1. University of Hawaii at Manoa
Overview
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Founded in 1907, the University of Hawaii at Manoa is the flagship campus of the University of Hawaii System. Known for its programs in oceanography, astronomy, and Hawaiian studies, UH Manoa is a major research university. It is renowned for its cutting-edge research in tropical agriculture, climate science, and Pacific Island studies, making it a leader in sustainability and environmental research.
The university’s location in Honolulu allows for strong ties with the local business and government sectors, offering students hands-on learning experiences.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #195 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 18,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 84%
- Average SAT Score: 1070-1280
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Rainbow Warriors Athletics
- Hawaiian cultural clubs and organizations
- Marine biology and environmental clubs
- Student Government Association (SGA)
- Surfing and outdoor adventure clubs
Famous Alumni
- Daniel Inouye – U.S. Senator and Medal of Honor recipient
- Tammy Duckworth – U.S. Senator
- Robert Kiyosaki – Author of Rich Dad Poor Dad
- Maya Soetoro-Ng – Educator and sister of Barack Obama
- Mazie Hirono – U.S. Senator
Top Employers
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Hawaii Pacific Health
- University of Hawaii System
- Hawaii Department of Education
- U.S. Pacific Command
2. Hawaii Pacific University (HPU)
Overview
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Founded in 1965, Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) is a private, nonprofit university located in the heart of Honolulu. HPU is known for its diverse student body, offering a blend of online and in-person degree programs. It excels in international business, marine biology, and nursing. The university has a strong focus on career-oriented education, providing students with opportunities to engage in internships, fieldwork, and research, particularly in the areas of business and health sciences.
HPU’s location in a global city with strong ties to Asia and the Pacific gives students valuable international exposure.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #64 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: Around 4,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Average SAT Score: 1060-1240
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Sea Warriors Athletics
- International student organizations
- Marine biology and environmental clubs
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
- Volunteer and community service programs
Famous Alumni
- Tulsi Gabbard – Former U.S. Congresswoman
- Mufi Hannemann – Former Mayor of Honolulu
- Sunita Williams – NASA astronaut
- Shannon Murphy – CEO of Murphy’s Bar & Grill
- Fred Hemmings – Professional surfer and politician
Top Employers
- The Queen’s Health Systems
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Bank of Hawaii
- Hawaii Pacific Health
- Hawaii State Government
3. Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii)
Overview
Location: Laie, Hawaii
Established in 1955, Brigham Young University-Hawaii is a private university affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is known for its small class sizes and strong emphasis on moral and spiritual development alongside academic learning. BYU-Hawaii excels in business, education, and intercultural studies, and it has a diverse student body, with students from more than 70 countries.
The university is deeply committed to community service, leadership development, and global citizenship, making it an ideal institution for students interested in cross-cultural experiences.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #15 Regional Colleges West
- Number of Students: About 3,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate degrees only
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Average SAT Score: 1020-1240
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Seasiders Athletics
- Religious and service organizations
- Polynesian cultural clubs
- Business and entrepreneurship programs
- Outdoor and adventure activities
Famous Alumni
- Randall K. Bennett – General Authority of the LDS Church
- Willie K – Hawaiian musician
- George S. Horiuchi – Japanese-American business leader
- Viliami Uasike Latu – Tongan politician
- David A. Bednar – LDS Church leader and educator
Top Employers
- Polynesian Cultural Center
- BYU-Hawaii
- Hawaii Department of Education
- State of Hawaii
- Marriott International
4. Chaminade University of Honolulu
Overview
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Founded in 1955, Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private Catholic university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is known for its strong emphasis on service, social justice, and the liberal arts. Chaminade has a well-regarded nursing program and is known for its education, forensic science, and business programs. The university provides students with a close-knit learning environment and personalized instruction.
