University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This master's programme balances core graduate coursework in physical and theoretical chemistry with specialised study and research in optics and quantum chemistry. You will deepen your understanding of quantum mechanics as applied to molecular systems, optical spectroscopy, photophysics, and the electronic structure of materials, while gaining hands-on experience with modern laser and detector systems.

• Core topics: advanced quantum chemistry, statistical mechanics, molecular spectroscopy, and thermodynamics for small and condensed-phase systems.
• Optics and spectroscopy: ultrafast and time-resolved spectroscopy, laser spectroscopy, nonlinear optics, and single-molecule/ensemble optical techniques.
• Theoretical and computational methods: electronic structure methods (ab initio and density functional theory), excited-state dynamics, and quantum dynamics simulations.
• Laboratory training: hands-on work with continuous-wave and pulsed laser systems, fluorescence and absorption spectrometers, Raman and IR spectroscopy, and photon-counting detectors.
• Research project / thesis: an original research project under faculty supervision, often involving experimental optical measurements, computational modelling, or a combination of both, culminating in a written thesis and oral defence.
• Interdisciplinary options: opportunities to take electives or collaborate with neighbouring groups in materials science, electrical engineering (photonics), the Institute for Astronomy (instrumentation and detector development), or atmospheric and oceanic sciences for applied optical sensing projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a closely related field with a strong background in physical chemistry and mathematics. Typical preparation includes undergraduate courses in quantum mechanics, physical chemistry, and calculus-based physics.

• Academic transcripts: evidence of solid performance in relevant undergraduate coursework.
• Letters of recommendation: usually two or three references from academic or professional referees who can comment on research potential and subject preparation.
• Statement of purpose: a research-focused statement outlining interests in optics, spectroscopy or quantum chemistry and potential faculty collaborators.
• Research experience: prior laboratory or computational research is strongly advantageous, particularly for research-track applicants.
• English language proficiency: for applicants whose first language is not English, a recognised English proficiency test is required in line with university policy.
• Other requirements: some applicants may be asked to contact potential supervisors prior to application; admission can be competitive and may depend on faculty availability.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are well placed for roles in research and development, instrumentation, and high-tech industries, as well as for progression to PhD study. The combination of experimental optics and quantum-chemical training equips students for work in fields such as photonics, optical sensing, spectroscopy services, quantum materials and devices, and computational chemistry.

• Research scientist or engineer in industrial laboratories (photonics, materials, chemical sensing)
• Instrument scientist or applications specialist with companies that design lasers, detectors or spectroscopy equipment
• Analytical or spectroscopy specialist in environmental monitoring, remote sensing or applied optics
• Computational chemist focusing on excited-state properties and materials modelling
• Academic or national-laboratory researcher following progression to a PhD

Why study at University of Hawaii at Mānoa

The Department of Chemistry at UH Mānoa combines established physical chemistry expertise with access to advanced optical instrumentation and interdisciplinary research across campus. Students benefit from small-group supervision, opportunities to work with faculty whose research spans spectroscopy, photochemistry and theoretical chemistry, and collaborations with nearby institutes focused on instrumentation and environmental sensing.

• Facilities: access to laser laboratories, modern spectrometers, and computational resources suitable for quantum-chemical modelling.
• Interdisciplinary environment: proximity to strong programmes in materials science, electrical engineering and astronomy offers collaborative project possibilities and exposure to applied optics problems.
• Research-active faculty: faculty supervision across experimental and theoretical specialisms supports bespoke thesis projects tailored to student interests.
• Unique research context: the university's geographical location and institutional links provide opportunities for applied work in sensing, remote measurement and environmental photonics relevant to the Pacific region and beyond.