Why BYU-Hawaii?

Spiritual Foundation

The beautiful Laie temple sits at the north end of campus to serve members. There are 17 YSA wards and 6 married wards in 3 stakes that provide students with opportunities for callings and spiritual support. Weekly devotionals featuring local church leaders, faculty, and staff; as well as LDS authorities, apostles, and prophets, align an educational focus combining secular learning with spiritual insight to guarantee all students the opportunity for spiritual growth.

Legacy

Inspired by the vision of President David O. McKay- "From this school . . . will go men and women whose influence will be felt for good towards the establishment of peace internationally", graduates of the last 60 years have established a global network of support and service as they lead communities and organizations around the world.

Academic Excellence

BYU–Hawaii is highly selective in its admissions process. Incoming freshman applicants from the United States have a 28% acceptance rate with a rate of 36% for all applicants. The recently created Center for Learning and Teaching assists teaching staff in utilizing the best teaching practices and technologies available. We believe that it is our kuleana (stewardship) as faculty, staff, and students to cultivate a healthy learning environment, one that encourages excellence, promotes respect and appreciation for cultural differences, and inspires a love for God and all people.

Professional

Students from BYU–Hawaii are recognized globally for their professionalism and abilities. Members of the BYU–Hawaii Enactus club are the 2015 national champions in their project for promoting entrepreneurs in action and will represent the United States at the global championships. Throughout various academic areas students receive certificates in multiple specialties including Peacebuilding, SAP-ERP, Education, English Language Learning, and New Media technologies. Job fairs on campus feature both domestic and international companies, and a specialized Career Services office assists students in reaching their potential for professional success.

Return to Serve

Fulfilling the mission of the university, BYU–Hawaii graduates return home to become spiritual, professional, and civic leaders. Dedicated scholarship funding helps students participate in international internships, often covering the entire costs of travel. Additionally, Career Services hosts "Career Connect" opportunities that allow students to travel to their home areas, meet with potential employers, network with alumni and recruiting officers, and interview for internships and post-graduation jobs.

International Student Body

With a current enrollment of approximately 2,700 students who represent over 70 different countries and cultures from the Pacific Rim and other parts of the world, BYU–Hawaii has the highest percentage of international students for any United States university. International cultures are celebrated with student associations embracing nearly every ethnic and cultural group on campus.

Aloha

Students at BYU–Hawaii become part of the Laie Ohana (family). The spirit of Aloha is evident in the community support, work opportunities, and classroom environment on campus and at the Polynesian Cultural Center. BYU–Hawaii and the neighboring Polynesian Cultural Center offer students the opportunity to work while studying. Over 70% of our students work 19 hours a week on average. Many major-specific job opportunities exist throughout the two areas, especially for students studying Hospitality, Business, Cultural Studies, Arts, Communications, Science, and Education. Small classes in a mentored learning environment promise unique learning practices.