MS Astronomy at University of Hawaii at Manoa

Programme overview

The MS in Astronomy is offered as Plan A (thesis) for students heading to research careers and Plan B (non-thesis) for those who do not intend research as a profession. Students take 600-level courses giving a sound basis of astrophysical understanding plus changing graduate seminars on current research.

Faculty: College of Natural Sciences | Duration: 30 credits; Plan A can be completed within four semesters | Study mode: full-time | Location: Honolulu, HI, United States

What you will study

All students take 30 credits of graduate astronomy courses including ASTR 633 Astrophysical Techniques. Plan A requires a thesis; Plan B requires at least one directed research project judged by a faculty committee.

Official programme page

Application information

Domestic applicants: USD 10,400 a year (2026-27). Graduate tuition for 2026-27 based on a typical full-time load of 8 credits per semester (indicative budget figure from the cost of attendance page); excludes fees ($934), housing, food, books and other costs. Hawaii resident rate. Source

International applicants: USD 22,432 a year (2026-27). Graduate tuition for 2026-27 based on a typical full-time load of 8 credits per semester (indicative budget figure from the cost of attendance page); excludes fees ($934), housing, food, books and other costs. Non-resident rate. Source

Graduate applications are accepted for Summer, Fall and Spring terms; Graduate Division begins processing applications from August 1 for the following Fall and Summer semester and from April 1 for the following Spring semester.

All graduate application deadlines are set by the graduate programmes and vary by programme; some programmes set priority deadlines. Most Fall applicants hear a decision by late March/early April and Spring applicants by November/December. Application fees are non-refundable.

Apply through the official page: https://manoa.hawaii.edu/graduate/

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