Home/Programmes/Master’s degrees/Master's in 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality for Naval Engineering

Master’s degree · Hull and naval architecture

Master's in 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality for Naval Engineering

In this master's programme you will learn to create precise 3D models and virtual reality environments for the naval sector. You will work with CAD data, materials, lighting and real-time engines, with applications in design review, training and presentation.

100% online1,500 hours11 modulesTaught in EnglishEnrol any time

What is this programme?

This master's programme prepares you to lead the digital transformation of the maritime sector. You learn to create precise 3D models of ships and naval structures, to optimise designs with advanced simulation, and to present projects to clients through immersive virtual reality experiences. The programme spans naval design, construction and maintenance.

What makes the programme different: the use of CAD, CAM and CAE software and VR engines in their recent versions; practical projects based on real naval design and simulation cases; realistic virtual walkthroughs and interactive applications for training and sales; and cost reduction and efficiency gains through simulation and virtual analysis.

Programme highlights

  • Expert command of 3D: precise modelling of vessels and components with state-of-the-art software.
  • Applied virtual reality: techniques for creating immersive simulations for naval design and training.
  • Advanced design and engineering: integration of models into BIM workflows and improved project efficiency.
  • Highly realistic simulations: virtual environments to test and validate designs, reducing risk and cost.
  • Final project: apply what you have learned in a real, employability-oriented project.
  • Professional development: become a reference in the naval design of the future.

