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

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.

Duration1,500 h

ModeOnline

Start1 December

Modules11

Programme diagnosis

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About the programme

What is the Master's in 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality for Naval Engineering?

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 typeMaster’s degree

ModeOnline

Duration1,500 hours

Modules11

Start1 December

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.

Syllabus

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

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Advanced ship design with virtual reality and maritime simulation.

1.1. Fundamentals of computer-aided design (CAD) specific to naval projects: parametric modelling and generation of complex geometries
1.2. Integration of 3D modelling software with virtual reality platforms: protocols, incompatibilities and advanced solutions
1.3. Hydrodynamic simulation in a virtual environment: CFD techniques applied to hull optimisation
1.4. Virtual structural analysis: use of finite elements (FEA) to evaluate stresses and deformations in three-dimensional models
1.5. Immersive visualisation for design evaluation: implementation of VR systems and haptic sensors for inspecting virtual prototypes
1.6. Simulation of real maritime conditions: waves, wind and currents in a VR environment to validate ship behaviour
1.7. Design optimisation through virtual iterations: reducing costs and time in prototype development
1.8. Multidisciplinary interaction on a VR platform: coordination between structural engineering, hydrodynamic design and propulsion systems
1.9. Creation of remote collaborative environments for real-time project review and adjustment using virtual reality technology
1.10. Advanced VR applications for training and operational simulation: manoeuvring training, emergency response and optimisation of naval operability

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 2

Integration of 3D Modelling and Immersive Simulation for Design Optimisation and Prototyping in Naval Engineering

2.1. Advanced fundamentals of 3D modelling applied to naval structures: solid and surface modelling techniques, parametric modelling and CAD procedures specific to naval engineering
2.2. Specialised software tools: integration of platforms such as Rhino, SolidWorks, CATIA and Autodesk Navisworks for collaborative and multidisciplinary naval design
2.3. Immersive simulation in virtual reality: VR principles, compatible hardware (HMD headsets, motion sensors, haptic devices) and configuration of virtual environments for evaluating naval designs
2.4. Naval design optimisation through simulation: CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis, hydrodynamic behaviour, resistance and dynamic stability using immersive 3D models
2.5. Interoperability between 3D modelling and VR for virtual prototype validation: workflows for data transfer and real-time synchronisation between CAD applications and VR rendering engines
2.6. Ergonomic and functional evaluation of cabins and interior spaces through virtual reality: methodologies to improve habitability, safety and operability based on immersive visualisation
2.7. Integration of virtual sensors and telemetry for digital prototyping: use of real-time data for iterative design adjustments and behaviour simulations in different maritime scenarios
2.8. Implementation of naval digital twins: conceptualisation, creation and continuous updating of virtual models equivalent to physical prototypes for monitoring and predictive maintenance
2.9. Design evaluation and verification methodologies using VR: post-processing analysis techniques, identification of structural failures and optimisation through immersive testing
2.10. Advanced management of naval modelling and simulation projects: planning, version control, multidisciplinary collaboration, technical documentation and quality assurance in virtual environments

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 3

Advanced Visualisation and Simulation Applications in Ship Design and Prototyping using 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality

3.1. Fundamentals of 3D modelling in naval engineering: main CAD/CAM software and tools used for the design of complex naval structures.
3.2. Advanced parametric modelling techniques and automatic generation of naval geometries through specific scripts and plugins.
3.3. Integration of hydrodynamic data and resistance metrics into 3D models for preliminary evaluation of hull and superstructure performance.
3.4. Simulation of physical behaviour using finite elements (FEM) for structural analysis and stress evaluation in the different parts of the ship.
3.5. Configuration and development of immersive virtual reality environments for detailed inspection of full-scale digital prototypes, facilitating the detection of clashes and design errors.
3.6. Application of virtual reality for ergonomic and accessibility validation in technical and accommodation areas on board, improving safety and operational efficiency.
3.7. Dynamic visualisation of manoeuvres and seakeeping behaviour in simulated environments, enabling virtual tests of stability, wave response and adverse weather conditions.
3.8. Implementation of digital twins through the integration of sensors and real-time data to replicate and monitor ship behaviour within virtual and augmented reality platforms.
3.9. Automation of virtual tests and generation of technical reports from simulations, facilitating design decision-making and prototype optimisation.
3.10. Case studies and practical workshops: collaborative virtual design applied to merchant ship, high-tech vessel and offshore platform projects, integrating 3D modelling and virtual reality processes for advanced naval innovation.

