University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree covers core geographic concepts alongside applied environmental studies, emphasising the unique social‑ecological systems of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. You will study both human and physical geography topics, develop quantitative and qualitative research skills, and gain hands‑on experience through fieldwork and laboratory practice.

• Core subjects: introduction to physical and human geography, environmental systems, research methods, and geographic thought.
• Physical environment modules: climatology, geomorphology, hydrology, coastal processes and island biogeography, with attention to hazards and resilience.
• Human environment modules: land use and urban geography, resource management, environmental policy and planning, and cultural geography including indigenous and Pacific perspectives.
• Technical skills: geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, spatial analysis, cartography and environmental modelling.
• Applied experience: field courses across different Hawaiian ecosystems, laboratory work, community‑engaged projects and opportunities for internships with government agencies, NGOs and research centres.
• Research and capstone: a senior seminar or capstone project that integrates disciplinary knowledge and practical skills, often involving original data collection or applied planning work.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet the University of Hawaii at Manoa's general undergraduate admission criteria, including completion of secondary education with an academic programme that prepares them for university study. Admissions typically consider academic record, recommended secondary coursework, and other supporting materials.

• Recommended secondary subjects: mathematics, biology, chemistry or earth science, and English for strong preparation in quantitative and writing skills.
• Academic standards: successful applicants usually present a competitive academic profile; specific grade expectations align with the university's undergraduate admissions policies.
• International applicants: must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or prior instruction in English, and provide equivalent secondary credentials.
• Transfer students: are considered with evaluation of college transcripts and transferability of relevant coursework; prerequisites in mathematics and science may be required for transfer credit.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers where spatial thinking and environmental knowledge are valued. The programme’s practical skillset supports both public and private sector roles.

• Environmental consultant or specialist with firms addressing impact assessment, restoration and compliance.
• GIS analyst or spatial data specialist in utilities, planning departments, conservation organisations or private industry.
• Natural resource and coastal manager working for state or federal agencies, non‑profits and community groups.
• Urban and regional planner, land‑use analyst or policy advisor focusing on sustainable development and hazard mitigation.
• Research assistant or technician in university, government or private research programmes, with pathways into postgraduate study.
• Community outreach, environmental education and sustainability coordination roles within civic organisations and local communities.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

UH Manoa offers a distinctive setting for geography and environmental studies: situated in the middle of the Pacific, the campus provides direct access to coastal, montane and tropical ecosystems that enrich field‑based learning and research. The department emphasises Pacific island perspectives and works closely with local communities, offering students opportunities for applied projects with state and regional partners.

• Research and field opportunities: access to island field sites and ongoing projects in coastal management, coral reef science, watershed restoration and climate adaptation.
• Technical resources: dedicated GIS and remote sensing laboratories, and opportunities to train with contemporary spatial analysis tools.
• Community engagement: collaboration with local agencies, Native Hawaiian organisations and NGOs, enabling experiential learning that is place‑based and culturally informed.
• Pathways to further study: strong preparation for professional work and for postgraduate research in environmental science, planning, geography and related disciplines.