Overview

The Music programme at the University of Hawaii at Manoa is a comprehensive professional course designed to prepare students for successful careers in public school education. This degree provides the essential pedagogical skills and musical expertise required to teach at all levels, from primary through to secondary school environments.

Students typically begin their academic journey within the Bachelor of Arts framework before applying to the College of Education after completing approximately two years of study. This transition involves a thorough review of academic transcripts, examinations, and personal interviews to ensure candidates meet the high standards required for professional certification.

The curriculum is divided into two primary areas of concentration: choral/general music and instrumental music.

Why Music at the University of Hawaii at Manoa?

The University of Hawaii at Manoa is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music, ensuring that the curriculum meets rigorous international standards. The department is known for its nationally recognised ensembles, providing students with elite performance opportunities alongside their academic studies.

A significant advantage of this programme is the reciprocity of the State of Hawaii Teaching Certificate, which is recognised in over 30 other states. This provides graduates with extensive geographic flexibility when seeking employment. Additionally, the campus hosts an active collegiate chapter of the National Association for Music Education.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33552 per year
National fee: USD 33552 per year
Local fee: USD 11520 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Theory and Aural Training
Music History
Applied Music
Secondary Instruments
University Concert Choir
Hawaiian Chorus
Asia-Pacific Ensembles
Concert Band
String Techniques
Woodwind Techniques
Percussion Techniques
Brass Techniques
Class Voice
Wind Band Literature

Careers with Music

Graduates are primarily prepared for roles as music educators within the public school system, covering elementary, middle, and high school levels. The programme specifically trains individuals for positions as choral directors, band masters, orchestra conductors, and general music teachers across various educational settings.

Beyond the classroom, the skills gained in performance and musicology allow graduates to pursue roles in community arts organisation, private tuition, and ensemble management. The teaching certification also opens doors to educational leadership and curriculum development roles within the broader arts education sector.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Theory and Aural Training
Music History

Applied Music

Musicianship
Music Teaching K–12

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-30 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Honolulu, United States

Disciplines

Music View 2679 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

Complete the Freshman Application!

Application Fee: $70 U.S.

Official High School Transcripts

Letter of Recommendation

Personal Statement & List of Achievements Form

Official Standardized Test Scores

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33552 USD / year

≈ 33552 USD / year
Out-of-State

33552 USD / year

≈ 33552 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11520 USD / year

≈ 11520 USD / year

Living costs

Honolulu

United States

1640 - 2500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Music.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Honolulu

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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