UHM Interdisciplinary Studies

UHM Interdisciplinary Studies diverse group of connected, ambitions, problem-focused and critical thinking students cultivating their own narrative in education.

🎓 ISP Graduate Spotlight: Jennifer AlshemaryBachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies – Human RelationsUniversity of...
05/28/2025

🎓 ISP Graduate Spotlight: Jennifer Alshemary
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies – Human Relations
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Class of 2025
We are proud to recognize Jennifer Alshemary, a recent graduate of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, who earned her Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Human Relations.
Jennifer’s academic journey is a testament to her resilience, commitment, and passion for education. As a working professional and mother, she successfully balanced multiple responsibilities while pursuing her degree. She credits the Outreach College for providing a flexible and supportive pathway to complete her studies, and expresses deep gratitude for the mentorship she received from Dr. Betsy Fisher and Professor Amanda Candēns, whose guidance played a significant role in her success.
Following graduation, Jennifer plans to prepare for the LSAT and apply to law school, with the goal of continuing her dedication to serving others through a legal career.
Congratulations, Jennifer, on this remarkable achievement. We look forward to seeing all that you accomplish in the next chapter of your journey.

🎓 Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Feature: Brayden Schager, Class of 2025 🎓We are proud to recognize Brayden Schager,...
05/28/2025

🎓 Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Feature: Brayden Schager, Class of 2025 🎓
We are proud to recognize Brayden Schager, a recent graduate of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, who earned his degree in Sports Business and Leadership through the Interdisciplinary Studies Program.
As a dedicated student-athlete and member of the UH Football Team, Brayden has demonstrated exceptional commitment both academically and athletically. He plans to pursue a career in professional football, followed by long-term aspirations in a secondary profession.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Brayden shared:
“I really enjoyed taking my meditation class this year. I also really liked my Leadership class last year.”
Congratulations, Brayden, on this significant achievement. We look forward to seeing where your talents and drive will take you next.

🎓 ISP Graduate Feature: Brigid HaganBachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary StudiesClass of 2025 | University of Hawaiʻi a...
05/21/2025

🎓 ISP Graduate Feature: Brigid Hagan
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
Class of 2025 | University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
We are proud to highlight Brigid Hagan, a recent graduate of the Interdisciplinary Studies Program at UH Mānoa. Brigid completed her degree with a focus on Education and Disability Studies, driven by a commitment to equity, inclusion, and meaningful representation.
While at UH Mānoa, Brigid was actively involved with the Best Buddies Chapter at UHM and The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, where she fostered community and leadership through service and advocacy.
Reflecting on her academic journey, Brigid cites SPED 202: Global and Historical Perspectives of Disability in the Media as a course that profoundly shaped her understanding and purpose. “This course not only taught me about myself and others, but also opened the door to opportunities that have defined my time at UH. The connections I’ve made through the Special Education department have been truly impactful.”
Following graduation, Brigid will join the Disney College Program, where she looks forward to gaining hands-on experience in a dynamic and inclusive professional environment. She hopes this opportunity will be a meaningful step toward a career dedicated to creating spaces where all voices are heard and valued.
Congratulations, Brigid — we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!

🎓 ISP Graduate Feature: Malia GauvinBachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary StudiesConcentration: Ocean Conservation and E...
05/19/2025

🎓 ISP Graduate Feature: Malia Gauvin
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
Concentration: Ocean Conservation and Environmental Sustainability
Class of 2025 | University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
The Interdisciplinary Studies Program is proud to recognize Malia Gauvin, a 2025 graduate whose academic focus and passion for environmental stewardship have defined her time at UH Mānoa. Malia’s individualized major in Ocean Conservation and Environmental Sustainability reflects her commitment to protecting marine ecosystems and addressing global environmental challenges through a multidisciplinary lens.
Throughout her undergraduate career, Malia demonstrated a strong dedication to learning and collaboration. She recalls the impactful experience of taking Biology of Vertebrates, where her TA, Helen Sung, made a lasting impression through her kindness, support, and depth of knowledge. “That class challenged me in ways I had never experienced before, and Helen’s guidance was instrumental to my growth,” Malia shares. She also credits her experience at UH Mānoa as being deeply enriched by the friendships and connections she formed with fellow students.
🌍 Post-Graduation Plans
Malia will begin the Disney College Program in Orlando, Florida this September, where she will gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and diverse environment. In January, she will pursue graduate studies at the University of Roehampton in the United Kingdom, continuing her journey toward making meaningful contributions in the field of environmental conservation.
We congratulate Malia on her achievements and look forward to the impact she will make on a global scale.

