Marine Option Program

The Marine Option Program (MOP) is an educational program within the University of Hawaii's ten-campus system. MOP is a unique opportunity for students in any field of study who have an interest in the ocean.

MOP is a unique opportunity for undergraduates in any field of study who have an interest in the ocean. It is open to students in all fields and provides a clearinghouse for marine-oriented education and employment opportunities as well as a chance for students to network with professionals and fellow students who are involved with the ocean.

MOP focuses on undergraduates and is available throughout the ten campus UH system. Classified graduate students, unclassified graduate students, and professional students are also welcome to join.

Through outreach and stewardship activities MOP serves pre-college students and teachers and the community at large. A monthly student newsletter, Seawords, is distributed worldwide.

A MOP certificate (similar to a minor) is awarded to undergraduates who successfully complete 12-16 credit hours of marine-related courses. This includes a unique MOP skill project (with faculty guidance): design and conduct a personal marine or aquatic project related to their educational goals.

Past projects have run from scientific research to endeavors in the arts. Each year MOP students from all UH campuses have an opportunity to present their projects at the MOP Symposium.

For details and further information on MOP certification requirements, please visit the Certification and Courses section of the MOP website.

College of Natural Sciences

University of Hawai'i at Manoa

2450 Campus Road

Dean Hall 105A

Honolulu, HI 96822