Best Online Colleges Hawaii 2023

Hawaii was the last to join the current 50 United States, earning its statehood in August 1959. The state is a group of tropical islands with a climate and scenery that makes it a popular tourist destination for travelers worldwide. The state is composed of an island chain that stretches 1,500 miles through the Pacific Ocean, with almost 1.3 million people living there. There are eight “main islands” at the southeastern end of the chain: Hawaii (referred to as “the big island”), Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau. Even though it’s a small island state, it’s home to two federally protected national parks and three national historical parks. Hawaii is valued for its history as much as its scenery: The Navy base at Pearl Harbor is a historic landmark that includes the USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates the 1,177 sailors killed aboard the Arizona in the attack of Dec. 7, 1941. The largest industry in Hawaii is tourism and has been since its statehood. The state also exports coffee, pineapple, sugarcane, and macadamia nuts. President Barack Obama is a native of Honolulu, the state’s capital, and was the first presidential nominee from Hawaii.

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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Hawaii’s higher education institutions seek regional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, one of the six most reputable and established accreditation agencies in the nation. The association has separate commissions to accredit community colleges and four-year institutions. Colleges and universities that want to obtain regional accreditation from one of these commissions must meet high standards in areas such as mission, resources, governance, and assessment, and submit to a site visit. Colleges must also commit to continuous improvement to maintain their accreditation. Regionally-accredited institutions commonly accept credits from other regionally-accepted institutions in Hawaii. However, colleges in Hawaii can also become eligible for national accreditation through agencies like the Distance Education and Training Council or the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. Both regional and national accreditation agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Hawaii’s higher education system is made up of public and private universities, community colleges, faith-based colleges, and for-profit institutions. One of the best-known components of Hawaii’s higher education system is the University of Hawaii System, which is comprised of one major research university, two smaller four-year campuses, seven community colleges, and five education centers. The University of Hawaii at Manoa is the flagship campus of this system and has a unique student population made up of 43.8% Asian students and 17.3% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander students, according to its website. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University of Hawaii at Manoa as having very high research activity. Notable private universities include Hawaii Pacific University and Brigham Young University-Hawaii.

Further Reading: Best Colleges and Universities in Hawaii

EDsmart assesses colleges in Hawaii based on data that covers four main areas:

Cost (average net price)
Academic quality (graduation rate)
Student satisfaction (retention rate)
Salary After Attending (the median earnings of former students who received federal financial aid, at 10 years after entering the school)

All data was gathered from the U.S. Dept of Education websites College Scorecard and College Navigator.

This ranking assesses the affordability and value of top colleges in Hawaii so students can make informed decisions about which college to attend.

Best Accredited Online Colleges in Hawaii 2023

1. Hawaii Pacific University

Score: 100.0

Average Net Price: $29,484
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 35%
Salary After Attending: $56,483

If you’re a student who wants to pursue higher education but can’t attend traditional on-campus classes due to location, work, or family obligations, Hawaii Pacific University has got your back. HPU offers online programs in a variety of academic disciplines, including business, education, nursing, psychology, and more. The faculty members who teach these courses are experts in their respective fields and have extensive experience teaching online. HPU’s online students have a wealth of resources at their disposal, including virtual libraries, online tutoring, and academic advising, all of which can help them thrive in their studies.

Plus, HPU goes the extra mile by offering online students the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities and networking events. With HPU’s online programs, you can pursue higher education in a flexible and convenient way that fits into your schedule. HPU’s online programs provide a diverse range of academic disciplines and concentrations, making them an ideal choice for students who wish to advance their careers or explore new opportunities.

2. University of Hawaii at Manoa

Score: 99.4

Average Net Price: $14,687
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 62%
Salary After Attending: $52,862

The online programs at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa are designed to cater to the unique needs of working adults, whether they are completing their undergraduate degree or enrolling in a specialized master’s program. Flexible course designs, virtual student working groups, and comprehensive virtual support services ensure that students can succeed in their studies. With a diverse array of online programs of study available, students can receive a quality education in a flexible online format that accommodates their busy lifestyles.

Some of the most popular online programs at UH Mānoa include the Online Graduate Certificate in Clinical Research, the Online RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing, the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Teacher Education- Elementary Education, and the Bachelor of Social Work – Distance Education Option. By joining the community of students pursuing their degrees online, individuals can earn their degree while maintaining a flexible schedule that suits their needs.

