Comprehensive guide to Hawaii's education system, universities, community colleges, vocational training, scholarships, and educational resources for students and families across all islands.
University of Hawaii System Campuses
Public School Students
Charter Schools Operating
Avg Per-Student Annual Spending
Hawaii has several highly-ranked four-year universities with strong programs across diverse fields.
Established 1907 | Honolulu, Oʻahu
Flagship Campus Research University
Highlights:
Top Programs: Business (Shidler College ranked #20 international business), Engineering, Computer Science, Linguistics (#11 in U.S., #40 globally)
2024-2025 Tuition: $7,980 (in-state), $21,060 (out-of-state) per semester
Enrollment: 18,000+ students
Hawaii Island (Big Island)
Regional University Diverse Student Body
Highlights:
Top Programs: Nursing (ranked #182), Business & Economics, Agriculture, Environmental Science
2024-2025 Tuition: $7,838 (in-state), $20,798 (out-of-state) per semester
Enrollment: 3,600+ students
Kapolei, Leeward Oʻahu
Regional University Online Learning
Highlights:
Top Programs: Business Administration, Liberal Arts, Computer Science, Health Sciences
2024-2025 Tuition: $7,968 (in-state), $20,928 (out-of-state) per semester
Enrollment: 2,500+ students
Private | Honolulu, Oʻahu
Private Institution Largest Private University
Highlights:
Top Programs: College of Liberal Arts, Business Administration, International Studies, Criminal Justice
2024-2025 Tuition: $34,392 per year (most comprehensive)
Enrollment: 4,000+ students | SAT Range: 1030-1220
Private | Laie, Oʻahu
Private Institution Faith-Based
Highlights:
Top Programs: Liberal Arts, Intercultural Peacebuilding, Pacific Island Studies, International Business
2024-2025 Tuition: $5,720 per year (most affordable private)
Enrollment: 3,200+ students | SAT Range: 1060-1250
Private | Honolulu, Oʻahu
Private Institution Catholic
Highlights:
Top Programs: Business, Education, Psychology, Social Work, Fine Arts
Student Rating: 3.9/5 stars on Niche (634 reviews)
Seven community colleges serve students across Hawaii, offering 2-year associate degrees, certificates, and transfer pathways to 4-year universities. The system is known for affordability and accessibility.
Location: Honolulu, Oʻahu
Programs: 25 associate degree programs, 20 certificate programs
Specialties: STEM, Business, Healthcare, Technology, Skilled Trades
Features: Continuing Education, Career Services, Workforce Training
Location: Honolulu, Oʻahu
Programs: Health sciences, STEM, Business, Hospitality, Education
Specialties: Nursing, Respiratory Care, Dental Hygiene, STEM Education Certificate
Features: Continuing Education, STEM Center, Transfer Agreements
Location: Pearl City, Oʻahu
Programs: 16 associate degree programs, 13 certificate programs
Specialties: Engineering, Liberal Arts, Business, Technology
Features: Work-while-learning options, Flexible scheduling
Location: Kaʻaʻawa, Windward Oʻahu
Programs: Transfer-focused, Liberal Arts, Business, Technology
Specialties: Hawaiian Language, Environmental Science, Native Hawaiian Studies
Features: Community partnerships, Cultural programs
Location: Hilo, Big Island
Programs: Agriculture, Engineering, Healthcare, Business
Specialties: Agriculture Technology, Culinary Arts, Hospitality
Location: Lihue, Kauaʻi
Programs: Liberal Arts, Business, Agriculture, Technology
Specialties: Online HVAC/R Certification, Hawaiian Studies
Location: Kahului, Maui
Programs: Business, Liberal Arts, Hospitality, Technology
Specialties: Culinary Arts, Hotel Management, Tourism Studies
Hawaii has 40+ public charter schools serving 13,000+ students across five islands. Charter schools are tuition-free and offer diverse learning models including blended learning, Hawaiian language immersion, arts integration, and project-based learning.
