About Us
"The ability to learn about astronomy and physics at a university co-located with the single greatest site for astronomical observations is unbeatable."
Our department offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Physics and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Astronomy within the College of Natural Science and Health Sciences. The Department also offers a new Pre-Engineering program, where students attend engineering courses for 3 or 4 semesters at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo in preparation for completing their engineering degree at the University of Hawaiʻi in Mānoa.
The department faculty have active research projects that provide exciting opportunities for students to gain valuable experience through internships and directed-studies courses. The program curriculum and these research internships are designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in physics and astronomy, from fundamental research to education and public outreach, from data science to engineering.
Why Study Physics, Astronomy and Pre-Engineering at UH Hilo?
Students setting up telescopes for the Galactic and Extragalactic Astronomy Lab, February 2025
"The best (if not one of the best) astronomical observatories lay at the top of Maunakea, a 14,000-ft dormant volcano on the big island of Hawaiʻi. With big observatories comes big astronomers who are eager to teach students about astronomy."
- Buy One, Get One Degree: Earn both a B.S. in Astronomy and a B.A. in Physics just by taking a few extra clases!
- Data Science Certificate: Get a resume booster that employers will deem as a big plus, especially with growing need for data science and machine learning in astrophysics
- See the Universe Through the Best Lenses: Learn about the universe through the most productive ensemble of observatories under beautiful night skies at one of the best astronomical sites in the world: Maunakea on the Big Island!
- High-Caliber Professional Network: Build pilina (relationships) with leading scientists and engineers through learning from and working alongside professional astronomers, A.K.A. UH Hilo's very own Physics and Astronomy professors!
- Real Industry Experience: Conduct real-world research with professional astronomers, author a published paper as an undergraduate, and attend and participate in the American Astronomical Society (AAS) Meetings, one of the largest astronomy conferences in the United States!
- New Pre-Engineering Program: Take engineering courses at UH Hilo in preparation for an Engineering Degree at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa!
"I knew that, with the observatories in my backyard, I would have more opportunities to work in them. I also preferred the smaller class sizes at UH Hilo so I could have more one-on-one conversations with my professors."
Callie Crowder, B.S. Astronomy, B.A. Physics and minor in Math, 2017
Students using a telescope for the Galactic and Extragalactic Astronomy Lab with Dr. R. Pierre Martin, February 2025
Check out this timelapse video of the drive from the UH Hilo campus to Maunakea:
"Hilo is a small town, so you are in a unique position to have unhindered access to world-class astrophysicists, astronomers, and general scientists."
Niki Thomas, B.A. Biology, minor in Astronomy and Mathematics, 2017
Our Programs & Campus
Physics
Physics is the study of how the universe works. We offer a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Physics and prepare students for a wide range of careers, with knowledge and skills applicable to engineering, computer or information systems, and other STEM fields, including education. In fact, physics majors generally score well on the MCAT and LSAT because of their highly developed problem-solving skills.
Physics uses the tools of mathematics and computer science, and our students have a clear pathway to double majoring in these disciplines.
Astronomy
Astronomy is the study of how the universe began, evolved, and evolves. We offer a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Astronomy and provide the training needed for students seeking careers in astronomy research, observatory staff, or educators. Our program offers a "hands-on" approach and provides students with access to professional telescopes on Maunakea.
Astronomy uses the tools of physics; this is reflected a number of astronomy students double majoring with physics.
Pre-Engineering
Engineering is the practical application of math and science to design and construct everything from materials and machines to structures and infrastructure. The new Pre-Engineering program offers the opportunity for students to take engineering courses at UH Hilo for 3-4 semesters before transfering to UH Mānoa for degree completion. The engineering courses are taught at UH Hilo by experienced engineers of the Space Science Engineering Initiative (SSEI).
The University
The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is characterized as a comprehensive, diverse, regional university. Scholarship and research are an important part of faculty work and student engagement, but the primary focus is on providing high-quality baccalaureate and postgraduate education.
Our Faculty and Staff
Ready to Enroll ?
We look forward to working with you! Please, let us know if we can help!
Prospective students can get more information about the Physics, Astronomy and Pre-Engineering programs at UH Hilo by emailing the department chair, Dr.
For enrollment assistance, contact the Admissions Office today, to get started. You can phone Admissions at (808) 932 - 7446, or, you can connect to Admissions virtually! Prospective students can schedule individual meetings with our admissions counselor.