UH Manoa vs Northern Arizona University (NAU)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in location and campus environment between the University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) and Northern Arizona University (NAU)?

  UH Manoa is located in Honolulu, Hawaii, offering a vibrant urban setting with close proximity to beaches and a tropical climate. The campus is integrated within the city. NAU, on the other hand, is situated in Flagstaff, Arizona, a mountain town known for its four distinct seasons and proximity to the Grand Canyon. NAU's campus is more self-contained and offers a traditional college town feel.

• How do the academic strengths of UH Manoa and NAU compare?

  UH Manoa is particularly strong in areas like Oceanography, Marine Biology, Asian Studies, and Hawaiian Studies, leveraging its unique island location and cultural heritage. NAU excels in fields such as Forestry, Environmental Science, Hotel and Restaurant Management, and Education, benefiting from its location near national forests and parks.

• What is the typical cost of attendance for UH Manoa versus NAU, considering tuition, fees, and living expenses?

  Generally, UH Manoa tends to be more expensive for out-of-state students due to higher tuition and the overall cost of living in Honolulu. NAU offers more affordable tuition rates, especially for in-state students, and the cost of living in Flagstaff is typically lower than in Honolulu. However, costs can vary significantly based on individual lifestyle and financial aid packages.

• What are the student demographics like at UH Manoa and NAU?

  UH Manoa has a highly diverse student body, with a significant representation of students from Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, and Asia. NAU's student population is primarily from Arizona and other Western states, with a growing emphasis on diversity but a less pronounced international presence compared to UH Manoa.

• How do the research opportunities differ between UH Manoa and NAU?

  UH Manoa offers extensive research opportunities in marine science, astronomy (due to its access to observatories), and tropical agriculture. NAU provides strong research programs in areas like forestry, climate change, and ecological restoration, often involving fieldwork in the surrounding national forests and parks.

• What kind of student life and extracurricular activities can I expect at each university?

  UH Manoa offers a vibrant student life with a strong emphasis on Hawaiian culture, surfing, and outdoor activities. There are numerous student organizations, cultural events, and opportunities to explore the island. NAU provides a more traditional college experience with a focus on outdoor recreation like hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. The campus has a strong sense of community, with active clubs, sports teams, and events centered around the four seasons.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare between UH Manoa and NAU?

  UH Manoa's career services are well-connected to local businesses and government agencies in Hawaii, offering internships and job opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and marine-related fields. NAU's career services focus on connecting students with employers in Arizona and the Southwest, particularly in fields like forestry, education, and hospitality. Both universities offer career counseling, resume workshops, and job fairs.

• What is the average class size and student-to-faculty ratio at UH Manoa and NAU?

  Both UH Manoa and NAU have a range of class sizes, with introductory courses often being larger and upper-level courses being smaller. UH Manoa generally has a slightly higher student-to-faculty ratio compared to NAU, meaning students might experience larger class sizes on average. However, both universities strive to provide personalized attention and support to their students.

• How do the graduate programs at UH Manoa and NAU differ?

  UH Manoa offers a broader range of graduate programs, particularly at the doctoral level, with strengths in fields like oceanography, astronomy, and tropical medicine. NAU has strong graduate programs in areas like forestry, education, and physical therapy, with a focus on applied research and professional development.

• What are the admission requirements and acceptance rates for UH Manoa and NAU?

  Admission requirements for both universities typically include a high school diploma, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and a strong academic record. UH Manoa generally has a slightly more selective admission process compared to NAU, resulting in a lower acceptance rate. However, both universities consider a holistic review of applicants, taking into account factors like extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.