Brigham Young University–Hawaii: Comprehensive Profile

Background

Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYU–Hawaii) is a private undergraduate institution located in Laie, Hawaii. Established in 1955, it operates under the auspices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The university's mission is to prepare students from Oceania and the Asian Rim to be lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ and leaders in their families, communities, chosen fields, and in building the kingdom of God.

Key Strategic Focus

BYU–Hawaii emphasizes a holistic educational approach that integrates spiritual and secular learning. The university offers 37 bachelor's degree programs across various disciplines, including Business Administration, Biology, Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Social Work. The institution is organized into seven faculty units:

Arts & Letters: Communication, Media, and Culture; English; Film; Visual Arts

Business & Government: Accounting; Business Management; Entrepreneurship; Political Science; Hospitality & Tourism Management

Culture, Language & Performing Arts: Anthropology and Cultural Sustainability; Hawaiian Studies; History; Integrated Humanities; Intercultural Peacebuilding; Music; Pacific Island Studies; Theatre; World Languages

Education & Social Work: English as an International Language; Social Work; Teacher Education; TESOL

Math & Computing: Computer Science; Information Systems; Information Technology; Mathematics

Religious Education

Sciences: Biochemistry; Biology; Chemistry; Exercise and Sport Science; Psychology; Physical Science; Physics

The university's strategic focus includes fostering intercultural leadership development, with a diverse student body representing over 60 countries.

Financials and Funding

As of the end of the 2022 fiscal year, BYU–Hawaii's endowment was valued at approximately $230 million, reflecting a 22% growth from the previous year. The return on its endowment was $56.5 million (24.6%). In 2022, the university's total salary expenditure was $128 million, with instructional salaries accounting for $15 million across 124 employees.

Technological Platform and Innovation

BYU–Hawaii integrates technology into its educational framework, offering online study options to enhance accessibility. The university's commitment to innovation is evident in its diverse academic offerings and the incorporation of technology in teaching methodologies.

Leadership Team

President: John S. K. Kauwe III

Appointed as the 11th president on July 1, 2020, President Kauwe is the first native Hawaiian to lead the university. He previously served as chair of the Department of Biology and dean of Graduate Studies at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. His research specializes in the genetics of Alzheimer's disease.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

BYU–Hawaii operates within the higher education sector in Hawaii, characterized by a mix of public and private institutions. The university's unique integration of spiritual and secular education, along with its diverse international student body, positions it distinctively in the market.

Competitor Analysis

Hawaii Pacific University (HPU):

Located in Honolulu, HPU is a private university offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. In comparison to BYU–Hawaii, HPU has a larger enrollment and higher tuition fees.

University of Hawaii at Manoa (UHM):

As a public institution, UHM offers a broad spectrum of programs and has a larger student body. Its tuition is higher than BYU–Hawaii's, and it boasts a higher graduation rate.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

BYU–Hawaii maintains a unique partnership with the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC), a cultural tourist attraction and living museum adjacent to the campus. The PCC provides employment opportunities for students, allowing them to finance their education while preserving and promoting Polynesian cultures.