University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad foundation in mathematics, basic sciences and engineering fundamentals in the first years, followed by specialised civil engineering topics and professional practice. Typical modules include calculus and differential equations, physics for engineers, chemistry, statics and dynamics, mechanics of materials, engineering materials, and engineering graphics/CAD.

• Core civil engineering courses: structural analysis, reinforced concrete and steel design, geotechnical engineering, fluid mechanics and hydraulics, environmental engineering, water resources and hydrology, and transportation engineering.
• Professional and practical learning: construction management, engineering economics, project management, engineering ethics, laboratory classes and fieldwork.
• Specialist and contextual topics: coastal engineering and shoreline protection, seismic design and earthquake engineering, sustainable infrastructure, and resilience planning relevant to island settings.
• Computing and tools: numerical methods, finite element basics, GIS and mapping, and industry-standard design and modelling software training.
• Capstone: a senior design project or team-based capstone that integrates technical design, project planning, documentation and presentation. Many students undertake projects addressing local infrastructure, coastal hazards or water resources.

Students typically complete a sequence of laboratory sessions, field trips and site investigations. Internships, cooperative placements or research assistantships with local agencies and firms are strongly encouraged and commonly taken during the summer or as part of degree planning.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in mathematics (including pre-calculus or calculus) and physics. Typical preparation includes:

• High school mathematics through calculus (or equivalent) and high school physics; chemistry is recommended.
• A competitive academic record in STEM subjects; many successful applicants present strong grades in maths and science.
• For transfer applicants, completion of first-year calculus, physics and core engineering prerequisites with college-level coursework and a competitive GPA.
• International students must demonstrate equivalent academic qualifications and meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

Selection may also consider personal statements, references and evidence of interest in engineering (such as relevant extracurricular activities, work experience or engineering-related projects). Prospective students should consult the department and admissions office for programme-specific prerequisite lists and credit-transfer policies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers designing, constructing and managing infrastructure in both the public and private sectors. Common roles include:

• Civil or structural engineer in consulting engineering firms
• Geotechnical or foundation engineer
• Water resources and hydrology engineer, or coastal engineer dealing with shoreline protection and sea-level impacts
• Transportation engineer and traffic planner
• Construction manager and project engineer
• Environmental engineer or consultant focused on water quality, wastewater and sustainability
• Positions with state and municipal agencies, public utilities, and infrastructure owners
• Further study and research leading to graduate degrees and roles in academia or specialised technical fields

Graduates working in Hawaii often find opportunities addressing island-specific needs: resilient coastal infrastructure, stormwater management, watershed restoration and renewable infrastructure integration. Professional registration as a licensed engineer is a common next step; the programme provides the coursework foundation for pursuing licensure.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaii at Manoa offers civil engineering education with a distinctive focus on island, coastal and tropical environments. The campus’s location provides direct access to real-world field sites for coastal, geotechnical and water-resources studies and opportunities to work with local communities and agencies on regionally important projects.

• Faculty research and teaching often address resilience, coastal hazards, water resources and sustainability—topics of high relevance to Pacific islands.
• Strong local partnerships and internship pathways exist with state departments, city agencies and engineering firms, offering practical workplace exposure.
• The programme emphasises hands-on learning through labs, fieldwork and a senior capstone design experience that connects technical skills with project delivery and community needs.
• The university’s multicultural campus and Pacific location provide a unique perspective on engineering solutions for diverse communities and constrained island systems.

Prospective students should contact the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering for detailed advising on course planning, research opportunities and pathways to professional practice.