University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) is a public research university located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Founded in 1907, it is the flagship campus of the University of Hawaii system and is known for its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and beautiful tropical setting. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities.

UH Manoa is classified as an R1 research institution, indicating a high level of research activity. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in oceanography, astronomy, marine biology, and Pacific and Asian studies. It is home to the Institute for Astronomy, which operates some of the world's most advanced telescopes on Mauna Kea, and the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, which conducts cutting-edge research on marine ecosystems.

The campus is located in the Manoa Valley, just a few miles from downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach. This prime location provides students with access to a unique blend of academic and cultural experiences, as well as opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and snorkeling. The university's commitment to sustainability and environmental research is reflected in its various initiatives aimed at promoting renewable energy, conservation, and climate change awareness.

UH Manoa has a diverse student population, with students from all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries. The university emphasizes global engagement and offers numerous study abroad programs, as well as partnerships with institutions around the world. Additionally, the university is deeply connected to the indigenous Hawaiian culture, incorporating Hawaiian language, history, and traditions into its curriculum and campus life.

Athletics also play a significant role at UH Manoa, with the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors and Rainbow Wahine competing in NCAA Division I sports. The university's football, basketball, and volleyball teams have a strong following, and athletic events are an important part of campus life.

With its strong academic reputation, commitment to research, and vibrant campus community, the University of Hawaii at Manoa provides students with a unique and enriching educational experience in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.

• Colleges of Arts & Sciences

  The Colleges of Arts & Sciences are the heart of the university, providing a broad and excellent liberal arts education for undergraduates, and offering graduate degrees in more than 40 different fields. The Arts & Sciences provide the majority of the general education undergraduate courses offered on campus, and the majority of undergraduate and graduate degrees conferred are in Arts & Sciences disciplines, indicative of the key role the colleges play on the Mānoa campus.

  A liberal arts education is centered in the principles of open inquiry, critical thinking, integration of knowledge, and assessment of values. These principles serve as a foundation that guides students in their journeys toward fulfilling lives, productive careers, and awareness of civic responsibility. Most importantly, these liberal arts principles spark interest in higher learning, as well as prepare students for entering postgraduate professional schools. Arts & Sciences graduates embark on a wide range of professional fields that lead to rewarding careers in business, technology, public service, and education just, to name a few.

• Shidler College of Business

  A leader among U.S. business schools in its focus on the Asia-Pacific region, the Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa provides students with an in-depth understanding of the best business practices, an awareness of languages and cultures, and a solid comprehension of emerging technologies within today's complex global economic environment.

  Founded in 1949 as the College of Business Administration, the college was renamed in 2006 after alumnus Jay H. Shidler, founder and managing partner of The Shidler Group, made a transformational gift of $25 million. In 2014, Mr. Shidler increased his initial gift of $25 million to $100 million, making it the largest donation at the University of Hawai‘i from a private donor.  The College offers students a wide selection of degree, certificate and executive programs in a unique multicultural learning environment enhanced by collaborative learning, research projects, international speakers, internships, study abroad and career opportunities.

  Ranked consistently among the top 25 institutions for international business and the only AACSB accredited MBA program in Hawai'i, the Shidler College of Business equips its graduates with the ability to learn and to lead throughout their professional lifetime.

  Whether students are interested in doing business in the global economy or in becoming an entrepreneur, the Shidler College of Business provides them with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in today's dynamic business world.

• College of Education

  As a land-grant institution, the University of Hawai'i is committed to improving education in Hawai'i and the region, preschool through graduate school. Ours is a complex and robust college providing educational research, policy studies, curriculum development, professional development, and educational services as well as teacher and educational leader preparation programs. The College has eight academic departments and two major research units—the Center on Disability Studies (CDS) and theCurriculum Research & Development Group (CRDG). We are housed within a tier one research university and are honored to be designated RU/VH (Research University; very high research activity) by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

• College of Engineering

  Nestled in idyllic Mānoa Valley in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa is a leading center for higher learning throughout the Pacific Rim. Currently, the university at-large has an enrollment of over 20,000 and specifically, the College of Engineering supports 900 active students.

  Since classes began over a century ago in 1908, engineering has played an integral role in the institution’s curriculum. It remains so today.

  The B.S. programs in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET (link).

  The College of Engineering offers BS, MS, and PhD degrees in three major areas of intensive study including Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. We also offer a BS in Computer Engineering.

  At the College of Engineering, we’re re-engineering for a sustainable future.

• College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources

  The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources creates and delivers knowledge that supports and strengthens families, agricultural and food systems, and the natural environment. We educate and serve the people of Hawai‘i and those from around the world with integrity and excellence.

