Master of Science [M.S] [Geology and Geophysics] From University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaii at Manoa Master of Science (M.S.) in Earth and Planetary Sciences is a research-intensive two-year program specializing in volcanology, geophysics, marine geology, and planetary science. Students conduct fieldwork and laboratory research at world-class facilities including the Hawaii Institute of Geophysics and Planetology. International tuition averages USD 33,648 annually (INR 32.07 Lakhs). Fall and Spring intakes are available with December 1 and August 15 deadlines respectively. English proficiency via TOEFL or IELTS is required. The program accepts students from diverse backgrounds and does not require the GRE.

This program trains geoscientists for roles in academia, industry, and government. Specialization areas include tectonics, mineral physics, remote sensing, and space technology. The Department of Earth Sciences (SOEST) emphasizes cutting-edge methodology and independent research. Ideal applicants have undergraduate geology, geophysics, or related science backgrounds. Most graduate students receive tuition-waiving research or teaching assistantships.

• Majority of graduate students receive funded research or teaching assistantships that cover tuition and provide monthly stipends.
• No GRE requirement under the department’s inclusive admissions policy launched in recent years.
• Access to active volcano monitoring, deep-sea research platforms, and regional geophysical networks unique to Hawaii’s Pacific location.

Also Check: University of Hawaii at Manoa Admission Requirements

University of Hawaii at Manoa M.S. Earth and Planetary Sciences Fees and Living Costs 2026

International tuition forms the largest cost component for a two-year M.S. programme at UH Manoa. Ancillary fees and living expenses in Honolulu add substantially to the total investment.

All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.21 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.

• Tuition covers all classroom instruction, laboratory access, and academic advising for two years of full-time enrollment.
• Research and fieldwork fees support volcanic monitoring, seismic networks, and ocean-going research vessels unique to SOEST.
• Graduate students receiving assistantships are exempt from tuition charges and pay only mandatory campus fees.
• International students must carry health insurance; many plans cost USD 1,200 to USD 2,000 annually.

Cost of Living in Honolulu for M.S. Earth and Planetary Sciences Students

Cost Reality: Honolulu’s island location elevates housing and food costs 20 percent above the U.S. mainland average. On-campus dormitory housing for graduate students is limited; most students rent private apartments. Total two-year M.S. cost (tuition + living) ranges from USD 95,408 to USD 113,648 (INR 90.96 to 108.35 Lakhs) before scholarships.

Read More: Cost of Living in the United States for Indian Students

University of Hawaii at Manoa M.S. Earth and Planetary Sciences Admission 2026

The programme accepts both domestic and international students with undergraduate degrees in geology, geophysics, chemistry, physics, or engineering. Applicants from adjacent disciplines with strong quantitative backgrounds are also considered.

• Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with minimum 3.0 grade point average (equivalent).
• No GRE examination required under the department’s recent policy shift toward inclusive admissions.
• Undergraduate coursework in physics, calculus, and geology strengthens candidacy significantly.

English Language Proficiency for M.S. Earth and Planetary Sciences

International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency via standardized testing. The department accepts TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System).

• TOEFL preparation typically requires 8 to 12 weeks for Indian applicants targeting 80 to 90 score range.
• IELTS Academic is often easier for applicants with strong British English exposure; essay writing is weighted more heavily.
• Test scores older than two years are not accepted; plan to sit the exam at least four months before the application deadline.

University of Hawaii at Manoa holds a QS World University Ranking of #488 (2025), placing it in the top 500 globally. The Department of Earth Sciences specializes in volcanology, geophysics, and marine geology with research excellence recognized across the Pacific region.

Tip for Indian Students: With no GRE requirement, the admission decision hinges heavily on academic transcripts, research interest statement, and English proficiency scores. A 3.2 GPA with strong TOEFL (85+) is competitive for international admission.

Also Check: Complete Admission Requirements and Process

University of Hawaii at Manoa M.S. Earth and Planetary Sciences Application 2026

The graduate application is submitted exclusively through the University of Hawaii Graduate Division portal. All international students must include official transcripts from every higher education institution attended.

M.S. Earth and Planetary Sciences graduates from University of Hawaii at Manoa pursue internationally recognized careers in natural hazard mitigation, climate adaptation, and geophysical research. The combination of rigorous coursework, hands-on research, and access to unique geological laboratories positions graduates competitively in academia and government science agencies. International students should plan a two-year budget of USD 95,000 to USD 114,000 (INR 90.96 to INR 108.35 Lakhs) before assistantships, with the majority securing fully funded research roles that reduce out-of-pocket costs by 90 percent. Application deadlines are strict (December 1 for Fall 2026), and English proficiency is non-negotiable; plan TOEFL or IELTS exams at least four months in advance. Visa sponsorship post-graduation is highly probable given the program’s government and industry employer networks.