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

Master's in Metaverse and VR Development for Maritime Training

This master's prepares you to build the immersive learning environments that are transforming maritime training. You will learn to design and develop VR, AR and metaverse experiences with professional engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine, recreate ships, ports and sea conditions with realistic physics, integrate haptic devices and biometric sensors, create multiuser spaces for crew training and drills, and apply instructional design, learning analytics and STCW requirements so that every virtual scenario teaches and assesses real competencies.

Duration1,500 h
ModeOnline
Start1 December
Modules11
Program diagnosis

Prior knowledge check

These are the skills this program 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 program is designed precisely for that.

About the program

What is the Master's in Metaverse and VR Development for Maritime Training?

This master's approaches immersive maritime training from the developer's and instructional designer's side. You will study VR hardware and software, 3D modeling and physics simulation of fluids, weather and ship behavior; programming interactivity in Unity and Unreal Engine; motion tracking and virtual ECDIS, radar and AIS; haptic devices and biometric sensors that adapt scenarios to the trainee's physiological state; virtual bridge operations with digital twins and AI; hydrographic and oceanographic data in virtual worlds; multiuser metaverse environments for coordinated crew training; augmented and mixed reality with natural interaction; cybersecurity and data protection in training platforms; and pedagogy, competency assessment, simulator sickness, accessibility and the instructor's role in the metaverse.

What sets this master's apart: rather than teaching how to train on existing simulators, it teaches you to create immersive training products from scratch, from the 3D scene and the physics engine to haptic feedback, biometrics and multiuser networking; it gives equal weight to pedagogy and learning analytics so that experiences are effective, not just spectacular; it addresses cybersecurity, privacy and interoperability with LMS platforms and real navigation systems; and it closes with a Final Project in which you develop a complete metaverse-based nautical training environment with AI, hybrid technologies and a competency assessment plan.

Program typeMaster’s degree
ModeOnline
Duration1,500 hours
Modules11
Start1 December

Program highlights

  • Development of immersive nautical scenarios with Unity and Unreal Engine, 3D modeling and realistic sea and ship physics.
  • Haptic devices and biometric sensors to adapt training to stress, fatigue and decision-making under pressure.
  • Virtual bridge with digital twins, virtual ECDIS, radar and AIS, and AI-generated emergency scenarios.
  • Multiuser metaverse spaces, augmented and mixed reality and natural interaction for coordinated crew training.
  • Cybersecurity, data protection and interoperability with LMS platforms and real navigation systems.
  • Instructional design, learning analytics, STCW simulator requirements and VR competency assessment.
Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Metaverse and VR Development for Maritime Training

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Design and development of advanced VR simulations for immersive nautical training

  • 1.1. Foundations of immersive virtual reality: concepts, hardware, software and platforms for nautical simulation
  • 1.2. Advanced 3D modeling and physics simulation: maritime environments with fluid dynamics, weather and real ocean conditions
  • 1.3. Instructional design for VR simulators: teaching methods, immersive learning experiences and competency assessment
  • 1.4. Multisensory integration: spatial audio, haptics and visual feedback for immersion and realism
  • 1.5. Programming interactivity with Unreal Engine and Unity: scenarios, navigation and maneuvers
  • 1.6. Motion tracking and control: optical and inertial tracking and portable devices to simulate bridge movements
  • 1.7. Simulation of electronic navigation systems: virtual ECDIS, radar, AIS and real-time communications with standard maritime protocols
  • 1.8. Emergency scenarios and crisis protocols: technical failures, adverse conditions and safety procedures
  • 1.9. Performance evaluation: real-time data capture, statistical analysis and detailed reporting
  • 1.10. VR hardware and maintenance: performance optimization, calibration, updates and preventive diagnostics
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 2

Integration of haptic technologies and biometric sensors in nautical simulations to improve performance and safety

