Most
Affordable Colleges in Hawaii in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Hawaii combines core subjects such as accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and organizational behavior. Programs often include internships or projects connected to tourism, hospitality, and local enterprises. Graduates may pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, or entrepreneurs. Popular Hawaii colleges offering relevant programs include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific University, Brigham Young University-Hawaii, and the University of Hawaii at Hilo.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Hawaii combines coursework in human behavior with the islands' diverse communities and cultures. Typical classes include introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and counseling. Popular options include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, UH Hilo, Hawaii Pacific University, and Chaminade University of Honolulu. A bachelor's degree can support entry-level work in human services, case management, community outreach, or behavioral health assistance; clinical psychologist roles require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Hawaii combines computing theory with opportunities to apply technology across industries. Typical courses include programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, software engineering, and cybersecurity. Graduates pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or IT support professionals. Popular Hawaii options include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hawaii Pacific University, and Brigham Young University-Hawaii. Students can explore programs suited to their interests and career goals.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Hawaii combines culturally responsive practice with coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural counseling, group work, and crisis intervention. Programs may include supervised practica and internships serving island communities. Popular options include Chaminade University of Honolulu, Hawaii Pacific University, and the University of Hawaii at Manoa, which offer related counseling or counselor education programs. Graduates may pursue licensure and careers as mental health counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, or substance use counselors.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Hawaii combines classroom learning with clinical experience in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, mental health, and maternal-child care, alongside supervised clinical rotations. Popular options include 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, emergency departments, pediatrics, long-term care, or public health across diverse communities.

Best Colleges in Hawaii Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 20,304.0, compared with 33,472.8 at schools in the top 10% - a higher median cost among those top-ranked schools.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students across the schools, compared with 77.83% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 77.83%. Schools receive an average of 6,159.83 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 15,464.0 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 621.5, compared with 1,483.5 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,141.4 for the SAT and 22.2 for the ACT.
• Schools average 5,075.38 enrolled students, including an average of 296.17 men and 491.67 women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.25%, compared with 57.7% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 45.0% for men and 50.5% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, eight offer bachelor's degrees, five offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• There are eight coeducational schools, and zero schools for men and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare its cost and financial-aid availability with your budget, and weigh admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, graduation outcomes, degree offerings, and school type against your academic goals.

How much does studying at a college in Hawaii cost?

Based on the supplied figures, the average total cost of getting a degree in Hawaii is $20,810.75. Reported averages include $15,043.50 for tuition and fees, $15,936.12 for room and board, and $1,367 for books and supplies. Since these components add up to more than the stated total, treat them as separate averages - not a single itemized estimate. Your actual bill will vary by college, program, residency status, and whether you live at home, on campus, or elsewhere.

In Honolulu, the University of Hawaii at Manoa is a public-university option, and Hawaii Pacific University is another choice. Community colleges across the islands may also suit students. Compare schools' cost-of-attendance estimates and aid options, since housing and transportation affect budgets in Hawaii. Staying with family can change living expenses compared with relocating. Planning early can feel reassuring: ask financial-aid offices about scholarships, grants, and estimates before choosing a program or enrollment schedule.

How long does it take to finish college in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two. At the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Hawaiʻi Pacific University, or a UH community college, your actual timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you attend full time. Some programs, such as nursing or engineering, may take longer because of prerequisites or clinical requirements; part-time study can also extend the schedule and make your college journey rewarding.

Graduation outcomes offer useful context: Hawaii's average graduation rate is 47.25%, compared with 57.7% among the top 10% of schools. The averages are 44.5% for men and 49.0% for women. With planning and support, your goal can feel achievable.

Ways to graduate sooner:

• Use AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits after checking transfer rules.
• Take summer classes or a manageable heavier course load.
• Ask about prior-learning credit and accelerated or online options.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Hawaii have a median alumni salary of $44,747. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $55,041. These figures offer a helpful benchmark, though your own earnings will depend on your degree, career, experience, and employer.

If you're considering the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, the University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hawaii Pacific University, or Brigham Young University-Hawaii, think about how your intended major connects to local job opportunities. Hawaii's distinct economy and high cost of living can also affect how far a paycheck goes, so compare expected salaries with housing and other expenses as you plan.

People also ask

What college in Hawaii has the lowest tuition?

For Hawaii residents, the University of Hawaiʻi community colleges are generally among the least expensive options. Their resident tuition rates are set within the UH system, so there may not be one community college that is consistently the cheapest. Your total cost will also depend on your course load, fees, and program. Check the current rate for the campus you're considering.

What college in Hawaii has the lowest GPA requirement?

Several University of Hawaiʻi community colleges offer open admission for general programs, meaning applicants may not need to meet a minimum high school GPA. This can make them welcoming options if your grades don't reflect your potential. Requirements may differ for specific programs, so confirm the admission criteria for your intended course of study.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Hawaii Ranking in 2026-2027

Brigham Young University-Hawaii is a small Hawaii-based option with 2,907 enrolled students. Its 53% graduation rate and 47% acceptance rate offer useful measures as you compare colleges close to home. Reported total study cost is $6,630, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $40,685. For a Hawaii resident considering a degree, its compact enrollment and island setting may make it worth exploring alongside costs, outcomes, and your preferred academic direction before applying or planning finances carefully.

University of Hawaii at Manoa enrolls 20,404 students, making it the largest school in this five-college group. Its 64% graduation rate and 87% acceptance rate give Hawaii applicants useful context when weighing admission and completion. The reported total cost is $33,336, and median alumni salary is $44,539. Located in Hawaii, Manoa is a prominent public university option for students who want to pursue a degree in-state; compare its cost and outcomes with your goals and budget before choosing.

University of Hawaii at Hilo has 2,649 enrolled students, a 48% graduation rate, and a 61% acceptance rate. Its reported total study cost is $20,304, with median alumni salary of $41,638. For students already living in Hawaii, Hilo offers another in-state university to consider when comparing costs, access, and postgraduation earnings. Its enrollment is smaller than Manoa's, so review each campus's available study options and support, then decide whether Hilo aligns with your intended degree and personal priorities carefully.

University of Hawaii-West Oahu enrolls 2,897 students, with a 50% graduation rate and 95% acceptance rate. Its reported total study cost is $20,304, and median alumni salary is $44,747. For Hawaii-based students, this university is an in-state option to weigh against other campuses, especially when comparing admission likelihood, completion, and cost. Its enrollment is similar to BYU-Hawaii's, and its reported cost matches Hilo's in the supplied comparison data. Consider your intended program and commuting or location needs alongside these figures.

University of Hawaii Maui College enrolls 2,792 students and reports a 28% graduation rate; its acceptance rate is unavailable in the supplied data. The total study cost is $8,280, while median alumni salary is $45,903, the highest figure among these five schools. For a Hawaii resident, this college offers a lower reported cost than the other listed options. Compare the available degree choices, completion outcomes, and your budget, and contact the college to confirm current admission details before applying.