Overview of University of Hawaii at Mānoa
The University of Hawaii at Mānoa (UH Mānoa), established in 1907, stands as the flagship campus of the University of Hawaii System. Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, United States, UH Mānoa is a public, comprehensive, research-intensive institution. With an enrollment of approximately 17,500 students and over 300 academic programs spanning 17 colleges and schools, it serves as a major center for education, research, and innovation in the Pacific region. Its strategic location and historical mission position it as a bridge between Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, offering a unique perspective for a diverse, global academic community.
UH Mānoa is renowned for strengths in oceanography, earth and environmental sciences, tropical agriculture, astronomy, and Hawaiian and Pacific studies, consistently ranking among the world’s top institutions in these fields. Signature programs include the globally recognized School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) and the pioneering Hawai‘inuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge. The institution promotes interdisciplinary research and problem-based learning, encouraging students and scholars to address real-world challenges. Collaborations extend internationally, with memberships in academic consortia such as the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU). UH Mānoa is classified as an R1 Doctoral University, signifying very high research activity, with over $400 million in annual extramural funding.
The UH Mānoa campus offers a vibrant and inclusive student life. Over 200 student organizations, cultural festivals, and service initiatives foster engagement and leadership. The university values diversity—its student body is one of the most ethnically diverse in the United States, with students from over 100 countries. Comprehensive support services, on-campus housing, robust intramural and NCAA Division I athletics, and a thriving arts scene contribute to a holistic educational experience. A commitment to sustainability and indigenous values shapes daily campus life and the wider academic agenda.
UH Mānoa’s mission is to foster global citizenship, sustainability, equity, and innovation through research, education, and community engagement. The institution cultivates knowledge and leadership for a changing world, rooted in Hawai‘i’s unique heritage and perspective.
