Course Modules
The course curriculum is divided into four main modules giving altogether a broad approach to the theme of the course.

Module 1 - Global Ocean Governance Framework sets 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 understanding the effective governance frameworks to put maritime policy into practice, and 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 - Managing our relations with the oceans covers 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 and sound operationalisation of ocean governance. This module covers methods on national marine coastal zone policies development, the use of marine data for informed decisions and products and services, spatial planning for a growing maritime economy, 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 addresses those conflicting interests that can be a barrier to effective ocean governance and management. This module covers the mechanisms available for conflict prevention, conflict management through peaceful resolution and consensus-building techniques. It introduces participants to foresight study methods and tools for future-oriented assessments and planning.

Module 4 - Regional Ocean Governance Frameworks for the Mediterranean, Black, Baltic and Caspian Seas targets the governance frameworks for these regional seas on the basis of current realities, future needs and an in-depth study of their geophysical, socio-economic and political contexts. The module includes inter-comparisons between the regions, and the reality of the European Union, targeting their ideal governance frameworks within the perspective of a broad and coherent EU maritime policy shared by the regions.

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.