University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme emphasises applied computing through a mix of core courses, elective specialisms and a capstone project or practicum. Core topics commonly include advanced algorithms and data structures, software engineering principles, operating systems, and database systems. Students can tailor studies through elective streams such as machine learning and data science, computer vision, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and networked systems, high-performance and parallel computing, human–computer interaction, mobile and cloud computing, and graphics.

• Structure: Primarily coursework with options for a project-based capstone or practicum; some students pursue a research thesis where appropriate supervision is available.
• Typical modules: Advanced Algorithms, Distributed Systems, Database Design and Implementation, Machine Learning, Computer and Network Security, Software Engineering and Project Management, Parallel and High-Performance Computing, Data Mining and Big Data Analytics.
• Applied elements: Team software projects, industry-aligned capstones, internships and collaborations with other UH research groups (for example in oceanography, astronomy, geophysics and bioinformatics) that leverage computing expertise on real datasets and systems.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering or a closely related discipline. Candidates with degrees in other quantitative fields may be considered provided they have completed key prerequisite coursework such as programming, discrete mathematics, data structures and introductory algorithms.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating strong undergraduate performance (equivalent to upper-second-class honours or better in many systems).
• A personal statement describing background, goals and areas of interest within applied computer science.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can comment on technical ability and potential for graduate study.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.
• Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate programming skills or take preparatory coursework if their background is non-traditional; specific prerequisites and admissions policies are outlined by the department.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of technical and leadership roles across industry, government and research organisations. Typical job titles include software engineer, data scientist or analyst, systems engineer, DevOps or cloud engineer, cybersecurity analyst, machine learning engineer and applications developer. The programme also prepares graduates for further study toward a PhD or for roles that require strong computational skills in interdisciplinary domains such as environmental modelling, remote sensing, health informatics and astronomy.

• Opportunities in local and regional technology firms, startups, and public-sector agencies in Hawaii and the broader Pacific Rim.
• Pathways into national laboratories, research institutes and companies focused on high-performance computing, networking and security.
• Entrepreneurial and product development roles supported by project-based learning and industry collaborations.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

UH Manoa offers a distinctive setting that combines a research-active computer science department with interdisciplinary connections across the university’s strengths in oceanography, astronomy, geosciences and environmental science. Students benefit from faculty expertise in areas such as networking, parallel computing, security, machine learning and applied software systems, and can pursue applied projects that address regional challenges.

• Research and collaboration: Access to collaborative research centres and opportunities to work on real-world problems alongside other scientific disciplines.
• Hands-on experience: Emphasis on practical projects, capstones and internship placements that connect students with industry and government partners.
• Location and community: A geographically strategic location for Pacific Rim engagement, with a multicultural campus environment and professional networks across the region.