Overview: University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UHM), established in 1907, is the flagship institution of the University of Hawaiʻi System. Located in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, United States, UHM is a major public research university renowned for its comprehensive academic offerings and multicultural environment. As of Fall 2023, the university enrolls approximately 18,000 students, with around 1,200 faculty members across multiple colleges and schools. UHM’s unique geographic location in the Pacific positions it as a hub for research and education with global impact, particularly for studies related to Asia and the Pacific.
UHM is internationally recognized for its excellence in areas such as oceanography, tropical agriculture, environmental sciences, Hawaiian studies, and Asian and Pacific studies. The university follows an interdisciplinary and research-intensive educational model, encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration and real-world problem solving. UHM ranks consistently among the top 1.5% of universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2024) and is classified as an “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity” institution by the Carnegie Classification. The university collaborates extensively with international partners, managing acclaimed centers such as the East-West Center and participating in global academic consortia. Its faculty and students contribute significantly to advancements in earth sciences, marine biology, and indigenous studies, with a research expenditure exceeding $300 million annually.
Campus life at UHM is vibrant, offering over 200 student organizations, honor societies, and cultural clubs. The university’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity is evident, with students representing over 70 countries and multiple ethnic backgrounds. Extensive student support services—including counseling, career advising, and international student assistance—foster a welcoming environment. On-campus housing, Division I athletics, performing arts programs, and frequent multicultural festivals enrich the student experience. UHM also promotes sustainability initiatives, service learning, and leadership development opportunities, encouraging community engagement and global awareness outside the classroom.
Anchored by its mission of advancing knowledge and inspiring creative thought, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is dedicated to fostering excellence in research, sustainability, innovation, and equity. UHM strives to empower students and scholars as global citizens prepared to address complex challenges in Hawaiʻi, the Pacific, and beyond.
