Ti Programami - Our Program
Ilokano Language Courses
Philippine Culture Courses
NOTE: The courses listed here are courses that are taught by members of the Ilokano Program faculty. There are other IP courses you may take to fulfil requirements that are taught my members of the Filipino Program faculty.
Course Offerings
Spring Semester
Fall Semester
Summer Semester
Bachelors Degree, Minor or Certificate
Major in Ilokano
Minor in Ilokano
Language Certificate for Ilokano
If you have any questions, please contact Dean Domingo via email at deand@hawaii.edu or phone (808) 956-2226 for more information.
NOTE: Students who successfully complete the requirements to obtain a BA degree or minor in Ilokano will receive a stole (see background photos for Major and Minor).
Placement Exam, Seal of Biliteracy and Back Credits
Placement Exam
Placement examinations in the Ilokano language are given to students who have sufficient exposure to the language. The schedules for such examinations, usually given prior to each semester, are published at the Ilokano Program website and other appropriate websites maintained by the University of Hawai’i.
The exam is free. Save time and money by earning back credits, and take a shorter path toward achieving your academic goals.
Students with no prior experience with the target language should enroll in 101 and may do so without consent.
Examination Dates
Exams can be taken year-round. If you would like to take the placement exam, please make an appointment with Manong Dean at deand@hawaii.edu OR Manang Nadine at nadezna@hawaii.edu.
Seal of Biliteracy
Students who earned a Seal of Biliteracy in Ilokano in high school may be able to skip the placement test and potentially earn 16 back credits after taking a 300+ level Ilokano course.
Back Credits
Students placed into 102 or higher are eligible for back credits (up to 16 credits). Students must pass the course they are placed in with a grade of C or better to receive the back credits. A form to receive these back credits will be provided at the end of each semester.
Breakdown:
- If placed into ILO 301, 302, 401 or 402: Up to 16 back credits can be awarded (+ 3 credits you'll get from the course you're placed in).
- If placed into ILO 202: Up to 12 back credits can be awarded (+ 4 credits you'll get from the course you're placed in).
- If placed into ILO 201: Up to 8 back credits can be awarded (+ 4 credits you'll get from the course you're placed in).
- If placed into ILO 102: Up to 4 back credits can be awarded (+ 4 credits you'll get from the course you're placed in).
Scholarships
The Ilokano Bachelors of Arts Scholarship Fund was established in Fall 2003 to help the brightest and most deserving students in their pursuit of higher education. The Ilokano Language and Literature and Philippine Drama and Film Program, with the support of the Ilokano student Organization, Timpuyog, and some Filipino community organizations hold annual events to raise the needed resources for this important project. An Ilokano Bachelors of Arts Scholarship Banquet is held regularly towards the end of the Spring semester. In 2017, students who are declared as a candidate for an Ilokano minor can also apply for the scholarship.
For more information about these scholarships please contact Manong Dean at deand@hawaii.edu or Manang Nadine at nadezna@hawaii.edu. You may also call us at (808) 956-2226.
Extra Curricular Activities and Leadership Opportunities
1992 - Present
Continuing the legacy of: Friendship • Leadership • Scholarship
Proudly supported by the Ilokano Language Program is the student-run organization, Timpuyog, which promotes its cultural and language activities, including the end-of-semester Ilokano drama, sarsuela, video production, and song and dance competition at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, that culminates in a feast of Filipino delicacies. The Timpuyog Organization also occasionally co-sponsors socials and sports events, participated by the students in other clubs, schools, and youth groups in the community.
Ilokano students under the auspices of Timpuyog actively contribute their services to different Filipino and other organizations through cultural presentations attended by hundreds of audiences from different ethnic backgrounds. The Timpuyog Organization also helps in many civic activities within the Hawai'i community.
A Message from the Ongoing President
Marlon Basilio (Fall 2025 - Spring 2026):
Greetings to everyone. It is a true honor to serve as the President of Timpuyog for this school year. I understand this role presents challenges, but I am thankful for the opportunity to serve our community and promote our Ilokano culture and language. Thank you to the executive board for trusting me with this responsibility. I look forward to working with everyone in the community and seeing you at our events.Once again, I am proud and happy to serve as your Timpuyog President.
Kablaaw kadakayo amin. Maysa a pakaidayawan nga agpaayak a kas Pangulo ti Timpuyog iti daytoy nga akademiko a tawen. Maawatak a daytoy nga a taken ket kabuligna dagiti karit, ngem agyamanak iti gundaway nga agpaay iti komunidadtayo ken mangitan-ok iti kultura ken sao nga Ilokano.Agyamank iti jurado nga ejekutivo iti talek a panangitedyo kaniak iti daytoy a pagrebbengan. Sigagagarak a makatakunaynaykayo iti aramid para iti komunidad ken iti pannakakitakto kadakayo kadagiti paskentayo. Manen, pakaidayawak ti panagpaayko a kas Pangulo ti Timpuyog.
Spring Break Language and Culture Immersion Trip to the Ilocos
Ilocos Region Immersion Program – Spring Break Experience
Join us for an unforgettable Spring Break Immersion Trip to the breathtaking Ilocos Region of the Philippines! This journey offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into the Ilokano language and culture while exploring the rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur.
What to Expect
- Scenic & Historic Adventures: Walk along the cobblestone streets of Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marvel at the windmills of Bangui, and take in the majestic beauty of Paoay Church, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, and Pagudpud’s pristine beaches.
- Ilokano Language & Cultural Immersion: Engage with local communities, learn basic Ilokano phrases, experience traditional food like bagnet and empanada, and witness cultural performances.
- Community Service Project: Make a meaningful impact by visiting an elementary school where we will donate school supplies and spend time interacting with students.
This immersion trip is more than just sightseeing—it's a transformative experience that deepens cultural understanding while making a difference. Join us for an adventure filled with discovery, connection, and service in the heart of the Ilocos Region!
Requirements
- In good academic standing with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
- Must be enrolled (or was enrolled) in at least one Ilokano language course or any culture course that was taught by an Ilokano Program faculty.
Previous Immersion Trips
2025
In 2025, five students under the Ilokano Language and Literature Program officially went on its third language and culture immersion trip to the Ilocos during Spring Break. Group photo below was taken in La Paz, Ilocos Norte.
2024
In 2024, six students under the Ilokano Language and Literature Program officially went on its second language and culture immersion trip to the Ilocos during Spring Break. Group photo below was taken in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.
2020
In 2020, four students under the Ilokano Language and Literature Program were set to go on the second language and culture immersion trip to the Ilocos. However, due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, their trip was cancelled one day before they were set to depart Honolulu.
2018
In 2018, five students under the Ilokano Language and Literature Program went on a language and culture immersion trip to the Ilocos for the first time during Spring Break. Group photo below was taken in Balatong, Ilocos Norte.
BAM Program - BRAND NEW - STARTING FALL 2025
BAM PROGRAM
A pathway that helps students earn a BA in Philippine Language and Culture (PLC) and an MA in Asian Studies in five years. Students may double-count relevant credits towards both their undergraduate and graduate degrees and earn graduate-level credits at the undergraduate tuition rate, essentially saving time and money.
Admissions
Apply for admission to the Master's program during the second semester of junior year, or in the first semester of senior year and begin taking double-counted 600-level courses.
Requirements
As part of the BA/MA program, students must demonstrate at least 302-level proficiency in Filipino or Ilokano.
Inquiries
For questions and consultations, please contact Dr. Jayson Parba (jaysonpa@hawaii.edu) or Dean Domingo (deand@hawaii.edu).