Affording Graduate School in Hawaii: Master’s Program Fees and Scholarships
Graduate school is a significant investment in one’s future, and affording it can be a daunting challenge. For students drawn to Hawaii for its unique cultural blend and stunning environment, understanding the financial aspects of obtaining a master’s degree is crucial. This article explores the fees associated with master’s programs in Hawaii and outlines various scholarship opportunities to help manage these costs.
Overview of Master’s Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii offers a diverse array of master’s programs through several key institutions:
- University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa)
- Hawaii Pacific University (HPU)
- Chaminade University of Honolulu
- University of Hawaii at Hilo (UH Hilo)
These universities provide programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, engineering, social work, and more.
Tuition Fees for Master’s Programs
University of Hawaii at Manoa
The flagship campus of the University of Hawaii system, UH Manoa, has different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
| Program | In-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
HPU is a private university with uniform tuition rates for all students, regardless of residency.
| Program | Tuition (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 also offers several master’s programs with fixed tuition rates.
| Program | Tuition (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
UH Hilo offers competitive tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students.
| Program | In-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
In addition to tuition, students should consider other expenses such as student fees, books, and supplies.
| Expense | Estimated Cost (per year) |
|---|---|
| Student Fees | $500 – $2,000 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Health Insurance | $1,500 – $2,500 |
Financial Aid: Scholarships
Scholarships are a critical component of financial aid, offering funds that do not need to be repaid. Here are some prominent scholarships available to graduate students in Hawaii:
University of Hawaii at Manoa Scholarships
- Graduate Division Achievement Scholarship: Awarded to outstanding graduate students based on academic merit.
- Hawaii Residency Program Scholarship: For students demonstrating a commitment to practicing in Hawaii.
Hawaii Pacific University Scholarships
- Dean’s Scholarship: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving graduate students.
- HPU Alumni Scholarship: Available to alumni returning for a graduate degree.
Chaminade University of Honolulu Scholarships
- Chaminade Graduate Scholarship: For graduate students with a strong academic record.
- Native Hawaiian Tuition Grant: Supports Native Hawaiian students pursuing graduate studies.
Other Scholarships
- Hawaii Community Foundation Scholarships: Offers numerous scholarships for Hawaii residents pursuing higher education.
- East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship: Supports students from Asia, the Pacific, and the U.S. in graduate study and research.
Financial Aid: Assistantships
Graduate assistantships provide financial support in exchange for research or teaching services. These positions often come with a stipend and tuition waiver.
| University | Type of Assistantship | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| UH Manoa | Teaching and Research Assistantships | Stipend and tuition waiver |
| HPU | Graduate Assistantships | Stipend and partial tuition waiver |
| UH Hilo | Research Assistantships | Stipend and tuition waiver |
Financial Aid: Loans
Students can apply for federal and private loans to help cover the cost of graduate school.
| Loan Type | Interest Rate | Repayment Terms |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Unsubsidized Loan | 6.54% (as of 2023) | Begins 6 months after graduation |
| Grad PLUS Loan | 7.54% (as of 2023) | Begins 6 months after graduation |
| Private Loans | Varies | Varies |
Financial Aid: Work-Study Programs
Work-study programs provide part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need.
| University | Program Details |
|---|---|
| UH Manoa | Part-time campus jobs for students |
| HPU | Part-time jobs in various departments |
| Chaminade University | On-campus employment opportunities |
Cost of Living in Hawaii
Living expenses in Hawaii are generally higher than the national average. Students should budget for housing, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs.
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Housing (rent) | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Utilities | $150 – $300 |
| Food | $400 – $800 |
| Transportation | $100 – $300 |
| Miscellaneous | $200 – $500 |
Tips for Affording Graduate School in Hawaii
- Apply Early for Financial Aid: Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any university-specific financial aid applications as early as possible.
- Seek Out Scholarships: Research and apply for scholarships specific to your field of study, background, and circumstances.
- Consider Assistantships: Graduate assistantships not only provide financial benefits but also valuable professional experience.
- Budget Wisely: Create a detailed budget to manage your living expenses effectively.
- Explore Part-Time Employment: Many universities offer part-time jobs on campus that can help offset costs.
Conclusion
Affording graduate school in Hawaii requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the available financial aid options. By leveraging scholarships, assistantships, loans, and work-study programs, students can manage the costs and enjoy the unique educational experience that Hawaii offers. With its blend of academic excellence and natural beauty, Hawaii remains a desirable destination for graduate studies.
