University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme provides a foundation in organismal biology, genetics and ecology, then progresses to specialised topics in evolution, systematics and population biology. Core subjects typically include introductory and advanced courses in ecology, evolutionary biology, organismal biology, genetics, and biodiversity and systematics. Students also take quantitative methods such as biostatistics, population modelling and experimental design.

A distinctive feature of study at Mānoa is extensive fieldwork and laboratory training. Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Field Ecology and Field Methods — practical skills in sampling, species inventories, mark–recapture and habitat assessment, often conducted in Hawaiʻi’s native forests, coastal systems and marine environments.
• Evolution and Systematics — phylogenetics, comparative methods, taxonomy and the study of speciation, with examples drawn from island radiations and endemic flora and fauna.
• Population Biology and Conservation — population dynamics, metapopulation theory, conservation genetics and management of threatened species.
• Laboratory Techniques — molecular methods, microscopy, GIS and ecological data analysis.
• Marine and Tropical Ecology — courses that address coral reef ecology, reef–terrestrial interactions, and tropical ecosystem processes.
• Capstone or Research Project — many students undertake an independent research project or senior thesis supervised by faculty, often using on‑island field sites or the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology and Lyon Arboretum facilities.

The degree combines campus-based lectures and labs with hands-on learning at regional research stations, allowing students to build a portfolio of field experience and a strong grounding in theory and quantitative analysis.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa requires a completed high-school qualification or equivalent. Applicants to this programme are expected to have a strong background in science and mathematics.

• Typical academic preparation: secondary coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics (including algebra and preferably precalculus or calculus).
• Recommended subjects: Advanced placement or higher-level coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics and statistics where available.
• Additional evidence: personal statement describing interest in ecology and evolution, and any field or laboratory experience can strengthen an application.
• Transfer students: credit for community college coursework in biology, chemistry and maths may be accepted; applicants should consult the university’s transfer articulation resources to determine equivalencies.
• Placement and prerequisites: some introductory courses may have placement requirements; students may need to complete foundational chemistry or math before taking advanced biology modules.

International applicants and those for whom English is not a first language will need to meet the university’s English proficiency requirements. Prospective students should check the university’s undergraduate admissions pages for full details and any programme-specific guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a range of careers in research, conservation, natural resource management and education. Common career pathways include:

• Research technician or field biologist with universities, government agencies (for example wildlife, fisheries and natural resource departments) and environmental research organisations.
• Conservation biologist or ecological consultant working on habitat restoration, invasive species control and endangered species recovery.
• Natural resource manager or policy advisor for regional or national agencies and non-governmental organisations focused on land and marine stewardship.
• Environmental educator and outreach specialist in museums, nature centres, schools and community programmes.
• Further academic study: many graduates go on to master’s and doctoral programmes in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation biology, fisheries science or related disciplines.

The hands-on field training, quantitative skills and research project experience that students acquire are particularly valued by employers involved in biodiversity monitoring, ecological assessment and conservation planning.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a unique living laboratory for the study of ecology and evolution. Hawaiʻi’s geographic isolation has produced high levels of endemism and striking examples of adaptive radiation, making it an exceptional place to study evolution, systematics and population processes in situ.

• Distinctive ecosystems: access to tropical rainforests, dry forests, alpine zones, coastal and coral reef environments provides diverse field sites within relatively short travel distances.
• Research facilities: students can work with the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology, Lyon Arboretum and other campus research centres, gaining exposure to marine and terrestrial research programmes.
• Faculty expertise and collaborations: faculty conduct research in island biogeography, conservation genetics, invasive species biology and marine ecology, and maintain collaborations with state and federal agencies and local conservation organisations.
• Field and community engagement: strong opportunities for internships and applied projects with conservation organisations, cultural resource managers and government agencies active in Hawaiʻi.

For students interested in evolution, biodiversity and applied conservation, studying at Mānoa provides both rigorous academic training and unrivalled opportunities for field‑based research and community‑engaged practice.