  The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources provides exceptional education, research, and extension programs in tropical agriculture and food systems, family and consumer science, and natural resource management for Hawai‘i and the international community. We cultivate innovative scientific inquiry, solve real world challenges, and provide experiential learning in an interdisciplinary setting with global impacts.

• School of Architecture

  The UHM School of Architecture provides the opportunity for a student to earn an accredited degree in the field of architecture. The only U.S. school of architecture in the middle of the Pacific region, it has been actively and directly engaged in the life and mission of the Mānoa campus through design/research/outreach efforts on campus and in the community.

  The School of Architecture offers the four-year undergraduate Bachelor of Environmental Design degree and the three-year Doctor of Architecture degree, Hawaii‘s only accredited degree in architecture. Our undergraduate program provides a solid foundation for careers in the design and building industries, including architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, historic conservation, and construction management. Our accredited graduate program prepares students for leadership in the professional workforce. Students who earn the D.Arch. are eligible for licensure as registered architects in all 54 U.S. jurisdictions, including Hawai‘i. 

  Hawai‘i offers students one of the world’s richest settings for the study of built and natural environments. UH-M is a land, sea, and space grant university especially well-situated to engage design inquiry and experimentation in a twenty-first century context.

  Our programs orient to the kuleana of the University of Hawai‘i as an indigenous-serving Hawaiian Place of Learning. The Hawaiian ethos is the intellectual and professional foundation on which we build our mission and curriculum

• School of Hawaiian Knowledge

  Hawai‘inuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge is the first new school or college established on the Mānoa campus since 1982, and it is the only college of indigenous knowledge in a Research I institution in the United States. Hawaiʻinuiākea is comprised of four centers including two academic units, one traditional cultural garden, and a student services unit:

  • Kamakakūokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies
  • Kawaihuelani Center for Hawaiian Language
  • Ka Papa Loʻi ʻO Kānewai Cultural Garden
  • Native Hawaiian Student Services

• William S. Richardson School of Law

  The William S. Richardson School of Law is a collaborative, multicultural community preparing students for excellence in the practice of law and related careers that advance justice and the rule of law.

  We develop highly qualified, ethical professionals through excellence in teaching, scholarship, and public service.

  We embrace Hawai‘i’s diversity and values and recognize a special responsibility to our state and the Pacific region.

  We lead in environmental law, Native Hawaiian law, and Pacific-Asian legal studies.

• John A. Burns School of Medicine

  The John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa is one of the leading medical education institutions in the United States.

  For the last three years, JABSOM has ranked #1 in National Institutes of Health research awards among community-based public medical schools (i.e., public medical schools without a university hospital) and ranked #1 in the nation by the Association of American Medical Colleges in retention of combined MD and Resident alumni practicing in-state.

  The JABSOM campus is located on the island of O‘ahu approximately three miles west of the University of Hawai‘i Mānoa campus in Kaka‘ako, adjacent to Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park near downtown Honolulu. The Kaka‘ako area is an emerging epicenter for Hawai‘i’s urban-island culture for residents, artists, chefs and entrepreneurs. For more information on the campus, go to Campus Information.

• School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene

  The University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene (SONDH) is the premier nursing and dental hygiene school in the State of Hawai‘i. Located on the Mānoa campus, the only doctoral/research university-intensive institution in Hawai‘i, we are dedicated to improving health through education, research, and service. The School provides instructional, clinical and research activities to enhance the health and care of diverse populations in the State of Hawai‘i and the Asia-Pacific region.

• School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology

  The School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa is a world-class research and academic institution focused on informing solutions to some of the world’s most vexing problems. Through an integrated, comprehensive, and sustained system of Earth and planetary observations, research, and education, SOEST staff work to transform the way people live on Earth by enabling a healthy public, economy, and planet.

• School of Pacific and Asian Studies

  The School of Pacific and Asian Studies (SPAS), founded in 1986, is a strategic cornerstone to the mission of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.

  SPAS coordinates and promotes resources in Pacific and Asian Studies throughout UHM, supports faculty and student development, instruction, research and publication in these areas, and serves the educational and cultural interests of the people of the State of Hawai‘i by promoting a deeper understanding of our Pacific and Asian heritage.

  SPAS is composed of 2 degree-granting units and 8 area centers. The area centers serve as a focal point for faculty throughout the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM) with interests in specific geographical areas, facilitating collaboration and interchange. Centers also provide outreach to the community, public schools and other organizations by sponsoring lectures and film screenings to the public, and providing unique resources to the education community.

