Mahalo, or thank you, for your interest in Brigham Young University-Hawaii, a four-year comprehensive undergraduate school located in La'ie, Hawaii, adjacent to the world-famous Polynesian Cultural Center.
BYU-Hawaii, which celebrated its 50th anniversary on February 12, 2005, was founded by President David O. McKay of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is an integral part of the Church Educational System, which includes BYU in Provo, Utah, BYU-Idaho in Rexburg, Idaho and the LDS Business College in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Approximately 46 percent of our 2, 400 students come from 70 nations outside the United States, as well as a significant percentage from Hawaii's multi-ethnic population. BYU-Hawaii is perhaps the most internationally diverse university in the country on a per capita basis.
Indeed, alumni and current students say the harmonious intercultural environment and the opportunity to mingle, study and work in the Latter-day Saint milieu of the university, the Polynesian Cultural Center and the community of La'ie is a valuable and unforgettable component of their BYU-Hawaii education.
We offer over 24 bachelor degree programs in three professional schools and the College of Arts and Sciences, specifically:
- The School of Business with its outstanding Center for International Entrepreneurship;
- The School of Education, which prepares teachers for Hawaii, the U.S. mainland and the international arena;
- The School of Computing with emphases on computer science, information systems and mathematics; and
- The College of Arts and Sciences with a broad range of liberal arts programs, including English language proficiency for international students through the English as an International Language program.
All curricula are designed so students can graduate within four years. During that time many students participate with faculty in professional-level research projects and attend and present at seminars and conferences. BYU-Hawaii also emphasizes career preparation, including graduate and professional schools, operates a strong placement program, and encourages students to participate in domestic and international internships.
The faculty is committed to working closely with their students and taking an active role in their education. They will get to know you personally and mentor you.
Beyond the classrooms, three Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint stakes provide numerous opportunities for the spiritual growth and leadership development of every student. The beautiful Hawaii Temple is also located within a short walk from the campus.
Over 700 BYU-Hawaii students work next door at the Polynesian Cultural Center - Hawaii's number-one paid visitor attraction. The majority of these students participate in one of the finest work-study scholarship programs in the world that enables them to graduate from college debt-free.
All of the above, and much more, merge so well that U.S. News and World Report has consistently ranked BYU-Hawaii in the top tier of "comprehensive" undergraduate institutions in the western United States. A BYU-Hawaii education can change the way you appreciate and interact with the peoples of the world forever. If you are a serious student and would like to know more, please contact us.
Aloha,
Steven Wheelwright