🎓 ISP Graduate Feature: Ben David | Class of 2025 🎓As the Class of 2025 prepares to walk across the stage this weekend, ...
05/14/2025

🎓 ISP Graduate Feature: Ben David | Class of 2025 🎓
As the Class of 2025 prepares to walk across the stage this weekend, we’re proud to highlight Ben David, who is graduating from the Interdisciplinary Studies Program with a concentration in Language and Culture.
Throughout his time at UH Mānoa, Ben explored the intersections of language, identity, and cultural preservation. One course that left a lasting impact was Language Revitalization with Dr. O’Grady, which opened his eyes to the real-world challenges—and deep importance—of preserving endangered languages.
Ben shares that this class was not only academically enriching but also personally meaningful:
“It was a wonderful experience for learning the realities of trying to save the endangered languages of the world.”
After graduation, Ben is choosing to take a meaningful pause to mentally recover and reconnect with friends and family—a well-earned moment of rest before stepping into his next adventure.
Ben, we are incredibly grateful to have been part of your academic journey. Thank you for your thoughtful contributions to the ISP community. Your passion, curiosity, and commitment to meaningful learning inspire us all.
From all of us in the Interdisciplinary Studies ʻohana—congratulations and best wishes as you move forward! 💙🎉

📢 UH Mānoa Events This Week! 📢From career fairs to creative workshops, meditation breaks, and academic resources—don’t m...
02/19/2025

📢 UH Mānoa Events This Week! 📢

From career fairs to creative workshops, meditation breaks, and academic resources—don’t miss out!

✨ Feb. 18 (Tues)
🔹 Self-Advocacy Workshop | 3PM | QLCSS 208
🔹 VIP Poster Session | 3:30PM | Campus Center Ballroom

✨ Feb. 19 (Wed)
🔹 Field & Career Fair | 10AM | Campus Center
🔹 Mid-week Meditation | 12:30PM | Webster 112
🔹 Kokedama Workshop | 4:30PM | RISE Center
🔹 Game Night 🎲 | 5PM | Hamilton Library

✨ Feb. 20 (Thurs)
🔹 Mobile Veteran Center | 10AM | Near Andrews Amphitheater
🔹 Virtual Writing Room | 9AM | Online

✨ Feb. 21 (Fri)
🔹 Chair Yoga | 12:30PM | Webster 112
🔹 Engineering Talent Show | 3:30PM | Art 132
🔹 Make & Take: Laser Cut Lanterns | 4PM | RISE Center

✨ Feb. 24 (Mon)
🔹 Sensory Room | 9AM | Kuykendall 106
🔹 Women in Gaming 🎮 | 4:30PM | RISE Center

🎭 Arts & Culture:
🎨 Go Around (Hawaiʻi Edition) Kumiko Sato – Ends Feb. 23
📖 Heroes, Poets, Gods & Monsters – Now through May 4

📚 Academic & Career:
🛫 Study Abroad – Japan | Feb. 21
📝 LSAT Workshop | Feb. 24
📖 Bookstore Sale – Now through Feb. 28

Tag a friend & make the most of this week! 💚🤙

🎉 2025 Lunar New Year Lion Blessing 🎉🗓 Date: January 31⏰ Time: 12:30 PM - 12:45 PM📍 Location: Mānoa Campus, Hawaii Hall ...
01/28/2025

🎉 2025 Lunar New Year Lion Blessing 🎉

🗓 Date: January 31
⏰ Time: 12:30 PM - 12:45 PM
📍 Location: Mānoa Campus, Hawaii Hall Lawn

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with us! 🌟 Enjoy a traditional Lion Dance performance by the Hawaii Lion Dance Association and welcome blessings for the year ahead.

🎤 Special Guest: Provost Michael Bruno will be joining us for this special event.

📸 Photo Credit: Ka Leo

Spring 2025 Important Dates – Interdisciplinary Studies Program at UH MānoaAs we kick off the second week of the Spring ...
01/22/2025

Spring 2025 Important Dates – Interdisciplinary Studies Program at UH Mānoa

As we kick off the second week of the Spring 2025 semester, here are some important dates to remember for the Interdisciplinary Studies Program:

January 21 (Tue): Last day to register, add courses, or change your grade option.
February 5 (Wed): Deadline to drop courses without a “W” grade and to file your application for spring graduation (both undergraduate and graduate students).
February 17 (Mon): Presidents’ Day – no classes.
March 1 (Sat): Final deadline for fall undergraduate admission applications and for returning graduate students to apply for summer readmission.
March 17–21 (Mon–Fri): Spring Recess – take a break and recharge!
March 26 (Wed): Kūhiō Day – no classes.
March 28 (Fri): Final day to drop courses with a “W” grade.
April 1 (Tue): Last day to apply for credit by examination and for instructors to submit fall “I” removal grades.
April 11 (Fri): Theses and dissertations due in Graduate Division.
April 18 (Fri): Good Friday – no classes.
April 23 (Wed): Last day for exams before finals week.
May 7 (Wed): Last day of instruction for the semester.
Stay on top of these dates to make the most of your semester!

