Mission Statement

University of Hawai`i at Hilo Master of Science in Tropical Conservation Biology & Environmental Science

The primary purpose of the MS in TCBES is to provide graduate training in conservation biology and environmental science to people with baccalaureate degrees and others currently working in the field. The program will utilize the extraordinary biological, physical and cultural complexity on the Island of Hawai`i as a focus of investigation and study. The program will prepare students for technical positions and for entry into Ph.D. programs in related fields.

Program Objectives:

  • Foster knowledge of current trends and issues in conservation biology and environmental sciences including basic and applied research and natural resource problems;
  • Provide participants with experiences in conceptual and technical research in ecology, evolutionary genetics, geographic analysis, environmental monitoring and assessment in marine and terrestrial environments;
  • Promote research and scholarly activities that will enable participants to enter the scientific research community.

Participants of the program will:
  • Perform scientific research in the interdisciplinary field of conservation biology and environmental science;
  • Develop skills in natural resource and protected area management;
  • Use advanced technological equipment, perform quantitative analysis and interpret complex data;
  • Present scientific results in oral and written publications;
  • Interpret and critique professional scientific literature.