• School of Social Work

  As one of the premier schools of social work in the Pacific-Asia region, we are dedicated to providing an educational experience that is anchored in excellence. Challenges and opportunities abound for social workers in a global community that is increasingly more culturally diverse. Our principal responsibility is the creation and transmission of knowledge reflecting the advancement of social work and the achievement of social justice as the "noble cause." Our unique focus is on resolving critical social problems that challenge s multicultural world, with specific attention to indigenous wisdom and perspectives.

  The BSW, MSW and PhD programs prepare students to be educated global citizens who advance social justice. Our BSW and MSW programs have been fully reaccredited by the Council on Social Work Education for a maximum of 8 years, 2010-2018. Our faculty are highly knowledgeable, vastly experienced, and fully committed to the educational enterprise, and are well-known in endeavors of practice, policy and research. Faculty specialists in child and family, gerontology, health, and behavioral health, function as leaders in the School and the community. In broadening our educational reach beyond the Mānoa campus, our distance education option provides neighbor island residents with an opportunity to achieve their MSW degree via a blended approach of interactive television, computer-based technology, and face-to-face instruction.

• School of Travel Industry Management

  The School of Travel Industry Management (TIM) at the University of Hawaii's Mānoa campus is recognized as a leading educational institution focusing on hospitality, tourism, and transportation management. TIM pioneered the concept of integrating all aspects of the travel industry under a single discipline. Built on a foundation of management science, TIM draws on a broad range of disciplines to provide high-quality education at the undergraduate and graduate levels to current and future professionals.

  The visitor industry in Hawaiʻi provides TIM students with opportunities to gain experience in the field and to study applications of theory to practical business situations. TIM works closely with local, national, and international business organizations, as well as various government and private professional organizations.

  In addition to Hawaii's travel industry environment, students benefit from a curriculum that has an international perspective with special emphasis in the Asia-Pacific region. The global importance of tourism and the increasingly interdependent nature of economic and political systems require a fundamental and multidisciplinary understanding of international issues. TIM's distinctive curriculum and outstanding faculty, the success and importance of tourism as the leading industry in Hawaiʻi, and the international focus of the programs provide students a unique educational environment and experience.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) was founded in 1907 as the College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts under the Morrill Act, which aimed to establish land-grant institutions across the United States. Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, the university initially focused on agricultural and mechanical studies to support the local economy. In 1912, the institution was renamed the College of Hawaii, and in 1920, it became the University of Hawaii when it expanded its academic offerings and research programs.

Throughout the 20th century, UH Manoa grew into a major research university, playing a crucial role in the development of higher education in the Pacific region. The university established various colleges and schools, including the John A. Burns School of Medicine, the William S. Richardson School of Law, and the Shidler College of Business. It also became a leader in oceanography, astronomy, and Pacific and Asian studies, attracting scholars and students from around the world.

UH Manoa is home to the East-West Center, founded in 1960 to promote cultural and educational exchange between the United States, Asia, and the Pacific. The university has also been instrumental in space and environmental research, collaborating with institutions such as NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Today, UH Manoa is the flagship campus of the University of Hawaii System, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. It continues to be a hub for innovation, sustainability, and cultural diversity, reflecting Hawaii’s unique position as a bridge between East and West.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa has specific admission requirements for undergraduate and graduate applicants. For undergraduate admissions, prospective students must submit a completed application form, pay the application fee, and provide official high school transcripts. A minimum GPA of 2.8 (on a 4.0 scale) is generally required for first-year applicants. Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, are optional but may be submitted to strengthen an application. International students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.

For transfer students, the university requires official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 is typically required for transfer admission. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as prerequisite coursework or higher GPA standards.

Graduate admissions vary by program, but most require a completed application, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and standardized test scores such as the GRE or GMAT. Some programs may also require a resume or portfolio. International graduate applicants must meet English proficiency requirements.

The application process involves submitting materials online through the university’s application portal. Deadlines vary depending on the program and applicant type. For undergraduate students, the priority deadline for the fall semester is typically in January, while the final deadline is in March. Graduate program deadlines differ by department.

Once admitted, students must confirm their enrollment by submitting a deposit. Orientation programs are available to help new students transition to university life. Financial aid and scholarships are also available for eligible students.

Overall, the University of Hawaii at Manoa seeks students who demonstrate academic potential and a commitment to their education. The admissions process is designed to evaluate applicants holistically, considering academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal statements.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that the university meets high standards of academic quality, institutional effectiveness, and student success.

In addition to institutional accreditation, many of UH Manoa’s individual programs hold specialized accreditations from professional organizations. For example, the Shidler College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is a prestigious accreditation held by only a small percentage of business schools worldwide. The College of Engineering is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that its programs meet rigorous engineering education standards.

The William S. Richardson School of Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and is also a member of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS). The John A. Burns School of Medicine is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), which is the recognized accrediting body for medical education programs in the United States and Canada.

