Chaminade University of Honolulu

School of Humanities, Arts and Design

Surf Studies (Minor)

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Surf Studies (Minor)

You can study surfing in its birthplace with a minor in Surf Studies.

This program is the first of its kind in the country, challenging students to explore surf culture’s indigenous origins, surfing’s growing popularity globally, and its importance to Hawaii’s sense of place.

Students dive into all aspects of surfing culture, from surfing’s depictions in popular books, films, and music to surfing’s connections to the environment and the psychological and physical benefits of surfing.

Upon completion of the Surf Studies minor, students will be able to:

  1. Describe and explain surfing’s Native Hawaiian origins
  2. Engage in comparative analysis of Hawai‘i surf culture with surf cultures in other parts of the US and the world
  3. Analyze literary, cinematic, televisual, and other popular culture representations of surfing and surf culture
  4. Define and discuss physical, psychological, and spiritual benefits of surfing
  5. Identify and analyze various elements of the Surf Industry from an ethical business/marketing perspective.
  6. Articulate the interrelation of surfing with coastal and marine ecosystems
  7. Apply the Marianist tradition of an integral/holistic education as it pertains to global awareness in the interdisciplinary field of surf studies within a diverse community of learners
Minor Requirements
  • Surf 341 Surf Studies in Hawaii

Choose three electives:

  • SURF 351 Philosophy of Surfing
  • SURF 361 Business and Entrepreneurship in Surfing
  • SURF 371 Environmental Studies and Surfing
  • SURF 410 Surfing and Marine Science
  • SURF 480 Special Topics in Surf Studies

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Accreditation

Chaminade University of Honolulu is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.