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

Master's in Emergency Repairs at Sea

This master's prepares you to lead and carry out critical repairs when a ship or offshore installation suffers a breakdown far from port. You will learn to diagnose failures in main and auxiliary machinery, electrical and electronic systems, navigation and communications equipment and hull structures; to apply temporary repairs, intervention welding and composite patches; to inspect results with NDT; to run damage control and crisis command; and to organize the spares, tools and remote support that keep the vessel safe and operating until the permanent repair in port.

Duration1,500 h

ModeOnline

Start1 December

Modules11

Program diagnosis

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About the program

What is the Master's in Emergency Repairs at Sea?

This master's covers emergency repair at sea as a combination of technical diagnosis, improvised but safe engineering, and crisis leadership. You will study the critical systems of ship machinery and the reading of real-time operating parameters; condition monitoring with vibration analysis, infrared thermography and ultrasound; rapid assessment and prioritization by criticality; temporary patching, hot work, quick couplings and isolation and lockout in enclosed and high-pressure spaces; emergency restoration of propulsion, power generation and generator synchronization; damage control, command structures and emergency communications by VHF, HF, Inmarsat, Iridium, EPIRB and SART; intervention welding and ultrasonic, magnetic particle, penetrant and radiographic inspection; hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical and electronic repairs and recovery of radar, ECDIS and AIS; underwater robots and drones for inspection; and the logistics of critical spares, onboard workshops, temporary repair materials, delivery by helicopter or supply vessel, manufacturer remote support and onboard additive manufacturing.

What sets this master's apart: it is built around the real constraints of a repair at sea, limited spares, people and time, bad weather and no shipyard, and teaches you to decide what to fix, how to make it safe and how to keep the ship operating; it combines technical repair skills with crisis command, communication and team leadership under pressure; it gives the logistics of spares, tools and remote technical assistance a module of its own, through to reporting to the classification society and planning the permanent repair in port; and it closes with a Final Project in which you design an integrated emergency repair plan for a ship or offshore installation.

Program typeMaster’s degree

ModeOnline

Duration1,500 hours

Modules11

Start1 December

Program highlights

Advanced fault diagnosis in propulsion, power generation, pumps, compressors and hydraulic and electrical systems.
Temporary repairs: patching, cold and hot work, composite materials, structural adhesives and quick couplings.
Damage control, salvage planning, crisis command and emergency communications by radio and satellite.
Intervention welding in harsh marine conditions and NDT inspection of welds and materials.
Spares and remote support logistics: critical spares, onboard workshops, helicopter supply, additive manufacturing and class reporting.
Final Project: an integrated emergency repair plan for a ship or offshore installation.

Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Emergency Repairs at Sea

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Advanced diagnosis and immediate repair techniques for critical ship machinery systems

1.1. Foundations of critical systems in ship machinery: classification, structure and basic operation
1.2. Advanced diagnosis: nondestructive techniques, vibration analysis, infrared thermography and ultrasound applied to vital components
1.3. Interpretation of real-time operating parameters: pressure, temperature, flow and speed in main and auxiliary equipment
1.4. Early fault detection: common patterns in propulsion systems, pumps, compressors and generators
1.5. Rapid assessment protocols: prioritizing interventions by criticality and operational risk
1.6. Emergency repairs: temporary patching, hot work, hot swapping and quick couplings
1.7. Safe isolation and lockout procedures for immediate repairs in enclosed spaces and high-pressure areas
1.8. Advanced tools and repair materials: selection, handling and storage for repairs at sea
1.9. Integration of remote monitoring and predictive diagnosis systems for real-time support during repairs
1.10. Detailed case studies: solving critical breakdowns under adverse conditions and technical limitations

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 2

Emergency mechanical and electrical interventions in propulsion and power generation systems: protocols, tools and operational safety

2.1. Advanced fault diagnosis in propulsion systems: identifying critical mechanical and electrical failures with vibration analysis, thermography and ultrasound in marine diesel engines and turbines
2.2. Emergency intervention protocols: a systematic structure for safe and effective action from initial detection to operational recovery, in line with international rules and industry standards
2.3. Specialized tools for onboard repairs: selection, handling and calibration of portable hydraulic, electrical and electronic equipment designed for fast work in adverse conditions at sea
2.4. Operational safety in enclosed spaces and hazardous areas: procedures to prevent electrical accidents, inhalation of toxic gases and mishandling of hazardous materials during critical repairs
2.5. Commissioning of emergency power generation: restoring circuits and synchronizing auxiliary generators under tight safety and time constraints
2.6. Temporary repairs and provisional solutions: practical improvisation techniques that keep vital systems working, including onboard welding and quick-coupling systems
2.7. Post-repair assessment and predictive maintenance: remote monitoring and data analysis to anticipate future failures and extend the life of repaired equipment
2.8. Team and role management during emergencies: coordinating the multidisciplinary technical team, communicating under pressure and leading in critical situations in line with STCW and SOLAS
2.9. Post-intervention documentation and reporting: detailed technical reports, audit requirements and records needed to maintain the ship's certificates
2.10. Case studies and advanced simulations: real incidents, complex problem-solving and best practices to reduce downtime and risk in maritime operations