Study plan

01Advanced Ship Design with Virtual Reality and Shipping Simulation136 h
Fundamentals of naval CAD: parametric modelling and complex geometries. Integration of 3D software with VR platforms: protocols, incompatibilities and solutions. Virtual hydrodynamic simulation with CFD for hull optimisation. Structural analysis with finite elements (FEA) for stresses and deformations. Immersive visualisation with VR systems and haptic sensors for prototype inspection. Simulation of real sea conditions (waves, wind, currents) to validate behaviour. Optimisation through virtual iterations to cut development cost and time. Multidisciplinary coordination in VR: structure, hydrodynamics and propulsion. Remote collaborative environments for real-time project review. VR applications for training: manoeuvres, emergencies and operations.
02Integrating 3D Modelling and Immersive Simulation for Design Optimisation and Prototyping136 h
Advanced 3D modelling of naval structures: solid, surface and parametric. Tools such as Rhino, SolidWorks, CATIA and Navisworks for collaborative design. Immersive simulation: VR principles, hardware (HMDs, motion sensors, haptics) and environment set-up. CFD optimisation: resistance, hydrodynamic behaviour and dynamic stability. Interoperability between CAD and VR engines, with real-time synchronisation. Ergonomic evaluation of cabins and interiors for habitability, safety and operability. Virtual sensors and telemetry for iterative design adjustments. Naval digital twins: creation and updating for monitoring and predictive maintenance. Design verification in VR: post-processing, structural fault detection and immersive testing. Management of modelling and simulation projects: planning, version control, documentation and quality.
03Advanced Visualisation and Simulation Applications in Ship Design and Prototyping136 h
Fundamentals of naval 3D modelling and the main CAD/CAM tools. Advanced parametric modelling and automatic geometry generation with scripts and plug-ins. Integration of hydrodynamic and resistance data into 3D models for preliminary evaluation. Finite element simulation (FEM) for structural analysis. Full-scale immersive environments for inspecting prototypes and detecting clashes. Ergonomic and accessibility validation in technical and accommodation areas. Dynamic visualisation of manoeuvres and seakeeping, including stability and adverse weather. Digital twins with sensors and real-time data, in VR and augmented reality. Automation of virtual tests and generation of technical reports. Case studies and workshops: merchant ships, high-technology craft and offshore platforms.
04Integrated Hull Design: Parametric Modelling, Hydrodynamic Simulation and Immersive Prototyping136 h
Fundamentals of naval design: classification, ISO standards and hull certification. Advanced parametric modelling with SolidWorks, Rhino and Siemens NX. Surfaces and solids: loft, sweep and NURBS manipulation for hydrodynamic form. Principles of hydraulics and hydrodynamics: resistance, lift and laminar-turbulent flow. CFD: set-up, meshing and analysis of flow around the hull. Fluid-structure interaction (FSI) under operating loads and complex tidal conditions. VR prototyping for ergonomic validation, collaborative review and early clash detection. Structural optimisation with FEA: critical points, reinforcements and weight reduction. Integrated propulsion design: propellers, rudders and engines together with the hull. Automated workflows for rapid iteration of parametric designs.
05Advanced Simulation of Ship Dynamics and Structural Analysis in Immersive Environments136 h
Fundamentals of ship dynamics: hydrodynamics and fluid mechanics. Advanced parametric modelling and automation with CAD and BIM platforms. Multiphase CFD for analysing hull-water interaction. VR as a tool for visualisation, clash detection and early-stage testing. FEA applied to composite materials and shipbuilding alloys. Dynamic behaviour of structures under variable hydrodynamic loads and critical conditions. Digital twins for real-time monitoring with IoT sensors and VR. Parametric form optimisation to reduce resistance and improve stability using evolutionary algorithms and machine learning. Multiscale simulations: coupling ship dynamics, vibration and propulsion. Integrative project: design, simulation and virtual validation of prototypes.
06Hull Design and Optimisation with Parametric 3D Modelling, Hydrodynamic Simulation and VR136 h
Fundamentals of parametric modelling: geometric parameters, automatic generation and regulatory criteria. Advanced CAD for hulls: NURBS free-form surfaces, control curves and high-precision meshes. Integration of parametric modelling with technical databases for traceability. Principles of hydrodynamics: resistance, lift and behaviour in different sea states. CFD applied to the hull: models, meshes, boundary conditions and validation. Hydrodynamic performance: high-resistance zones, turbulence and hydrostatic equilibrium. Multidisciplinary optimisation with genetic algorithms, response surfaces and machine learning. The role of VR in validating the hull from the concept stage to the virtual prototype. VR environments for real-time interaction: tracking, spatial mapping and visual realism. Applications in multidisciplinary teams: collaboration, error detection and cost reduction.
07Advanced Applications in Ship Design, Simulation and Prototyping with 3D Modelling and VR136 h
Fundamentals of naval 3D modelling: parametric geometry, NURBS and polygon meshes. Specialised software and integration of CAD/CAM with simulation systems. CFD for analysing the hydrodynamic behaviour of hulls. FEA for evaluating stresses, deformations and fatigue in components. Immersive VR for early validation: clashes and ergonomic improvements. Rapid virtual and physical prototyping, including 3D printing for functional tests. Simulated environments for training: navigation, manoeuvres and emergencies. Optimisation with artificial intelligence and machine learning within 3D platforms. Data management and multidisciplinary collaboration with BIM platforms in the naval field. Real case studies: commercial, military and research vessels.
08Advanced Parametric Modelling and Immersive Simulation Techniques for the Integrated Design and Evaluation of Ships136 h
Fundamentals of parametric modelling: variables, relationships and constraints. Advanced software such as Rhino, Grasshopper, SolidWorks and CATIA applied to naval work. Complex geometries: NURBS, solids, meshes, subdivision and refinement. Databases and custom scripts for reusable, scalable designs. Immersive simulation with VR and augmented reality to review forms and compartmentation. Ergonomic and operational evaluation of bridges, engine rooms and cabins. Structural and fluid analysis coupled to parametric models. CFD integrated into modelling workflows: resistance, stability and seakeeping. AI and machine learning for automatic design generation and refinement. Virtual validation of regulatory compliance (IMO and classification society rules) in loading, manoeuvring and extreme-condition scenarios.
09Integrating Immersive Technologies and Virtual Simulation for Optimal Ship Design136 h
Fundamentals of naval 3D modelling: parametric, NURBS and purpose-built meshes. CAD and CAE with Rhino, SolidWorks and ANSYS for loads, stresses and hydrodynamics. 3D scanning and virtual reconstruction with LiDAR and photogrammetry. CFD applied to design: laminar and turbulent flow, resistance and hull optimisation. VR environments for immersive visualisation: real-time rendering and interaction with vessels. Integration of 3D modelling and simulation: data synchronisation, graphics engines and VR for collaborative design. Augmented reality for evaluating prototypes on site, overlaying technical data on physical models. Navigation simulation: behaviour under weather, manoeuvres and loads in immersive environments. Quality control and verification of digital models: geometric integrity and physical parameters. Digital twins for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance.
10Naval BIM Workflows, Interoperability and Design Data Management136 h
Naval design software: Rhino, FORAN, AVEVA and others. Exchange formats and standards. Product lifecycle management (PLM). Version control and collaboration. Laser scanning and point clouds. Integration of 3D models with calculation. Technical documentation generated from the model. Use of the model in production and assembly. Digital twins derived from the model. Digital workflow project.
11Final Master's Project: Integrating 3D Modelling, Immersive Simulation and VR136 h
Conception and scope of the final project, with multidisciplinary objectives. Selection and parameterisation of complex geometries with CATIA, Siemens NX and SolidWorks. Meshing and refinement techniques for CFD and FEM analysis. Integration of design data with VR graphics engines: texturing, shading and polygon optimisation. Navigable operational scenarios in VR: environmental conditions, control systems and ergonomics. VR/AR hardware and software set-up: calibration of HMDs, sensors and haptics. Multiphysics simulation: structural dynamics, hydrodynamics and thermal analysis. Validation of the integrated model against protocols and IMO and ISO criteria. Technical documentation and presentation of results to teams and stakeholders. Management of complex projects with BIM-VR tools: planning, milestones and coordination.

