University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational studies in learning theory and curriculum with practical, school-based experience. Core topics typically include educational psychology, curriculum design, assessment and measurement, classroom management, inclusive practice and methods for teaching literacy and numeracy.

• Foundations of education: history and philosophy of education, child and adolescent development, and sociocultural approaches to learning.
• Pedagogy and methods: subject-specific methods for elementary or secondary levels, differentiated instruction and strategies for working with diverse learners.
• Assessment and curriculum: formative and summative assessment, curriculum planning, standards-based instruction and data-informed decision-making.
• Specialist coverage: options or modules in special education, English as a second/other language (TESOL), early childhood education and educational technology.
• Hawaiian and Pacific perspectives: courses addressing Hawaiʻi’s cultural and linguistic contexts, indigenous pedagogies and place-based education relevant to the region.
• Practicum and student teaching: scaffolded field experiences in local schools culminating in an extended student-teaching placement under mentor supervision.

The degree is structured to blend campus-based seminars and laboratories with progressively responsible practicum placements. Students complete professional portfolio work and may have opportunities for community-engaged projects or research with faculty.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed a recognised secondary-school qualification or equivalent. Typical admissions materials include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining commitment to teaching, and references. Mature or transfer applicants may submit college transcripts; relevant classroom or volunteer experience strengthens an application.

Because this is a professional programme, applicants should be prepared to meet non-academic requirements for practicum placement, which commonly include background checks and health-clearance documentation. Specific GPA thresholds, prerequisite subjects (for example English and mathematics), and any additional college or department application steps are published by the University and the College of Education and should be checked on the official programme pages.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of education-sector roles. Common first destinations include:

• Certified classroom teacher in early childhood, elementary or secondary settings (subject to meeting state licensure requirements).
• Special education assistant or specialist, TESOL instructor, or early-years practitioner.
• School support roles such as curriculum coordinator, assessment specialist, or behaviour support worker.
• Employment with educational non-profits, community organisations, or cultural and language immersion programmes across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific.

Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study in education, educational leadership, counselling or research degrees leading to roles in policy, administration and higher education.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers distinctive strengths for education students through its geographic and cultural setting. The College of Education has long-standing partnerships with local schools and the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education, providing diverse practicum placements across urban, rural and island communities.

• Regional focus: curricula and research emphasise Hawaiian and Pacific knowledge systems, bilingual and immersion education, and community-responsive teaching.
• Experienced faculty and partnerships: access to faculty engaged in applied research and collaborative projects with schools, cultural organisations and government agencies.
• Practical preparation: a programme design that balances theory with hands-on teaching experience, professional mentoring and portfolio development to support licensure pathways.
• Support and resources: student advising, career services, and centres specialising in language, culture and learning that help bridge campus study with community needs.

These features make the University of Hawaii at Manoa a suitable choice for students who want teacher preparation grounded in local context while maintaining options for regional or international careers in education.