University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework with supervised research. Core subject areas include animal physiology, nutrition, reproduction, genetics and breeding, health and disease, and production systems adapted to tropical environments. Students also study research design, statistical methods for biological sciences, and scientific communication.

• Advanced Animal Nutrition — nutrient requirements, feed evaluation and formulation, and metabolism in livestock and aquaculture species.
• Reproductive and Endocrine Biology — reproductive physiology, assisted reproduction, and endocrine regulation of growth and reproduction.
• Physiology and Health — comparative physiology, disease prevention, and herd/flock health management.
• Genetics and Breeding — quantitative genetics, selection strategies and management of genetic resources for small or isolated populations.
• Tropical and Island Production Systems — production practices for ruminants, swine, poultry and aquaculture in tropical climates, with emphasis on sustainability and resource limitations typical of islands.
• Research Methods and Statistics — experimental design, data analysis and interpretation, and training in laboratory and field techniques.
• Seminar and Professional Development — presentation skills, grant writing and extension communication; opportunities to engage with local producers and community outreach projects.

Students undertake an independent research project under faculty supervision; the programme offers pathways for a thesis-based master's and options that emphasise applied, extension-focused projects. Research themes commonly reflect Hawaiʻi's needs and strengths, such as tropical animal production, aquaculture, feed resources, and the management of small-scale and culturally important livestock systems.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in animal science, agriculture, biology or a closely related field from an accredited institution, with a demonstrated background in biology and quantitative methods. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and academic or professional references. Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where required by the department; international applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements (for example via TOEFL or IELTS) unless exempt.

Additional requirements or preparations that strengthen an application include laboratory or field experience with livestock or aquaculture species, familiarity with statistical software, and a preliminary match with a potential faculty advisor when applying to a research-led project.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of careers across industry, government, non-profit and academia. Common pathways include:

• Research scientist or technician in universities, government agricultural research stations or private R&D laboratories.
• Extension specialist or advisor working with producers, cooperatives and community organisations on animal production, health and sustainability.
• Production manager or consultant in livestock, poultry or aquaculture enterprises, particularly in tropical or island contexts.
• Roles in feed and nutrition companies, animal-health firms and biotechnology businesses.
• Positions with conservation organisations, zoos or wildlife programmes requiring expertise in captive animal management and reproductive technologies.
• Progression to doctoral study or professional degrees in veterinary medicine and related fields.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Mānoa

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a distinctive learning environment shaped by its tropical location and close ties to Pacific Island agricultural communities. The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources provides access to specialised facilities, including campus research farms, aquaculture facilities and extension networks across the state. Faculty research often addresses applied problems relevant to island ecosystems, such as resource-limited production systems, feed alternatives, and culturally important livestock species.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across plant, soil and environmental sciences, as well as opportunities for community-engaged projects with local producers, government agencies and conservation partners. The programme's focus on tropical animal systems prepares graduates to work in climates and socio-economic settings that are underrepresented in temperate-focused animal science training.