PhD in Oceanography in Honolulu United States | University of Hawaii at Manoa

The Oceanography Department is situated on the University's main campus (home to roughly 20,000 students), offering views of Waikk, downtown Honolulu, Hawaii's State Capitol, and the region's commercial and cultural hub. Recognized as a center of excellence, marine and earth sciences receive substantial backing from both the State and University, fueling significant growth in faculty, facilities, and academic offerings in recent years. This expansion culminated in the creation of the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) in 1988.

With the inclusion of Cooperating and Affiliate members, around 60 Graduate Faculty members instruct and mentor students pursuing Oceanography. The faculty's wide-ranging research specialties create numerous project possibilities and career pathways for students. The department is structured into three Divisions, each overseeing educational and research initiatives for specific subfields, managing shared resources, and offering administrative support (including student access to computing resources). N Kama Kai, the graduate student association, fosters both academic and social connections while advocating for student interests.

Pursuing either a Master's or PhD degree here ensures a deeply rewarding educational journey. By focusing on biological oceanography, marine geology and geochemistry, or physical oceanography, you'll gain the expertise for fulfilling careers in academia, industry, or public service. Our rigorous M.S. and Ph.D. programs equip you to make significant scientific advancements. Alongside specialized coursework, you'll conduct independent research with access to state-of-the-art facilities, distinguished faculty mentors, and comprehensive support. Explore our course catalog for more details.

An oceanography career offers both excitement and purpose. You'll become part of a passionate community committed to ocean preservation and scientific discovery. Your research could influence fields like medicine, ecology, and our understanding of marine ecosystems. A University of Hawaii education transforms your environmental passion into tangible global impact.