A Comprehensive Guide to Master’s Degree Tuition Costs in Hawaii’s Universities

Hawaii, renowned for its natural beauty and cultural diversity, is also home to several esteemed higher education institutions. These universities offer a variety of master’s degree programs across multiple disciplines, attracting students from around the globe. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the tuition costs of master’s degree programs in Hawaii’s universities, with detailed tables for clarity.

Overview of Master’s Degree Programs in Hawaii

Hawaii hosts several prominent universities that offer master’s degree programs, including:

  • University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa)
  • Hawaii Pacific University (HPU)
  • Chaminade University of Honolulu
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo (UH Hilo)

These institutions provide a broad spectrum of programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, engineering, social sciences, and more.

Tuition Costs at Hawaii’s Universities

University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa is the flagship institution of the University of Hawaii system. It offers an extensive range of master’s programs with varying tuition costs based on the program and residency status.

ProgramIn-State Tuition (per year)Out-of-State Tuition (per year)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)$12,768$34,512
Master of Education (MEd)$10,656$24,576
Master of Public Health (MPH)$12,768$34,512
Master of Social Work (MSW)$10,656$24,576
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)$12,768$34,512

Hawaii Pacific University

Hawaii Pacific University, a private institution, offers a variety of master’s programs with tuition rates that reflect its private status. The costs are the same for both in-state and out-of-state students.

ProgramTuition (per year)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)$22,140
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling$18,720
Master of Public Health (MPH)$20,520
Master of Science in Marine Science$21,060
Master of Arts in Diplomacy and Military Studies$18,360

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Chaminade University is another private institution in Hawaii, known for its strong programs in education, counseling, and criminal justice.

ProgramTuition (per year)
Master of Education (MEd)$14,310
Master of Science in Counseling Psychology$14,310
Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration$14,310

University of Hawaii at Hilo

The University of Hawaii at Hilo offers several master’s degree programs, particularly in the natural sciences and education. Tuition varies based on residency status.

ProgramIn-State Tuition (per year)Out-of-State Tuition (per year)
Master of Education (MEd)$10,440$24,648
Master of Science in Tropical Conservation Biology and Environmental Science$10,440$24,648
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology$10,440$24,648

Additional Costs

Beyond tuition, students must consider additional costs, such as student fees, books, and supplies. These can vary widely depending on the program and university.

ExpenseEstimated Cost (per year)
Student Fees$500 – $2,000
Books and Supplies$1,000 – $2,000
Health Insurance$1,500 – $2,500

Financial Aid Options

Financial aid can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing a master’s degree. Options include scholarships, grants, assistantships, and loans.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are highly sought after as they do not need to be repaid. Both merit-based and need-based scholarships are available.

  • University of Hawaii Scholarships: UH Manoa offers various scholarships, such as the Graduate Division Achievement Scholarship.
  • Hawaii Pacific University Scholarships: HPU provides scholarships like the Dean’s Scholarship.
  • Chaminade University Scholarships: Chaminade offers scholarships, including the Chaminade Graduate Scholarship.

Assistantships

Graduate assistantships provide financial support in exchange for research or teaching services. These positions often include a stipend and tuition waiver.

UniversityType of AssistantshipBenefits
UH ManoaTeaching and Research AssistantshipsStipend and tuition waiver
HPUGraduate AssistantshipsStipend and partial tuition waiver
UH HiloResearch AssistantshipsStipend and tuition waiver

Loans

Students can apply for federal and private loans. Federal loans, such as the Direct Unsubsidized Loan and the Grad PLUS Loan, offer favorable terms.

Loan TypeInterest RateRepayment Terms
Direct Unsubsidized Loan6.54% (as of 2023)Begins 6 months after graduation
Grad PLUS Loan7.54% (as of 2023)Begins 6 months after graduation
Private LoansVariesVaries

Work-Study Programs

Work-study programs provide part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need.

UniversityProgram Details
UH ManoaPart-time campus jobs for students
HPUPart-time jobs in various departments
Chaminade UniversityOn-campus employment opportunities

Cost of Living in Hawaii

Living in Hawaii can be expensive, and students should budget accordingly for housing, food, transportation, and other expenses.

ExpenseEstimated Monthly Cost
Housing (rent)$1,200 – $2,500
Utilities$150 – $300
Food$400 – $800
Transportation$100 – $300
Miscellaneous$200 – $500

Conclusion

Pursuing a master’s degree in Hawaii provides a unique educational experience in a beautiful and culturally rich environment. While tuition costs can be substantial, various financial aid options are available to help manage expenses. By understanding the tuition fees and exploring financial aid opportunities, students can make informed decisions and achieve their academic goals in Hawaii.

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