University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme offers an interdisciplinary curriculum centred on the Asia–Pacific and Pacific Islands, emphasising regional history, politics, society, culture and environment. Core components typically include area studies theory and research methods, intensive language study in one or more relevant languages, and elective seminars drawn from departments such as anthropology, history, political science, religious studies, environmental studies and Hawaiian/Pacific Islands studies.

Students choose between a thesis option and a non-thesis option (research paper or comprehensive examination, depending on department rules). Typical modules and subjects you can expect include:

• Research methods for area studies — qualitative and quantitative methods, archival research, oral history and fieldwork design.
• Regional history and society — modern and pre-modern histories of selected countries and island groups, migration and diaspora studies.
• Politics and policy — comparative politics, international relations in the Asia–Pacific, indigenous governance and public policy.
• Cultural and literary studies — religion, visual and performing arts, language and identity.
• Environmental and resource studies — climate change, marine governance, resource management in island contexts.
• Language training — sustained study in languages relevant to the region (for example Hawaiian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Tagalog/Filipino, or Pacific languages), often a major component of the degree.

Seminars are frequently cross-listed with other departments and allow students to tailor the programme toward their research interests. Fieldwork, internships with regional organisations, and collaborations with local communities are encouraged where appropriate.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline. Admissions typically require:

• Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and career goals and proposed area of focus.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees.
• A writing sample that demonstrates analytical ability and English-language proficiency.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English language proficiency via accepted tests or recognised qualifications.

Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate prior preparation in regional studies, social sciences or language study, depending on their proposed programme of study. GRE requirements vary by department; check the relevant department or graduate division for current guidance. International students should also review visa and residency information early in the application process.

Career prospects

Graduates with a master’s in Area Studies from the University of Hawaii at Manoa pursue careers across a broad range of sectors. Typical pathways include:

• Public service and diplomacy — foreign affairs, consular services, regional policy analysis and multilateral organisations focused on the Pacific and Asia.
• Non-governmental organisations and international development — programme management, cultural heritage projects, community development and environmental NGOs.
• Education and research — secondary and adult education, language instruction, cultural programming, and progression to doctoral study for academic careers.
• Museums, archives and cultural institutions — curatorship, collections management, community engagement and cultural resource management.
• Private sector roles — international business development, consultancy, media and communications with a regional focus.

The combination of language skills, regional knowledge and research training is valued by employers who require contextual expertise and cross-cultural communication abilities.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa is uniquely positioned for Asia–Pacific and Pacific Islands area studies because of its geographic location, longstanding regional networks and specialised centres. The campus hosts interdisciplinary research centres and programmes focused on Hawaiian and Pacific Islands studies, Asian studies and multilingual research, providing abundant opportunities for cross-department collaboration.

Students benefit from extensive library and archival collections relevant to the region, faculty with specialised regional and thematic expertise, and practical opportunities for fieldwork and community-engaged research across the Pacific. The university’s institutional links with governmental, cultural and regional organisations in Hawai‘i and throughout the Asia–Pacific enhance internship and career connections for graduates.