University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government BA provides foundational training in political theory, American government, comparative politics, international relations and research methods. Core courses typically cover topics such as political theory, constitutional law, public administration, political behaviour, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and seminars on contemporary political issues.

Students customise their programme through elective modules and concentration options that reflect the department's strengths in Pacific and Asian politics, environmental and resource politics, indigenous governance, and public policy analysis. Typical modules and subjects include:

• Introduction to American Government and Politics
• Comparative Politics and Political Systems
• International Relations and Asia–Pacific Security
• Political Theory and Philosophy
• Public Policy and Administration
• Research Methods in Political Science (survey design, statistics, case-study methods)
• Environmental Politics and Resource Management
• Politics of the Pacific Islands and Indigenous Governance
• Senior capstone seminar or honours thesis option depending on academic track

The degree normally combines general education requirements, core political science courses and electives. Many students complement their major with minors such as Asian Studies, Hawaiian/Pacific Studies, Environmental Studies, Economics, or Legal Studies. Opportunities exist for research projects with faculty, internships with state and local government, NGOs, think tanks and media outlets, and study abroad placements focused on Asia–Pacific partners.

Entry requirements

Typical entry to the BA requires a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong written and critical thinking skills; selection factors often include academic transcripts, personal statements and relevant extracurricular experience.

• Domestic applicants: secondary school completion with a competitive grade profile and any university-specific admission criteria.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualification and evidence of English language proficiency where applicable (for example, recognised English tests or prior instruction in English).
• Transfer students: transferable college/university credit is considered; evaluation is based on prior coursework in relevant disciplines and overall academic standing.

Some programme tracks (honours or certain concentrations) may have additional requirements such as a minimum GPA, completion of prerequisite courses, or a faculty endorsement. Applicants should consult the university’s admissions guidance for the most up-to-date documentation and assessment procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Political Science and Government programme move into a wide range of public- and private-sector roles. Common career paths include:

• Public service and government administration at municipal, state and federal levels
• Policy analysis, legislative assistance and public affairs
• International organisations, diplomacy and foreign service roles, particularly in Asia–Pacific affairs
• Non-governmental organisations and community advocacy, including work with Pacific Island organisations
• Legal careers (many graduates progress to law school)
• Media, journalism and political communications
• Research and academic roles or progression to postgraduate study (MA, MSc, PhD) in political science, public policy or related fields

Internships and practicum placements available through the university and Honolulu’s civic institutions frequently help students gain practical experience and professional networks relevant to these careers.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a Political Science programme shaped by its unique geographic and cultural setting in the middle of the Pacific. Students benefit from strong faculty expertise in Asia–Pacific politics, Pacific Islands studies, indigenous governance and environmental policy, providing distinctive regional perspectives not widely available elsewhere.

• Proximity to state government, federal Pacific commands and regional organisations creates internship and research opportunities in policy and public administration.
• Interdisciplinary links with Hawaiian/Pacific Studies, Asian Studies, Environmental Studies and Ocean Affairs support research and career-focused concentrations.
• Active research centres and faculty working on contemporary issues—such as climate resilience, resource governance and regional security—offer chances for undergraduates to participate in applied research.
• The campus’s diverse student body and location in Honolulu provide a multicultural learning environment and access to communities across the Pacific rim.

Together, these features make the programme a strong choice for students who want a rigorous political science education with a clear regional focus and practical pathways into public policy, diplomacy and community leadership.