FAQ
What are the benefits of the Global Track Dual Degree program?
A.
The Global Track adds a sustained international dimension to the three-year UH Mānoa DArch. Students study in Honolulu and Shanghai, complete professional practice or research experiences in the United States and Asia, and may earn Tongji University’s MArch in addition to the UH Mānoa DArch within the same three-year pathway.
Is the DArch STEM-designated?
A.
Yes. The DArch is a STEM-designated degree, which allows international graduates on F-1 visas to apply for up to three years of Optional Practical Training in the United States.
Do I need to speak Chinese?
A.
Absolutely not! The program is entirely in English and no Chinese-language study is required for participation (though it doesn't hurt, either). Students will have opportunities for cultural engagement while in China.
What about safety and travel in China? Current conditions?
A.
Shanghai is an incredible, and incredibly safe, clean, and modern city. UH Mānoa architecture faculty are with students throughout their year abroad, and program staff are in constant contact with all cohorts.
There has been no interruption in students' ability to get Visas. The GT program has run continuously since 2011, other than one year during Covid.
Where will I be staying?
A.
Housing arrangements vary by location and cohort. In Shanghai, students may use university international-student housing or arrange off-campus housing. During professional practice or research periods, students are generally responsible for securing their own accommodation, although host organizations may sometimes provide assistance.
What is transportation like?
A.
Public transportation in Shanghai and other major Chinese cities is cheap, frequent, and easy to navigate in English. Buses and the metro cost a few yuan per trip. Bike share is everywhere and is booked through a phone app. Daily transportation costs are minor compared to housing and food.
How is Global Track different from the regular DArch?
A.
Global Track follows the UH Mānoa DArch pathway but adds a structured academic year at Tongji University in Shanghai, professional or research experiences in the United States and Asia, and the opportunity to complete Tongji’s MArch requirements.
How do the professional practice experiences work?
A.
Global Track includes 2 built-in professional experiences (internships) between the academic years. Host organizations and locations vary by cohort. These experiences are designed to connect architectural education with professional practice and to expose students to different office cultures, project types, and professional contexts.
How does the MArch thesis work?
A.
Students choosing the Tongji MArch option apply to Tongji during the spring of Year 1 and submit a thesis topic and proposal. Preliminary research happens over the first summer. During the year in Shanghai, students work with a Tongji thesis adviser through proposal review, midterm review, and final submission, alongside their coursework. Exact dates vary by year and are set by Tongji.
Who should I contact with questions?
A.
Reach out to Lance Walters at waltersL@hawaii.edu or Vanessa Works at vworks@hawaii.edu or 808-956-8315