Type: Public Charter (K-12)
Model: Technology-focused, flexible learning
Features: Hawaii's largest public charter school, distance learning options, modern curriculum
Type: Public Charter (9-12)
Model: Alternative learning environment
Features: Supports students seeking different educational approach, Board of Education diploma
Type: Public Charter (K-12)
Model: Online/Blended with family groups
Features: Serves students statewide, Ka ʻOhā online program, flexible scheduling
Type: Public Charter Accelerated
Model: Accelerated curriculum with multiple campuses
Features: Five campuses (Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Kona, Hilo), extension of Virtual Learning Network
Type: Public Charter
Model: Hawaiian-focused education
Features: Hawaiian language and culture emphasis, community connections
Type: Public Charter
Model: Project-based learning
Features: Student-centered approach, real-world projects, community partnerships
Note: Additional charter schools offer diverse models including Waldorf education, Hawaiian language immersion, arts integration, and specialized focus areas.
Hawaii offers comprehensive vocational and technical training programs through community colleges, apprenticeships, and specialized training centers.
Duration: 5 years (10,000 work hours + 10 semesters classroom)
Provider: UA Local 657 (Honolulu) - Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Apprenticeship
Online Option: Kauai Community College offers 100% online Certified HVAC/R Technician course (under 12 months)
Certification: EPA Section 608 certification required
Duration: 5 years (10,000 work hours + 144 hours classroom annually)
Provider: Honolulu Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (JATC)
Instruction: Honolulu Community College provides related classroom instruction for Oahu apprentices
Availability: Continuous applications accepted for all islands
Program: Steam Fitter Welder Apprenticeship
Duration: 5 years (10,000 work hours + 10 semesters classroom)
Provider: UA Local 675
Facilities: State-of-the-art training centers in Pearl City and Iwilei with hands-on equipment
Type: Free vocational training program
Fields: Healthcare, Technology, Clean Energy/Skilled Trades, Creative Industries
Cost: Completely free for eligible residents
Classes Start: January 2026 | Maximum enrollment: 3,000 residents
Outcomes: Graduates earn $1,800 more per quarter ($7,200+ annually) vs non-completers
All Hawaii community colleges offer certificate programs in various fields including healthcare, skilled trades, information technology, and hospitality. Programs range from 12 weeks to 2 years.
Hawaii students have access to numerous state, federal, and private scholarships and financial aid options.
Target: Community college students
Award: Covers 100% of tuition/fees gap after other aid
2024 Awards: $5.5 million to 3,446 students
Requirements: 2.0+ GPA, 6+ credits per semester
Apply at: Community college financial aid office
Target: Hawaii high school graduates (post-2005)
Requirements: 3.0+ GPA, rigorous curriculum completed, financial need demonstrated
Universities: Available at UH system campuses
Apply: Through UH system financial aid
Target: Fall 2024+ enrollees at UH Mānoa
Award: $2,000-$4,000 per academic year
Selection: Based on admission application and academic record
Application: Automatic consideration, no separate application
Target: Native Hawaiian students
Award: Need-based grant
Availability: Across UH System campuses
Focus: Supporting Hawaiian community students
Annual Distribution: $7+ million statewide
Provider: 3rd largest private scholarship provider in Hawaii
Eligibility: Various criteria - 100+ named scholarships available
Apply: HCF Grants & Scholarships
Application: FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
Used for: Federal grants, loans, and work-study at all UH campuses
How to Apply: Complete FAFSA at fafsa.ed.gov
Contact: UH campus financial aid office for assistance
| Institution Type | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | On-Campus Living |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Colleges (Average) | $3,500-$4,200/year | $8,000-$9,000/year | Varied |
| UH System Universities (Average) | $7,900-$8,000/semester | $20,800-$21,000/semester | $17,270/year |
| Hawaii Pacific University | $34,392/year | Included in tuition | |
| BYU-Hawaii | $5,720/year (most affordable) | Included | |
State-led initiative integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through scientific inquiry and engineering design.
Focus: Problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration skills
Reach: Public schools statewide
Amplifies impact of University of Hawaii research projects to middle school STEM teachers and students statewide.
Target: Middle school level preparation
Focus: Building pathways to STEM careers
Hands-on learning for middle school students across science, technology, engineering, and math.
Reach: 157+ Maui students in recent program
Format: Summer intensive with ongoing support
Native Hawaiian Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Project
Focus: Increasing advancement of high-need students in STEM
Mission: Supporting Native Hawaiian place of learning
Hawaii Department of Education Gifted and Talented Program develops statewide policies and standards for quality gifted education. Programs include:
University of Hawaii at Mānoa offers special education courses covering gifted/talented student needs, creativity psychology, and teaching models.
