Comprehensive Guide to Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Tuition Fees in Hawaii
Introduction
Hawaii, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, also boasts a robust educational system. For students seeking to pursue a bachelor’s degree, Hawaii offers a variety of programs across its universities and colleges. This guide provides an overview of the available bachelor’s degree programs and a detailed breakdown of tuition fees in Hawaii.
Universities and Colleges in Hawaii
Hawaii’s higher education system comprises public universities, private institutions, and community colleges. The major public institutions include the University of Hawaii (UH) system, which has campuses in Manoa, Hilo, and West Oahu. Private universities such as Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) and Chaminade University of Honolulu also offer diverse bachelor’s degree programs.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
University of Hawaii at Manoa
The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) is the flagship campus of the UH system and offers a wide range of bachelor’s degree programs across various disciplines.
Popular Programs:
- Business Administration
- Engineering
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Biology
University of Hawaii at Hilo
UH Hilo provides a unique educational experience with a focus on environmental sciences and marine biology, among other programs.
Popular Programs:
- Marine Science
- Environmental Science
- Pharmacy
- Computer Science
- Education
University of Hawaii – West Oahu
UH West Oahu focuses on liberal arts and professional studies, providing flexibility with online and hybrid courses.
Popular Programs:
- Business Administration
- Public Administration
- Creative Media
- Health Sciences
- Social Sciences
Hawaii Pacific University
HPU is a private university that offers a variety of programs with an emphasis on flexible learning formats, including online and evening classes.
Popular Programs:
- International Business
- Marine Biology
- Nursing
- Diplomacy and Military Studies
- Computer Science
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Chaminade University is a private Catholic institution known for its programs in forensic sciences and education.
Popular Programs:
- Forensic Sciences
- Education
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Criminology and Criminal Justice
Tuition Fees Structure
Tuition fees in Hawaii vary significantly between public and private institutions, and even within different campuses of the University of Hawaii system. Below is a detailed breakdown of the estimated tuition fees for bachelor’s degree programs at major institutions in Hawaii.
University of Hawaii at Manoa
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $11,304 per year | $33,336 per year |
| Additional Fees: $882 per year | Additional Fees: $882 per year |
University of Hawaii at Hilo
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $7,656 per year | $20,304 per year |
| Additional Fees: $764 per year | Additional Fees: $764 per year |
University of Hawaii – West Oahu
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $7,344 per year | $20,400 per year |
| Additional Fees: $660 per year | Additional Fees: $660 per year |
Hawaii Pacific University
| Resident and Non-Resident |
|---|
| $29,520 per year |
| Additional Fees: $500 per year |
Chaminade University of Honolulu
| Resident and Non-Resident |
|---|
| $26,134 per year |
| Additional Fees: $750 per year |
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Pursuing higher education can be costly, but various financial aid options are available to help manage expenses. These include federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
University of Hawaii System Scholarships
The UH system offers numerous scholarships for residents and non-residents, including merit-based and need-based scholarships. Some notable scholarships include:
- Regents and Presidential Scholarships: For high-achieving students across all UH campuses.
- Hawaii Promise Scholarship: Covers direct educational costs for eligible UH Community College students with financial need.
Private University Scholarships
Private institutions like HPU and Chaminade University offer scholarships based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and specific talents.
- HPU Trustee Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships covering significant portions of tuition.
- Chaminade University Academic Scholarships: Various scholarships based on academic performance and financial need.
Cost of Living in Hawaii
In addition to tuition fees, students should consider the cost of living in Hawaii, which is relatively high compared to the mainland United States. Housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses can add up. Below is an estimated monthly cost of living for a student in Hawaii:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Housing (on-campus) | $800 – $1,200 |
| Housing (off-campus) | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| Food | $400 – $600 |
| Transportation | $70 – $100 |
| Personal Expenses | $200 – $400 |
Conclusion
Hawaii offers diverse and enriching bachelor’s degree programs across its public and private institutions. While tuition fees and the cost of living can be high, various financial aid options and scholarships are available to support students. With its unique cultural environment and high-quality education, Hawaii presents an attractive option for students seeking a well-rounded academic experience.
