Studying in Hawaii sounds like a dream—and in 2025, it’s more popular than ever. But it’s not just about beaches and sunshine. Hawaii is home to some of the most welcoming, diverse, and career-focused universities in the US. Whether you’re interested in ocean science, business, healthcare, or education, Hawaii has a university that fits.  

You’ll find top-ranked schools, affordable tuition (yes, really!), and a supportive environment where students from all over the world come to learn and grow. In this guide, we’ll show you the top universities in Hawaii for 2025—what they offer, how much they cost, and why they might be the perfect place for your next big adventure.

What Are the Top Universities in Hawaii in 2025? 

Hawaii isn’t just a beautiful place to live—it’s also a great place to study! In 2025, students from all over the world are choosing Hawaii for its top-ranked universities, friendly campus communities, and strong academic programs. Whether you’re into marine biology, business, nursing, engineering, or faith-based education, there’s a Hawaiian university that matches your goals. Each of these universities offers something special—some are research-focused, others are affordable, and many have great job placement after graduation. Here’s a quick look at the best options for students in Hawaii this year: 

Why Should You Choose the University of Hawaii at Mānoa in 2025? 

If you’re looking for a university that combines high-quality education with island life, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UH Mānoa) is a great pick in 2025. It’s Hawaii’s biggest and most well-known public university, located in Honolulu—just minutes from the beach! UH Mānoa is ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide and is especially strong in research. With over 230 degree programs, there’s something for everyone—from business and engineering to astronomy and public health.  

Around 18,000 students study here, including over 5,000 international and out-of-state students, making the campus diverse and globally connected. The tropical 320-acre campus is beautiful and packed with resources like research labs, libraries, a fitness center, and over 200 student clubs. Following are the key details of University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UH Mānoa): 

Is Hawaiʻi Pacific University a Good Private University in 2025? 

Yes, absolutely! If you’re looking for a private university in Hawaii that combines career-focused programs, diversity, and an exciting urban island lifestyle, then Hawaiʻi Pacific University (HPU) is a great choice in 2025. Located in downtown Honolulu, HPU offers students the chance to study in the heart of Hawaii’s capital city. In 2025, HPU is ranked #76 among Regional Universities West by U.S. News & World Report. 

It has a friendly campus with around 4,000 students, and nearly half come from outside the U.S., giving the university a truly global vibe. HPU is known for top programs in nursing, business, marine biology, and psychology. The class sizes are small (about 18–22 students per class), so you get plenty of personal attention from professors. Following are the key details of Hawaiʻi Pacific University:  

Why Consider Chaminade University of Honolulu for Your Studies in 2025? 

If you’re looking for a small, friendly university in Hawaii that focuses on faith, community, and hands-on learning, then Chaminade University of Honolulu is a great choice in 2025. Located in the peaceful Kaimuki neighborhood of Honolulu, this private Catholic university offers a close-knit, supportive campus where students are encouraged to grow both academically and personally. Chaminade is ranked #33 among Regional Universities West by U.S. News & World Report (2025).  

It’s especially known for strong programs in criminal justice, education, nursing, and forensic science. With a student-faculty ratio of just 11:1, students benefit from small classes and personalized attention from professors who care. It’s a diverse and inclusive campus with a strong focus on social justice, and many students come from Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Asian backgrounds. Following are the key details of Chaminade University of Honolulu: 

What Makes the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo a Great Choice in 2025? 

If you love nature, science, and hands-on learning, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo (UH Hilo) might be the perfect place for you in 2025. Located on the Big Island’s east coast, UH Hilo gives students the chance to study in one of the world’s most biodiverse and geologically active environments—right next to volcanoes, coral reefs, rainforests, and telescopes on Mauna Kea. In 2025, UH Hilo is ranked #352 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report.  

What sets it apart is its small, welcoming campus, where you’ll get personalized attention in small classes, plus lots of support from faculty and advisors. The university is part of the University of Hawaiʻi System but has its own strong identity, especially in fields like marine science, astronomy, Hawaiian studies, and agriculture. With about 3,000 students, UH Hilo has a strong sense of community. Following are the key details of University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo: 

Is the University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu Right for You in 2025? 

If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible, and career-focused university in Hawaii, the University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu (UH West Oʻahu) is a great option in 2025. Located in Kapolei on the west side of Oʻahu, this campus is modern, growing fast, and designed to meet the needs of local students, working professionals, and transfer students. In 2025, it ranks #10 among Regional Colleges West (U.S. News & World Report), and it’s especially known for bachelor’s degrees in business, cybersecurity, applied sciences, and public administration. 

It’s also a Native Hawaiian-Serving Institution, which means it puts extra focus on inclusion, cultural understanding, and support for first-generation students. UH West Oʻahu has about 3,000 students and offers small class sizes, online and hybrid learning, and a state-of-the-art campus that includes smart classrooms and digital media labs. Following are the key details of University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu: 

What’s Special About Brigham Young University–Hawaii in 2025? 

If you’re dreaming of studying in a peaceful, beautiful, and culturally rich place, Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYU–Hawaii) is a standout choice in 2025. Located in Laie, on the scenic North Shore of Oʻahu, the university is affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). In 2025, it’s ranked #6 in Regional Colleges West by U.S. News & World Report, which reflects its strong academics and positive student outcomes. 

With about 3,000 undergraduate students from over 70 countries, the campus is truly international. Tuition is one of the lowest among private universities in the U.S., and many students work part-time through on-campus jobs, especially at the nearby Polynesian Cultural Center, to help cover their costs and gain real-world skills. Following are the key details of Brigham Young University–Hawaii: 

Conclusion 

Studying in Hawaii isn’t just about getting a degree—it’s about enjoying a welcoming, close-knit student life in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Whether you want a big research university like UH Mānoa or a small, faith-based college like BYU–Hawaii, there’s something for everyone here. 

Many of these universities offer good financial aid, smaller class sizes, and hands-on learning to help you succeed. So, take your time, explore your options, and imagine yourself learning and growing in a tropical paradise. And if you are looking for a place to stay? University Living can help you find safe and budget-friendly student housing near your campus—so you’re all set before you even arrive in Hawaii! 

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