  • 2.1. Foundations of haptic technologies: physical principles, actuator types and tactile feedback in nautical simulation
  • 2.2. Haptic devices for navigation: gloves, suits, wheels and helms with tactile and force feedback
  • 2.3. Biometric sensors in simulation: heart rate, EMG and galvanic skin response integrated into VR
  • 2.4. Modeling human-machine interaction: real-time interpretation of biometric data to adjust scenarios
  • 2.5. Integrating haptic and biometric systems into nautical VR platforms: software architecture, middleware and synchronization
  • 2.6. Improving training performance with biometric feedback: stress, fatigue and decision-making under pressure
  • 2.7. Applications in maritime safety: emergency simulation, biometric early warning and haptic response for critical maneuvers
  • 2.8. Evaluation and validation of haptic and biometric simulators: metrics, user experience and international training standards
  • 2.9. Developing training content in the nautical metaverse adapted to individual biometric profiles
  • 2.10. Future trends and challenges: AI for biometric interpretation, better actuators and large-scale deployment
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 3

Technological innovation in nautical simulation: design, integration and optimization of immersive, sensory training environments

  • 3.1. Technological innovation in nautical simulators: history and state of the art in VR and the metaverse
  • 3.2. Advanced immersive environment design: 3D modeling, fluid physics and dynamic maritime systems
  • 3.3. Architectures and frameworks for sensory simulation: haptics, spatial 3D audio and stereoscopic visualization
  • 3.4. Biometric sensors and telemetry for real-time analysis of seafarer performance
  • 3.5. Optimizing graphics and physics engines: balancing realism, latency and user experience
  • 3.6. Interoperability and compatibility protocols: open standards, synchronization networks and multiplayer training
  • 3.7. Artificial intelligence and machine learning for adaptive training, critical error detection and dynamic scenarios
  • 3.8. Validation of immersive nautical simulators against international rules (STCW, IMO) and training effectiveness criteria
  • 3.9. Data management and cybersecurity in virtual training environments: sensitive data, privacy and access control
  • 3.10. Multisensory feedback and mixed reality for complex maneuvers, emergencies and port and open-sea operations
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 4

Virtual bridge operations and decision-making: digital twins, AI, cybersecurity and compliance in metaverse environments

  • 4.1. Digital twins in navigation: real-time dynamic modeling and synchronization with maritime sensor data
  • 4.2. Artificial intelligence for navigation: prediction algorithms, risk detection and route optimization in virtual environments
  • 4.3. Virtual bridge system integration: communication between simulators, IoT sensors and metaverse platforms
  • 4.4. Cybersecurity in digital nautical environments: vulnerabilities, attack protection and operational resilience
  • 4.5. International rules and standards for metaverse training platforms: SOLAS, IMO and ISO
  • 4.6. Advanced simulation for bridge decision-making: crisis scenarios, traffic management and emergency response
  • 4.7. Human-machine interface in the maritime metaverse: ergonomic design and reduced cognitive fatigue
  • 4.8. Remote control and monitoring: supervising virtual fleets and analyzing performance in real time
  • 4.9. Competency assessment in metaverse environments: practical and theoretical validation methods
  • 4.10. Digital operational safety protocols: risk management, audits and continuous updating of nautical VR platforms
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 5

Advanced modeling and simulation of nautical environments in the metaverse for training and assessing critical competencies

  • 5.1. 3D modeling for nautical environments: geometry, texturing, lighting and optimization for metaverse platforms
  • 5.2. Advanced physics simulation: fluid dynamics, wind-sea interaction, waves, turbulence and vessel behavior
  • 5.3. Integrating hydrographic and oceanographic data: bathymetry, tides, currents and real-time weather
  • 5.4. Specialized physics engines for maritime simulation: forces, hydrodynamic resistance, stability and maneuverability
  • 5.5. Programming interactive scenarios for navigation and complex maneuvers
  • 5.6. Objective, real-time assessment of critical competencies with motion sensors, telemetry and behavior analysis
  • 5.7. AI and machine learning to generate emergencies and decision-making under pressure automatically
  • 5.8. Design and calibration of haptic interfaces and VR/AR devices for better sensory feedback
  • 5.9. Interoperability standards between nautical simulators, metaverse platforms and learning management systems (LMS)
  • 5.10. Validating simulations by benchmarking against real data and international rules
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 6