Duration and format

1,500hours in total
11modules of 136 hours
100%online, at your own pace
Openenrolment all year round

At 10 hours a week you would finish in about 150 weeks; at 20 hours a week, in about 75.

What you will learn

  • Design and simulate complex naval systems.
  • Develop interactive virtual prototypes to optimise naval design.
  • Implement virtual reality solutions for training and the simulation of naval operations.
  • Manage naval engineering projects with 3D modelling and VR tools.
  • Create immersive visualisations to present and sell naval projects.
  • Optimise efficiency and sustainability in ship design and operation.

Career outcomes

  • 3D modeller specialising in the naval sector: models of ships, marine structures and port facilities.
  • VR/AR experience designer for the naval industry: training simulations, visualisations and interactive tools.
  • Simulation engineer: optimisation of naval designs through advanced simulation.
  • Naval data visualisation specialist: clear representations of performance and safety data.
  • VR application developer for naval maintenance: technician training and improved maintenance processes.
  • Naval innovation consultant: advising companies on the adoption of 3D modelling and VR.
  • Technology researcher and developer: R&D projects on VR in naval engineering.
  • VR project manager in the naval sector: planning and delivery of 3D modelling and VR projects.

Entry requirements

  • Academic or professional profile: a degree in Naval Engineering, Architecture, Industrial Design or a related field, or demonstrable professional experience in 3D modelling, naval design or virtual reality.
  • Technical knowledge: basic notions of CAD/CAM and of software such as AutoCAD, Rhinoceros or Blender, and/or engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine (recommended).
  • Documentation: an up-to-date CV, a copy of your qualification (if applicable), a portfolio (if applicable), ID card or passport, and a motivation letter on your interest in applying 3D modelling and VR to naval engineering.
  • Technical requirements for the online format: a computer capable of running 3D modelling and VR software (detailed specifications are provided separately), a high-speed connection and, preferably, a dedicated graphics card.

How to enrol

Enrol online

Complete your enrolment on this page, or apply through admissions if you prefer to talk to us first.

Receive your access

We send you the details to enter the virtual campus and start the programme.

Study at your pace

Work through the modules when it suits you and complete the programme from anywhere in the world.

More programmes in Hull and naval architecture

See the whole area →

Master’s degreeHull and naval architecture

Master's in Shipyard Engineering and Advanced Construction

In this master's programme you will learn the latest techniques in design, planning and production in the shipyard. You will work on block construction, production wor…

100% online1,500 hours11 modules
$3,405View programme →
Professional diplomaHull and naval architecture

Professional Diploma in Naval Simulation and 3D Modelling

This professional diploma gives you the essential tools and knowledge to master the latest technologies in ship design and analysis. You will work with CAD modelling, …

100% online800 hours8 modules
$665View programme →
Professional diplomaHull and naval architecture

Professional Diploma in Advanced Composite Materials

This professional diploma gives you a complete command of composite materials, from design and manufacturing through to analysis. You will work with resin systems, inf…

100% online800 hours7 modules
$880View programme →
Scroll to Top