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

Master's in Naval Art and Sculpture

This master's immerses you in the rich artistic tradition of the sea, combining classical and contemporary techniques. You will learn to capture the beauty of the sea and ships through sculpture, ornamentation and digital design, master the history of maritime art, the materials of naval sculpture and modelmaking, and learn to conserve, restore and mount sculptural pieces on ships and in museums, creating unique works that capture the essence of seafaring.

Duration1,500 h
ModeOnline
Start1 December
Modules11
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About the program

What is the Master's in Naval Art and Sculpture?

This master's brings together the creation, conservation and display of naval sculpture. You will study the history of naval ornamentation, from figureheads and carved sterns to the iconography of warships and royal vessels; classical proportions and geometry applied to maritime ornament; traditional materials and composites based on glass, carbon and aramid fibers; molding, casting and surface finishing; 3D scanning, parametric CAD modeling, additive manufacturing and CNC milling; non-invasive diagnosis with Raman spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, infrared thermography and ultrasound; consolidation, corrosion treatment and nanotechnology for conservation; finite element and CFD analysis of sculptures installed on ships; fastening systems and lifting procedures; and the documentation, cataloging, authentication and exhibition of sculptural heritage under UNESCO and ICOMOS principles.

What sets this master's apart: it joins the sculptor's craft with materials science and structural engineering, so a figurehead or a public maritime sculpture is designed, restored or mounted without compromising its authenticity, the vessel's stability or the safety of the people who handle it; it applies digital tools such as photogrammetry, 3D printing, augmented reality and GIS databases to heritage work; and it closes with a Final Project in which you plan the conservation, restoration and exhibition of a historical sculpture in a marine environment.

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

Program highlights

  • History and heritage: figureheads, carved sterns, European schools of naval sculpture and religious and mythological iconography.
  • Materials and fabrication: fine woods, metals, resins, composites, molding, casting and surface finishes for the marine environment.
  • Digital design and prototyping: 3D scanning, parametric CAD, photogrammetry, 3D printing and CNC milling.
  • Conservation and restoration: non-invasive diagnosis, consolidation, corrosion treatment, nanomaterials and reversibility.
  • Structural analysis and mounting: FEM and CFD, fastening systems, lifting procedures and integration with ship systems.
  • Final Project: an integrated plan to conserve, restore and exhibit a historical sculpture in a marine environment.
Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Naval Art and Sculpture

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Advanced design and modeling techniques in naval sculpture for heritage preservation

  • 1.1. Theoretical foundations of naval sculptural design: applied geometry and classical proportions in maritime ornamentation
  • 1.2. Traditional and modern materials for naval sculpture: analysis of strength, durability and behavior in marine environments
  • 1.3. Advanced three-dimensional modeling techniques: CAD software and parametric modeling applied to naval ornamental elements
  • 1.4. Interpretation and restoration of historical pieces: non-invasive diagnostic methods and compositional analysis of original materials
  • 1.5. Digital technologies in naval sculpture: 3D scanning, additive manufacturing and their use in conservation projects
  • 1.6. Molding and casting processes for naval sculptural elements: choice of alloys, surface treatments and final finishing
  • 1.7. Structural and mechanical assessment of sculptural pieces: finite element simulations for adapting and reinforcing historical naval structures
  • 1.8. Applied project: advanced design and modeling of an ornamental piece for the heritage preservation of historic ships
  • 1.9. International regulations and standards for naval heritage conservation: technical criteria for intervention and ethical conservation
  • 1.10. Study of landmark cases in naval sculptural restoration and modeling: critical analysis and technical lessons for professional practice
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 2

Innovation and use of composite materials in the restoration and creation of historical naval sculptures

  • 2.1. Fundamentals of composite materials: mechanical, chemical and thermal properties applied to naval sculpture
  • 2.2. Types of composites used in naval restoration: glass, carbon and aramid fibers and polymer matrices
  • 2.3. Manufacturing and molding processes: hand lay-up, vacuum infusion, compression molding and advanced technologies
  • 2.4. Diagnosis and structural analysis of historical naval sculptures to select suitable materials
  • 2.5. Joining and integration techniques: structural adhesives, mechanical anchors and chemical compatibility with original materials
  • 2.6. Damage assessment and repair: non-destructive methods (ultrasound, thermography, radiography) for the conservation of historical pieces
  • 2.7. Improving durability and resistance to marine corrosion: surface treatments and specialized coatings
  • 2.8. Innovations in smart and functional materials for naval sculpture: embedded sensors and self-healing materials
  • 2.9. International regulations and specialized standards for the restoration and conservation of naval heritage
  • 2.10. Case studies: landmark restoration projects with composite materials and analysis of their technical and aesthetic results
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 3

