University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The Area Studies degree at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa combines coursework across disciplines to develop deep regional knowledge and applied skills. Core topics typically include regional history, comparative politics, cultural anthropology, development and economic change in Asia and the Pacific, literary and media studies, and indigenous studies focused on Hawaiʻi and neighbouring islands.

Language study is a central component; students commonly take courses in Hawaiian and a range of Asian and Pacific languages (for example Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, Samoan). Training in research methods and area-specific methodologies prepares students for independent projects, and the programme often culminates in a capstone seminar or a senior thesis.

• Typical modules: Introduction to Area Studies, Pacific Islands History, Hawaiian Culture and Language, Modern East Asian Politics, Development in the Pacific, Ethnographic Methods, Media and Society in Asia–Pacific.
• Skills developed: regional analysis, foreign language proficiency, qualitative and quantitative research methods, archival and oral-history techniques, intercultural communication.
• Structure: A mix of required core courses, elective courses within chosen regional or thematic concentrations, language study, and a research-based capstone or practicum. Students are encouraged to take relevant courses across departments such as History, Political Science, Anthropology, and Language & Literature.
• Opportunities: Fieldwork, community-based projects, internships with local cultural organisations, government agencies, NGOs and study abroad options across the Asia–Pacific region.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is based on satisfactory secondary school completion or equivalent qualifications. Successful applicants to the Area Studies programme typically present a strong academic record in humanities and social sciences, a coherent personal statement outlining regional interests, and any relevant extracurricular or language experience.

• Undergraduate academic qualifications: Secondary school diploma or recognised equivalent; recent academic performance that demonstrates readiness for university-level work.
• Documentation: Official transcripts, personal statement or essay, and any letters of recommendation required by the university admissions office.
• International applicants: Proof of English language proficiency as required by the university (for example recognised tests or prior education in English). Evidence of prior study in relevant languages or area-focused coursework is advantageous.
• Additional considerations: Placement testing in modern or indigenous languages may be required for appropriate course-level entry. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and course descriptions for credit assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor in Area Studies develop regionally specialised skills valued across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Career paths commonly pursued include roles in diplomacy and foreign service, policy and international development agencies, cultural heritage and museum work, education and language teaching, international business and trade, journalism and media covering the Asia–Pacific, and community advocacy organisations.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in fields such as international relations, Asian studies, Pacific studies, anthropology, law and public policy. Practical experience gained through internships, language proficiency and field research increases employability in region-focused positions.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a distinctive setting for Area Studies because of its geographic location and institutional strengths in Asia and Pacific scholarship. Located in Honolulu, the campus provides direct access to Pacific island communities, a large Asian-American population, and abundant local resources for research on indigenous and diasporic cultures.

• Regional expertise: The university hosts established programmes and centres devoted to Asian, Hawaiian, and Pacific Island studies, enabling interdisciplinary collaboration and specialised course offerings.
• Language and archival resources: Strong language instruction and access to unique archival collections and cultural institutions support intensive study and research.
• Practical engagement: Students benefit from fieldwork, community partnerships, internship placements in local government, cultural organisations and NGOs, and study abroad networks across the Asia–Pacific.
• Career support: On-campus advising and connections with regional employers help students translate area expertise and language skills into professional opportunities.