When people think of Hawaii, they often envision it as a lovely destination for a relaxing beach vacation. However, the state has much more to offer than just its natural beauty. Hawaii is also home to some of the best universities that provide exceptional academic programs and a well-rounded social life for undergraduate students. Whether your interests lie in sustainable agriculture or nursing, choosing a university in Hawaii can be a rewarding decision for your educational and career aspirations.
So, which are the top universities in Hawaii? In this article, we will present our ranking of the most prestigious universities in Hawaii and provide compelling reasons why considering earning your college degree in Hawaii should be on your radar.
How We Determined the Rankings of Hawaii Universities
To determine the rankings of Hawaii universities, we considered a wide range of factors, including acceptance rate, class sizes, and popular programs. We also consulted reputable college ranking systems to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our assessment. This comprehensive ranking of the best colleges in Hawaii will serve as an invaluable resource to kickstart your search for the perfect academic institution.
Hawaii Universities Ranked: The Top 8 Universities in Hawaii
- University of Hawaii – Manoa
- Brigham Young University – Hawaii
- University of Hawaii – West Oahu
- Chaminade University of Honolulu
- University of Hawaii at Hilo
- Hawaii Pacific University
- Pacific Rim Christian University
- University of Hawaii – Maui College
Unveiling the Best Colleges and Universities in Hawaii
Now, let’s delve into more detailed information about the top 8 universities in Hawaii. We have included the US News & World Report ranking, graduation rate, undergraduate enrollment, and whether the university is public or private. Furthermore, we will highlight what makes each institution unique. Please note that the following facts primarily focus on undergraduate degrees, although many of these universities also offer graduate programs.
1. University of Hawaii at Manoa
- US News National Ranking: #162
- Location(s): Honolulu, Hawaii
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 12,255
- Graduation Rate: 62%
Established in 1907, the University of Hawaii at Manoa is a renowned public institution with a diverse student body. It is a prestigious research university, particularly excelling in atmospheric science, environmental science, and biological sciences. Additionally, UH Manoa offers popular programs in computer science, engineering, and communication.
2. Brigham Young University – Hawaii
- US News Ranking: #14 in Regional Colleges West
- Location(s): Laie, Hawaii
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,974
- Graduation Rate: 65%
Brigham Young University – Hawaii provides students with a diverse array of academic options, offering 40 majors, 60 minors, and 12 certificate programs. The university boasts an extensive range of student organizations, allowing students to engage in numerous extracurricular activities while pursuing their bachelor’s degrees. It is worth noting that BYU Hawaii is affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but students from all backgrounds are welcome to attend.
3. University of Hawaii – West O’ahu
- US News Ranking: #29 in Regional Colleges West
- Location(s): Kapolei, Hawaii
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,636
- Graduation Rate: 52%
The University of Hawaii – West O’ahu, established in 1976, is one of the ten campuses within the University of Hawaii system. This public university offers four-year degree programs with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education. The No’eau Center provides valuable support to students through peer tutoring, workshops, and other resources aimed at enhancing their learning skills.
4. Chaminade University of Honolulu
- US News Ranking: #25 in Regional Universities West
- Location(s): Honolulu, Hawaii
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,558
- Graduation Rate: 43%
Founded in 1955, the Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private institution affiliated with the Catholic Church. It offers a wide range of undergraduate degree programs both on campus and online. Chaminade’s course offerings encompass various fields of study, including business and communication, criminology and criminal justice, behavioral sciences, and nursing. The university is committed to making education accessible, as approximately 97 percent of students receive some form of financial aid.
5. University of Hawaii at Hilo
- US News National Ranking: #288
- Location(s): Hilo, Hawaii
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,646
- Graduation Rate: 41%
The University of Hawaii at Hilo is noted for its student-centric approach and has been recognized as having the most diverse student population nationwide. The university offers over 85 academic degree and certificate programs, maintaining an impressive 13:1 student-faculty ratio. The institution’s commitment to individualized attention and support contributes to a conducive learning environment.
6. Hawaii Pacific University
- US News Ranking: #70 in Regional Universities West
- Location(s): Honolulu, Hawaii
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,765
- Graduation Rate: 35%
Established in 1965, Hawaii Pacific University is a private institution that offers on-campus and online programs. It additionally provides specialized programs for military students. HPU emphasizes hands-on learning experiences and culminates each student’s four-year degree with the opportunity to present at the annual capstone symposium.
7. University of Hawaii Maui College
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Location(s): Kahului, Hawaii
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,266
- Graduation Rate: 21%
The University of Hawaii Maui College is part of the University of Hawaii system and traces its roots back to 1931 as the Maui Vocation School. UHMC offers a variety of two-year associate degrees and two bachelor’s degree programs in sustainable science management and applied business and information technology.
8. Pacific Rim Christian University
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Location(s): Honolulu, Hawaii
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 116
- Graduation Rate: 65%
Pacific Rim Christian University is a private evangelical Christian institution that focuses on equipping Christian students with the necessary skills for their chosen ministries. The university offers courses in theology, Christian studies, and chaplaincy.
Is a University in Hawaii the Right Choice for You?
Considering a university in Hawaii is an excellent decision for various types of students. International students, transfer students, and traditional in-state students alike will find high-quality education in a stunning environment that prioritizes the balance between academic achievement and social engagement. Including a university in Hawaii in your search for higher education opportunities is undoubtedly worth some serious consideration.
The University of Hawaii at Manoa, with its impressive range of over 420 degree programs and a diverse community of more than 18,000 undergraduate and graduate students, stands as the largest university in Hawaii. This research institution guarantees that you will find the ideal college degree to propel your desired career path.
