University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The MA in Political Science combines coursework and research to develop advanced analytical, methodological and theoretical skills. Students take core seminars in political theory, research methods and comparative politics, and then choose electives or concentrations that reflect faculty strengths, such as Pacific Islands politics, Asian politics, international relations, public policy, environmental politics and Indigenous governance.

• Core modules typically include seminars in political theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and comparative political analysis.
• Regional and thematic electives may cover Pacific Islands politics, East and Southeast Asian politics, US politics and public policy, security studies, human rights, and Indigenous and minority governance.
• Research component requires either a supervised thesis or a capstone research paper, allowing students to pursue original research under faculty supervision.
• Methodology training includes courses in statistical analysis, research design, case-study methods, and qualitative techniques; students are encouraged to gain competency in at least one methodological approach.
• Language and fieldwork opportunities are available for students whose research benefits from regional language skills or field research in Hawai‘i, the Pacific, or Asia.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in political science or a related social science discipline with a strong academic record. Relevant professional experience may be considered for applicants from government, NGOs, or international organisations.

• Academic transcript: Undergraduate degree with good honours or equivalent evidence of academic preparation.
• Letters of recommendation: Two or three academic or professional references addressing research potential and suitability for graduate study.
• Statement of purpose: A personal statement outlining research interests, career goals and how the programme fits those aims.
• Writing sample: An academic essay or policy paper that demonstrates analytical and writing ability; a thesis chapter or term paper is commonly submitted.
• English language proficiency: For applicants whose first language is not English, satisfactory scores on an approved English test or equivalent evidence of proficiency are required.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers in public service, policy analysis, international organisations, diplomacy, non-governmental organisations, advocacy and research. The degree also prepares students for doctoral study and academic careers.

• Policy analyst or adviser in government departments, regional organisations or think tanks.
• Programme officer or researcher with NGOs and international development agencies working on governance, human rights, environmental policy or Pacific affairs.
• Diplomatic service or international relations roles in embassies and multilateral institutions.
• Academic researcher or lecturer following further doctoral study.
• Consultant in political risk, public affairs or community engagement, particularly with a regional focus on the Pacific and Asia.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The Department of Political Science at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is distinguished by its expertise in Pacific Islands politics, Asian political systems and Indigenous governance, providing a unique vantage point for comparative and regional research. Faculty actively publish in these areas and supervise research that engages local communities, regional governments and international partners.

• Regional advantage: Located in the Pacific, the university offers direct access to Pacific Islands and Asia for fieldwork, partnerships and specialised study.
• Interdisciplinary resources: Strong links with Area Studies, Asian Studies, Native Hawaiian and Indigenous programmes, and environmental and public policy centres support cross-disciplinary research.
• Research opportunities: Students can work with faculty on funded projects, participate in policy workshops, and present research at regional conferences.
• Community engagement: The programme emphasises research that is responsive to local and Indigenous communities, fostering applied skills in consultation, policy design and collaborative scholarship.