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 4

Integrated hull design: parametric 3D modelling, hydrodynamic simulation and immersive virtual reality prototyping for structural and propulsion optimisation

4.1. Fundamentals of naval design and regulatory requirements: classification, ISO standards and certifications applicable to vessel hulls
4.2. Advanced parametric 3D modelling: use of specialised CAD software (SolidWorks, Rhino, Siemens NX) to generate adaptive and scalable hull geometries
4.3. Integration of surfaces and solids in hull design: loft and sweep techniques and NURBS manipulation for hydrodynamic form optimisation
4.4. Hydraulic principles and applied hydrodynamics: theoretical analysis of resistance, lift and laminar-turbulent flow for the design of efficient hulls
4.5. CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) numerical simulation: set-up, meshing and analysis of flows around the hull to minimise resistance and improve stability
4.6. Fluid-structure interaction (FSI) modelling and simulation: evaluation of the hull's dynamic behaviour under operational loads and complex tides
4.7. Immersive prototyping in Virtual Reality: development and navigation of 3D models in VR environments for ergonomic validation, collaborative review and early detection of technical clashes
4.8. Structural optimisation through finite element analysis (FEA): identification of critical points, local reinforcement and weight reduction without compromising mechanical integrity
4.9. Design and simulation of integrated propulsion systems: analysis of propellers, rudders and engines together with the hull to maximise energy efficiency and manoeuvrability
4.10. Advanced workflow for integrating parametric designs and multiple simulations: automation and parameterisation for fast and accurate naval design iterations

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 5

Advanced simulation of ship dynamics and analysis of structural behaviour using immersive environments and parametric 3D modelling

5.1. Fundamentals of ship dynamics: principles of applied hydrodynamics and fluid mechanics for naval structures
5.2. Advanced parametric 3D modelling: design and automation techniques using CAD software and BIM platforms for naval engineering
5.3. Computational simulation of multiphase flows: implementation of CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) for detailed analysis of hull-water interaction
5.4. Integration of immersive environments in naval engineering: VR as a tool for visualisation, clash detection and design testing at early stages
5.5. Procedures for advanced structural analysis: finite element method (FEA) applied to composite materials and alloys in shipbuilding
5.6. Evaluation of the dynamic behaviour of structures under variable hydrodynamic loads and critical operating conditions
5.7. Development of digital twins for real-time monitoring of structural behaviour and ship dynamics using IoT sensors and VR
5.8. Parametric optimisation of hull forms to reduce resistance and improve stability, using evolutionary algorithms and machine learning
5.9. Implementation of multiscale and interdisciplinary simulations: coupling between ship dynamics, structural vibrations and propulsion systems
5.10. Practical cases and capstone project: design, simulation and virtual validation of naval prototypes in highly realistic immersive environments, with performance and strength evaluation

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 6

Hull Design and Optimisation through Parametric 3D Modelling, Hydrodynamic Simulation and Immersive Virtual Reality Environments

