Philippine Language and Literature University of Hawaii at Manoa

Overview

The Philippine Language and Literature programme at the University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a comprehensive academic pathway for students interested in the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Filipino people. This degree is designed to foster high-level proficiency in the Filipino language while exploring the historical and social contexts of the archipelago.

Students enrolled in this major must complete 30 upper-division credits to satisfy the degree requirements. The curriculum is structured to transition learners from intermediate language skills to advanced conversation, composition, and critical analysis of traditional literature. This academic journey ensures that graduates possess a nuanced understanding of both indigenous knowledge and contemporary Philippine issues.

Why Philippine Language and Literature at the University of Hawaii at Manoa?

The university serves as a vital hub for Pacific and Asian studies, offering students access to specialised resources like the Filipino and Philippine Culture Program. Learners benefit from a curriculum that integrates co-curricular cultural activities, providing a holistic view of the Filipino experience. The institution also maintains strong connections with prestigious partners such as Ateneo de Manila University and the University of the Philippines Diliman.

Facilities and student organisations, including the Katipunan Club, offer a vibrant community for those pursuing this field of study. The programme is distinguished by its focus on both the homeland and the diaspora, ensuring students understand the global impact of Philippine culture. Teaching features include an experiential approach to traditional games, music, and rituals, making the learning process both academic and practical.

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:

• Structure of Filipino
• Filipino Aural Comprehension
• Filipino Film: Art and History
• Filipino Contemporary Literature
• Filipino Traditional Literature
• Indo-Pacific Language and Philippine Culture
• Philippine Food, Music and Rituals
• Philippine Contemporary Literature in English
• Philippine Popular Culture
• Philippine Film, History, Theory and Appreciation
• Philippine Travelogue: People, Places and Practices
• Philippine Traditional Games and Pastimes
• Philippine Diasporic Literatures
• Critical Discourses in IPLL Studies: Philippines
• Philippine Visual Art from Burial Jars to Burning Effigies
• Philippine Sociolinguistics
• Philippine Literature and Folklore in Translation
• Third-Level Language Study
• Rizal's Literary Works in Translation
• Writings of Carlos Bulosan
• Directed Studies

Careers with Philippine Language and Literature

Graduates of this programme are prepared for diverse professional paths that require cultural competency and advanced linguistic skills. Potential career sectors include international relations, community advocacy, and education. The deep understanding of Philippine history and social development is also highly valued in government agencies and non-profit organisations.

The focus on diasporic experiences and transnationalism prepares students for roles in global communication and media. Many alumni find opportunities in translation services, cultural consultancy, and archival research. The rigorous training in literary analysis and sociolinguistics provides a strong foundation for further postgraduate study or legal careers involving immigrant communities.