University of Hawaii at Manoa Shidler College of Business

Program Overview

Honolulu sits in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, equidistant between New York and Tokyo. That geographic position makes Hawaii Shidler the only US MBA program that's a natural bridge between American business practices and Asia-Pacific markets. The student body is one of the most internationally diverse in MBA education, with significant representation from Japan, Korea, China, and Southeast Asia.

The 35-student class gets concentrations in international business, Asian business, and hospitality management. Hawaii's tourism economy (13 million visitors per year) provides the hospitality employer base. At $21K per year for resident students, the tuition is reasonable. The quality of life in Honolulu is extraordinary (year-round 80-degree weather, beaches, mountains), though the cost of living is steep. For students who see their careers spanning the Pacific rather than staying on the mainland, Shidler offers a unique positioning.

Culture & Community

Hawaii's "aloha spirit" shapes the MBA culture: welcoming, inclusive, and community-oriented. The student body's Pacific Rim diversity creates cross-cultural learning that happens organically, not through forced case studies. Honolulu is a small city with world-class natural beauty. The 35-person class bonds through shared experiences in a location that feels different from every other MBA program. Students who want a mainland-style career and networking experience will feel disconnected. Students who want a global, Pacific-oriented education will find it transformative.

Academics & Curriculum

Asia-Pacific business courses cover Japanese, Chinese, and Korean business practices, trade relationships, and market entry strategies. Hospitality management connects to Hawaii's tourism economy. International business coursework reflects Honolulu's position as a Pacific crossroads. The curriculum integrates cultural competency with business fundamentals. Faculty bring deep expertise in Pacific Rim economies and trade relationships.

Career Outcomes

Hawaii's hospitality companies (Hilton, Marriott, Outrigger), military installations (Pearl Harbor, PACOM), and international trade firms provide the local pipeline. Asia-Pacific companies with US operations recruit from Shidler's diverse network. Average salary is approximately $80,000. The 78% employment rate reflects Hawaii's smaller job market. For careers that span the Pacific, Shidler's alumni network and cultural competency training provide advantages that mainland programs can't match.

Who Should Apply

Professionals building careers across the Asia-Pacific region. Hospitality industry leaders targeting Pacific tourism markets. Military-connected professionals at Pacific installations. Anyone who sees their career playing out across the Pacific rather than coast-to-coast.

What to Watch Out For

Hawaii's cost of living is among the highest in the US. The $80K salary may feel tight in Honolulu. The Shidler brand is strong in Hawaii and the Pacific Rim but limited on the US mainland. The small job market means most graduates targeting mainland careers need to relocate. If your career is purely domestic US, Shidler's Pacific positioning doesn't add value. And the geographic isolation from mainland business centers is real.

Known For

Best For

Frequently Asked Questions

Compare Hawaii (Shidler)

Hawaii (Shidler) Deep Dives

See also: Overall Rankings · Highest Salaries · Is an MBA Worth It? · GMAT vs GRE Guide