University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The M.S. in Biology combines advanced coursework with a substantial research project conducted under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Teaching and research strengths at Mānoa cover molecular and cellular biology, genetics and genomics, physiology, ecology, evolution, conservation biology, marine biology and bioinformatics. Students typically take subject-specific seminars, methods courses and quantitative/statistical training alongside specialised modules such as molecular ecology, coral reef ecology, plant-animal interactions, tropical forest ecology, microbial ecology and systems biology.

Training emphasises hands-on laboratory and field techniques. Students conduct original research using facilities and field sites that include the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (Coconut Island), the Pacific Biosciences Research Center, Lyon Arboretum, and a range of coastal and upland field stations. Coursework is supplemented by journal clubs, departmental seminar series and opportunities for teaching experience or outreach.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A recognised bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related discipline with evidence of strong academic performance.
• Application documents: Official transcripts, a personal statement or research statement outlining interests and proposed area of study, a curriculum vitae, and usually two to three academic references who can speak to research or academic potential.
• Research fit: Successful applicants typically identify a potential faculty adviser and research area in advance; demonstrated research experience (honours project, summer research, lab internship) strengthens an application.
• English language proficiency: Required for international applicants; accepted tests include recognised proficiency examinations—check the department for minimum scores and exemptions.
• Additional requirements: GRE scores are not universally required; consult the Department of Biology for current testing policy and any department-specific forms or interviews.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of careers. Common paths include continuation to PhD studies and academic research, positions as research scientists or technicians in university, state and federal laboratories, and roles with environmental and conservation organisations. Because of the programme’s strong marine and tropical emphasis, many alumni work in coral reef restoration, fisheries science, invasive species control, natural resource management and conservation planning across the Pacific region.

Other career outcomes include roles in biotechnology and genomics companies, environmental consulting, science policy, museum and aquarium science, science education and outreach, and data-driven positions in bioinformatics and ecological modelling. Practical field and laboratory skills acquired during the degree make graduates attractive to employers in both applied and basic-research settings.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a distinctive setting for biological research because of its location in the central Pacific and immediate access to highly diverse marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Students benefit from unique field sites and specialised facilities such as the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology on Coconut Island, the Pacific Biosciences Research Center, and the Lyon Arboretum, which support studies in coral reef ecology, island biogeography, tropical botany and more.

The Department of Biology has active research faculty working on regionally and globally relevant problems — from climate impacts on coral reefs to conservation of endemic Hawaiian species and molecular studies of organismal adaptation. Proximity to state and federal agencies, NGOs and a network of Pacific research partners provides opportunities for applied projects, internships and community-engaged research. For students seeking a programme that integrates rigorous laboratory science with extensive field experience in a tropical island context, Mānoa offers a compelling combination of place, people and resources.