Best Online Colleges in Hawaii 2024

Badge for BEST ONLINE COLLEGES IN HAWAII
By Dr. James Barham
Updated:

Find the best online colleges in Hawaii ranked by the academic success of faculty and alumni associated with the colleges and universities and their online degree programs.

Top 10 Online Colleges in Hawaii

Sort by:
  1. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
  2. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
  3. Hawaii Pacific University
  4. Chaminade University of Honolulu
  5. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College
  6. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu
  1. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
  2. Hawaii Pacific University
  3. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
  4. Chaminade University of Honolulu
  5. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu
  6. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College
  1. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu 96%
  2. Chaminade University of Honolulu 93%
  3. Hawaii Pacific University 87%
  4. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo 84%
  5. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa 73%
  1. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu 17 to 1
  2. Hawaii Pacific University 16 to 1
  3. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa 14 to 1
  4. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College 13 to 1
  5. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo 12 to 1
  6. Chaminade University of Honolulu 11 to 1
  1. Hawaii Pacific University $31,940
  2. Chaminade University of Honolulu $28,544
  3. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa $11,304
  4. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo $7,344
  5. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu $7,344
  6. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College $3,144
  1. Chaminade University of Honolulu $25,200
  2. Hawaii Pacific University $20,306
  3. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa $15,600
  4. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo $11,736
  1. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu
  2. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College
  3. Chaminade University of Honolulu
  4. Hawaii Pacific University
  5. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
  6. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
  1. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College
  2. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu
  3. Chaminade University of Honolulu
  4. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
  5. Hawaii Pacific University
  6. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
  1. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa 73%
  2. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo 84%
  3. Hawaii Pacific University 87%
  4. Chaminade University of Honolulu 93%
  5. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu 96%
  1. Chaminade University of Honolulu 11 to 1
  2. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo 12 to 1
  3. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College 13 to 1
  4. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa 14 to 1
  5. Hawaii Pacific University 16 to 1
  6. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu 17 to 1
  1. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College $3,144
  2. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo $7,344
  3. University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu $7,344
  4. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa $11,304
  5. Chaminade University of Honolulu $28,544
  6. Hawaii Pacific University $31,940
  1. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo $11,736
  2. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa $15,600
  3. Hawaii Pacific University $20,306
  4. Chaminade University of Honolulu $25,200

Key Takeaways

  • Besides offering the island lifestyle with its majestic waters, Hawaii hosts more than ten degree-granting colleges and universities that attract students worldwide.
  • Hawaii has shown a higher-than-average enrollment rate than other more populous states
  • In-state and out-of-state students benefit from Hawaii’s generous financial packages, with several online schools offering scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial aid programs.

Featured Programs

Accreditation: Hawaii Online Colleges and Universities

Despite its small size, Hawaii has greatly improved its college enrollment, with 59,693 traditional and online students enrolled in a program beyond high school. This number indicates a higher-than-average enrollment rate over other small states.

Accreditation is one of the most reputable ways for distance learners to evaluate their preferred online programs in a private, public, or community college. Accreditation status indicates that an online school or online program has met regional and professional standards.

It also signifies that graduates who have acquired college education are equipped with the essential knowledge and skills to succeed in the job market. Accredited online schools have more financial aid opportunities for their distance learning students.

The U.S. has the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, which facilitates the country’s six regional accrediting agencies. In Hawaii, online colleges and universities are granted regional accreditation status by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Cost of Attending Online Degree Programs in Hawaii

In-state tuition costs are lower than out-of-state tuition and fees. However, distance learners residing in a different state can benefit from tuition discounts and other academic benefits.

To enjoy in-state tuition rates, out-of-state students must have proof that they have resided in Hawaii for at least a year before the beginning of the semester. Prospective students that are also Hawaii residents can also pay in-tuition rates, provided they have complete and appropriate documentation.

Hawaii also allows Native Hawaiians, Hawaii’s University System employees, and military and veterans to enjoy in-state tuition rates.

The Western Interstate Commission of Higher Education, Western Undergraduate Exchange, and National Student Exchange make it possible for students from other states to pay in-state tuition rates in Hawaii. Distance learners pursuing any of the online programs offered and residing in the Pacific Islands with no degree-granting schools can also obtain residency in Hawaii.

Here is a quick overview of the current tuition fees in Hawaii:

  • Public 4-Year Institution
    • $22,012 (In-State)
    • $32,043 (Out-of-State)
  • Public 2-Year Institution
    • $3,226 (In-State)
    • $8,378 (Out-of-State)
  • Private 4-Year Institution
    • $32,948 (In-State)

Financial Aid Options in Hawaii

Hawaii online learners can pursue a variety of federal student aid and other financial aid programs. Grants and scholarships are some of the most desirable options since students will no longer repay them after graduating.