Chaminade’s commitment to community service and leadership development aligns with its Marianist Catholic values, emphasizing the importance of service to others.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #25 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: Approximately 2,200
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Average SAT Score: 980-1190
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Silverswords Athletics
- Campus ministry and service projects
- Hawaiian cultural organizations
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
- Volunteer and community outreach programs
Famous Alumni
- Kurt Fevella – Hawaii State Senator
- Clarence T.C. Ching – Philanthropist and businessman
- Ruben Nieves – Olympic volleyball coach
- John Henry Felix – Honolulu City Council member
- Andrew R. Flores – CEO of Alaska Airlines
Top Employers
- Hawaii Department of Education
- Chaminade University
- Hawaiian Electric Company
- Hawaii Pacific Health
- Queen’s Health Systems
5. University of Hawaii at Hilo
Overview
Location: Hilo, Hawaii
The University of Hawaii at Hilo, founded in 1947, is a public university known for its strengths in the sciences, particularly marine biology, volcanology, and astronomy. UH Hilo offers students access to unique research opportunities on the Big Island, including working with the nearby Mauna Kea Observatories and the island’s active volcanoes. The university’s location provides an ideal setting for students interested in environmental science and indigenous Hawaiian studies.
UH Hilo emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning, allowing students to engage directly with the natural world.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #63 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: About 3,300
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Average SAT Score: 970-1180
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Vulcans Athletics
- Hawaiian culture and language clubs
- Outdoor adventure and hiking clubs
- Astronomy and science organizations
- Environmental sustainability programs
Famous Alumni
- Gilbert Kahele – Hawaii State Senator
- Bernard Carvalho Jr. – Mayor of Kauai
- Kanani Enos – Olympic weightlifter
- Elizabeth Maluihi Lee – Hawaiian cultural leader
- Mike Farden – Professional surfer
Top Employers
- University of Hawaii System
- Mauna Kea Observatories
- Hawaii County Government
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Hawaiian Airlines
6. Kapi’olani Community College
Overview
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Established in 1946, Kapi’olani Community College (KCC) is part of the University of Hawaii System and is known for its strong programs in healthcare, culinary arts, and liberal arts. The college offers associate degrees and is a popular choice for students seeking affordable education and pathways to four-year universities. KCC has an excellent reputation for its nursing and culinary arts programs, both of which have garnered national attention.
KCC also offers strong student support services and a vibrant campus life, with many opportunities for community involvement.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Community College)
- Number of Students: About 6,500
- Degrees Offered: Associate degrees and certificates
- Acceptance Rate: Open enrollment
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Culinary arts competitions
- Healthcare student associations
- Outdoor adventure clubs
- Volunteer and service learning programs
- Student government and leadership groups
Famous Alumni
- Sam Choy – Celebrity chef
- Sione Havili – Professional rugby player
- Jake Shimabukuro – Ukulele virtuoso
- Daniel Dae Kim – Actor
- Joy Lehua Kekuewa – Cultural practitioner and artist
Top Employers
- Hawaii Pacific Health
- Queen’s Health Systems
- Hilton Hawaiian Village
- Outrigger Resorts
- Sheraton Hotels
7. Honolulu Community College
Overview
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu Community College, founded in 1920, is a public community college that offers technical and vocational programs alongside liberal arts courses. HCC is known for its strong automotive, construction, and information technology programs, preparing students for careers in high-demand fields. The college has a hands-on learning approach, allowing students to develop practical skills that are directly applicable in the workforce.
