The Best Online Colleges in Hawaii

by TBS Staff

Updated October 19, 2022

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Online learning enables students to better fit school into their schedules and budgets in every state, and Hawaii is no exception.

The unique geography and culture of the island state of Hawaii offer rich possibilities for online learners at one of Hawaii’s 20 degree–granting institutions. Traveling to a nearby island or to the mainland can be expensive and time–consuming, making online classes an ideal alternative for those not near a university or for working students.

Participation in online colleges in Hawaii is growing. According to one government report, over one–quarter of students enrolled in Hawaiian colleges and universities are taking at least one online class, and the classes offered reach a diverse array of interests. The University of Hawaiʻi, for example, offers 47 online programs, including certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s programs, and graduate degrees and certificates.

Additionally, some online programs offered by Hawaiian institutions are tailored to fit the unique needs of Hawaiians. For example, students can gain credentials in fields such as disaster preparedness, travel and leisure, and indigenous language and culture, while other programs help to fill the state’s critical needs for nurses, social workers, teachers, and business leaders. Enrolling in an online college in Hawaii is a positive first step toward a career in Hawaii or beyond.

The Best Online Colleges in Hawaii

#1 The Best Online Colleges in Hawaii

University of Hawaii at Manoa

  • Honolulu, HI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Hawaii at Manoa ranks among the best online colleges. The school, a public institution, hosts seven for remote learners at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for its academic strength.

Online learners can also receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus in Honolulu. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship program. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.

Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to contact the school directly.

University of Hawaii at Manoa at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,547

Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Online Master's Programs: 5

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 3%

Admission Rate: 58%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Tuition
In-state
$11,304
Out-of-state
$33,336
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
17,490
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 The Best Online Colleges in Hawaii

Hawaii Pacific University

  • Honolulu, HI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Those looking for an online college program should consider Hawaii Pacific University. Enrollees at the private institution can choose from 20 online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.

The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Honolulu campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.

Potential applicants can get in touch with the school for additional details about program availability and the application process.

Hawaii Pacific University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,627

Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Online Master's Programs: 5

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 24%

Admission Rate: 75%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Tuition
In-state
$27,000
Out-of-state
$27,000
Retention Rate
58%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
4,170
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#3 The Best Online Colleges in Hawaii

Chaminade University of Honolulu

  • Honolulu, HI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Chaminade University of Honolulu is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. The private institution offers 21 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.

Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those outside of the Honolulu campus. Degree-seekers can connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs, helping set them up for scholastic and professional success. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in the field. The program grants graduates an accredited degree upon completion.

Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.

Chaminade University of Honolulu at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,201

Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Online Master's Programs: 7

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 40%

Admission Rate: 95%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Tuition
In-state
$26,020
Out-of-state
$26,020
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
2,167
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#4 The Best Online Colleges in Hawaii

University of Hawaii-West Oahu

  • Kapolei, HI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Those looking for an online college program should consider University of Hawaii-West Oahu. Enrollees at the public institution can choose from three online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's substantial track record in online education and good academic reputation attract many distance learners.

The academic and career advisors located at the Kapolei campus are also available to assist online learners. Career services programs such as academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers achieve their professional goals. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Program graduates receive a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.

School representatives can provide additional information about application and program specifics.

University of Hawaii-West Oahu at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,159

Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Online Master's Programs: Data not available

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 50%

Admission Rate: 84%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Tuition
In-state
$7,344
Out-of-state
$20,304
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
3,049
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
71% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Best Online Colleges

Online Colleges in Hawaii Ranking Guidelines

We selected the online schools in Hawaii based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.

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