6.1. Fundamentals of parametric 3D modelling applied to naval design: definition of geometric parameters, algorithms for automatic generation and form variability according to technical and regulatory criteria
6.2. Advanced CAD software tools for creating and manipulating hulls: free-form surface modelling techniques (NURBS), control curves and generation of high-precision meshes
6.3. Integration between parametric modelling and technical databases specific to naval engineering to ensure interoperability and traceability
6.4. Principles of naval hydrodynamics: analysis of resistance, lift and behaviour in different sea states for hull optimisation
6.5. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation applied to the hull: model set-up, fluid-dynamic meshes, boundary conditions and validation of results
6.6. Evaluation of hydrodynamic performance through CFD simulations: identification of high-resistance zones, turbulence and optimisation of hydrostatic balance
6.7. Multidisciplinary optimisation methodologies: genetic algorithms, response surface-based optimisation and machine learning techniques applied to geometric parameters
6.8. Importance of integrating immersive virtual reality (VR) environments for visualising and validating hull design from the conceptual phase to the virtual prototype
6.9. Configuration of VR environments for real-time interaction with parametric 3D models: tracking technologies, spatial mapping and visual realism focused on naval engineering
6.10. Practical applications of 3D modelling and virtual reality in multidisciplinary teams: collaborative improvement, early error detection and cost reduction in the design and manufacturing phases

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 7

Advanced Applications in Ship Design, Simulation and Prototyping with 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality

7.1. Fundamentals of 3D modelling applied to naval engineering: parametric geometry, NURBS surfaces and polygon meshes
7.2. Specialised software and advanced tools for the design of naval structures: integration of CAD/CAM and simulation systems
7.3. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation methodologies and their application to the analysis of ship hull hydrodynamic behaviour
7.4. Structural simulation and analysis using finite elements (FEA): evaluation of stresses, deformations and fatigue in naval components
7.5. Application of immersive virtual reality for early visualisation and validation of naval designs: benefits in clash detection and ergonomic improvements
7.6. Integration of virtual and physical rapid prototyping systems: 3D printing of parts and assemblies for functional testing and optimisation
7.7. Development of simulated environments for training and operational validation: navigation, manoeuvring and emergency response through virtual reality
7.8. Optimisation of naval designs using artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques integrated into 3D modelling platforms
7.9. Advanced data management and multidisciplinary collaboration: BIM platforms and their implementation in naval engineering
7.10. Real case studies and industrial applications: detailed analysis of 3D modelling and virtual reality projects for commercial, military and research vessels

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 8

Advanced Parametric 3D Modelling and Immersive Simulation Techniques for Integrated Ship Design and Evaluation in Naval Engineering

8.1. Fundamentals of parametric 3D modelling: variables, relationships and constraints applied to naval design
8.2. Advanced software for parametric modelling: in-depth exploration of leading platforms such as Rhino, Grasshopper, SolidWorks and CATIA, with a focus on naval applications
8.3. Creation and manipulation of complex geometries: NURBS surfaces, solid- and mesh-based modelling, subdivision and refinement techniques for maritime structures
8.4. Integration of databases and custom scripts to automate reusable and scalable naval designs
8.5. Immersive simulation applied to naval design: virtual and augmented reality for reviewing and validating hull forms and internal subdivision
8.6. Configuration and use of VR environments for ergonomic and operational evaluation of bridges, machinery spaces and cabins
8.7. Structural analysis and fluid dynamics tools coupled with parametric 3D models to optimise ship performance and safety
8.8. Advanced hydrodynamic simulation (CFD) processes integrated with modelling workflows to predict resistance, stability and behaviour in rough seas
8.9. Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to the automatic generation and refinement of naval designs within parametric 3D environments
8.10. Virtual validation of regulatory compliance: simulation of loading, manoeuvring and extreme-condition scenarios in accordance with international regulations (IMO, ABS, DNV-GL)

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 9

Integration of Immersive Technologies and Virtual Simulation for the Optimal Design of Ships and Naval Structures

