University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary master's brings together core international relations theory, national security studies, and specialised regional content focused on the Asia–Pacific and Pacific Island states. Students follow a curriculum that balances conceptual understanding with policy-relevant skills and empirical research.

• Core theory and foundations: courses in international relations theory, strategic studies, and global security frameworks.
• National security and policy: modules on defence policy, intelligence and information security, crisis management, asymmetric threats, and counterterrorism policy.
• Regional specialisation: intensive study of Asia–Pacific geopolitics, US–Asia relations, Pacific Islands security, maritime security, and regional organisations.
• Research methods and practice: quantitative and qualitative research methods for security studies, policy analysis, and a required capstone thesis or practicum project that applies methods to an original topic.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: opportunity to take electives in areas such as environmental security, economics & trade, human security, cyber security, and Pacific indigenous governance.

Programme structure typically includes a combination of seminars, policy workshops, supervised research, and opportunities for internships with government agencies, NGOs or regional organisations. Students can often tailor study plans to emphasise policy practice, academic research, or regional expertise.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline such as political science, international relations, history, economics, or a related social science. Evidence of strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining research or professional goals, and a writing sample are commonly required.

Relevant professional experience in government, military, diplomatic service, journalism, or international organisations can strengthen an application. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent qualifications as specified by the university.

Some applicants may be asked to meet additional departmental requirements, such as an interview or submission of a research proposal for thesis-track students. Prospective students should consult the programme admissions page for the most up-to-date application procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include:

• Analyst or policy advisor in government ministries and defence departments
• Diplomatic service officer or foreign affairs specialist
• Intelligence and security analyst for national or international agencies
• Policy analyst or programme officer at multilateral organisations and NGOs
• Regional specialist or consultant for think tanks, research institutes and private sector firms
• Further academic study at the doctoral level in international relations or security studies

The programme’s emphasis on Asia–Pacific and Pacific Islands security is especially valuable for employers engaged in regional policy, maritime security, development and disaster response.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers direct proximity to the Asia–Pacific region, providing unique access to regional networks, field research opportunities, and visiting practitioners with experience in Pacific and Indo–Asia–Pacific affairs. The university hosts faculty with expertise in maritime security, regional geopolitics, Pacific Island studies and environmental security, allowing students to combine traditional security studies with regional and transnational perspectives.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and centres focused on Pacific Islands studies, Asian studies, and security research, as well as partnerships with regional institutions. The campus location in Honolulu positions students at a crossroads of diplomatic, military and multilateral activity, enabling internships and engagement with practising policy communities.