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 3

Innovation and safety in diagnosis, immediate repair and recovery of critical systems in highly complex marine environments

3.1. Advanced introduction to technological innovation in critical marine systems: trends, smart materials and automation
3.2. In-depth analysis of predictive and prescriptive diagnosis: integrated sensors, maritime IoT, artificial intelligence and predictive maintenance
3.3. Structural assessment protocols and techniques in high-pressure, salt-corrosion environments: ultrasound, thermography and nondestructive testing
3.4. Design and execution of immediate repairs: containment strategies, temporary reinforcement and sealing in adverse conditions
3.5. Advanced management of the recovery of critical systems during maritime emergencies: multidisciplinary coordination, satellite communications and real-time simulation
3.6. Operational safety and international rules for emergency work at sea: SOLAS, IMO, environmental protocols and certificates
3.7. Innovative damage control methods and prevention of catastrophic failures: dynamic risk analysis and redundant systems
3.8. Telemetry and remote monitoring for continuous supervision of repairs and structural stability on platforms and vessels
3.9. Underwater robots and drones for inspection and repair: advanced techniques, limitations and case studies
3.10. Digital simulation and augmented reality for training and planning emergency repairs in complex maritime scenarios

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 4

Damage control, salvage and operational continuity at sea: command and communications, emergency logistics, intervention welding and NDT inspection

4.1. Emergency command and control at sea: command structure, decision-making under pressure, interdepartmental coordination and effective leadership in critical situations
4.2. Emergency communication protocols: advanced use of VHF and HF radio, satellite systems (Inmarsat, Iridium), distress and location signals (EPIRB, SART) and management of internal and external networks
4.3. Emergency logistics and resource management: planning and mobilizing materials and people, managing critical inventory, rapid supply and optimizing auxiliary means
4.4. Advanced assessment of structural damage: identifying, categorizing and prioritizing damage to the hull, superstructure and critical systems with immersive techniques and remote sensors
4.5. Intervention welding in the marine environment: specialized techniques for aggressive atmospheres, portable equipment, welding in enclosed spaces and in adverse environmental conditions
4.6. Certification and rules for emergency repairs: SOLAS, classification society requirements, ISO and maritime standards specific to rapid interventions
4.7. Introduction to nondestructive testing (NDT): principles, applications and protocols for assessing the integrity of welds and materials at sea (ultrasound, magnetic particles, liquid penetrants and radiography)
4.8. Preparation and execution of salvage plans: risk assessment, phases of action, coordination with external teams and international legal frameworks
4.9. Operational continuity during emergencies: keeping essential systems running, power management, auxiliary equipment and procedures to secure the ship's operational stability
4.10. Simulations of real damage control scenarios: design, assessment of responses and analysis of results to improve response to complex incidents at sea

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 5

Integrated emergency planning and technical leadership in critical maritime repairs

5.1. Foundations of integrated maritime emergency management: risk assessment, identification of critical points and analysis of specific vulnerabilities
5.2. Development of rapid response plans: structure, protocols, resource allocation and interdisciplinary coordination
5.3. Technical leadership under high pressure: advanced cognitive skills, evidence-based decision-making and management of multidisciplinary teams
5.4. International rules and standards for emergency repairs at sea: SOLAS, IMO, the ISM Code and classification society guidelines
5.5. Effective communication in emergencies: integrated maritime communication systems, transmission of critical data and handling information crises
5.6. Advanced technologies for monitoring and controlling repairs in hostile environments: remote sensors, drones, automated systems and telemetry
5.7. Team dynamics in critical situations: roles, situational leadership, stress management and operational performance
5.8. Analysis of real cases and emergency simulations: diagnosis, immediate response and after-action review for continuous improvement
5.9. Contingency planning and reinforced safety protocols: operational alternatives, resource management and minimizing environmental impact
5.10. Integration of quality and safety management systems into emergency repairs: technical audits, incident reports and regulatory compliance

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 6

Advanced diagnosis, immediate repair and recovery techniques for critical ship systems in high-stakes situations