Like in other states, qualifying to receive financial aid starts with completing the FAFSA. The information submitted on the FAFSA helps to identify if online students meet low-income requirements to obtain financial aid, such as the Pell Grant.

No repayment is required if distance learners are eligible to receive a Pell Grant. However, graduate students aren’t eligible to receive this type of funding. Instead, scholarships and assistantships are good sources of financial assistance.

Some of the platforms to search for financial aid programs available to students in Hawaii include:

Colleges and Universities in Hawaiʻi

The majority of the universities and colleges in The Aloha State are public institutions, including Hawaiʻi’s largest school, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. The nearly 15,000 students who attend this school pay tuition fees around $12,000. Students attending public colleges can choose between a wide range of on campus and online degree programs.

It’s also worth noting that you can receive in-state tuition discount rates for attending a public college in Hawaii, whether you enroll through a traditional or online degree program.

Hawaiʻi also offers several private school options, including two which have religious affiliations. While tuition at these private schools varies, from $6,000 at Brigham Young University Hawaiʻi to $26,000 at Hawaiʻi Pacific University, each serves between 2,000-3,000 students.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

Students who attend both brick-and-mortar and online colleges in Hawaii have the option to major in fields like biology, education, history, criminal justice, physics, and many others. However, students who graduate with degrees in the health care field have an extra advantage. Hawaiʻi offers a student loan forgiveness-based financial aid program for health care workers who work at designated, high-need locations within the state for at least two years.

So, even though Hawaiʻi comes in just above the national average for tuition costs, if you are considering a career in health care, this may be the place for you.

Some dream of vacationing in paradise - but why not take it a step further and live there? Students attending school in Hawaiʻi won’t have to say aloha, or goodbye, to the beautiful white sand beaches, perfect waves, and tropical drinks. Both traditional and online students can enroll in one of Hawaiʻi’s 15 higher education institutes and live their best life in these picturesque island communities.

For more information on obtaining your degree in Hawaiʻi, explore some of the top programs and schools this state has to offer.


What are Hawaiʻi’s Colleges & Universities?

Hawaiʻi’s Best Overall

Best Online Colleges in Hawaii
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Best Online Colleges in Hawaii 2023

  1. #1

    University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

    Honolulu , HI
    #1 Best Research Universities in Hawaii 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Hawaii 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Hawaii 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Hawaii 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1180/21

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

    Cost of Degree: $12,186
    Expenses: $20,145
    Starting Salary: $51,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Economics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies

    Concentrations

    • Human Relations in Organizations
    • Social Sciences of Oceans
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (ADN-to-BSN)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BSW in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
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  2. #2

    University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo

    Hilo , HI
    #2 Best Research Universities in Hawaii 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Hawaii 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Hawaii 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Hawaii 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/18

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo

    Cost of Degree: $7,838
    Expenses: $13,584
    Starting Salary: $41,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing (RN to BSN)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
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  3. #3

    Hawaii Pacific University

    Honolulu , HI
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #2 Best Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Hawaii Pacific University

    Cost of Degree: $36,080
    Expenses: $19,492
    Starting Salary: $56,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Resource Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
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  4. #4

    Chaminade University of Honolulu

    Honolulu , HI
    #23 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #4 Best Colleges in Hawaii 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Chaminade University of Honolulu

    Cost of Degree: $29,970
    Expenses: $20,962
    Starting Salary: $41,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology and Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education

    Concentrations

    • Montessori Credential
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Education for Oceania
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Historical and Political Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religious Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Secondary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
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  5. #5

    University of Hawaiʻi Maui College

    Kahului , HI
    #3 Best Public Colleges in Hawaii 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Hawaii 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    27%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Hawaiʻi Maui College

    Cost of Degree: $3,284
    Starting Salary: $34,200

    Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Business and Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
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  7. #6

    University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu

    Kapolei , HI
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Hawaii 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Hawaii 2025 #6 Best Colleges in Hawaii 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    33%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/19

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu

    Cost of Degree: $7,584
    Starting Salary: $41,100

    Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • General Business
    • Accounting
    • Hospitality and Tourism
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Creative Media
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Administration

    Concentrations

    • Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management
    • Justice Administration
    • Community Health
    • General Public Administration
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Long-Term Care
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Sciences

    Concentrations

    • Early Childhood Education
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
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