Other specialized accreditations include the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) for education programs, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) for social work programs, and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for nursing programs. These accreditations demonstrate UH Manoa’s commitment to maintaining high academic and professional standards across various disciplines.

Accreditation is an important factor for students, as it ensures that their degrees will be recognized by employers and other institutions. It also allows the university to receive federal funding and enables students to apply for federal financial aid. UH Manoa undergoes periodic reviews by accrediting bodies to maintain its accreditation status and continuously improve its academic offerings.

For more information about the university’s accreditation status, students and prospective applicants can visit the official website of the WASC Senior College and University Commission or the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s accreditation webpage.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for academic, social, and cultural engagement. Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, the university provides a unique environment where students can enjoy both rigorous academic programs and the natural beauty of the island.

Student life at UH Manoa includes a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities. The university has over 200 student organizations, ranging from academic and professional groups to cultural and recreational clubs. These organizations allow students to connect with peers who share similar interests and to develop leadership skills.

The campus also offers a range of recreational facilities, including a fitness center, swimming pools, and sports fields. Intramural and club sports are popular among students, providing opportunities to stay active and compete in various sports. The university’s location near the beach also allows students to engage in outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and snorkeling.

UH Manoa has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with many cultural events and programs that celebrate the diverse backgrounds of its students. The university hosts events such as the International Night, cultural festivals, and performances that showcase the traditions of different communities.

Housing options at UH Manoa include on-campus residence halls and apartments, providing students with convenient access to academic buildings and campus resources. Living on campus allows students to immerse themselves in university life and build lasting friendships.

Dining options on campus include a variety of food choices, from traditional Hawaiian cuisine to international dishes. The university’s dining halls and food courts offer meals that cater to different dietary preferences.

Academic support services, such as tutoring centers, career counseling, and advising, help students succeed in their studies and prepare for their future careers. The university also provides mental health and wellness resources to support students’ well-being.

Overall, student life at the University of Hawaii at Manoa is dynamic and enriching, offering students a balance of academic excellence, cultural experiences, and recreational activities in a beautiful setting.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students beyond lectures and seminars. The university provides extensive library resources through the Hamilton Library and Sinclair Library, offering study spaces, research materials, and digital resources. Students also have access to computer labs and IT support to assist with academic and personal technology needs.

For health and wellness, the University Health Services Manoa provides medical care, counseling, and mental health support. The Warrior Recreation Center offers fitness facilities, group exercise classes, and intramural sports to promote physical well-being. Additionally, the university has dining services with multiple food options, including cafes and dining halls that cater to various dietary preferences.

Student housing is available both on and off-campus, with residence halls and apartment-style living options. The Student Housing Services office assists students in finding suitable accommodations. Career Development Services help students with job placement, internships, resume building, and career counseling.

The university also supports student engagement through various clubs, organizations, and cultural centers. The Campus Center serves as a hub for student activities, providing meeting spaces, event venues, and recreational areas. The Office of Student Life and Development organizes events, leadership programs, and volunteer opportunities.

For transportation, the university offers a shuttle service to help students navigate the campus efficiently. Parking services and bike-friendly infrastructure are also available.

Overall, the University of Hawaii at Manoa provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities to enhance student life, ensuring academic success, personal growth, and well-being.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) is a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education in a unique and diverse environment. Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, UH Manoa offers a combination of strong academic programs, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life, all set in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.

One of the key reasons to choose UH Manoa is its strong academic reputation. The university is classified as an R1 research institution, meaning it is recognized for its high level of research activity. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including highly ranked programs in oceanography, astronomy, business, and Hawaiian studies. The School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) is particularly well-known for its contributions to marine and environmental research.

Another special aspect of UH Manoa is its cultural diversity. The university attracts students from all over the world, creating a rich and inclusive learning environment. Hawaii itself is a melting pot of cultures, and students have the opportunity to engage with different traditions, languages, and perspectives. The university also places a strong emphasis on Native Hawaiian culture and offers programs that focus on indigenous knowledge and sustainability.

The location of UH Manoa is another major advantage. Situated in Honolulu, students can enjoy a tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and snorkeling. The campus is also close to major research institutions, government agencies, and businesses, providing students with valuable internship and career opportunities.

Additionally, UH Manoa is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The university actively promotes green initiatives, renewable energy research, and conservation efforts. Students who are passionate about environmental issues will find many opportunities to get involved in sustainability projects.

Overall, the University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a unique combination of academic excellence, cultural diversity, research opportunities, and an incredible location. It is an ideal choice for students who want a high-quality education while experiencing the beauty and rich heritage of Hawaii.