Best
Private Colleges in Hawaii in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Hawaii combines core business skills with the state's tourism, hospitality, and international markets. Courses typically include accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and organizational behavior. Graduates may pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or hotel manager. Popular options include the University of Hawaii at Manoa's Shidler College of Business, Hawaii Pacific University, and the University of Hawaii West Oahu, which offer business-related degree programs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Hawaii combines foundational science with the islands' diverse communities and cultures. Typical coursework includes introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognition, and abnormal psychology. Popular options include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific University, and Chaminade University of Honolulu. Graduates commonly pursue entry-level work as research assistants, behavioral technicians, case management aides, or human resources coordinators. Advanced clinical or counseling positions generally require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Hawaii combines training with the islands' communities and industries. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, computer networks, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students build problem-solving skills through projects and teamwork. Popular choices include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific University, and Brigham Young University-Hawaii. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or network administrators across local and global employers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Hawaii combines coursework with practical training rooted in communities. Courses typically cover counseling theories, ethics, multicultural counseling, assessment, human development, group counseling, and research methods, alongside supervised fieldwork. Options include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Chaminade University of Honolulu, and the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, career counselors, or substance use counselors, depending on degree level and licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Hawaii combines classroom learning with clinical experience in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, adult health, pediatrics, mental health, and community health. Students can explore programs at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hawaii Pacific University, and Kapiolani Community College. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, schools, public health agencies, or long-term care facilities, after licensure.

Best Colleges in Hawaii Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 21,920.0, compared with 32,882.4 at schools in the top 10%, making the top-group figure 10,962.4 higher.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 74.67% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.67%. Schools receive an average of 5,721.0 applicants overall, while top-10% schools average 11,752.2 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 490.0, versus 1,447.0 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,161.0 and 24.5, respectively.
• Schools average 2,965.25 enrolled students, including averages of 114.33 men and 258.0 women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.0%, compared with 54.4% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 44.0% for men and 52.0% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, four offer bachelor's degrees, and four offer master's degrees; zero offer doctor's degrees.
• All four schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. Consider how the average SAT and ACT scores and the available degree levels align with your goals, and review the differences in enrollment and graduation figures for men and women when assessing which school may suit you.

How much does studying at a college in Hawaii cost?

Hawaii's average total cost of studying is about $21,065.50, a useful benchmark as you plan your degree. The reported averages also include $22,169 for tuition and fees, $14,583.75 for room and board, and $1,316.67 for books and supplies. These figures are separate averages, so they should not be added together; actual bills vary by college, program, housing, and financial aid.

Across Hawaii, your budget may look different on Oahu than on another island if you commute or live at home. Compare campus housing with local rentals and ask each school about scholarships, resident tuition rates, and fees before choosing.

• University of Hawaii at Manoa is a popular public option in Honolulu; its location may suit students seeking a campus experience.
• Brigham Young University-Hawaii in Laie and Hawaii Pacific University in Honolulu are other familiar choices to compare.
• Build a budget for tuition, housing, meals, books, transportation, and personal expenses, then check aid options.

How long does it take to finish college in Hawaii?

Finishing a college degree in Hawaii usually takes about four years for a full-time bachelor's student; an associate degree commonly takes about two. At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific University, or another UH campus, your pace depends on your major, course availability, and whether you study full time. The average graduation rate is 47.0%, meaning completion is achievable, but planning and support matter. Among the top 10% of schools, the average is 54.4%. Rates average 44.25% for men and 49.25% for women.

• You may finish sooner by taking summer courses, where available, to keep credits moving between regular semesters and meet prerequisites sooner.
• Eligible AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits may reduce required coursework; confirm acceptance with your chosen Hawaii college before enrolling.
• An accelerated or year-round schedule can help, while advising helps balance workload, finances, and island-specific travel or work commitments.

Salary

College graduates in Hawaii earn a median alumni salary of about $54,129. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is about $55,953 - a useful benchmark as you weigh the value of earning a degree.

If you're considering options such as the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, Hawaii Pacific University, or Brigham Young University-Hawaii, treat these figures as broad benchmarks, not guaranteed salaries for graduates of any one school. Your earnings can vary with your field, experience, and career path, but a degree can be an encouraging step toward building your future in Hawaii.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Hawaii?

"Prettiest" is personal, but the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is a lovely choice for many students. Its campus sits in green Mānoa Valley, with tropical gardens and mountain scenery, and Diamond Head is nearby. If you enjoy studying outdoors or being close to Honolulu, the setting can make everyday campus life feel special.

What is the most selective college in Hawaii?

Brigham Young University-Hawaii is generally the most selective among the state's four-year colleges when selectivity is measured by acceptance rate. Rates change by admissions year, and admission also depends on an applicant's academic record and other requirements. If you're considering applying, check the college's current admissions information and compare the criteria with your own goals.

What is the richest university in Hawaii?

There isn't one definitive answer unless "richest" is tied to a measure such as endowment, annual budget, or total assets. The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is a reasonable answer when comparing publicly reported university resources, but UH Foundation funds support campuses across the wider UH system. Financial size alone doesn't determine whether a college is the right fit.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Hawaii Ranking in 2026-2027

Brigham Young University-Hawaii offers a small campus experience in Laie, on Oahu's North Shore, useful for Hawaii-based students seeking a close-knit setting. With 2,907 enrolled students, it reports a 53% graduation rate and 47% acceptance rate. Listed total study cost is $6,630, while median alumni salary is $40,685. These figures can help you weigh affordability and outcomes; consider transportation, housing, program availability, and personal fit before choosing this North Shore university for your degree in Hawaii and your future career.

Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private university in Honolulu, giving Hawaii-based students an urban campus option on Oahu. Its enrollment is 2,641, with a 55% graduation rate and 91% acceptance rate. The listed total cost of studying is $30,760, and median alumni salary is $54,129. For prospective students, compare the cost with financial aid, intended major, class environment, and commuting needs. Honolulu's services and cultural life can make study convenient, while careful planning helps manage expenses and career expectations.

Hawaii Pacific University offers degree study in Honolulu, making it a visible option for students who want to remain in Hawaii while pursuing higher education. It enrolls 6,125 students and reports a 35% graduation rate and 86% acceptance rate. The total study cost listed is $33,792, while median alumni salary is $56,409. Consider how program choices, support services, commute, and financial aid fit your plans. Its larger enrollment may offer a broader campus community; compare outcomes and expenses before deciding.

Pacific Rim Christian University is a small Honolulu institution with a Christian focus, offering Hawaii-based students a distinct campus and faith-centered learning environment. It lists 188 enrolled students, a 45% graduation rate, and total study cost of $13,080. Acceptance-rate and median-alumni-salary figures are unavailable, so ask the school directly about admissions, outcomes, and program details. For Hawaii residents, staying on Oahu may simplify relocation, but compare tuition, housing, transportation, and whether its Christian approach matches your goals; review details carefully.

Institute of Clinical Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine is a specialized Hawaii school for professional study focused on acupuncture and Oriental medicine. Enrollment, graduation rate, acceptance rate, total study cost, and median alumni salary are not available in the supplied figures. Before applying, contact the institute to confirm current programs, credential level, admission requirements, tuition, clinical training arrangements, and student support. For Hawaii-based learners, check that the schedule and location suit your commute and that credentials fit your career plans.