University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The degree offers a balance of core engineering fundamentals and specialised electives, with both thesis and non‑thesis pathways available. Core topics typically include advanced thermodynamics and heat transfer, fluid mechanics and computational fluid dynamics, solid mechanics and finite element analysis, dynamics and control, and engineering materials.

• Advanced Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer — energy conversion, conduction/convection/radiation, and practical thermal system design.
• Fluid Mechanics and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) — incompressible and compressible flows, turbulence modelling and numerical solution methods.
• Solid Mechanics and Finite Element Analysis — stress analysis, elasticity, plasticity and numerical simulation of structures and components.
• Dynamics, Control and Mechatronics — system dynamics, control theory, sensors and actuator integration for robotic and automated systems.
• Materials and Manufacturing — advanced materials behaviour, failure analysis, additive manufacturing and design for manufacture.
• Electives reflecting local and research strengths — renewable and marine energy, coastal and offshore mechanical systems, biomechanics, and advanced computational methods.

Students on the thesis track undertake original research under faculty supervision and produce a master’s thesis. Non‑thesis students complete a greater number of coursework credits and may undertake a capstone project or practicum with industry partners. Laboratory modules and project work provide hands‑on experience with instrumentation, prototyping, and computational tools used in professional practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering or physical science discipline from an accredited institution. Applications are assessed on academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a curriculum vitae.

• Academic background: undergraduate coursework in mathematics (calculus, differential equations), mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and materials is normally required or should be made up by prerequisite coursework.
• Recommendations and statement: two or three letters of recommendation and a clear statement outlining research or professional goals are required.
• Research experience: for the thesis option, demonstrated research experience or undergraduate projects is advantageous.
• English language proficiency: international applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or equivalent qualifications.
• Additional documentation: applicants may be asked to submit transcripts, a CV and, in some cases, GRE scores if required by the department.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of technical and managerial roles across industry, government and research organisations. Common career paths include mechanical design engineer, systems engineer, thermal or HVAC engineer, fluid dynamics specialist, manufacturing and process engineer, and controls or robotics engineer. The programme also prepares students for doctoral study and careers in research and development.

Given the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s research connections and regional focus, graduates often find opportunities in sectors such as renewable and marine energy, aerospace and defence supply chains, advanced manufacturing, biomedical devices, and environmental and coastal engineering. The programme’s project and lab components help build practical skills sought by employers and support transition into professional practice or entrepreneurship.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa combines a rigorous engineering curriculum with research programmes that reflect the Pacific island context, including renewable energy, ocean and coastal engineering, and sustainability. Students benefit from faculty with applied research experience, multidisciplinary collaborations across the university, and access to specialised laboratories and regional test facilities.

Studying at Manoa provides a supportive campus environment and opportunities for industry engagement and internships within Hawaii and the broader Pacific region. The setting also offers unique applied learning contexts for students interested in energy, marine systems and environmental resilience, making it a strong choice for those seeking engineering training that links technical skills with real‑world regional challenges.