Innovative conservation and restoration techniques for historical naval sculpture

  • 3.1. Advanced foundations of conservation in naval sculpture: material composition, degradation factors and technical diagnosis
  • 3.2. Non-invasive analysis methods: Raman spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence and infrared thermography applied to naval sculptural structures
  • 3.3. Chemical and physical stabilization techniques: consolidants, biocides and sealants for marine substrates and treated woods
  • 3.4. Innovations in digital restoration: 3D modeling, laser scanning and virtual reproduction to reconstruct and document historical naval art
  • 3.5. Specialized corrosion treatment procedures for the metals and composites used in naval sculpture
  • 3.6. Comprehensive management of environmental risks during restoration: control of humidity, salinity and air pollutants in museums and outdoors
  • 3.7. Sustainable restoration techniques: eco-friendly materials and processes that minimize environmental impact and respect historical authenticity
  • 3.8. International regulations and preservation protocols for naval heritage: UNESCO, ICOMOS and specific recommendations for maritime sculpture
  • 3.9. Planning and executing complex restoration projects: interdisciplinary coordination between historians, engineers, conservators and naval art specialists
  • 3.10. Case studies: detailed analysis of successful interventions on landmark naval sculptures and lessons learned for future technical work
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 4

Structural analysis and mounting of sculptures on ships: aesthetic integration, fastenings, safety and compatibility with ship systems

  • 4.1. Fundamentals of structural analysis applied to naval sculptures: static and dynamic behavior under maritime loads
  • 4.2. Advanced materials in naval sculpture: mechanical properties, resistance to marine corrosion and compatibility with the ship's metal structure
  • 4.3. Assessment of stresses in sculptural components fitted to ships: numerical methods, FEM modeling and CFD simulations
  • 4.4. Design and selection of fastening systems: anchors, bolts, industrial adhesives and welding suited to harsh marine environments
  • 4.5. International regulations and certifications for installing sculptural elements on civil and military vessels
  • 4.6. Aesthetic and functional integration: design criteria to harmonize the sculpture with the naval architecture without compromising hydrodynamics or stability
  • 4.7. Compatibility with critical ship systems: electromagnetic interference, access for maintenance and protection against mechanical impact
  • 4.8. Safety protocols for mounting at sea and in dry dock: risk assessment, lifting procedures, specialized equipment and staff training
  • 4.9. Post-installation inspection and quality control: non-destructive testing, adhesion tests and long-term structural monitoring
  • 4.10. Case studies: landmark projects, innovative solutions and lessons learned for integrating sculptural art into contemporary ships
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 5

Digital design and advanced prototyping for naval sculptures: technology integration and functional adaptation in maritime settings

  • 5.1. Fundamentals of digital design applied to naval sculpture: specialized CAD/CAM software and parametric 3D modeling
  • 5.2. Advanced structural simulation: finite element analysis (FEA) to ensure the integrity and durability of sculptures in marine environments
  • 5.3. Optimizing the design for resistance to corrosion and wear in extreme maritime conditions
  • 5.4. 3D scanning technologies: capturing complex shapes, digitizing existing sculptures and custom adaptation
  • 5.5. Rapid prototyping with 3D printing and CNC milling: choice of materials, finishes and post-processing for functional and aesthetic testing
  • 5.6. Functional adaptation of sculptural design: ergonomics, hydrodynamic balance and safety in operational naval settings
  • 5.7. Adding sensors and interactive elements through IoT technologies for sculptures with built-in technological components
  • 5.8. Digital modeling for modular fabrication and assembly at the shipyard: logistics planning and quality control
  • 5.9. Environmental analysis and regulatory compliance: ecological impact assessment and maritime regulations for art installations in ports and coastal areas
  • 5.10. Advanced management of the digital project: collaborative workflow, technical documentation, versioning and traceability on shared design platforms
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 6

Innovation in conservation techniques, advanced materials and digital design for creating and restoring historical naval sculptures

  • 6.1. Scientific foundations and physical principles in the conservation of naval sculptures: structural and chemical analysis of historical materials
  • 6.2. Advanced characterization of materials: identifying and assessing the fine woods, metals and composites used in traditional naval sculpture
  • 6.3. Nanotechnology applied to conservation: nanomaterials for the surface protection and stabilization of marine sculptural works
  • 6.4. Development and use of latest-generation resins and polymers for repair and consolidation without altering appearance or historical integrity
  • 6.5. Digital techniques for three-dimensional documentation: 3D scanning, photogrammetry and CAD modeling for naval sculptures
  • 6.6. Specialized digital restoration software: parametric design, structural simulation and planning of restoration work
  • 6.7. Advanced 3D printing for reproducing and replicating detailed pieces with architectural precision and compatible materials
  • 6.8. Advanced sustainable restoration protocols: ethical criteria, reversibility and compatibility of materials in naval art
  • 6.9. Analysis of aging and deterioration in marine environments: environmental factors, biofilm and electrochemical corrosion
  • 6.10. Interdisciplinary intervention methods: coordination between naval engineers, chemists, historians and art experts on complex restoration projects
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 7

