The College of Social Sciences at UH Mānoa proudly announces the Academy for Hawai‘i Intelligence Studies Summer Program (AHI-SP). This innovative opportunity delivers a 3-credit, university-level course (POLS 120: Introduction to World Politics) and related programming to qualified Hawaiʻi high school students and incoming UH Mānoa freshmen. All expenses, including registration, tuition/fees, airfare, and on-campus housing/meals, are included (certain restrictions may apply). Credits earned may be applied to a higher-ed degree.
- See the related CSS News articles Lessons learned and The high school pathway to diplomacy.
Program Timeline
AHI-SP spans two weeks, from June 8 to June 27, 2026. The program has two distinct phases:
Weeks 1 and 2: Online/Virtual
During the first week, participants explore the POLS 120 course online, which introduces the basics of international relations and the field of national intelligence.
Week 3: In-Person
For the final week (June 21-27), participants are hosted at the UH Mānoa campus. During this time, students will participate in simulations, games, and field trips and have the opportunity to network and learn from national and Hawaiʻi-based intelligence leaders.
Successful participants will be honored at a Commencement Ceremony on Friday, June 26, 2026.
Eligibility
This statewide opportunity is open to qualified Hawaiʻi high school sophomores, juniors, seniors, and incoming UH Mānoa freshmen.
- Participants must be Hawaiʻi residents.
- The minimum high school GPA is 3.0.
- GPA is based on cumulative grades (9th grade to Fall 2025)
Information Sessions
Please email cssahi@hawaii.edu for Zoom details.
How to Apply
All interested students must complete a Summer Program Interest Form by Friday, February 27, 2026.
Selections
AHI-SP will evaluate all applicants and make their final decision, which may include waitlisting. If accepted, applicants must officially apply to UH Mānoa Outreach College (application instructions will be provided).
Note to Applicants
To ensure the timely completion of UH Mānoa Outreach College applications, AHI-SP applicants should immediately:
- Gather transcripts/grades and Fall 2025 report card.
- If multiple high schools were attended, transcripts are needed from each school.
- Grades needed span 9th grade to Fall 2025.
- Grades from Spring 2026 will not be necessary.
For selected Summer AHI students, the deadline to submit your paperwork to UH Mānoa Outreach College is Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Program Director / Course Instructor
For questions or concerns, please contact:
- Dr. Jairus Grove
- Email: cssahi@hawaii.edu
- Professor, Department of Political Science,
College of Social Sciences, UH Mānoa