When I started looking for science programs in Hawaii, I was amazed by the variety and quality across the islands.
From marine biology that uses the Pacific Ocean to astronomy programs with some of the world’s best observatories, Hawaii has something for every science lover.
Schools like the University of Hawaii at Manoa offer the best science programs in Hawaii, with strengths in oceanography, astronomy, and environmental science.
Many colleges in Hawaii use the state’s unique location to give students hands-on learning experiences you can’t find anywhere else.
Marine biology and environmental science programs are especially strong because of the diverse ecosystems in and around the islands.
If you want a science education that combines classroom and real-world research, Hawaii has some top choices.
What drew me in was the chance to work and learn in a place with such rich natural beauty and scientific opportunities.
These programs go beyond textbooks—they get you out into the field, whether on a research vessel or at a telescope.
Overview of Science Education in Hawaii
Science education shapes future opportunities for students in Hawaii.
Local schools and colleges focus on real-world problems, technology, and the natural environment.
Importance of Science Programs
Science programs in Hawaii prepare students for changing career fields and new technology.
Many schools connect science with local issues, such as ocean conservation, renewable energy, and volcano studies.
Key benefits include:
- Teaching students skills in problem-solving
- Offering hands-on learning through labs and nature activities
- Connecting classroom lessons with community projects and local research
Hawaii’s Department of Education encourages all students to gain a strong background in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).
This focus helps students face modern challenges in both local and global settings.
Schools like Hawaii Science and Technology Museum run outreach programs so all students have access to science experiences, even outside the classroom.
Popular Science Majors
Colleges in Hawaii offer science majors that match the islands’ environment and industries.
Some popular science majors in Hawaii are:
- Marine Biology: Using the ocean around the islands
- Environmental Science: Studying local plants, animals, and ecosystems
- Geology and Volcanology: Learning about Hawaii’s volcanoes and landscapes
- Computer Science: Preparing for the fast-growing tech sector
The University of Hawaii offers strong programs in these areas.
Many students join projects and fieldwork related to Hawaiian ecosystems and conservation.
These science majors give students skills for careers in Hawaii and outside the islands.
Top Universities for Science Degrees
Several universities in Hawaii offer respected science programs.
These schools have strong research, unique classes, and hands-on learning in fields like marine biology, environmental science, and chemistry.
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa stands out for science education in Hawaii.
It’s the main campus with top programs in biology, marine science, astronomy, and environmental science.
Their research labs have modern equipment, and the school is known for marine biology because of its location near the ocean.
Undergraduate students work with real researchers at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology.
Graduate students choose Mānoa for advanced degrees in fields like oceanography and biology.
Quick Facts:
| Program | Degree Options |
|---|---|
| Marine Biology | BS, MS, PhD |
| Environmental Science | BA, BS |
| Astronomy | BS, MS, PhD |
| Chemistry | BA, BS, MS, PhD |
Student clubs and internships help students gain practical experience.
Admission is competitive, especially for science majors.
More details are in the U.S. News Best Colleges Hawaii and UniversityLiving Hawaii Rankings.
Hawaii Pacific University
Hawaii Pacific University focuses on hands-on experience and small class sizes for science programs.
This private school emphasizes marine science, environmental science, and pre-med studies.
Professors are approachable, and the campus uses Hawaii’s environment as a living classroom.
Biology students do fieldwork on beaches and coral reefs, making learning feel real.
Key Science Areas:
- Marine Biology
- Environmental Science
- Biochemistry
- Health Sciences
Internship opportunities are available, including partnerships with conservation groups.
They offer undergraduate research chances early in a student’s academic journey.
HPU is flexible, letting students choose between on-campus and online classes.
More program information is on the Niche Best Hawaii Colleges for Environmental Science.
Brigham Young University–Hawaii
Brigham Young University–Hawaii offers science degrees with an international and multicultural focus.
This campus is known for programs like biology, biochemistry, and exercise science.
The university is part of a worldwide network, so students interact with peers from over 70 countries.
BYU–Hawaii offers a supportive learning environment.
