University of Hawaii

What you'll study

The programme combines core courses in political science with elective options that allow you to specialise. Core topics include political theory, American national and state politics, public policy and administration, comparative politics, international relations and research methods (both qualitative and quantitative).

• Political Theory: classical and contemporary ideas about justice, power and democracy.
• American Politics and Constitutional Law: institutions, federalism, state and local government, and constitutional interpretation.
• Comparative Politics: study of differing political systems, development, party systems and electoral behaviour.
• International Relations and Asia–Pacific Politics: diplomacy, security, trade and regional dynamics in the Pacific and East Asia.
• Public Policy and Administration: policy analysis, implementation, budgeting and interest group politics.
• Research Methods and Political Data: statistics, survey methods, case study design and empirical research practicum.
• Electives: environmental and marine policy, Indigenous governance and nationhood, human rights, campaign management, political economy and elective language study relevant to the region.

Students are encouraged to take advantage of practicum opportunities such as internships with state and local government, NGOs, legislative offices and research centres, as well as study abroad options that build regional expertise.

Entry requirements

Admission to the BA in Political Science and Government follows the University of Hawaiʻi–Mānoa undergraduate admissions process. Typical requirements include a completed application, official secondary school transcripts (or equivalent), and any documentation required of transfer or international applicants.

• Academic record: completion of secondary education with a record demonstrating readiness for university study; transfer applicants should provide college transcripts.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement outlining interest in political science and academic or career goals; letters of recommendation may strengthen an application where requested.
• English language proficiency: required for applicants whose first language is not English; accepted demonstration can include recognised proficiency test scores or other university-accepted evidence.
• Additional pathways: students may enter the major after meeting lower-division course prerequisites and GPA requirements as set by the department; contact the department for specific threshold criteria and advising.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of careers that value analytical thinking, research skills and understanding of governance. Common career directions include:

• Public sector and civil service roles at local, state and federal levels, including policy analysis and legislative support.
• Work in non-profit organisations and community advocacy focused on social policy, environmental management and regional development.
• Careers in international organisations, diplomacy and trade agencies, particularly in the Asia–Pacific arena.
• Media, public affairs, political campaigning and communications roles.
• Private sector positions in government relations, consulting and policy research.
• Further professional and graduate study, including law school, public policy (MPP/MPA), international relations and academia.

Why study at University of Hawaii

The University of Hawaiʻi–Mānoa offers distinctive strengths for political science students through its geographic and intellectual focus on the Pacific and Asia–Pacific region. Faculty expertise and research centres provide opportunities to study issues such as Pacific Island governance, trans-Pacific diplomacy, environmental and ocean policy, and Indigenous political movements.

• Regional relevance: proximity to state government in Honolulu and to Pacific Rim partners supports internships and applied learning.
• Interdisciplinary connections: easy collaboration with programmes in Asian studies, Pacific Islands studies, environmental science and law for a broader policy perspective.
• Experiential learning: local internship placements, community-engaged research and study abroad options help translate classroom learning into practice.
• Pathways to law and public service: links with professional schools and public agencies support students aiming for legal careers or public administration.

Prospective students should consult the department for detailed degree planning and advising to align course choices with career goals and regional interests.