Asian Studies University of Hawaii at Manoa

Overview

The Asian Studies programme at the University of Hawaii at Manoa provides a comprehensive exploration of the social, political, and cultural landscapes across East, South, and Southeast Asia. This interdisciplinary course allows students to engage with a wide variety of academic perspectives to understand the complexities of the Asian continent.

Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates the humanities and social sciences, ensuring a well-rounded education. The department emphasises the importance of linguistic proficiency, requiring students to achieve competency in an Asian language relevant to their specific area of geographical or thematic focus.

The flexible nature of the degree enables individuals to tailor their learning experience to match their professional aspirations.

Why Asian Studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa?

The university is home to a distinguished community of over 200 Asia specialists, providing students with access to an unparalleled depth of expertise. Faculty members are internationally recognised for their research and teaching excellence, contributing to a vibrant and intellectually stimulating academic environment.

As part of the School of Pacific and Asian Studies, the department maintains strong links with various research centres and international organisations. These partnerships enhance the learning experience by offering students unique opportunities for networking, attending high-profile guest lectures, and participating in regional conferences.

The institution offers a vast array of Asia-related courses, drawing on resources from across the College of Arts, Languages, and Letters. This collaborative approach ensures that students can explore diverse fields such as ethnomusicology, urban planning, and political science within their primary degree framework.

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

The curriculum draws from a wide range of academic fields to provide a holistic view of the region. Modules may include:

• American Studies
• Anthropology
• Art and Art History
• Business
• East Asian Languages and Literatures
• Economics
• Ethnic Studies
• Ethnomusicology
• Geography and Environment
• History
• Indo-Pacific Languages and Literatures
• Linguistics
• Philosophy
• Political Science
• Religion
• Sociology
• Theater and Dance
• Urban and Regional Planning
• Women’s Studies

Careers with Asian Studies

Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths in both the public and private sectors. Many alumni secure roles in government service, international law, and journalism, where their regional expertise and language skills are highly valued by employers across the globe.

The programme also provides a strong foundation for careers in non-profit organisations, business, and education. Additionally, the rigorous academic training serves as an excellent stepping stone for those wishing to pursue advanced research or doctoral studies in specialised disciplinary fields.