Hawaii provides extensive opportunities for adult education, continuing education, and lifelong learning.
The Hawaii Department of Education operates 10 Community Schools for Adults across the islands:
Location: Honolulu, Oʻahu (primary campus)
Programs: Basic, remedial, continuing education, information technology
Diplomas: GED, HiSET, Hawaii Adult Community School Diploma
Location: 5 campuses across Oʻahu and Big Island
Programs: Adult education, workforce development, special interest courses
Focus: Flexible learning for working adults
Location: Honolulu, Oʻahu
Focus: Lifelong learning, educational enhancement
Community: Supporting adult development and personal growth
Location: University of Hawaii at Mānoa
Type: Non-credit lifelong learning
Offerings: Courses, lectures, excursions, experiences for curious adults
Wide range of training programs for business, industry, and community needs
Specialties: Healthcare, technology, skilled trades, business
Professional development and specialized training programs
Focus: Healthcare, business, technology certifications
What: 40+ online degree and certificate programs
Provider: University of Hawaii System
Formats: Fully online, hybrid, fully online master's degrees
Institution: UH West O'ahu leads online distance learning
Four delivery types: Fully online, hybrid, summer intensive, statewide hybrid
Programs: Teacher certification, master's degrees, specialist programs
Reach: Distance education to all Hawaiian islands
Type: Statewide K-12 online education system
Platform: Blackboard learning management system
Program: E-School for grades K-12
Duration: Operating for 10+ years
Model: Virtual education with campus support
Duration: Operating 10+ years
Features: Flexible schedules, campus-based systems support
Hawaii operates a unified public school system serving all islands with comprehensive education from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Total Students
Public Schools
Licensed Teachers
| Grade Level | Reading (Proficient+) | Math (Proficient+) |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary | 50% | 42% |
| High School | 55% | 22% |
Hawaii universities, community colleges, and state agencies provide comprehensive career services to students and job seekers.
Services: Career counseling, job database (updated weekly), employment referrals
Support: Resume writing, cover letter assistance, interview skills, job preparation
Access: Schedule appointments with career counselors
Services: Extensive on-campus interview programs, career fairs, professional workshops
Focus: Career growth and employer matching
Support: Networking with leading companies and alumni
Services: On-campus and off-campus employment referrals
Pre-Employment Support: Resume writing, interview prep, job readiness
Target: Students in career transition
Type: Alumni career support and professional development
Focus: Healthcare career advancement
Services: Free employment training and job placement services
Support: Helps job seekers and employers find talent
Department: Department of Community Services
Services: Free one-on-one career navigation
Support: Skills identification, job market preparation, placement assistance
Focus: Job seekers of all skill levels
Mission: Create skilled local talent pipeline
Activities: Partner with employers, educators, community leaders
Services: Connect job seekers to training and entry-level employment
Network: American Job Centers across islands
Services: Comprehensive workforce development programs
The University of Hawaii System, established in 1907, comprises 10 campuses serving students across the Hawaiian Islands. It consists of 3 universities and 7 community colleges. The three universities are: University of Hawaii at Mānoa (flagship, Honolulu), University of Hawaii at Hilo (Big Island), and University of Hawaii–West Oʻahu (Kapolei). The seven community colleges serve students on Oʻahu (4 campuses), Maui, Kauaʻi, and Hawaii Island, providing accessible and affordable higher education pathways throughout the state.
Tuition and fees vary by institution type. University of Hawaii system universities cost approximately $7,900-$8,000 per semester for in-state students and $20,800-$21,000 for out-of-state students. Community colleges are significantly more affordable at $3,500-$4,200 per year in-state. Private universities like Hawaii Pacific University average $34,392 annually, while BYU-Hawaii is the most affordable private option at $5,720 per year. On-campus living costs approximately $17,270 per year. Many students qualify for financial aid through Hawaii Promise Scholarship, federal grants, or other funding sources to help offset these costs.
The Hawaii Promise Scholarship is a state program that covers 100% of community college costs for eligible students. In fiscal year 2024, it awarded $5.5 million to 3,446 students across the seven UH Community Colleges. To qualify, students must maintain at least a 2.0 GPA and take at least six credits per semester. The scholarship covers the gap between other financial aid received and the actual cost to attend community college, making it extremely valuable for students seeking affordable higher education. Apply at your community college's financial aid office.