HCC’s partnerships with local industries ensure students have access to internships and job placements, particularly in technology and construction sectors.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Community College)
- Number of Students: Approximately 3,500
- Degrees Offered: Associate degrees and certificates
- Acceptance Rate: Open enrollment
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Robotics and tech clubs
- Automotive and mechanical organizations
- Student government and leadership programs
- Hawaiian cultural and language clubs
- Volunteer and community outreach activities
Famous Alumni
- Genoa Keawe – Hawaiian singer
- John DeFries – CEO of Hawaii Tourism Authority
- Elvis Presley’s band members – Performed at HCC’s music department
- Ann Kobayashi – Honolulu City Councilmember
- Al Harrington – Actor (Hawaii Five-O)
Top Employers
- Hawaiian Electric Company
- Matson Navigation Company
- City and County of Honolulu
- Hawaii Department of Transportation
- Tesla Motors
8. Leeward Community College
Overview
Location: Pearl City, Hawaii
Founded in 1968, Leeward Community College is a public institution offering associate degrees and certificates in various disciplines. Leeward CC is known for its liberal arts and information technology programs, which provide students with pathways to four-year universities and direct workforce entry. The college also emphasizes career and technical education, preparing students for jobs in sectors such as healthcare and business.
Leeward’s location near Pearl Harbor gives students unique opportunities for internships and partnerships with local industries.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Community College)
- Number of Students: About 6,200
- Degrees Offered: Associate degrees and certificates
- Acceptance Rate: Open enrollment
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Tech and business clubs
- Hawaiian language and culture organizations
- Student government
- Outdoor adventure and recreation clubs
- Volunteer and community outreach programs
Famous Alumni
- David Ige – Governor of Hawaii
- Will Espero – Former Hawaii State Senator
- Robert Cazimero – Hawaiian musician
- Matt Levi – Journalist and investigator
- Tulsi Gabbard – Former U.S. Congresswoman (attended briefly)
Top Employers
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard
- Leeward Community College
- Bank of Hawaii
- Servco Pacific
9. Windward Community College
Overview
Location: Kaneohe, Hawaii
Windward Community College, established in 1972, is a public community college that offers associate degrees and certificate programs. Windward is known for its liberal arts curriculum, particularly in the arts and environmental sciences. The college has a strong commitment to Hawaiian culture and offers unique programs in Hawaiian studies, allowing students to engage deeply with the culture, language, and history of the islands.
The college’s scenic campus in Kaneohe offers students access to outdoor activities, research opportunities, and cultural events.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Community College)
- Number of Students: About 2,600
- Degrees Offered: Associate degrees and certificates
- Acceptance Rate: Open enrollment
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Hawaiian language and culture clubs
- Arts and theater groups
- Environmental science and sustainability organizations
- Outdoor adventure and hiking clubs
- Student government and leadership programs
Famous Alumni
- Auli’i Cravalho – Voice of Moana
- Ikaika Anderson – Honolulu City Councilmember
- Henry Kapono – Hawaiian musician
- Macky Macadangdang – Executive Chef
- Janet Mock – Author and transgender rights activist
Top Employers
- Kualoa Ranch
- Hawaii Department of Education
- Kaneohe Marine Corps Base
- Castle Medical Center
- Hawaiian Airlines
10. Maui College (University of Hawaii)
Overview
Location: Kahului, Maui, Hawaii
Maui College, part of the University of Hawaii System, was founded in 1931 and offers associate and bachelor’s degrees in various disciplines. The college is known for its programs in culinary arts, sustainable sciences, and hospitality management. Located in the heart of Maui, the college provides students with a unique learning environment that combines academic study with the island’s natural beauty.
Maui College focuses on sustainability, tourism, and Hawaiian studies, offering students hands-on learning experiences that are directly applicable to the local economy.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Community College)
- Number of Students: Approximately 2,700
- Degrees Offered: Associate and Bachelor’s degrees
- Acceptance Rate: Open enrollment
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Culinary arts competitions
- Hawaiian studies and cultural organizations
- Outdoor and environmental science clubs
- Business and hospitality management programs
- Volunteer and community service projects
Famous Alumni
- Sam Sato – Maui restaurateur
- David Paul – Chef and restaurateur
- Keali’i Reichel – Hawaiian singer and kumu hula
- Ron Youngblood – Journalist
- Tavares Family – Political leaders on Maui
Top Employers
- Grand Wailea Resort
- Four Seasons Resort Maui
- Maui Memorial Medical Center
- Maui County Government
- Hawaiian Airlines