🌺 Aloha UH Mānoa ʻohana!As the new semester begins, we’re excited to welcome back our returning students and extend a wa...
01/14/2025

🌺 Aloha UH Mānoa ʻohana!

As the new semester begins, we’re excited to welcome back our returning students and extend a warm aloha to those joining us for the first time. You are what makes this campus so special! 🌈

Reflecting on a somber start
2025 begins with heavy hearts as we think of those affected by the devastating fires in Los Angeles. Many of our students are from the LA area, and our thoughts are with you and your families during this time. This is a moment to come together as a community.

New leadership at UH Mānoa
Exciting news—Wendy Hensel is the new president of the University of Hawaiʻi system! She’s already shared her vision inspired by pilina—the Hawaiian value of relationships and interconnection. There are two upcoming opportunities to meet and welcome her:

🌱 Jan 22, 9:45 AM: Welcome Ceremony at Hawaiʻi Hall Lawn
🌱 Jan 22, 3 PM: Open Forum at the Campus Center Ballroom (refreshments provided!)

Looking ahead
This year is full of exciting developments:
✨ The Student Success Center and Hale Haukani graduate housing will open in the fall.
✨ Construction will soon transform McCarthy Mall with new classrooms and upgrades to Paradise Palms Food Court.

As we share these updates from UH leadership, we hope you feel inspired and supported. Here’s to an incredible 2025 filled with growth, success, and aloha!

Mahalo to everyone who joined us at the “Discover UH Mānoa” open house on October 26th! We had a great time at our Inter...
11/13/2024

Mahalo to everyone who joined us at the “Discover UH Mānoa” open house on October 26th! We had a great time at our Interdisciplinary Studies Program booth, meeting future students, families, and the community. From sharing about our unique programs and opportunities to connecting with our incredible faculty and students, it was an amazing day!

If you missed us, don’t worry! You can always reach out or visit our website to learn more about what makes UH Mānoa -azing. We can’t wait to see you on campus! 🌱🌈

Ready to Finish Your Degree? Have you dreamt of completing your degree but struggle to find the time? Look no further! O...
09/28/2024

Ready to Finish Your Degree?

Have you dreamt of completing your degree but struggle to find the time? Look no further! Our Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Program is specifically designed for adult learners like you.

Focus: Human Relations in Organizations
In today’s world, mastering communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, ethics, and conflict resolution is essential. Our program covers all these and more!

Program Length: 2 years

Flexibility: Completely asynchronous! Work at your own pace, on your own time.

An Interdisciplinary Studies degree holds incredible value in today’s job market. Employers are increasingly looking for versatile, adaptable professionals with a well-rounded skill set. The Interdisciplinary blend of communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, ethics, and conflict resolution prepares you for leadership roles and opens doors to diverse opportunities across various industries. Our graduates thrive in a variety of fields, including Horticulture, Education and Communications Design.

Finish your education with a degree that enriches your work and personally. You’ll gain new perspectives and critical thinking skills that will enhance your interactions and decision-making in everyday life. Whether it’s understanding the intricacies of human behavior or adopting leadership techniques, you’ll find yourself better equipped to handle life’s complexities.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out today to get started and invest in your future: [email protected]!

A friendly reminder that the Welina Mānoa: Kick-Off event is taking place TODAY, Wednesday, September 4 from 3:30 to 6 p...
09/04/2024

A friendly reminder that the Welina Mānoa: Kick-Off event is taking place TODAY, Wednesday, September 4 from 3:30 to 6 p.m. at the Campus Center, Kuykendall Lawn and Legacy Path!

The Mānoa campus is hosting a welcome-back-to-school event for the 2024-2025 academic year on the first day of the fall semester. At this event, there will be a variety of on-campus departments, programs, clubs, and offices at the Resource Fair. Be sure to join us to learn more about these various resources and services, enjoy ono food, and get a chance to win prizes!

Address

Honolulu, HI
96822

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 4:30pm
Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when UHM Interdisciplinary Studies posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The University

Send a message to UHM Interdisciplinary Studies:

Share