Hawaii's public school system serves 169,308 students across 297 public schools for the 2024-2025 school year. The system operates as a unified statewide school district rather than local districts, allowing consistent policies across all islands. There are approximately 12,220 licensed teachers providing an average student-to-teacher ratio of 1:15, slightly better than the national average of 1:16. The student body is 90% minorities, with 25.6% Native Hawaiian, 24.6% Asian/Pacific Islander, 18.3% Hispanic/Latino, and 11.2% White. About 35% of students are economically disadvantaged. The state graduation rate is 85%.
Hawaii offers comprehensive vocational training including HVAC, plumbing, welding, and skilled trades through apprenticeships and community colleges. HVAC, steam fitting, and plumbing apprenticeships through UA Local 675 and Local 657 are five-year programs combining 10,000 work hours with classroom instruction. Kauai Community College offers an online Certified HVAC/R Technician certification in under 12 months. The Good Jobs Hawaiʻi Initiative provides completely free training in healthcare, technology, clean energy/skilled trades, and creative industries, with classes starting in January 2026. Graduates from this program earn $7,200+ more annually than non-completers. Community colleges also offer various certificate programs ranging 12 weeks to 2 years.
To teach in Hawaii public schools, you need a bachelor's degree or higher and must complete a state-approved teacher education program (SATEP). Programs require a minimum of 450 hours of supervised clinical experience in student teaching, internship, or residency. You must also pass appropriate Praxis exams in your content area. Hawaii has a tiered licensing system: Provisional License (3-year, non-renewable) for new teachers with less than three years experience; Standard License (5-year, renewable) for teachers with three years of full-time teaching experience in the last five years; and Advanced License (10-year, renewable) for teachers with five years of experience plus an advanced degree or National Board Certification. The Hawaii Teachers Standards Board oversees all certification and licensing requirements.
Hawaii offers comprehensive distance learning and online education at all levels. UH Online provides 40+ online degree and certificate programs across the University of Hawaii System with fully online and hybrid options. UH West O'ahu specializes in online distance learning with programs designed for remote learners. The College of Education at UH Mānoa offers fully online, hybrid, summer intensive, and statewide hybrid distance programs. For K-12 students, the Hawaii Virtual Learning Network (HVLN) operates E-School using Blackboard platform for grades K-12. Hawaii Technology Academy provides online and blended learning with flexible schedules and campus support. These programs extend education access to all islands and accommodate working students or those with scheduling constraints.
Hawaii has 40+ public charter schools serving 13,000+ students across five islands. Charter schools are tuition-free public schools of choice open to all students. Each offers different learning models including blended learning, Hawaiian language immersion, arts integration, project-based learning, Waldorf education, and accelerated curricula. Major charter networks include Hawaii Technology Academy (largest, technology-focused), Kapolei Charter School (alternative learning for grades 9-12), Kanu o ka ʻĀina (online/blended K-12), Myron B. Thompson Academy (accelerated with five island campuses), Kaohao School (Hawaiian-focused), and Innovations Public Charter School (project-based). All charter schools are public schools following the Board of Education curriculum while offering flexible, innovative educational approaches.
Hawaii offers extensive adult education through 10 Community Schools for Adults operated by the Hawaii Department of Education. These schools provide basic education, remedial programs, continuing education, and workforce development. Students can earn GED, HiSET, or Hawaii Adult Community School Diplomas. Major locations include McKinley Community School for Adults (Honolulu) and Waipahu Community School for Adults with five campuses across Oʻahu and Big Island. University-level programs include Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UH Mānoa offering non-credit enrichment courses, and continuing education programs at community colleges covering professional development, healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. Community colleges also offer workforce training and certification programs to help adults advance careers or transition to new fields.
Hawaii provides comprehensive career services through universities, community colleges, and state agencies. University of Hawaii Mānoa operates a Career Center with weekly job database updates, career counseling, resume writing, interview preparation, and job readiness support. Shidler College of Business offers extensive on-campus interview programs and career fairs. Community colleges provide employment referrals and pre-employment services. The American Job Center Hawaii provides free training and job placement services. Goodwill Hawaii offers free one-on-one career navigation and placement assistance. The Department of Community Services runs the OneStop workforce development network. The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii Education & Workforce Development team connects job seekers to training and entry-level positions. All services aim to help students and job seekers successfully enter and advance in Hawaii's workforce.
Last updated on November 24, 2025