UH Mānoa Online

What will my online classes be like?

Our synchronous and asynchronous options mean that you benefit from small, interactive real-time conversations as well as classroom settings that allow you to revisit pre-recorded lectures, readings, and other resources as frequently as you desire. Many of our online programs are cohorted programs, so you will advance through your program with fellow students. Professors are responsive and available online, as are resources such as the University Writing Center, the KOKUA and Office for Students with Disabilities, and the Hamilton Library. The faculty members who teach in our programs are the same world-class research faculty who teach face-to-face at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. Our online courses and programs are the same high-quality content you’d receive if you set foot on our campus.

What kinds of online courses and programs do you offer?

We offer a variety of standalone, self-paced online courses and certificates for professional development as well as over 20 different online degree and credit certificate programs from 8 different colleges at UH Mānoa. Programs are offered in both 5-week and 16-week formats to fit a variety of learners’ needs. Our online courses draw on a variety of classroom technologies and tools to enhance the learning experience, including our in-house learning management system, video conferencing, and other contemporary tools for teaching. Faculty members work closely with instructional designers to develop courses and programs that meet a variety of learners’ needs and that incorporate engaging, interactive experiences for students.

What if I’ve already completed some college courses or even an AA?

UHM’s online degree completion programs allow you to apply the credits you’ve already earned to a degree program and, depending on the number of credits you transfer in, you can complete your degree in as little as two years. Completing your degree can help you access new career paths, higher earnings in your job, and find a sense of personal satisfaction and happiness.

How much will it cost for me to take courses through UH Mānoa Online?

The cost to you will vary depending on the type and length of the program. All for-credit programs charge the same per credit tuition as UH Mānoa's on campus programs. See Tuition and Fees for the current tuition schedule. The cost of not-for-credit courses and programs is listed on the individual program pages. Rest assured that, no matter what online program you take, you will be getting an excellent value.

Can international students take fully online or primarily online degree or certificate programs?

International students enrolled in fully online or primarily online degree or certificate programs are not eligible for issuance of the Form I-20 required to apply for an F-1 student visa to study in the United States. Students participating in online programs must complete their coursework from outside the United States unless they hold another valid immigration status that permits study in the U.S.

For the purposes of international student visa eligibility, a “primarily online” program refers to a program in which the majority of coursework or instructional delivery is conducted online or through distance education methods, even if the program may include limited in-person, hybrid, residency, or short-term on-campus components.