Tropical Conservation Biology & Environmental Science

1. What are the entrance requirements?

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, 3.0 GPA (last 60 credits), Recommendations, General GRE (Verbal and Quantitative score = 1000). See application checklist for updated requirements.

2. Do I have to take the GRE?

Yes, students are required to take the General GRE exam and submit scores to UH-Hilo.  To schedule to take the GRE, prospective students must call 1-800-473-2255 (Prometrics) to schedule their test. Those taking the test at UH Hilo need to call before 1:00 pm Hawaii time because of the time difference. Candidates can also go to the GRE website at www.gre.org. The code to use to send your GRE scores to UHH is 4869. UH-Hilo does not make testing reservations locally. The test is given on the UHH campus and candidates will be given a day and time to report. The cost this year is $115 which is payable via credit card. If a person doesn't have a credit card, they need to contact Larry Test to pick up a GRE Information and Registration Bulletin which contains a voucher request form they can use to submit a money order or check. After receiving their voucher, they can then call the 800 number to make their testing reservation. The GRE Information and Registration Bulletin, available at UHH in a rack outside of Larry Test's office in SSB 204, contains information about preparing for the exam, etc. that can be useful.  

3. Can I transfer credits?

Yes, subject to program approval.

4. When are new students admitted?

Students will be admitted every fall semester.

5. How much will it cost to live in Hilo?

See application checklist for updated costs.

6. Is financial aid available?

Contact the UHH Financial Aid Office for information (808-974-7323).  Teaching and research assistantship positions are often available (contact Dr. Price: donaldp@hawaii.edu).

7. Do I need a computer?

Yes, or at least daily access to one.

8. Do I need to identify a Faculty Sponsor in the program?

Yes, you are required to contact individual faculty members whose research interests are similar to your own and who agree to sponsor your application to the program.  It is recommended that you begin faculty contact well before the application deadline. Faculty sponsorship is required for program acceptance.  Faculty information can be found on the website here.

9. Do I need to write a Masters Thesis?

Plan A requires course work and a thesis of original research. Plan B requires course work, an internship, and research papers.

10. How much does will it cost a student to complete the program?

See application checklist for updated tuition.

11. How long will it take a student to complete the program?

The coursework for program is designed to be completed in 3-4 semesters, with additional time needed for writing the thesis or completing the internship.