Innovation and advanced technologies in immersive simulation for next-generation nautical training

  • 6.1. Foundations of VR and the metaverse: technology architecture, latest devices and digital ecosystems for nautical training
  • 6.2. Advanced immersive simulation: real-time engines (Unreal Engine, Unity) and stereoscopic rendering
  • 6.3. Modeling and georeferencing nautical environments: bathymetry, wave dynamics and realistic visibility
  • 6.4. Haptic and sensory interactivity: tactile feedback, hydrodynamic forces and motion devices for kinesthetic training
  • 6.5. Big data and machine learning in nautical simulators: behavior patterns and adaptive personalization
  • 6.6. Multiuser systems in the nautical metaverse: collaborative crew training, real-time communications and role management
  • 6.7. Augmented reality for nautical training: data overlays on physical bridges and simulators for situational awareness
  • 6.8. Hardware-software integration: interoperability between sensors, navigation systems, simulators and 5G networks
  • 6.9. International rules and standards for maritime VR simulators: STCW, IMO and objective competency metrics
  • 6.10. Immersive testing: crisis and emergency simulations with dynamic scenarios for the advanced training of officers
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 7

Immersion, simulation and cybersecurity technologies in virtual environments for high-level nautical training

  • 7.1. Foundations of immersive technologies: VR, AR and MR and their specifics in nautical applications
  • 7.2. Designing virtual environments for nautical simulation: graphics engines, 3D modeling and applied physics
  • 7.3. Advanced navigation simulators: real sensor integration, ship dynamics and environmental response
  • 7.4. Cybersecurity protocols in virtual environments: authentication, encryption and access management
  • 7.5. Secure networks for integrated simulators: VPNs, firewalls and network segmentation
  • 7.6. Assessing and mitigating cyber risks in virtual nautical training systems
  • 7.7. Interactivity and haptic feedback: motion sensors and tactile response devices
  • 7.8. Immersive VR for training complex maneuvers and critical maritime scenarios
  • 7.9. Standardization and compatibility of simulation platforms: open protocols and formats
  • 7.10. International rules and technology standards for virtual nautical training and its cyber protection
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 8

Augmented reality and mixed environments to improve nautical training on interactive virtual platforms

  • 8.1. Technical foundations of AR and MR: hardware, software, sensors and sensor fusion algorithms
  • 8.2. Immersive environments for complex maritime spaces: geospatial data and real-time ocean dynamics
  • 8.3. Advanced 3D modeling of vessels and coastal settings: optimization for VR/AR and high-fidelity real-time rendering
  • 8.4. Natural interaction in nautical simulators: hand tracking, gesture control and voice commands
  • 8.5. Positioning and navigation in AR/MR: GNSS fusion, inertial sensors and calibration
  • 8.6. Mixed environments for training critical maneuvers, emergencies and adverse conditions with haptic and visual feedback
  • 8.7. Multiuser collaborative scenarios on metaverse platforms: synchronization, communication protocols and network security
  • 8.8. Performance assessment with AR/MR: quantitative metrics, data analytics and personalized reports
  • 8.9. AI and machine learning to adapt training programs to each user's profile and progress
  • 8.10. International rules and standards for nautical training in virtual and extended reality
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 9

Innovation in immersive technologies, advanced simulation and security strategies in virtual environments for high-impact nautical training

