What to Expect
The primary purpose of the M.S. in TCBES is to provide graduate-level training in conservation biology and environmental science for individuals with a bachelor’s degree and those currently working in the field. The program leverages the Island of Hawaiʻi’s extraordinary biological, physical, and cultural diversity as a foundation for research and study.
The Thesis Track prepares graduates for technical and research-based positions, as well as for entry into Ph.D. programs in related disciplines.
Before You Apply
Applicants to the Thesis Track must identify a faculty advisor who will serve as their research mentor prior to applying. It is your responsibility to contact UH Hilo faculty members and follow up with them. Finding an advisor whose research interests align with your own is essential to your success in the program.
Ways to find potential advisors include:
- Reviewing faculty profiles on the TCBES website.
- Searching for faculty publications from the last 10 years using databases such as Google Scholar or SCOPUS.
- Exploring the UH Hilo website to see which courses faculty members have taught in the past five years.
- Contacting faculty via email or phone with a clear and specific description of your research interests and how they align with their expertise.
Requirements
The Thesis Track requirements are outlined in the UH Hilo Catalog. The degree includes:
- Core courses required for all M.S. students: CBES 600 , CBES 601 , CBES 602 , CBES 603 , CBES 645 , and CBES 677
- Thesis Track required courses: CBES 700 (minumum of 6 credits).
- Elective credits: 9 credits of 600-level courses (up to 6 credits of 400-level courses may be taken with approved substitution). TCBES Courses.
Please note that graduation requirements are based on the catalog year in which you enter the program. The catalog may change slightly from year to year. Previous editions of the catalog are available for reference.
More Information
For detailed information about the Thesis Track and the TCBES program, please review the TCBES Student Handbook. If you have any questions, please email us at uhhtcbes@hawaii.edu.
Timeline & Suggested Course Plan
Your first semester is focused on settling into the TCBES program. Through required coursework, you will explore foundational and innovative concepts and techniques in tropical conservation biology and environmental science. With guidance from your faculty advisor, you will determine the direction of your thesis research and begin any necessary permit, certification, or IRB processes.
Semester 1 (Fall)
Your first semester emphasizes acclimating to the program, completing core coursework, and refining your thesis research interests.
Suggested courses:
- CBES 600 Conservatn Biol & Environ Sci (3)
- CBES 602 Research Seminar in TCBES (1)
- CBES 677 Quantitative Ecology (3)
Semester 2 (Spring)
During your second semester, you will complete additional required coursework. You have two major goals:
- Establishing your thesis committee.
- Complete your thesis proposal (this may also be finalized over the summer).
Suggested courses:
- CBES 601 CBES Field & Laboratory Method (4)
- CBES 603 Natural Resource Mgt Seminar (1)
- CBES 645 Human Dimensions & Environ Sci (3)
1st Summer
Your first summer is crucial for conducting research and/or data analysis for your thesis. If you have not yet completed and presented your thesis proposal, you should do so before August to register for thesis credits in Semester 3.
Semester 3 (Fall) & Semester 4 (Spring)
These semesters should be dedicated primarily to thesis research, data analysis, and writing, along with any remaining coursework as needed. If you defend your thesis in Semester 4, ensure you finalize your dissertation and submit Graduate Form 3 by the UH Hilo academic calendar deadline.
Suggested courses:
- Electives (3-9 credits)
- CBES 700 Thesis Research (1–6)
Additional Time
It is common for the thesis track to take longer than two years. By planning your thesis research early, you can reduce the likelihood of needing additional semesters. Note that you must maintain continuous enrollment and be registered for at least 1 credit during the semester in which you graduate.
We are now accepting applications for our next cohort.
Program Application Term: Fall 2026
Priority Deadline: December 1, 2025
Last day to submit an application: March 15, 2026