Technological innovation and advanced techniques in the conservation, design and mounting of historical naval sculptures

  • 7.1. Fundamentals of technological innovation in naval art: history, evolution and contemporary use
  • 7.2. Advanced materials for the conservation of naval sculptures: properties, analysis and specialized selection
  • 7.3. Computer-aided design (CAD) techniques for naval sculpture: 3D modeling, structural simulation and digital texturing
  • 7.4. Large-scale printing and prototyping: 3D printing of composites and polymers for accurate replicas
  • 7.5. Advanced structural monitoring methods: smart sensors, ultrasound, laser scanning and infrared thermography
  • 7.6. Innovative restoration and preventive conservation methods: consolidation and chemical and biochemical cleaning with nanotechnological agents
  • 7.7. Augmented and virtual reality for designing and presenting historical naval sculptures
  • 7.8. Structured and dynamic mounting: modular systems, reversible anchoring techniques and dimensional control in exhibition spaces
  • 7.9. Advanced management of conservation and mounting projects: specialized software, risk analysis and multidisciplinary planning
  • 7.10. International regulations and quality assurance techniques in the conservation and restoration of naval heritage
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 8

Integrated methodology for the assessment, rehabilitation and conservation of naval sculptures in extreme marine environments

  • 8.1. Scientific foundations and principles of naval sculpture: historical analysis and technological evolution applied to marine structures
  • 8.2. Comprehensive diagnostic assessment: advanced non-destructive inspection, 3D modeling, laser scanning and photogrammetry for accurate diagnosis of deterioration
  • 8.3. Materials and biocorrosion in extreme marine environments: the interaction between sculptural materials (treated woods, metals, resins) and aggressive agents such as salinity, biofouling and microorganisms
  • 8.4. Advanced methods for structural rehabilitation: consolidation protocols, internal reinforcement and specialized polymer and epoxy compounds for restoration without altering aesthetic integrity
  • 8.5. Preventive conservation and environmental control: smart environmental monitoring systems (humidity, temperature and pH sensors) and microclimate management to preserve works in situ
  • 8.6. Maintenance protocols for marine sites exposed to extreme conditions: minimal intervention strategies and adaptive schedules based on predictive analysis
  • 8.7. Document management and full digitization: databases, georeferencing and GIS systems to manage and track naval sculpture projects
  • 8.8. International regulations and technical standards for the conservation of sculptural heritage in marine environments: compliance with conventions and environmental certifications
  • 8.9. Technological innovations in restoration and conservation: drones, underwater robotics and augmented reality for remote intervention and continuous assessment
  • 8.10. Case studies and international comparisons: critical analysis of successful interventions and lessons for continuous improvement in naval sculpture conservation
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 9

Advanced techniques in the design, conservation and mounting of historical naval sculptures for the preservation of maritime heritage

  • 9.1. Historical and cultural foundations of naval art: stylistic evolution and symbolism in maritime sculpture from antiquity to the 20th century
  • 9.2. Traditional materials in naval sculpture: technical analysis of the fine woods, marine metals, resins and varnishes used in marine environments
  • 9.3. Advanced three-dimensional design techniques: parametric modeling, 3D scanning and CAD software for the accurate recreation of historical naval sculptures
  • 9.4. Preventive conservation methods: microclimate control, antimicrobial treatments, structural consolidation and protocols against salinity and corrosion
  • 9.5. Technical diagnosis and condition assessment: non-invasive imaging tools such as ultrasound, infrared thermography and computed tomography to detect hidden deterioration
  • 9.6. Specialized restoration techniques: compatible materials, aesthetic reintegration and epoxy resins and advanced polymers for long-term stability
  • 9.7. Mounting and structural anchoring of sculptures in museums and on ships: adaptive supports and analysis of loads, vibration and resistance in dynamic marine environments
  • 9.8. Detailed technical documentation and records: heritage management software for complete databases and historical intervention reports
  • 9.9. International and local legislation on maritime heritage: current rules for the intervention, protection and exhibition of naval sculptures in port areas and museums
  • 9.10. Comprehensive management of conservation projects: interdisciplinary planning, coordination with specialists in art, naval architecture and restoration, and environmental impact assessment
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 10

