About Hawaii Pacific University
In 1965 four prominent community members recognized the need for higher education in Honolulu. They founded Hawaii Pacific University, an independent, not-for-profit liberal arts school. Degrees, featuring courses taught by top professors, anticipate the changing needs of the community, preparing graduates to live, work, and learn as members of a global society.
The online program is highly personalized and student-centered. Online degrees are available at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree levels.
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Accreditation & Licensing
Hawaii Pacific University is accredited by:
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Type:
4-year, Private not-for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableGraduate Enrollment:
1,673Fully Online Graduate Students:
61%Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$22,000Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
67%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$16,298Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
YesHPU’s course flow is straightforward, which helps with pacing to graduation. Classes are organized in a way that lets students keep moving, even with a full load. That structure supports steady progress for people balancing school with work and family responsibilities.
Cost can still shape how fast that progress happens. Annual tuition is listed at $34,392 on the graduate page, and aid timing can affect yearly cash flow. A $50,000 scholarship example spread funds across years, with only part usable each year. Time-to-finish can also stretch when sequencing delays key steps, including reports of three extra semesters before clinicals and thousands in added costs.
At Hawaii Pacific University, students often find professors easy to reach and quick to help. Instructors are described as kind, welcoming, and clear in class. Assignments are usually straightforward, so students know what to do and when to do it. Small classes make it easier to get personal help without long waits.
Students say they are treated like people, not just names on a roster. They can work on their own and still stay connected to teachers and classmates. Some office processes can feel uneven, and students may need to repeat details at times. Even with that, daily academic support is often warm, direct, and dependable.
Hawaii Pacific University gives online students real schedule flexibility. Classes may meet live or run on your own time. Some courses follow an eight-week term with one three-hour class each week. This setup works well for independent learners who like a steady routine.
Online students can still build strong ties with instructors and classmates. The format feels connected, not isolated. Flexibility is a clear strength, though some programs include fixed parts. Clinical blocks, for example, can narrow site options. Overall, schedule control is strong and depends on your program plan.
At HPU, classes feel personal. Small class sizes are a clear strength. Professors are approachable and easy to reach. Students often get direct attention instead of sitting in large lectures.
Coursework is manageable and easy to follow. The pace feels steady without being too strict. Students can work on their own and still feel connected in class.
Class quality can vary by professor. Even so, HPU is a strong fit for students who want close faculty contact and clear course structure.
Hawaii Pacific University is strongest in class experience. Classes are small and personal. Professors are approachable and present. Course flow is easy to follow.
Students can work independently and stay connected. Online delivery is a real plus here. Classes can run live or async. That helps with schedule control.
The biggest pressure points are price and office follow-through. Tuition is high for many families. Aid can be split across years, raising yearly costs. Office handoffs are a recurring frustration. Program execution also varies, with nursing paths reporting more scheduling stress.
Hawaii Pacific University is strongest in class experience. Classes are small and personal. Professors are approachable and present. Course flow is easy to follow.
Students can work independently and stay connected. Online delivery is a real plus here. Classes can run live or async. That helps with schedule control.
The biggest pressure points are price and office follow-through. Tuition is high for many families. Aid can be split across years, raising yearly costs. Office handoffs are a recurring frustration. Program execution also varies, with nursing paths reporting more scheduling stress.
Online Programs offered by Hawaii Pacific University
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
Nursing
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii Pacific University
Is Hawaii Pacific University accredited?
Yes. Hawaii Pacific University is institutionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.
How many online programs does Hawaii Pacific University offer?
Hawaii Pacific University offers 19 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does Hawaii Pacific University offer?
Hawaii Pacific University offers programs from associate and bachelor's through master's and doctoral levels.
How should students contact admissions at Hawaii Pacific University?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is Hawaii Pacific University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, Hawaii Pacific University falls into GetEducated’s $$$ tuition tier, which points to a higher tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at Hawaii Pacific University?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask Hawaii Pacific University first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
What GPA do most Hawaii Pacific University programs require?
Most listed programs require at least a 2.7 GPA, with requirements generally ranging from 2.7 to 3.0.
Is Hawaii Pacific University military friendly?
Hawaii Pacific University shows Yellow Ribbon support. Check Yellow Ribbon eligibility before you apply, since program-level benefits can vary.
How can students request information from Hawaii Pacific University through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for Hawaii Pacific University applications?
Most listed programs ask for Statement of Purpose/Intent, Official High School Transcript/GED Score, Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), and Official College Transcript(s). Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does Hawaii Pacific University accept life experience credit?
Hawaii Pacific University accepts life experience credit, but qualifying can be harder than expected and fees may still apply. Check Transfer Options to confirm what applies to your program.
Are Hawaii Pacific University programs fully online or mixed?
Hawaii Pacific University includes 100% Online and Mostly Online options, so students should check the format of their specific program before applying.
Do any Hawaii Pacific University programs have specialized accreditation?
Program-specific accreditors include Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Are any admission tests required for Hawaii Pacific University programs?
Some listed programs include GRE or GMAT requirements, so students should check test expectations before choosing a program.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Hawaii Pacific University?
For programs with both totals published, in-state and out-of-state tuition totals are typically the same.
Do any Hawaii Pacific University programs have state authorization limitations?
Some programs show state or location restrictions, so students should confirm eligibility for their state before applying. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at Hawaii Pacific University?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Hawaii Pacific University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare Hawaii Pacific University programs?
Working adults should compare program format, pacing, total cost, and application requirements before choosing a path.
What should students compare before choosing a Hawaii Pacific University program?
Students should compare accreditation fit, program format, application requirements, total cost, and whether the timeline works with their schedule.
Featured Ranking Reports
Hawaii Pacific University is featured in 13 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Hawaii Pacific University is located in Hawaii
Hawaii at a Glance:
Top Majors in Hawaii:
Top Incentives in Hawaii:
- Hawaii Promise Scholarship: Covers remaining tuition after federal aid
Top Career Pathways in Hawaii:
- Entry Level: Tourism Coordinator ($50,000)
- Mid Level: Hotel Manager ($85,000)
- Senior Level: Resort Director ($140,000+)
- Required Education: BS Hospitality Management
- Certifications: CMP, CTIE