6.1. Integrated analysis of critical systems at sea: identification of essential components and structural vulnerabilities
6.2. Advanced predictive and corrective diagnosis: ultrasound, infrared thermography and vibration analysis for early fault detection
6.3. Nondestructive testing protocols applied to ship machinery under extreme conditions
6.4. IoT technologies and smart sensors for real-time monitoring of electrical and mechanical systems on board
6.5. Immediate repair methods for hydraulic, pneumatic and electronic systems with limited resources and optimized storage
6.6. Management of redundancy and standby systems in main and auxiliary engines to keep the ship operating
6.7. Advanced isolation and safe lockout procedures in hazardous areas to prevent damage from spreading
6.8. Emergency techniques for recovering and repairing critical communication and navigation systems during simultaneous failures
6.9. Underwater robotics and drones for remote inspection and repair of submerged structures
6.10. Design and execution of technical rescue plans: safe evacuation protocols, extraction and specialized first aid at sea

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 7

Specialized diagnosis and immediate repair techniques for critical systems in highly complex marine operations

7.1. Advanced condition-based diagnosis: real-time monitoring with integrated sensors, vibration, thermography and ultrasound for early fault detection in propulsion and power generation
7.2. Methods for rapid fault finding in critical hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including pressure, flow and fluid contamination analysis
7.3. Interpretation and use of telemetry and SCADA systems for remote assessment of operating status on offshore platforms and vessels
7.4. Emergency protocols for navigation and communication failures: immediate procedures to restore radar, ECDIS, AIS and VHF and UHF radios
7.5. Specialized techniques for in-situ repair and exchange of electrical and electronic components exposed to severe marine conditions, ensuring watertightness and corrosion resistance
7.6. Noninvasive technologies for detecting microcracks and internal corrosion in metal structures, piping and storage tanks
7.7. Rapid repair of propulsion systems: partial dismantling, mechanical adjustments and removal of defects in shafts, lubrication and gears under critical conditions
7.8. Management and optimal use of limited resources on board during complex breakdowns: key indicators for fast, effective decisions
7.9. Safety and risk prevention during work on high-voltage electrical systems at sea, including shielding and lockout/tagout
7.10. Real case studies and advanced simulations of multiple simultaneous failures, applying differential diagnosis to restore operation efficiently

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 8

Integrated crisis management and immediate technical response for critical ship systems in extreme conditions at sea

8.1. Advanced fault diagnosis in critical ship systems: on-site identification of electrical, mechanical and hydraulic failures at sea
8.2. Integrated crisis management protocols: activation, coordination and control of multidisciplinary teams in maritime emergencies
8.3. Implementation of immediate technical response procedures: faster reaction times and reduced operational impact
8.4. Strategic risk analysis and vulnerability assessment of vital systems: main engines, generators, propulsion and control systems
8.5. Advanced temporary repair techniques under extreme conditions: composite materials, emergency welding and hermetic sealing
8.6. Maintaining the structural integrity of the hull and auxiliary systems during emergency operations
8.7. Effective crisis communication: information exchange protocols between the bridge, engine room and specialized technical teams
8.8. Decision-making under pressure: rapid assessment methods, prioritization of critical failures and efficient resource allocation
8.9. Use of specialized tools and equipment for emergency work: digital diagnostic systems, remote sensors and real-time monitoring devices
8.10. International rules and standards for emergency repairs at sea: SOLAS, IMCA, the ISM Code and OCIMF recommendations

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 9

Diagnosis and immediate repair techniques for critical marine systems in serious emergencies

9.1. Advanced foundations of fault diagnosis: symptom identification, root cause analysis and prioritization in maritime emergencies
9.2. Instrumentation and sensors in critical systems: operation and calibration under dynamic, adverse conditions (pressure, vibration, salt humidity)
9.3. Nondestructive testing applied to marine structures and components: ultrasound, thermography, eddy currents and augmented visual inspection
9.4. Remote diagnosis procedures: telemetry, underwater drones and artificial intelligence to assess damage without putting the crew at risk
9.5. Methods for rapid assessment of the structural integrity of the hull, piping and auxiliary systems
9.6. Immediate repair protocols: selection of materials, temporary patching techniques, cold welding and specialized marine adhesives
9.7. Time management during emergency work: parallel planning and coordination with safety and firefighting systems
9.8. Integration of life support and environmental control in repair areas: atmosphere balance, ventilation and monitoring of hazardous gases
9.9. International rules and technical standards for emergency repairs: SOLAS, IMO, ISO 19901 and predictive maintenance codes
9.10. Advanced virtual reality simulation of emergency scenarios to train and test diagnosis and repair protocols at sea