Classes are small, and professors mentor undergraduates in projects and research.
The labs have modern equipment, and the campus is close to tropical ecosystems for field studies.
Programs Offered:
- Biology (BS)
- Biochemistry (BS)
- Exercise and Sport Science (BS)
BYU–Hawaii integrates faith-based learning.
They encourage internships and community service in science fields.
You can compare BYU–Hawaii with other campuses in the EduRank Hawaii University Rankings.
Best Undergraduate Science Programs
Hawaii offers many options for students interested in biology, chemistry, physics, math, and environmental science.
Each field provides hands-on learning, research, and chances to work with skilled faculty.
Biological Sciences
Hawaii is a great place to study life because of its unique islands and diverse species.
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers strong programs with a wide range of biology courses, including marine biology and tropical biology.
Students can join research projects focused on local ecosystems and endangered species.
Facilities and labs are modern, and students get practical training that employers want.
On the Big Island, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is known for its biology programs, offering small classes and personal attention from professors.
Both schools help students prepare for careers in medicine, research, or conservation.
Chemistry and Physical Sciences
Chemistry and physics programs in Hawaii help students understand how the world works at a molecular and atomic level.
At Mānoa, the chemistry department has modern labs and offers courses in organic, inorganic, and analytical chemistry.
Physics students use labs to explore mechanics and energy.
Small class sizes allow students to interact with experts.
The curriculum covers both theory and lab work, building strong problem-solving skills.
Math is included as a key part of these programs, and many students take advanced math courses to support their chemistry and physics studies.
Graduates enter fields like research, teaching, or technology.
Environmental and Earth Sciences
Hawaii is an excellent place to study environmental and earth sciences because of its islands, oceans, and volcanoes.
UH Mānoa’s School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) lets students work with real-world data, explore oceanography, climate change, and volcanology.
Students often participate in fieldwork, such as collecting samples in rainforests or along the coast.
Environmental science programs are strong at both UH Mānoa and UH Hilo.
These programs offer research and internships with government or environmental groups.
The focus is on solving environmental problems that affect Hawaii and the world.
Graduate Program Options in Science
Graduate science programs in Hawaii stand out for their respected faculty and strong research focus.
From program rankings to unique research projects, Hawaii has several options for students considering graduate school in science.
Highly Ranked Graduate Schools
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers top graduate science programs in the state.
Several science departments, such as marine biology, environmental science, and Earth sciences, have earned spots in the U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings.
UH Mānoa has sixteen graduate programs nationally recognized for academic excellence.
Seven are ranked among the top 100 and five in the top 75.
This recognition means students learn from respected experts and contribute to meaningful research.
Graduate programs use Hawaii’s island location for special fieldwork opportunities in the Pacific.
The Pacific Ocean Science and Technology Building in Honolulu serves as a hub for many science activities.
Admission Requirements
Programs like those at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa follow standard graduate school expectations.
Most science programs require:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- GRE scores (for some departments)
- Letters of recommendation
- Transcripts from all previous colleges
- A statement of purpose about research or career goals
Some programs ask for a general examination early in a student’s first year to measure readiness for advanced study.
According to the 2024-2025 General Catalog, if a department requires this exam, all students must take it.
International students often need to show proof of English language skills and may need extra documentation.
Application deadlines are usually in the fall or winter.
Notable Research Opportunities
Hawaii’s natural environment gives science graduate students many unique research options.
UH Mānoa is known for its research in marine science and volcanology because of its location near the Pacific Ocean and active volcanoes.
Students join projects involving coral reefs, ocean currents, and environmental conservation.
University facilities, like labs at the Pacific Ocean Science and Technology Building, support experiments and data collection.
Graduate programs encourage students to take part in independent research, internships, and collaborations with local and international institutions.
Mentorship from faculty helps students grow professionally and network in scientific fields.
These experiences let students work firsthand on important scientific questions and solutions.
Specialized Science Departments and Fields
Hawaii’s science programs offer practical training, advanced research opportunities, and real-world skills.
These departments prepare students for technology and health careers that are in high demand across the islands.
