University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework, specialised electives and an independent research thesis supervised by faculty in the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST). Teaching emphasises practical skills in field mapping, remote sensing and geophysical methods alongside laboratory techniques such as petrography, geochemical analysis and isotope geochemistry.

• Core topics: igneous and metamorphic petrology, structural geology, sedimentology and stratigraphy, tectonics, and geophysical methods.
• Specialist modules: volcanology and volcanic processes, magma dynamics, geochemistry and isotope systems, hydrogeology, and environmental geology.
• Analytical and technical training: GIS and remote sensing, seismic data interpretation, mass spectrometry and microanalysis, rock and mineral characterisation.
• Fieldwork: extensive field-based courses and projects, including studies on active volcanic terrains, coastal and island systems, and comparative Pacific geology.
• Research thesis: an independent research project leading to a written thesis and oral defence, supported by faculty supervision and access to SOEST laboratories and instrument facilities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in geology, earth sciences, geophysics, geochemistry, or a closely related physical science or engineering discipline. Strong preparation in foundational subjects such as mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, geophysics and calculus-based mathematics will be required for full research participation.

• Academic transcript and demonstrated record of relevant coursework at undergraduate level.
• Statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with potential faculty supervisors.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant’s preparation for graduate research.
• Research experience, field experience or relevant professional work are advantageous.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa admissions policies.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical field and laboratory skills, analytical training and research experience that prepare them for a wide range of careers. Common pathways include:

• Academic and further research: progression to PhD programmes or positions in university research groups.
• Government and public sector: roles in geological surveys, volcano observatories (including collaborative work related to Hawaiʻi’s active volcanoes), environmental protection agencies and hazard mitigation bodies.
• Industry: geotechnical and environmental consulting, mineral and petroleum exploration, geothermal energy development and resource assessment.
• Applied geoscience and monitoring: seismic and geodetic monitoring, remote sensing analysis, hydrogeology and coastal geoscience.
• Education and outreach: science communication, museum and park interpretation, and secondary or tertiary teaching with additional certification.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a distinctive environment for earth science study because of its location in a volcanic island chain within the central Pacific. Students benefit from direct access to active volcanic systems, diverse coastal and island lithologies, and long-term monitoring networks.

• SOEST and HIGP strengths: interdisciplinary research culture within the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology and close ties to the Hawaiʻi Institute of Geophysics and Planetology provide strong supervision and collaborative opportunities.
• Field and monitoring access: opportunities for hands-on research with active volcanoes, coastal processes and Pacific basin geology, and collaboration with local observatories and monitoring agencies.
• Laboratory facilities: access to modern analytical instruments and shared facilities for geochemistry, geochronology and geophysical data processing.
• Regional focus: an ideal base for studying Pacific island geology, volcanic hazards, geothermal resources and tropical coastal systems with relevance to regional policy and industry.