  • 9.1. Overview and history of immersive technologies in nautical training: VR, AR and MR
  • 9.2. Technical foundations of VR systems: specialized hardware, resolution, latency, spatial tracking and haptic controllers
  • 9.3. Software architecture for advanced nautical simulation: engines, 3D modeling, real-time rendering and maritime physics
  • 9.4. Integrating oceanographic and weather data to replicate real navigation conditions
  • 9.5. Multiplayer interactive scenarios for collaborative training in complex maritime operations
  • 9.6. Simulation of emergencies and critical failures: fire, collision, flooding and maneuvers in adverse conditions
  • 9.7. Artificial intelligence for adaptive training and predictive analysis of trainee performance
  • 9.8. Security in virtual environments: cyber risk, data privacy and prevention of VR sickness
  • 9.9. International rules and standards for nautical simulators: STCW and IMO requirements
  • 9.10. Teaching strategies based on full immersion to maximize retention, skill transfer and objective assessment
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 10

Instructional design, assessment and validation of immersive nautical training

  • 10.1. Learning theories applied to immersive environments
  • 10.2. Instructional design of virtual scenarios
  • 10.3. STCW requirements for simulator-based training
  • 10.4. Competency assessment in virtual reality
  • 10.5. Learning analytics and trainee tracking
  • 10.6. Simulator sickness and user well-being
  • 10.7. Accessibility and inclusion in virtual environments
  • 10.8. The instructor's role in the metaverse
  • 10.9. Validation and approval of immersive programs
  • 10.10. Designing a nautical course in virtual reality
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 11

Final Project

  • 11.1. Concept and design of the virtual environment: objectives, target users and functional analysis of the immersive simulator
  • 11.2. Integration of hybrid technologies: VR, AR and haptic sensors for sensory and operational realism
  • 11.3. AI algorithms for dynamic simulation of complex maritime scenarios and adaptive decision-making
  • 11.4. Advanced cybersecurity: defense-in-depth architecture to protect user data, virtual assets and real-time communication
  • 11.5. Detailed 3D modeling of vessels, ports and weather conditions with CAD software and modern graphics engines
  • 11.6. Design and execution of the nautical competency assessment plan with objective metrics
  • 11.7. Interoperability protocols for connection with real nautical systems, ECDIS and navigation sensors
  • 11.8. Real-time feedback modules for instruction, correction and continuous improvement
  • 11.9. Optimization for different VR devices and multisensory hardware: compatibility, minimal latency and smooth operation
  • 11.10. Agile project management for immersive development: sprints, quality control and user testing
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Metaverse and VR Development for Maritime Training

It is 1,500 hours. Tell us how many you can study each week and we will tell you when you will really finish.

4 h30 h
With 12 h per week
29
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.

Dra. Marina AlcoverDr. Marina AlcoverAcademic Director and Head of Quality Assurance
Ing. Diego CifuentesEng. Diego CifuentesSenior Lecturer in Naval Welding and Non-Destructive Testing; Head of QA/QC for Welded Joints
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)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 FerrerDr. Pau FerrerSenior Lecturer in Naval Architecture and Simulation; Director of the Hydrodynamics and CFD Laboratory
Dra. Nuria LlobregatDr. Nuria LlobregatSenior Lecturer in Marine Meteorology, SAR and Operational Safety; Navigation Risk Management Coordinator
Ing. Javier BañulsEng. Javier BañulsSenior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering, Automation and ETO Engineering; Electronic Integration and Engine Alarms Coordinator
Ing. Sofía MarquinaEng. Sofía MarquinaSenior Lecturer in Materials, Composites and Corrosion Protection; Coordinator of the Advanced Paints and Coatings Line
Ing. Tomás RieraEng. Tomás RieraSenior Lecturer in Propulsion, Alternative Energy and Hybrid Systems; Energy Performance and Vibration Coordinator
Objectives

