This program can help you chose a career, cultivate an idea, invent, research or dive into your own personal interests involving the ocean. Not only will you learn more about this vast and mysterious sea, you may have a special skill or opportunity to offer this valuable life source.

Through MOP you can discover the marine environment, through experiential study both on and off campus. Explore personal interests in the sea and share findings and experiences with other students, faculty and the professional marine community. Allow your experiences in the program to prepare you for further study and employment in ocean-related areas. You can achieve a certificate by completing 9-12 credits of required courses and a marine skill project of your choice. Faculty advisors are available to assist and develop your project.

MOP is aimed at assisting undergraduate students in acquiring knowledge in a marine field of the students choice. MOP also serves as the UH Hilo center for marine-related activities ranging from scientific research to marine recreation. UH Hilo MOP trains students in sailing and seamanship and operates the 53-foot catamaran, Four Winds, the 27-foot sailing yacht, Na Naupaka, and a fleet of smaller laser and flying junior sailboats. In addition to sailing, students may learn fishing, snorkeling, kayaking and other marine recreational skills through MOP. Three times a year MOP students are trained in wildlife management by tagging green sea turtles in an on going sea turtle research program carried out in cooperation with the National Marine Fisheries Service.

Our Program Highlights include: