University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This degree emphasises the science and practice of conserving and managing natural resources, with particular attention to tropical and island environments. The curriculum typically combines core courses in ecology, conservation biology and natural resource policy with quantitative skills, laboratory and field techniques, and a supervised research or capstone project.

• Core science and theory: courses in ecology, population biology, conservation biology, ecosystem dynamics and restoration ecology.
• Quantitative and technical skills: statistics for ecology, experimental design, GIS and remote sensing, spatial analysis and ecological modelling.
• Physical environment: soil science, hydrology, coastal and marine resource management, and climate impacts on ecosystems.
• Policy and social context: natural resource policy and law, resource economics, community-based management and Indigenous resource governance.
• Practical training: field methods, laboratory techniques, specimen identification, applied restoration, monitoring protocols and safety in remote fieldwork.
• Research capstone or honours project: an independent, supervised research project or extended applied practicum emphasising experimental design, data collection, analysis and communication of results.
• Electives and special topics: options often include marine ecology, invasive species management, agroecology, conservation genetics, wildlife management and sustainability science.

Courses are delivered through a mix of lectures, laboratory classes, local and regional field trips, and partnerships with research stations, state agencies and community organisations. Students are encouraged to gain practical experience through internships and research assistantships.

Entry requirements

Entry is normally at the undergraduate level and requires completion of a recognised secondary school qualification. Typical expectations include strong performance in science and mathematics subjects. Applicants should also demonstrate an interest in environmental science and fieldwork.

• Academic background: completion of secondary school with evidence of competence in biology and mathematics; relevant coursework in chemistry or earth science is advantageous.
• Standardised and international applicants: international qualifications are considered; applicants whose first language is not English will need to provide evidence of English proficiency in line with university regulations.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement outlining interest in natural resources and conservation, and any relevant field, volunteer or work experience. Some applicants may be invited to discuss their preparation and interests as part of the selection process.
• Recommended preparation: practical experience such as volunteer work, internships or field courses, and familiarity with basic statistics or computing, will strengthen applications.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in conservation, natural resource management and environmental research. Many go on to work with government agencies, non-profit organisations, consultancy firms, research institutions and community groups.

• Natural resource manager or planner for regional and state agencies
• Conservation biologist or ecological technician in restoration and monitoring projects
• Field ecologist and research assistant in university or government laboratories
• GIS and spatial analysis technician supporting habitat mapping and management
• Environmental consultant working on impact assessments, mitigation and compliance
• Community liaison or project officer in NGOs focusing on habitat protection, invasive species control or sustainable livelihoods
• Further study and research: graduates can progress to honours programmes, master's degrees or PhDs in ecology, conservation biology, resource management or related fields to pursue research careers or specialist roles

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a distinctive learning environment for natural resources study because of its location, research infrastructure and interdisciplinary faculty. The campus serves as a gateway to a wide diversity of tropical terrestrial and marine ecosystems, enabling extensive hands-on field training and place-based research.

• Unique field opportunities: proximity to native forests, coral reefs, coastal wetlands and agricultural systems supports applied learning and long-term research projects.
• Interdisciplinary expertise: collaboration across colleges and research units provides strengths in ecology, oceanography, agriculture, cultural resource management and policy.
• Applied research and partnerships: strong links with state agencies, federal partners, local communities and conservation NGOs offer internship and employment pathways as well as real-world project experience.
• Cultural and environmental context: curriculum and research frequently integrate Hawaiian knowledge and community-based approaches to resource stewardship, emphasising culturally informed conservation practice.
• Facilities and support: access to labs, long-term monitoring sites and field stations, alongside academic advising and career services, helps students develop practical skills and professional networks.