention Model for Long-Duration Crews in Maritime Operations

11.1. Conceptual framework and theoretical foundations of psychological intervention in long-duration maritime environments
11.2. Psychophysiological and psychosocial diagnosis: assessment of stress, anxiety, isolation and group dynamics in crews
11.3. Design of the integrated model: psychological, social and operational components adapted to crews on prolonged voyages
11.4. Advanced psychological assessment techniques: multidimensional tools, continuous monitoring and longitudinal analysis
11.5. Psychoeducational interventions to promote resilience, emotional regulation and chronic stress management in seafarers
11.6. Methodologies for practical implementation: standardised and adaptive protocols in the maritime operational context
11.7. Crisis management and psychological support in emergency situations at sea: procedures and immediate response
11.8. Interdisciplinary integration: collaboration between psychologists, medical officers and command to optimise collective mental health
11.9. Technology and digital tools for remote psychological follow-up and telepsychology applied to seagoing crews
11.10. Evaluation of the model's impact and effectiveness: quantitative and qualitative indicators for the continuous improvement of the programme

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Psychology for Long-Haul Crews

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 Psychology for Long-Haul Crews

01Optimise the psychological well-being of crews.

02Develop resilience to operational stress.

03Implement adaptive coping strategies during the voyage.

04Foster effective communication and group cohesion on board.

05Facilitate emotional management and assertive decision-making in critical situations.

06Detect and mitigate the psychosocial risks specific to the on-board environment.

Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Psychology for Long-Haul Crews

01Crew support psychologistpsychological assessment, crisis intervention and improvement of mental well-being.

02Stress and fatigue management consultantprogrammes to mitigate their impact on long-haul voyages.

03Communication and teamwork trainertraining in communication, conflict resolution and leadership.

04Human factors researcheranalysis of incidents and accidents and strategies to improve safety and performance.

05Personnel selection adviserdesign of tests and interviews to identify suitable candidates.

06Developer of burnout prevention programmesstrategies to prevent professional exhaustion.

07Cultural adaptation specialistfacilitating communication and adaptation between crews from different cultures.

08Healthy workplace consultantdesign of working and rest spaces that support physical and mental well-being.

Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Psychology for Long-Haul Crews

Crews of aircraft, ships or other means of transport that undertake long-distance journeys.

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

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

Problems related to isolation, fatigue, stress, disruption of circadian rhythms, managing multicultural teams in confined spaces and adapting to family and social life after long periods of absence.

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 suitability.

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.

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: a degree in Psychology, Medicine (psychiatry speciality) or a related mental health qualification; or accredited professional experience as crew in long-duration operations, with complementary training in psychology.
Language skills: English at B2 level or above is recommended for technical documentation and international interaction.
Documentation: an up-to-date CV, a copy of your degree, academic transcript (if applicable), ID card or passport, and a motivation letter on your interest in crew psychology and adaptation to long-haul operations.
Other requirements: a demonstrated interest in the field and in stress management in highly demanding environments.
Skills: communication, empathy and the ability to work in a team.

01
Application
Your details, background and documents.
02
Instant review
We check that everything is complete and in order.
03
Enrolment
Choose full payment or instalments and reserve your place.

Start my applicationFrom ₹93,800 deposit

Admission is provisional until the committee validates the documents provided. If you do not meet the requirements, the full amount is refunded.

Any questions?

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.

Enrol now