BS Astrophysics

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a uniquely immersive and research-focused education deeply connected to Hawaiʻi’s world-class astronomy ecosystem. This four-year, on-campus program equips you with hands-on observational, computational, and instrumentation skills—all under the mentorship of faculty and within professional-grade facilities.

Experiential Learning Highlights

You will engage with real astronomical data, state-of-the-art telescopes, and cutting-edge research from early on:

• Year‑long Senior Research Project
  Every student completes an individual research project in their final year, supervised by faculty—providing practical experience in data analysis, observation planning, instrumentation, and scientific communication.

• Access to Premier Observatories
  The University’s Institute for Astronomy (IfA) manages major facilities atop Maunakea (e.g. CFHT, Gemini North, Subaru, SMA) and Haleakalā on Maui. As a student, you can participate in observation runs, work with adaptive optics, and analyze real-world data.

• Robust Faculty Mentorship & Research Culture
  With nearly 50 astronomy faculty across fields such as galactic and extragalactic astronomy, solar physics, astrobiology, and astroparticle physics, you’ll join active research teams early—often contributing to publications or conference talks. 

• Computing, Data Analysis & Techniques Training
  Core coursework and labs focus on classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and astrophysical techniques, with robust training in data analysis and programming for astronomy.

• Institute for Astronomy Library & Collaborative Spaces
  The IfA Library supports research with astronomy-specific collections, visualization tools, and workspace for teamwork.

• Public Outreach & Engagement Opportunities
  The IfA leads public telescope nights, portable planetarium programs, and school visits—many led by students, offering meaningful experience in science communication.

• Honors, Capstone & Interdisciplinary Opportunities
  Many students pursue honors-level research, interdisciplinary projects, or join groups collaborating with high-energy physics, instrumentation, or national labs; these opportunities foster strong interdisciplinary and academic connections.

What You’ll Learn and Gain

• Operating real telescopes and analyzing observations from Maunakea & Haleakalā instrumentation
• Building proficiency in scientific programming, astrophysical data reduction, and modeling
• Designing and executing a year-long senior research project under academic mentorship
• Presenting poster talks or written results at student symposiums or conferences
• Leading outreach programs and developing skills in explaining astronomy to diverse audiences
• Accessing funded research, travel, and mentorship supported by IfA and Hawaiʻi Space Grant opportunities

This BS in Astrophysics at UH Mānoa blends rigorous physics and mathematics coursework with immersive research and observation—backed by one of the world’s premier astronomical facilities and faculty-led teams. It’s an ideal stepping stone toward graduate study or research careers in astrophysics and related fields.

Graduates from UH Mānoa's BS in Astrophysics program are exceptionally well-prepared for advanced graduate study or technical roles in research and aerospace. Common careers include astrophysics researcher, observational astronomer, spacecraft instrumentation engineer, and computational data scientist. With access to world-class facilities and faculty, students receive training that sets them apart globally.

• University Career & Support Services: Academic advising is mandatory for all astronomy and astrophysics majors (via [email protected]), ensuring personalized guidance from coursework through senior research. The strong network through the Institute for Astronomy (IfA) helps students connect with research opportunities and internships.

• Employment and Graduate School Outcomes: While specific post-graduation statistics aren’t publicly listed, IU astronomy and astrophysics degrees rank among top-tier U.S. programs: UH Mānoa Department of Physics & Astronomy is ranked within the top 12 by the National Research Council.  Graduates commonly proceed to PhD programs or secure technical positions, especially given UH’s research focus and IfA connections.

• University–Industry and Observatory Partnerships: Students gain unparalleled access to Maunakea Observatories, including NASA- and NOIRLab-operated telescopes, plus instruments from international partners like Japan’s Subaru Telescope. This integral access to observational research is a standout feature.

• Accreditation & Long‑Term Value: UH Mānoa is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission. The BS in Astrophysics benefits from rigorous coursework in physics, astronomy, mathematics, and lab science, backed by UH’s Carnegie R1 research status.

• Curriculum & Graduation Outcomes: Students complete a structured sequence: astrophysics core courses (ASTR 241, 242, 300/300L, ASTR 399, 494) and physics core courses (PHYS 170, 272, 274, 310, 311, 350, 450, 480, 485), plus electives in advanced astrophysics and physics topics. This ensures readiness for graduate programs and technical roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are exceptionally well-positioned for Master’s and PhD programs in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Physics. UH Mānoa’s own graduate program offers seamless progression—often awarding an MS en route to PhD—leveraging training under Maunakea’s observatory facilities. This solid preparation also opens doors to interdisciplinary graduate concentrations in Data Science, Planetary Science, or Engineering.