3. University of Hawaii-West Oahu

Score: 99.0

Average Net Price: $13,860
Retention Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Salary After Attending: $48,268

The University of Hawaii West O’ahu provides an excellent opportunity for students who are unable to attend in-person classes to complete their baccalaureate programs through Distance Education. This program is designed for students who have already completed their first two years of coursework, either at UH West O’ahu or another accredited institution within or outside the UH system.

UH West O’ahu offers online courses in various popular areas of study, allowing students to complete lower-division coursework either in-person or online, at UH West O’ahu or at a partnering University of Hawaii Community College. Once students have completed these courses or transferred their credits, they can pursue UH West O’ahu’s upper-division coursework entirely online in select concentrations such as Business Administration, Public Administration, or Social Sciences.

4. Chaminade University of Honolulu

Score: 98.6

Average Net Price: $25,360
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 45%
Salary After Attending: $44,647

Chaminade University believes that education is not just about gaining knowledge, but also about developing character and ethical leadership skills that are essential in a fast-changing world. Their ultimate goal is to nurture the whole student – mind, body, and spirit – while emphasizing social justice and service to others. Chaminade University has a rich history rooted in Marianist traditions and aims to challenge students to think critically, question the status quo, and push their limits in academic pursuits.

Chaminade University offers online programs in Psychology, Environmental Science, Criminal Justice, Forensic Sciences, Education, and Interdisciplinary Studies. The university provides a supportive and inclusive community where students can pursue their passions. With a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, students have numerous options to pursue their desired fields of study.

5. University of Hawaii at Hilo

Score: 98.2

Average Net Price: $13,503
Retention Rate: 72%
Graduation Rate: 43%
Salary After Attending: $43,823

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is a highly-regarded institution of higher education that is classified as a comprehensive, regional university. Its faculty is dedicated to providing students with a top-notch undergraduate education, with a limited offering of graduate-level programs as well. While the main focus is on educating undergraduate students, the faculty also places great emphasis on scholarship and research, recognizing the important role these activities play in both student engagement and faculty work.

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is committed to making higher education accessible to all individuals, regardless of their location or schedule. This is where UH Online comes in, serving as a platform that connects students with more than 40 online degree and certificate programs that are available throughout the entire University of Hawaiʻi System. With UH Online, students can learn from anywhere in the world, on their own time, and with the flexibility that suits their individual needs.

6. The University of Hawaii Maui College

Score: 97.6

Average Net Price: $11,312
Retention Rate: 67%
Graduation Rate: 21%
Salary After Attending: $39,250

At the University of Hawaii Maui College, students have the freedom to access top-notch educational resources from anywhere in the world, thanks to the college’s flexible online programs. This is a huge blessing for busy individuals, parents with young children, or anyone seeking a more convenient way to learn.

What makes UH Maui College stand out is their unrelenting dedication to providing high-quality education. Their online programs are thoughtfully designed, ensuring that students receive the same level of instruction and support as their peers on campus. At UH Maui College, students benefit from a welcoming and supportive community of faculty and staff who are committed to helping them achieve their career goals. Whether it’s providing academic guidance or career advice, the college’s dedicated professionals are always available to help students navigate their educational journey and prepare for success in their future career.

Further Reading: Best Colleges and Universities in Hawaii

List of Accredited Online Colleges in Hawaii

Categories: Private | Public | For-Profit | Faith-Based

Private

School Name: Argosy University-Hawaii
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
Address: 400 ASB Tower, 1001 Bishop Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Contact: (808) 536-5555
Website: www.argosy.edu/hawaii/
Type of School: 4-year, Private
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree; Doctor’s degree

School Name: Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities
Address: 55-220 Kulanui Street, Laie, Hawaii 96762-1294
Contact: (808) 675-3211
Website: www.byuh.edu
Type of School: 4-year, Private not-for-profit
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degree

School Name: Chaminade University of Honolulu
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities
Address: 3140 Waialae Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816-1578
Contact: (808) 735-4711
Website: www.chaminade.edu
Type of School: 4-year, Private not-for-profit
Programs Offered: Associate’s degree;Bachelor’s degree;Master’s degree