Objectives of the Master's in Metaverse and VR Development for Maritime Training

01Design immersive experiences for maritime emergency simulation, combining photorealistic 3D modeling and advanced physics to recreate complex risk scenarios with weather effects and fluid behavior.
02Develop digital twins of vessels for advanced maintenance training, accurately modeling mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems and simulating realistic failures and their effects in real time.
03Implement realistic navigation simulations for training in adverse weather, so that trainees learn to anticipate risks, perform safe evasive maneuvers and communicate effectively as visibility drops and the sea state rises.
04Integrate XR technologies to improve instruction in berthing and anchoring maneuvers, adapting difficulty to each trainee's progress and evaluating performance in real time with objective metrics.
05Create interactive virtual environments for safety and risk prevention on board, designing immersive simulations of fires, spills and man overboard situations that evaluate response procedures and the use of safety equipment.
06Assess nautical competencies through virtual reality, measuring the ability to maneuver safely and efficiently in different weather conditions and simulated traffic scenarios.
Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Metaverse and VR Development for Maritime Training

01Designer and developer of nautical virtual environments and simulations for navigation, maneuvering and emergency training
02Nautical instructor delivering courses and workshops on VR and metaverse platforms
03Consultant helping maritime companies and training centers adopt VR and metaverse technologies
04Developer of interactive VR educational content for maritime safety, navigation and port operations
05Simulation and scenario modeling specialist for ports, channels and navigation areas, or researcher in immersive maritime training
06Technical support specialist or project manager for VR training platforms in the maritime sector
Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Metaverse and VR Development for Maritime Training

It is aimed at those who build immersive training: you learn to develop VR, AR and metaverse experiences with professional engines, integrate haptics and biometrics, create multiuser environments and design the pedagogy and assessment behind them.

Mainly Unity and Unreal Engine for development, 3D modeling tools such as Blender or Maya, VR and AR devices, haptic interfaces and biometric sensors, as well as learning analytics and LMS integration.

Yes. It studies STCW requirements for simulator-based training, IMO and ISO references and how to validate immersive programs and assess competencies objectively. Recognition of a specific training course is granted by the competent maritime authority.

Neither is mandatory. The program is designed for both maritime professionals and technical profiles; basic programming and 3D knowledge is recommended, and the admission interview confirms that the program suits your profile.

Yes. It covers simulator sickness and user well-being, accessibility and inclusion in virtual environments and the role of the instructor in the metaverse.

Through development exercises and case studies in each module and a Final Project in which you build a complete metaverse-based nautical training environment and present it before a panel.

A master's issued by Navalis Institute, together with the scenarios, prototypes and assessment designs you develop, which can form part of your professional portfolio.

Fully online, through a virtual campus available 24/7 with live sessions that are recorded, forums and tutorials. It comprises 1500 hours of study across 11 modules of about 136 hours each.

Related programs

More programs in Innovation and startups

View the whole area →

Master’s degree · 1,500 hMaster's in Graphene, Composites and Nanomaterials$2,340 · View program →Master’s degree · 1,500 hMaster's in Maritime Cybersecurity$1,720 · View program →Master’s degree · 1,500 hMaster's in Maritime Innovation and Startups$2,010 · View program →
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: aimed at maritime professionals such as captains, officers and naval engineers, nautical instructors and trainers, software developers and 3D designers, shipping companies and simulation centers, and graduates in nautical studies or maritime engineering. A degree in a STEM field, design, audiovisual communication or a related area, or proven experience in game development, VR/AR or 3D design, is recommended, together with basic knowledge of programming (C#, Python), game engines (Unity, Unreal Engine) and 3D modeling (Blender, Maya).
  • Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
  • Technical resources: a computer with a VR-capable dedicated graphics card, a broadband internet connection and, ideally, a VR headset.
  • Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.
  1. 01
    Application
    Your details, background and documents.
  2. 02
    Instant review
    We check that everything is complete and in order.
  3. 03
    Enrollment
    Choose full payment or instalments and reserve your place.
Start my applicationFrom $728 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 enroll

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.

Enroll now

Consent
Scroll to Top