Department of Information and Computer Sciences
The Department of Information and Computer Sciences at the University of Hawaii offers courses in programming, software engineering, algorithms, and artificial intelligence. I use current tools and languages, which prepares me for jobs in IT, cybersecurity, game development, and data science.
Professors encourage hands-on projects and internships, so I solve real-world problems. They support research, so I can explore robotics or machine learning and develop new ideas and skills.
Graduates work for local tech companies, government agencies, or pursue higher degrees. The University of Hawaii’s program ranks as one of the best computer science programs in the state.
Public Health and Nursing
Public health and nursing programs in Hawaii focus on serving diverse populations and unique island health needs. Teaching goes beyond textbooks, as I participate in community outreach and clinical training that prepares me for health challenges in Hawaii.
In nursing courses, I learn to provide care in hospitals, clinics, and rural locations. My public health education covers disease prevention, environmental health, and policy—skills needed for work in local and state health departments.
Faculty guide me using real health issues from the Pacific region. This helps me understand health from a global and cultural perspective. The University of Hawaiʻi provides strong resources for students interested in both nursing and public health.
Interdisciplinary and Related Sciences
Science programs in Hawaii connect different fields. These programs combine knowledge from several subjects, so I learn skills useful in many careers.
Psychological and Social Sciences
Studying psychology in Hawaii gives me a clear understanding of human thought and behavior. I see how people act alone and in groups.
Research-driven programs use both theory and practice, so I gain hands-on experience with real-world problems. Social sciences include subjects like sociology, which focuses on communities and social trends.
By learning both psychology and sociology, I understand society’s needs and support change. Many schools in Hawaii offer interdisciplinary social science degrees, showing how areas like public health, education, and counseling work together.
Some programs partner with medical and research institutions, making it easier for me to build a career in mental health, community support, or social research. These degrees include teamwork, discussions, and projects, letting me apply what I learn to real issues in Hawaii.
Business, Economics, and Management
Studying business, economics, and management in Hawaii helps me build decision-making and leadership skills. I learn how economies work, understand markets, and analyze financial trends.
Programs are practical and often involve local Hawaiian businesses and organizations. Many universities in Hawaii now offer interdisciplinary business degrees, so I can study business with topics like information technology or communication.
According to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, some programs also require background in related areas, making these programs well-rounded and current.
Management courses teach me how to lead teams and solve workplace problems. I get opportunities for internships or group projects with businesses across the islands.
This real-world experience builds my resume and teaches me about challenges and opportunities in Hawaii’s local economy.
Political Science and Anthropology
When I study political science, I learn about governments, policies, and how decisions affect daily life. In Hawaii, programs focus on both global issues and local Hawaiian politics.
I also explore the history and development of island government. Anthropology helps me see how cultures grow and interact.
Courses focus on Pacific Island societies, giving me insight into traditions, languages, and customs found in Hawaii. This makes my learning personal and relevant.
Some interdisciplinary programs combine political science with anthropology. I join research projects or community programs that connect me with local leaders and cultural groups, helping me understand Hawaii’s unique society.
Art, Design, and Humanities Connections
Studying science in Hawaii often includes creative partnerships with art, design, English, and history. Exploring these fields together helps me understand scientific topics and find new ways to solve problems.
Art and Science Collaborations
Some Hawaii colleges bring art and science classes together for unique projects. For example, I participate in digital media projects that use science topics for inspiration.
Students create animations that explain scientific ideas or design posters to share research at local events. I join hands-on art workshops in biology or earth science classes.
These sessions let me draw life cycles or paint landscapes based on field studies. I remember facts better when I connect them to something I create.
Some schools host science-art exhibits to share both the scientific process and creative results. These activities make learning interactive and show how visual arts bring science concepts to life.
Design and Engineering Integration
In Hawaii’s schools, design skills help anyone interested in engineering or technology. When I study design, I use computer programs to build models and test ideas before making real prototypes.
This step helps catch mistakes early. Team projects often mix design and engineering students together.
