To be admitted to a Department of Pacific Islands Studies graduate program (Master’s or Certificate), applicants must first meet the requirements of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Graduate Division. The requirements for applying to graduate school can be found here, on their website. In addition to submitting the graduate school application, applicants must also apply to their selected DPIS program.
MA in Pacific Islands Studies
The DPIS graduate program welcomes students to apply for admission to MA program in Pacific Islands Studies. Applicants should possess some knowledge of the geographical features, cultural characteristics, and history of the Pacific Islands region, as well as some familiarity with contemporary issues and concerns. In general, 12 credit hours (or the equivalent) of appropriate Pacific-related course work are expected to satisfy this requirement.
In addition to UH Mānoa Graduate Division requirements, applicants to the MA in Pacific Islands Studies must submit the following:
- Writing sample (short term paper or thesis chapter that demonstrates an ability to write clearly and knowledgably about a Pacific-related topic)
- Three (3) letters of recommendation (solicited from individuals familiar with the applicant’s undergraduate performance who can address questions of academic potential and readiness for graduate level work)
Click here for a list of degree requirements for students admitted to the MA in Pacific Islands Studies program.
Certificate in Pacific Islands Studies
Students must previously have been admitted to the Graduate Division in a field of study when applying for admission to the Certificate in Pacific Islands Studies Program. A letter of application to the DPIS Graduate Chair is required to be considered for admission to the Certificate in Pacific Islands Studies program.
Click here for a list of requirements for students admitted to the Certificate in Pacific Islands Studies program.
The Department of Pacific Islands Studies encourages prospective graduate students applying for admission to the MA or certificate program to communicate with the Graduate Chair actively and in advance of submitting applications for admissions. Contact the department today to start your journey as a certificate student!
Dr. Alexander Mawyer, Graduate Chair
Center for Pacific Islands Studies
School of Pacific and Asian Studies
1890 East-West Road, Moore Hall 210
(808) 956-2670
mawyer@hawaii.edu
