An image collage of GES students working in the field, working in the lab, and at conferences.

Admission Process

The Global Environmental Science program is known for its rigorous math and science foundation, integrated study of environmental- and sustainability-related issues, and faculty-mentored research thesis requirement. In general, prospective students who are: a) ready to take both CHEM 161 and MATH 241, b) have already taken at least one of these two courses, or c) received AP credit for one of these two courses, are deemed ready for acceptance into the program.

Prospective students first apply for general admission to UH Mānoa through the Office of Admissions. The Office of Admissions then sends accepted applications to the GES program via SOEST Student Academic Services for consideration. If the applicant’s academic preparations are deemed appropriate, they will be accepted into the GES program.

If more coursework is required to properly prepare the applicant to be successful in the program, the application and entry into the program is deferred to allow the applicant time to complete the recommended preparatory coursework. Deferred applicants are encouraged to stay in touch with SOEST Student Academic Services for pre-program advisement. Note: Deferred students are still accepted into UH Mānoa and can select another major to complete the recommended coursework before transferring to GES.

Current UH Mānoa students and students studying at another UH-System campus who wish to transfer to the GES program must be advised by SOEST Student Academic Services to ensure their transition to GES will be as seamless as possible.

All applications, either accepted or deferred, that reach the GES program for consideration will receive a response.

Related resources

Updated October 14, 2022.