The M.A. Program of the Department of Geography at the University of Hawaii, Manoa, provides training for students seeking to advance their understanding of the concepts and methodologies applied by professional geographers in both the public and private sector, as well as in academia. Our graduate students have obtained employment in education, federal or local government service, and business or industry, or have continued in their studies for higher degrees. The department prides itself on the standard of excellence it maintains and the resulting demand for its graduate students by the local, national and international community.
The Ph.D. degree at the University of Hawai`i at Mānoa is a rigorous, specialized program and graduating students are expected to be able to perform according to the highest standards of professionals in the field. PhD students develop a general understanding of the discipline of geography as a whole, its relationship with cognate fields, and its contribution to knowledge; a detailed understanding of at least one specialty within the discipline; the ability to conduct original, independent research of professional quality; and the ability to communicate the results of research in both oral and written forms.
An interdisciplinary approach is needed in the increasingly complex and technical management of our oceans. Effective handling of ocean issues depends on an understanding of the natural environment, the technology that allows exploration and exploitation of that environment, and the social factors that govern those activities. From the local to the global level, individuals and governments must be prepared to assess chemical, biological, geological, legal, political, economic and other implications of policy decisions. The University of Hawai‘i is uniquely qualified to combine natural and social science perspectives in a professional education program. Graduate Ocean Policy Certificate (GOPC).
Graduate Division Forms (Including Forms I, II, III etc.)
Graduate Division's tool to find eligible committee members.