Best Online Colleges in Hawaii

Colleges with online classes offer a flexible option to earn your degree while also balancing many of life's other responsibilities. Check out the most popular online programs of 2023 below.

Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Chaminade University of Honolulu

Honolulu, HI

$20975

54%

Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private higher education institution that offers 23 undergraduate degrees and five graduate programs. The university offers fully online associate and bachelor's degrees powered by Canvas. Associate options include early childhood education, liberal arts, and criminology/criminal justice. Students can also pursue an associate of business administration that prepares them for entry-level clerical positions. Bachelor's candidates pick from remote programs like management, secondary education, and religious studies. They can also earn an English degree, developing the literary analysis and communication skills to work as teachers and technical writers. Chaminade also delivers a bachelor of science in psychology track that covers fundamental counseling and research competencies. Incoming freshmen need a minimum 2.5 GPA and a score of at least a 19 on the ACT or 1000 on the SAT. Transfer students should have a GPA of 2.0 or above. Distance learners pay one affordable tuition price, with discounts available for active military personnel and veterans.

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#2 University of Hawaii at Hilo

Hilo, HI

$13825

41%

Founded in 1941 as a vocational school, the University of Hawaii at Hilo provides comprehensive academics to 3,400 students each year. The institution offers 33 undergraduate degrees and three graduate programs, several of which learners may complete entirely online. The catalog features a bachelor of nursing track for licensed RNs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. This BSN program helps students cultivate the skills to deliver culturally congruent nursing care in a rural environment. UH Hilo offers online master's degrees in education, counseling psychology, and indigenous language and culture. The university also hosts the Kahuawaiola Indigenous Teacher Education Program. Students complete this three-semester, postbaccalaureate program through video conferencing to obtain their initial teaching certification. Additionally, UH Hilo offers a remote doctor of nursing practice that prepares candidates to work as family nurse practitioners. The university bases its affordable tuition prices on residency status. Out-of-state students can access reduced tuition rates through the Western Undergraduate Exchange initiative. Graduate applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and adequate GRE/GMAT scores.

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#3 University of Hawaii at Manoa

Honolulu, HI

$15479

60%

As the flagship institution in the state's public higher education system, the University of Hawaii at Manoa serves 13,000 students annually. The school features remote learning options facilitated by Moodle. Distance learners can earn technical certificates and associate degrees in fields such as small business accounting, information and computing science, and management foundations. UH also delivers a transfer-focused associate of arts program that operates five-week, cohort-style classes. Bachelor's programs comprises women's studies, nursing (RN-to-BSN), and economics. Students can also enroll in a public administration track, concentrating their degree plan on either healthcare or governmental justice. UH offers 11 online master's degrees, including programs for counseling psychology, social work, and human resource management. To enroll as a first-year undergraduate, candidates must possess at least a 2.8 GPA and must have graduated in the top 40% of their high school class. Graduate admission requirements differ by program, but generally include a minimum 3.0 GPA. UH funds scholarships specifically for female students and members of indigenous communities.

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#4 Hawaii Pacific University

Honolulu, HI

$28706

44%

A private liberal arts institution, Hawaii Pacific University draws learners from all over the world. More than 5,000 students attend HPU, taking advantage of flexible remote learning opportunities powered by Blackboard. The school delivers seven online associate programs in areas like supervisory leadership and homeland security. Candidates may also pursue bachelor's credentials in psychology and criminal justice. Additionally, they can enroll in a four-year human resource development track, developing skills in data analysis and talent management. HPU offers five online master's programs. Degree options include business administration, public administration, organizational development and change, and educational leadership. The university also facilitates a remote master's program in public health. Through a 30-credit curriculum, MPH candidates receive advanced training accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health. Undergraduate applicants undergo a holistic evaluation process that considers GPA, academic rigor, ACT/SAT performance, and extracurricular activities. Prospective graduate students typically need at least a 3.0 GPA. HPU students benefit from dedicated career guidance and study abroad opportunities.

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#5 University of Hawaii Maui College

Kahului, HI

$10662

17%

The University of Hawaii Maui College is a commuter school within the UH System. The institution focuses on affordable technical-career training, providing online associate and bachelor's degrees through Moodle. Students can prepare to transfer into a baccalaureate completion track by earning an associate of liberal arts. This 60-credit program helps candidates build foundational skills and a lifelong passion for learning. UHMC delivers online bachelor's degrees in social science, nursing, economics, and interdisciplinary studies. Candidates can also enroll in four-year programs for community health and emergency management. Furthermore, the college offers bachelor's degrees in business administration accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Business students can choose from four concentrations. These options include a hospitality management track that prepares learners to work in Hawaii's lucrative tourism industry. UHMC charges low per-credit tuition prices based on course level. The college provides individualized career guidance and a variety of financial aid opportunities. Award programs including merit scholarships for non-U.S. citizens.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best online colleges in Hawaii?

Some of the best online colleges in Hawaii include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific University, and Chaminade University. These institutions offer a wide range of online programs and have a strong reputation for academic excellence.

2. Can I earn a degree entirely online in Hawaii?

Yes, many online colleges in Hawaii offer fully online degree programs. These programs allow students to complete their coursework and earn a degree without having to attend classes on campus.

3. How do online classes in Hawaii work?

Online classes in Hawaii typically utilize a learning management system where students can access course materials, participate in discussions, submit assignments, and communicate with instructors and classmates. These classes are often asynchronous, meaning students can complete coursework at their own pace within set deadlines.

4. Are online degrees from Hawaii respected by employers?

Yes, online degrees from reputable colleges in Hawaii are generally respected by employers. It is important to choose an accredited institution and ensure that the online program you are considering has the same academic rigor and requirements as its on-campus counterpart.

5. Can I transfer credits earned at another college to an online college in Hawaii?

Yes, many online colleges in Hawaii accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions. However, the specific transfer policies may vary, so it is important to check with the college you are interested in to determine their transfer credit requirements.

6. How long does it take to complete an online degree in Hawaii?

The time it takes to complete an online degree in Hawaii depends on various factors, including the program's length, the number of credits taken per semester, and the student's individual pace. On average, a bachelor's degree can be completed in 3-4 years, while a master's degree may take 1-2 years.

7. Are there any financial aid options available for online students in Hawaii?

Yes, online students in Hawaii are eligible for various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. It is recommended to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal and state financial aid programs.

8. Can I access support services as an online student in Hawaii?

Yes, online students in Hawaii typically have access to support services such as academic advising, career counseling, library resources, and technical support. These services are often available remotely through online platforms or via phone and email.

9. Are there any residency requirements for online students in Hawaii?

Most online colleges in Hawaii do not have residency requirements for online students. However, it is important to check with the specific college or program to confirm their policies regarding residency.

10. How do I apply to an online college in Hawaii?

To apply to an online college in Hawaii, you typically need to complete an online application form, submit official transcripts from previous educational institutions, provide any required test scores (such as SAT or ACT), and pay the application fee. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as letters of recommendation or a personal statement.