HILO >> Hawaii Community College has been authorized to begin granting a new degree in Hawaiian lifestyles, the college announced. Hawaii Community College
begins degree program
in native lifestylesStar-Bulletin staff
The associate in applied sciences degree has three tracks, mahi'ai (farming), lawai'a (fishing) and hula.
The degree is designed to help students improve employment prospects through hands-on learning, comparable to classes in welding, for example, said Eric Kapono, who coordinated creation of the program using federal funds.
Holders of the degree might find it helpful in setting up a taro farming operation, in owning or crewing on a fishing boat, or in running a hula halau or teaching Hawaiian culture to employees at a resort, Kapono said.
Courses applicable to the degree are already being taught at the college and the first recipients of the degree are expected to graduate in 2003, Kapono said.
Previous knowledge of Hawaiian culture is welcome but not necessary to enroll in the program, an announcement said.
The degree was approved by the University of Hawaii Board of Regents on Oct. 19.
University of Hawaii