History and heritage of naval sculpture and ornamentation

  • 10.1. The evolution of naval ornamentation
  • 10.2. Figureheads: history and symbolism
  • 10.3. Decorative carving of sterns and transoms
  • 10.4. European schools of naval sculpture
  • 10.5. Religious and mythological iconography on board
  • 10.6. Ornamentation of warships and royal vessels
  • 10.7. Museum collections of naval sculpture
  • 10.8. Documentation and cataloging of pieces
  • 10.9. Authentication and expert appraisal
  • 10.10. Promoting and communicating sculptural heritage
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Module 11

Final Project

  • 11.1. Advanced conceptualization of the final project: integrating art and science in historical naval sculpture
  • 11.2. Research and diagnostic methods for the structural and material analysis of marine sculptures
  • 11.3. Advanced preventive conservation techniques in marine environments: control of biofouling, corrosion and atmospheric degradation
  • 11.4. Interdisciplinary restoration: physical-chemical processes and artistic reconstruction of naval heritage pieces
  • 11.5. Technical and archival documentation: photogrammetric systems, 3D scanning and digital modeling for comprehensive conservation
  • 11.6. Handling protocols in marine settings, taking into account structural stability and the safety of specialist staff
  • 11.7. Design and planning of maritime museum exhibitions: mounting criteria, specialized lighting and in situ conservation
  • 11.8. International legislation on underwater cultural heritage and naval sculptures: legal and ethical implications
  • 11.9. Environmental impact and sustainability assessment for exhibition and restoration projects in aquatic environments
  • 11.10. Multidisciplinary project management: coordination of technical teams, schedules, budgets and final presentation of the project
At this stage
136 hestimated workload
11 wkweeks at your pace
Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Naval Art and Sculpture

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 Naval Art and Sculpture

01Design and build realistic, functional ship models and sculptural pieces, selecting appropriate materials and construction techniques and taking hydrodynamics and stability into account.
02Master sculptural techniques for creating and restoring naval works, carving, modeling and assembling wood, metal and resin with precision, using specialized tools and following drawings and technical specifications.
03Manage naval art projects from concept to final delivery, defining the creative scope, planning human, material and financial resources, directing production, supervising quality and meeting deadlines and budgets.
04Document and preserve historical and artistic naval heritage, systematically cataloging, digitizing and archiving drawings, photographs and objects and applying preventive and corrective conservation standards.
05Lead multidisciplinary teams on naval art and sculpture projects, encouraging effective communication, creative problem-solving and conflict management between naval designers, engineers, artists and sculptors.
06Conceive and produce innovative naval artworks with strong visual impact, combining traditional naval aesthetics with emerging technologies to create pieces that invite reflection on the relationship between people and the sea.
Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Naval Art and Sculpture

01Naval sculptorcreation of maritime-themed sculptures for public spaces, museums, ships or private collections.
02Naval heritage restorerconservation and restoration of figureheads, ornamentation, historic vessels and naval artifacts.
03Ship model designer and modelmakerscale models, prototypes and design pieces with an artistic approach.
04Curator of naval art exhibitionsorganization and management of exhibitions on naval art and sculpture in museums and galleries.
05Researcher in maritime art historystudy of the history, techniques and trends of naval art and sculpture.
06Cultural manager or trainer in maritime institutionscultural programs, courses and workshops on maritime heritage and naval art.
Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Naval Art and Sculpture

It combines both: artistic creation inspired by ships and the sea, and the technical knowledge of materials, structures and naval architecture needed to make, restore and mount sculptural pieces.

Yes. A dedicated module covers the evolution of naval ornamentation, figureheads, carved sterns, European schools, iconography, museum collections, cataloging and authentication.

Yes. Several modules cover non-invasive diagnosis, consolidation, corrosion treatment, nanomaterials, reversibility criteria and the UNESCO and ICOMOS principles for maritime heritage.

Parametric CAD modeling, 3D scanning and photogrammetry, finite element analysis, 3D printing, CNC milling and augmented and virtual reality applied to the design and presentation of sculptures.

No, although creativity and manual skill help. Artists, architects, naval engineers, restorers and art historians can enroll; the admission interview confirms that the program suits your profile.

Through practical cases and applied projects in each module and a Final Project in which you plan the conservation, restoration and exhibition of a historical sculpture, presented before a panel.

A master's issued by Navalis Institute, together with a portfolio of designs, digital models, diagnostic reports and conservation plans developed during the program.

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.

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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: aimed at visual artists and sculptors seeking a specialization in the naval field, naval design and architecture professionals, heritage restorers and conservators, art historians and exhibition curators, and nautical and ship modeling enthusiasts with creative goals. A degree in fine arts, architecture, naval engineering or a related field, or demonstrable professional experience in naval design and construction, is recommended, together with creativity, manual skill, attention to detail and spatial vision.
  • Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
  • Technical resources: a computer with a camera and microphone, a stable internet connection and, ideally, 3D modeling software.
  • 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 $1,120 deposit

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

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