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 10

Logistics of spares, tools and resources for repairs at sea

10.1. Minimum inventory of critical spares on board
10.2. Onboard workshops: equipment and organization
10.3. Special tools and emergency kits
10.4. Temporary repair materials: resins, clamps and putties
10.5. Supply of spares at sea: helicopter and support vessels
10.6. Remote technical assistance from the manufacturer
10.7. Technical documentation and equipment manuals
10.8. Additive manufacturing of spares on board
10.9. Repair records and communication with the classification society
10.10. Planning the permanent repair in port

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 11

Final Project: integrating advanced strategies for critical repairs at sea

11.1. Introduction to emergency repairs at sea: operational context and the challenges of hostile marine environments
11.2. Advanced methods for assessing structural damage: identification, diagnosis and prioritization with nondestructive techniques and materials analysis
11.3. Design and planning of critical interventions in adverse conditions: resource management, response times and risk assessment
11.4. Emerging technologies for rapid repairs: onboard 3D printing of parts, composite materials and high-strength structural adhesives
11.5. Integration of automated systems and sensors for real-time monitoring during repairs: SCADA, maritime IoT and structural condition telemetry
11.6. Safety protocols and incident mitigation during critical repairs: work area analysis, enclosed space management and prevention of environmental pollution
11.7. Advanced welding and joining techniques in extreme marine conditions: controlled processes, inspection and qualification to international standards (AWS, DNV)
11.8. Logistics and supply chain at sea: coordination of teams, distribution of materials and communication with shore-based command centers
11.9. Simulation and predictive modeling of post-repair structural failure scenarios: software tools and fatigue and corrosion analysis
11.10. Final integration: preparation of a complete critical repair project applying technical, regulatory and sustainability criteria to ensure the ship's operability and safety

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Emergency Repairs at Sea

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 Emergency Repairs at Sea

01Diagnose and solve critical breakdowns quickly, analyzing instruments, alarms and reports to find the root cause and applying emergency and contingency procedures that put safe navigation and environmental protection first.

02Coordinate multidisciplinary teams in adverse maritime environments, setting clear roles and responsibilities and supporting effective communication and decision-making under pressure.

03Understand intervention and underwater welding and repair techniques, including SMAW, GTAW and FCAW processes, the AWS D3.6 framework and NDT methods to verify structural integrity.

04Implement rigorous safety protocols during emergency operations at sea: safety perimeters, access control, clear communication and proper records of every intervention.

05Restore vital systems on damaged ships, assessing damage, prioritizing critical repairs and re-establishing power, propulsion, steering and communications.

06Manage limited resources efficiently in emergencies, prioritizing vital needs, making the best use of emergency equipment and setting clear rationing and distribution protocols.

Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Emergency Repairs at Sea

01Offshore platform repair technicianmaintenance and repair of critical equipment in demanding marine environments.

02Maintenance supervisor on specialized vesselscoordination and supervision of repair teams at sea.

03Project engineer at marine engineering companiesplanning and management of repair and maintenance projects on offshore infrastructure.

04Technical consultant for salvage companiesdamage assessment and planning of salvage operations at sea.

05Repair surveyor for marine insurersdamage assessment and supervision of repairs for regulatory compliance.

06Logistics and supply manager for repairs at seacoordination of equipment and materials for urgent repairs.

Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Emergency Repairs at Sea

On merchant and specialized ships, oil and gas platforms, offshore wind farms and other installations at sea, wherever a breakdown has to be handled far from a shipyard.

Structural, mechanical, electrical, electronic and piping repairs, plus the recovery of navigation and communication systems, usually under time pressure and with limited resources.

No. The program is aimed at naval and marine engineers, technical superintendents, chief engineers and deck officers, salvage and repair company staff and marine surveyors. The admission interview confirms that your profile fits.

Navalis teaches the principles, processes, standards and inspection of intervention and underwater welding. Welder qualifications and commercial diving certificates are issued by the competent bodies under their own practical requirements.

Online, with case studies of real breakdowns, access to experts in the sector and a focus on solving practical problems.

Through case studies and assignments throughout the modules and a Final Project in which you design a complete emergency repair plan for a ship or offshore installation.

A Navalis Institute master's certificate and a Final Project with damage assessment, repair procedures and logistics planning that you can use as a professional portfolio.

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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 naval, mechanical or industrial engineering, a higher technical qualification in ship repair and maintenance, or extensive proven experience in repair and maintenance in marine environments.
Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
Technical resources: a computer with broadband internet access, software for viewing technical drawings and diagrams (CAD) and the ability to join videoconferences.
Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.

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