9.1. Fundamentals and basic principles of 3D modelling applied to naval engineering: parametric geometry, NURBS surfaces and polygon meshes specific to naval structures
9.2. Advanced CAD and CAE software: integration of tools such as Rhino, SolidWorks and ANSYS for accurate simulation of loads, stresses and hydrodynamic behaviour
9.3. 3D scanning and virtual reconstruction methodologies: data capture of naval prototypes and components using LIDAR and photogrammetry technologies
9.4. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) applied to naval design: modelling of laminar and turbulent flow, hydrodynamic resistance analysis and hull optimisation
9.5. Implementation of virtual reality (VR) environments for immersive project visualisation: real-time 3D rendering techniques and set-ups for dynamic interaction with ship models
9.6. Integration techniques between 3D modelling and immersive simulation: synchronisation of databases, graphics engines and VR platforms for collaborative design
9.7. Design optimisation through augmented reality (AR): on-site evaluation and validation of naval prototypes, overlaying technical data on physical models
9.8. Simulation and evaluation in virtual navigation scenarios: analysis of behaviour under environmental conditions, manoeuvres and structural loads using immersive environments
9.9. Protocols for quality control and verification of digital models: professional standards, geometric integrity review and validation of physical parameters
9.10. Advanced applications: integration of digital twins for real-time monitoring of performance and predictive maintenance of ships and naval platforms

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 10

Naval BIM workflows, interoperability and design data management

10.1. Naval design software: Rhino, FORAN, AVEVA and others
10.2. Exchange formats and standards
10.3. Product lifecycle management (PLM)
10.4. Version management and collaboration
10.5. Laser scanning and point clouds
10.6. Integration of 3D models with calculations
10.7. Technical documentation from the model
10.8. Use of the model in production and assembly
10.9. Digital twins derived from the model
10.10. Digital workflow project

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 11

Master's Thesis: Comprehensive Integration of 3D Modelling, Immersive Simulation and Virtual Reality for Naval Design Optimisation in Maritime Engineering

11.1. Conceptualisation and scope of the thesis: objectives of multidisciplinary integration in 3D modelling, immersive simulation and virtual reality applied to naval engineering
11.2. Advanced 3D modelling methodologies: selection and parameterisation of complex naval geometries with state-of-the-art CAD/CAM software (CATIA, Siemens NX, SolidWorks)
11.3. Implementation of meshing and refinement techniques for structural and fluid-dynamic analysis: generation of high-precision discretised volumes for CFD and FEM simulations
11.4. Integration of naval design data with graphics engines for virtual reality: optimisation of texturing, shading and polygon load for real-time immersive environments
11.5. Design and simulation of navigable operational scenarios in virtual reality environments: modelling of maritime environmental conditions, interaction with control systems and evaluation of operational ergonomics
11.6. Advanced configuration of VR/AR hardware and software for immersive validation: calibration of HMD devices, motion sensors and haptic systems for functional and interaction testing
11.7. Application of multiphysics simulation for design optimisation: integration of structural dynamics, hydrodynamics and thermal analysis on collaborative virtual platforms
11.8. Validation and verification of the integrated model: test protocols, results analysis and acceptance criteria based on IMO standards and ISO regulations for naval engineering
11.9. Technical documentation and professional presentation of results: preparation of technical reports, graphic panels and interactive demonstrations aimed at multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders
11.10. Management of complex naval engineering projects using BIM-VR tools: planning, milestone tracking and coordination of design and simulation teams for integrated delivery

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality for Naval Engineering

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 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality for Naval Engineering

01Design and simulate complex naval systems.

02Develop interactive virtual prototypes to optimise naval design.

03Implement virtual reality solutions for training and the simulation of naval operations.

04Manage naval engineering projects with 3D modelling and VR tools.

05Create immersive visualisations to present and sell naval projects.

06Optimise efficiency and sustainability in ship design and operation.

Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality for Naval Engineering

013D modeller specialising in the naval sectormodels of ships, marine structures and port facilities.

02VR/AR experience designer for the naval industrytraining simulations, visualisations and interactive tools.

03Simulation engineeroptimisation of naval designs through advanced simulation.

04Naval data visualisation specialistclear representations of performance and safety data.

05VR application developer for naval maintenancetechnician training and improved maintenance processes.

06Naval innovation consultantadvising companies on the adoption of 3D modelling and VR.

07Technology researcher and developerR&D projects on VR in naval engineering.

08VR project manager in the naval sectorplanning and delivery of 3D modelling and VR projects.

Frequently asked questions

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

Yes.

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

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

Naval engineering.

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 fit.

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.

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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 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.

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