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Best Colleges in Hawaii

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 12 schools · Agent Insights
12
Schools Analyzed
$46,578
Avg. Earnings (10yr)
40%
Avg. Graduation Rate
$13,009
Avg. Net Price

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Hawaii is home to a diverse range of colleges and universities, each offering unique opportunities for students. With 12 institutions in our focus, prospective students might be weighing their options in a state known for its natural beauty and rich culture.

The schools listed here are evaluated based on key metrics that matter most for student success, like earnings after graduation, graduation rates, student debt, and mobility. The data reveals how these institutions prepare students for life after college, helping families make informed decisions about their futures.

For example, the University of Hawaii at Manoa stands out with an average earning potential of $57,624 and a graduation rate of 63%, compared to Kapiolani Community College, where graduates earn an average of $44,599 with only a 21% graduation rate. Such contrasts highlight the importance of not just selecting a school, but understanding the outcomes tied to each choice.

Key Findings

Brigham Young University-Hawaii has a graduation rate of 54% with an average earning of $52,064, making it a strong option.

University of Hawaii-West Oahu graduates earn an average of $52,075 but have a lower graduation rate of 48%.

Leeward Community College has the lowest average earnings at $39,899 and a graduation rate of just 33%.

Overall, the average earnings for graduates in Hawaii is $46,578, with an average graduation rate of 40%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 12
Avg. earnings at 10yr $46,578
Avg. graduation rate 40%
Avg. net price $13,009
Avg. median debt $13,911

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in Hawaii

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

$15K$68K$120K$0$50KNET PRICEChaminade UniversityHawaii PacificUniversity ofBrigham YoungUniversity of

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Chaminade University of …57%Hawaii Pacific University38%University of Hawaii at …63%Brigham Young University…54%University of Hawaii-Wes…48%University of Hawaii at …45%Kapiolani Community Coll…21%Honolulu Community Colle…30%Leeward Community College33%Windward Community Colle…30%Hawaii Community College32%University of Hawaii Mau…28%

Top 3

#1

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Honolulu, HI

Graduation57%
Earnings$52,343
Net Price$28,856

View full profile →
#2

Hawaii Pacific University

Honolulu, HI

Graduation38%
Earnings$59,593
Net Price$29,657

View full profile →
#3

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Honolulu, HI

Graduation63%
Earnings$57,624
Net Price$15,664

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

#1

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Honolulu, HI · 1,672 students · Private nonprofit

Chaminade University of Honolulu sits in a picturesque location, drawing in students with its strong academic programs and commitment to service. With a 57% graduation rate, many students find a supportive and engaging environment that encourages them to succeed academically and personally, all while being part of a diverse and energetic campus community.
91% accepted 57% graduate $52,343 earnings
Chaminade's full profile
#2

Hawaii Pacific University

Honolulu, HI · 2,392 students · Private nonprofit

Hawaii Pacific University, situated in the heart of Honolulu, caters to a diverse student body of 2,392 individuals. The university's urban campus provides a vibrant backdrop for academic growth, but its 38% graduation rate highlights the challenges some students face in completing their degrees. This data suggests that students who thrive here may benefit from strong support networks and a proactive approach to their studies.
86% accepted 38% graduate $59,593 earnings
Hawaii's full profile
#3

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Honolulu, HI · 15,029 students · Public

As the flagship campus in Hawaii, the University of Hawaii at Manoa serves over 15,000 students and offers a diverse array of programs. With a higher graduation rate of 63%, this school is often a great fit for students seeking a robust academic environment alongside a rich cultural experience in Honolulu.
87% accepted 63% graduate $57,624 earnings
University's full profile
#4

Brigham Young University-Hawaii

Laie, HI · 2,889 students · Private nonprofit

With a student body of just under 3,000, Brigham Young University-Hawaii immerses students in a close-knit community that emphasizes both academic achievement and cultural heritage. The university's unique location in Laie offers students stunning natural surroundings and a chance to engage deeply with the local community and its values.
47% accepted 54% graduate $52,064 earnings
Brigham's full profile
#5