School Name: Hawaii Pacific University
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities
Address: 1164 Bishop St., Suite 216, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Contact: (808) 544-0200
Website: www.hpu.edu
Type of School: 4-year, Private not-for-profit
Programs Offered: Less than one year certificate;Associate’s degree;Bachelor’s degree;Postbaccalaureate certificate;Master’s degree;Post-master’s certificate

Public

School Name: Hawaii Community College
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Address: 1175 Manono St, Hilo, Hawaii 96720-4091
Contact: (808) 974-7611
Website: www.hawaii.hawaii.edu
Type of School: 2-year, Public
Programs Offered: One but less than two years certificate;Associate’s degree

School Name: Honolulu Community College
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Address: 874 Dillingham Blvd, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817-4598
Contact: (808) 845-9129
Website: www.honolulu.hawaii.edu
Type of School: 2-year, Public
Programs Offered: One but less than two years certificate;Associate’s degree;Two but less than 4 years certificate

School Name: Kapiolani Community College
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Address: 4303 Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816-4496
Contact: (808) 734-9000
Website: kapiolani.hawaii.edu/page/home
Type of School: 2-year, Public
Programs Offered: One but less than two years certificate;Associate’s degree

School Name: Kauai Community College
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Address: 3-1901 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, Hawaii 96766-9591
Contact: (808) 245-8311
Website: www.kauai.hawaii.edu
Type of School: 2-year, Public
Programs Offered: One but less than two years certificate;Associate’s degree

School Name: Leeward Community College
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Address: 96-045 Ala Ike, Pearl City, Hawaii 96782-3393
Contact: (808) 455-0011
Website: www.leeward.hawaii.edu/
Type of School: 2-year, Public
Programs Offered: One but less than two years certificate;Associate’s degree

School Name: University of Hawaii at Hilo
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities
Address: 200 W Kawili St, Hilo, Hawaii 96720-4091
Contact: (800) 897-4456
Website: www.uhh.hawaii.edu/
Type of School: 4-year, Public
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degree;Postbaccalaureate certificate;Master’s degree;Doctor’s degree;First-professional degree

School Name: University of Hawaii at Manoa
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities
Address: 2500 Campus Road, Hawaii Hall, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822-2301
Contact: (808) 956-7651
Website: www.manoa.hawaii.edu
Type of School: 4-year, Public
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degree;Postbaccalaureate certificate;Master’s degree;Doctor’s degree;First-professional degree

School Name: University of Hawaii Maui College
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities
Address: 310 Kaahumanu Ave, Kahului, Hawaii 96732-1617
Contact: (808) 984-3267
Website: maui.hawaii.edu
Type of School: 4-year, primarily associate’s, Public
Programs Offered: One but less than two years certificate; Associate’s degree; Bachelor’s degree

School Name: University of Hawaii-West Oahu
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities
Address: 96-129 Ala Ike, Pearl City, Hawaii 96782-3699
Contact: (866) 299-8656
Website: www.uhwo.hawaii.edu
Type of School: 4-year, Public
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degree

School Name: Windward Community College
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Address: 45-720 Keaahala Rd, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744-3598
Contact: (808) 235-7400
Website: windward.hawaii.edu/
Type of School: 2-year, Public
Programs Offered: Associate’s degree

For-Profit

School Name: Heald College-Honolulu
Accrediting Agency: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Address: 1500 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Contact: (808) 955-1500
Website: www.heald.edu/campus_locations/campus_honolulu.htm
Type of School: 2-year, Private for-profit
Programs Offered: Less than one year certificate; One but less than two years certificate; Associate’s degree

School Name: Remington College-Honolulu Campus
Accrediting Agency: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
Address: 1111 Bishop St Ste 400, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813-2811
Contact: (808) 942-1000
Website: www.remingtoncollege.edu
Type of School: 4-year, primarily associate’s, Private for-profit
Programs Offered: Less than one year certificate;Associate’s degree;Bachelor’s degree

School Name: University of Phoenix-Hawaii Campus
Accrediting Agency: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission
Address: 827 Fort Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813-4317
Contact: (800) 483-5444
Website: www.phoenix.edu
Type of School: 4-year, Private for-profit
Programs Offered: Less than one year certificate;Bachelor’s degree;Master’s degree

Faith-Based

Related Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.