Course Modules
The course is divided into five main modules altogether giving a broad approach to ocean governance:

Module 1 Global Ocean Governance Framework setting out the objectives of ocean governance and the linkages to socio-economic issues, integrated and ecosystem ocean management and resources exploitation. The focus is on the MDGs with a regional perspective to the benefit of sustained development, eradication of poverty, enhancement of partnerships and promotion of the concept of the Common Heritage of Mankind.

Module 2 Operationalization of Ocean Governance covering the traditional policy, legal and institutional tools, focusing on the science management interface, and bringing to light new perspectives, practices, methodologies and the use of technology for the effective achievement of sound ocean governance. This module covers methods on national marine coastal zone policies development, integrated coastal zone management, the role of coastal communities, vulnerability assessment, environmental risk evaluation and mitigation of marine-related natural hazards.

Module 3 Conflict Management, Consensus Building and the Concept of Foresight addressing those conflicting interests that can be a barrier to effective ocean governance and management. This module covers the mechanisms available for conflict management through peaceful resolutions and consensus-building techniques, as well as introduces participants to foresight study methods and tools with applications on relevant case studies.

Module 4 Governance of the Mediterranean Sea targeting the governance framework for the Mediterranean Sea based on current realities, future needs and an in-depth study of its geophysical, socio-economic and political contexts.

Module 5 Governance of the Black, Baltic and Caspian Seas with comparisons between these three regional seas, the Mediterranean , and the reality of the European Union, targeting their ideal governance frameworks given the different socio-economic and political contexts.

Method of Assessment
The participants will be assessed for their

- communication skills, both written and oral
- team working skills
- the ability to successfully complete complex and sophisticated tasks
- increased autonomy and self direction – ability to make their own decisions, possibly using their staff as a resource.

There will not be a final exam at the end of the course. Modern and student-oriented teaching methods adopted demand less traditional methods of assessment. The trainees will be assessed throughout the delivery of the course on the basis of their performance during interactive, group and research sessions, specific assignments.