We build things like small robots or solar panels, with design students focusing on appearance and function, and engineering students handling the technical side. This teamwork prepares me for real jobs, where combining different skills matters.
One well-known program is New Media Arts at Kapiʻolani Community College. There, students take courses in interactive and graphic design that connect art, technology, and engineering.
These classes teach creative thinking and problem-solving, which are important in many science-based careers.
English and History in Science
English and history classes help me understand why scientific discoveries happen. By reading old scientific texts, I learn how ideas change over time.
When I write research papers or give presentations, my English skills help me share my findings clearly. History courses in Hawaii look at local science events, like early volcano research or the start of the astronomy community.
Learning about the past helps me see how cultural and scientific progress fit together. Studying these subjects shows that science connects to people and places.
Practicing communication and learning from history makes me a better scientist. I can explain my work to different audiences and respect the traditions that shape science in Hawaii.
Student Experience in Hawaiian Science Programs
Student life in Hawaiian science programs feels lively and interactive. I experience hands-on learning and supportive guidance.
Many programs foster close relationships between students and faculty. I have access to helpful campus resources.
Student Life and Campus Resources
When I joined a summer science program in Hawaii, I spent my days on group projects, field trips, and activities exploring local ecosystems. I studied real issues like Hawaiian forest conservation and marine biology outside the classroom.
Daily Schedule Examples:
- Morning lab sessions
- Afternoon hikes or field studies
- Evening group discussions
On campus, I visit libraries, tech labs, and study lounges. The University of Hawaii has support staff who help me find research materials and answer my science questions.
I meet students from other islands who share my interests. The programs offer meals, housing, and safe transportation.
I feel like I belong, surrounded by mentors and peers who value teamwork and curiosity.
Faculty and Research Support
Faculty members are approachable and helpful. Professors and research mentors teach me science skills and guide my projects.
In some programs, a mentor checks in every week and reviews my progress. Their feedback helps me improve.
At the University of Hawaii at Hilo, I see undergraduate and high school students work with scientists on tropical conservation research. Faculty teach lab techniques and sometimes invite me to join research.
Small class sizes make it easy for me to ask questions. Regular workshops introduce tools like microscopes or environmental sensors.
Support from faculty and research assistants gives me confidence to try new things and explore different STEM careers.
Admissions, Tuition, and Rankings
Students and families often want to know about costs, admission scores, and personal attention from teachers. Here are the main details.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition for science programs in Hawaii varies by school. At the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, in-state undergraduate tuition is about $12,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $34,000.
Private schools, like Hawaii Pacific University, usually charge more, with tuition often above $30,000 a year. Financial aid is available for many students.
Options include grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Many colleges, including top Hawaii universities, offer both need-based and merit-based aid.
It’s smart to fill out the FAFSA early to see what you qualify for. Some schools have special scholarships for science majors or Hawaii residents.
Always check the school’s website for the latest information about tuition and financial aid.
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Average Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|
| UH Mānoa | $12,000 | $34,000 | $8,000 |
| Hawaii Pacific University | N/A | $31,000 | $13,000 |
| Chaminade University | N/A | $29,000 | $14,000 |
Test Scores and Acceptance Rates
Most science programs in Hawaii no longer require the SAT or ACT for admission. Schools focus more on grades, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.
At leading Hawaii colleges, the average accepted student usually has a GPA above 3.5. The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa has an acceptance rate of about 84%.
Hawaii Pacific University’s acceptance rate is about 76%. Each school may have different requirements for high school science or math classes.
If you want to stand out, take challenging courses like AP Chemistry or Biology.
Student Teacher Ratio
Science students in Hawaii benefit from small class sizes. Professors can give more personal attention to each student.
At the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, the student teacher ratio is about 13:1. Chaminade University offers even smaller classes, with a 12:1 ratio.
This low ratio helps me get to know my teachers and classmates better. I can ask questions and get quick feedback on labs and assignments.
Colleges in Hawaii focus on hands-on learning. The small class sizes are especially helpful during lab sessions.
This approach helps me build skills and confidence in science courses. For more on class sizes and academics, you can check the best colleges in Hawaii.
