UH Mānoa Students Gain New Ocean Policy Research Hub
Students can now participate in clinics and capstone projects that integrate ocean science with environmental law.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Scholarships
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Do you believe university-led ocean policy research effectively translates into meaningful local environmental protection?
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa has launched a new Center for Ocean Policy to address environmental challenges through interdisciplinary research. The initiative provides students with hands-on experience in science, law, and public advocacy.
Why it matters
The center aims to bridge the gap between oceanography and legal practice, creating new opportunities for students to develop policy solutions for environmental issues impacting the Pacific region.
The center is a collaborative initiative funded and supported by the Healy Foundation. It officially serves students at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.
The players
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
A public research university in Honolulu known for its oceanography programs and law school.
Healy Foundation
A philanthropic organization providing funding and support for the new ocean policy initiative.
William S. Richardson School of Law
The law school at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa which provides the legal expertise for the new clinic.
The details
The center operates as a partnership between the William S. Richardson School of Law and the Department of Oceanography. Students participate in the Law-Ocean Clinic, which matches them with nonprofit organizations to work on projects at the intersection of environmental law and ocean science. Beyond the clinic, students engage in capstone projects and advocacy efforts aimed at local and global ocean policy.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa announced the launch of the center.
Education Landscape
The center extends the research scope of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Department of Oceanography by integrating legal advocacy into environmental science. This shift reflects a growing trend of interdisciplinary programs designed to apply academic credentials directly to regional environmental policy.
Students interested in environmental law or oceanography can now access specialized clinics and capstone projects. You should contact the William S. Richardson School of Law or the Department of Oceanography to inquire about eligibility for clinical placements and research opportunities.
The takeaway
The Center for Ocean Policy offers a unique path for students to gain professional experience by solving real-world environmental challenges. If you are a current student, check with your department heads to learn how you can participate in upcoming capstone projects or clinic rotations.
Further reading
For more on financial support and academic initiatives, visit the Scholarships section.
Live Poll
Do you believe university-led ocean policy research effectively translates into meaningful local environmental protection?
