Hawaii Pacific University
The Vibe Check
Hawaii Pacific University offers an intimate, close-knit campus experience where the ocean breeze and urban energy of Honolulu blend seamlessly. With small class sizes, you'll feel personally known by your professors and peers, fostering a supportive community. It feels like a tight-knit island family where global perspectives meet local Aloha spirit.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠ ️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
HPU is renowned for its strong programs in Health Professions (especially Nursing) and Marine Science, leveraging its unique oceanfront location. The university emphasizes experiential learning with a focus on professional preparation, offering robust internship opportunities in Honolulu's business and healthcare sectors. While research opportunities exist, they are often undergraduate-focused and faculty-led rather than large-scale graduate projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Urban Honolulu
Student life in Honolulu is vibrant and outdoor-focused, with easy access to world-class beaches for surfing, snorkeling, and hiking just minutes from campus. Beyond the beach, students explore the diverse food scene in Kaka'ako, attend cultural festivals, and enjoy the bustling nightlife and arts scene in nearby Waikiki. The urban setting offers endless opportunities for internships and part-time jobs integrated into daily life.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($59,593):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The main campus in downtown Honolulu is located in a busy urban area, so standard city safety precautions are necessary, especially at night. The university provides campus security patrols and a shuttle service, but students should remain aware of their surroundings in the surrounding city blocks.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unique location offers unparalleled access to ocean-based learning and recreation.
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
- ✓ Strong connections to local industries in healthcare, business, and tourism for internships.
- ✓ Diverse, globally-focused student body with a welcoming Aloha spirit.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation (43%) and retention (57%) rates may indicate challenges with student persistence.
- ✗ Urban Honolulu setting can be expensive for off-campus living and daily expenses.
- ✗ Limited campus size and traditional 'college town' atmosphere compared to mainland universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Hawaii Pacific University is best known for its innovative Marine Science and Nursing programs, leveraging its unique oceanfront campus in Honolulu. It also has strong ties to the local business community and offers a globally diverse, intimate learning environment with small class sizes.
No, Hawaii Pacific University is not highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 84.48%. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1180, and applicants typically have a GPA of 3.4 or higher, making it accessible for many students.
Campus life is intimate and community-focused due to the small enrollment of about 2,500 students. Students enjoy a blend of urban and outdoor activities, from beach trips and water sports to exploring Honolulu's diverse food and cultural scene, all within a supportive, close-knit environment.
The value depends on the major and financial aid. With an average net price over $30,000 and a 10-year median earnings of $59,593, the ROI is moderate. It is most worthwhile for students in high-demand fields like nursing or business who plan to work in Hawaii or similar markets, especially if they graduate on time.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 5,087
- In-State Tuition $33,020
- Zip Code 96813
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $30,557, HPU is priced similarly to many private universities but offers a unique location premium. The 10-year median earnings of $59,593 provide a moderate return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like nursing and business in Hawaii's market. However, the relatively low graduation and retention rates suggest that students should plan carefully to ensure they complete their degree on time to maximize value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.