University of Hawaii-West Oahu

Kapolei, HI · 2,519 students · Public

University of Hawaii-West Oahu welcomes nearly 2,600 students and focuses on providing a practical education with a commitment to community engagement. Located in Kapolei, the campus is smaller and offers a more personalized experience for students who value hands-on learning in a vibrant Hawaii setting.
95% accepted 48% graduate $52,075 earnings
University's full profile
#6

University of Hawaii at Hilo

Hilo, HI · 2,160 students · Public

University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a rich educational experience for its 2,160 students, with a graduation rate of 45%. The median earnings of $47,856 a decade after leaving the university reflect the value of its degree in the job market. The welcoming campus environment encourages students to engage with local communities and explore their interests.
61% accepted 45% graduate $47,856 earnings
University's full profile
#7

Kapiolani Community College

Honolulu, HI · 3,910 students · Public

With a median earning potential of $44,599 ten years after graduation, Kapiolani Community College in Honolulu offers a solid foundation for students looking to enter the workforce. The college has a diverse student body of approximately 3,910, and its location provides access to a vibrant community and rich cultural experiences.
21% graduate $44,599 earnings
Kapiolani's full profile
#8

Honolulu Community College

Honolulu, HI · 1,897 students · Public

Honolulu Community College serves about 1,897 students in a lively urban setting that fosters a strong sense of community. Graduates here earn a median of $45,105 after ten years, providing a competitive edge in the job market. The college's supportive environment helps students thrive, particularly those who appreciate hands-on learning.
30% graduate $45,105 earnings
Honolulu's full profile
#9

Leeward Community College

Pearl City, HI · 3,438 students · Public

Leeward Community College serves an important role in the education landscape, catering to over 3,400 students in Pearl City. With a graduation rate of only 33%, many students may be exploring their options or transferring to four-year institutions, making this college a valuable stepping stone for those looking to build a strong foundation before continuing their education.
33% graduate $39,899 earnings
Leeward's full profile
#10

Windward Community College

Kaneohe, HI · 1,159 students · Public

Windward Community College, located in Kaneohe, is known for its intimate learning environment, with around 1,159 students. Graduates earn a median salary of $38,439 after ten years, which reflects the college's focus on preparing students for the local job market. Its smaller size allows for personalized attention and support, ideal for those seeking a more individualized educational approach.
30% graduate $38,439 earnings
Windward's full profile
#11

Hawaii Community College

Hilo, HI · 1,546 students · Public

With a vibrant campus nestled in Hilo, Hawaii Community College fosters a supportive environment for students seeking a close-knit community. The school serves around 1,546 students, making it easier to connect with peers and faculty, which can enhance the learning experience and foster personal growth.
32% graduate $34,891 earnings
Hawaii's full profile
#12

University of Hawaii Maui College

Kahului, HI · 1,700 students · Public

Located in the beautiful landscape of Kahului, the University of Hawaii Maui College offers a unique blend of education and natural beauty that can enhance the college experience. With an enrollment of 1,700 students, it provides a supportive environment, although its graduation rate stands at only 28%, prompting students to seek out additional resources to help them complete their degrees.
28% graduate $34,453 earnings
University's full profile

When we look closer at the data, it’s clear that the University of Hawaii at Manoa outperforms Kapiolani Community College significantly. With an average earning of $57,624 compared to Kapiolani's $44,599, the difference in financial outcomes is striking. Additionally, Manoa's 63% graduation rate is far better than Kapiolani's 21%, underscoring the importance of choosing a school with a strong track record of helping students graduate.

After reviewing the options, it’s essential for students and families to weigh these statistics against their personal priorities. Factors like campus location, available programs, and overall financial situation should play a critical role in decision-making. For instance, a lower net price at Kapiolani Community College might appeal to some, despite its lower graduation and earning figures. Aligning financial outcomes with personal goals can help clarify which school is the right fit.

Ultimately, these data points reflect more than just numbers; they represent future opportunities for students. Choosing a college is a pivotal decision that can influence one’s career path and financial stability. Families should consider how each institution can set their student on a path toward success, ensuring they make a choice that aligns with both aspirations and realities.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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