Hawaii Pacific University

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Average Rating: 58.7 Average Consensus: 69 Average Review: 76.8
No College Consensus
AVERAGE: 69
No Publisher Consensus
AVERAGE: 58.7
64.4
Student Consensus
AVERAGE: 76.8
Student Reviews
Scores last updated on January 6, 2024
87%
Percent Admitted
31%
4-year Graduation Rate
4,876
Enrollment
16.0:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
$14,953
Average Undergraduate Students Aid
$31,940
In-State Tuition and Fees
$31,940
Out-of-State Tuition and Fees
= Average
Sector
Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Carnegie Classification
Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
Religious Affiliation
Not applicable

Founded in 1965, Hawaii Pacific University has needed just half a century to grow into Hawaii’s largest, most acclaimed independent private institution. Without a private liberal arts college in Honolulu, Hawaii’s largest city, Hawaii Pacific was organized by a group of prominent business and civic leaders, absorbing an older Christian college along the way. In the decades that followed Hawaii Pacific has earned a strong reputation for its educational excellence, diversity, and values, gaining U.S. News & World Report recognition as one of the top regional universities in the West – and the top 5 for non-religious, liberal arts colleges.

Academic Programs

As an independent, non-sectarian private institution, Hawaii Pacific’s curriculum is built on the traditional, classical liberal arts, with a deep grounding in the humanities, sciences, and arts at the heart of all learning. HPU is also dedicated to the values and mission of Hawaii, expressed in their commitment to Aloha – principles of humility, kindness, patience, and unity as expressed in traditional Hawaiian culture. All of Hawaii Pacific’s programs, from academic to professional studies, are rooted in critical thinking, social responsibility, and a global perspective. Even as a mid-sized university, HPU keeps a student/faculty ratio of 13:1, with nearly all faculty members holding the highest degree in their field.

While HPU is rooted in the traditional liberal arts, the university has become well-known throughout the islands, the Western US, and the Pacific Rim for their top-tier professional programs, especially in business and nursing. The Entrepreneurship Center, for instance, is bolstered by wide industry partnerships. Hawaii Pacific is also known as a military-friendly institution, thanks to its ROTC program, outreach to military bases throughout Hawaii and the Pacific, and its highly developed online offerings.

Student Life

Hawaii Pacific is a highly diverse institution, just like Hawaii itself. The student body of 7000 includes students from all 50 states and 80 foreign countries, with a backgrounds including Asian, Pacific Islander, Latino/Hispanic, and European descent all recognized. Diversity is appreciated as one of HPU’s greatest strengths, and cross-cultural friendships, collaboration, and activities are highly encouraged. Around 55% of the student body is female. It’s all a part of HPU’s mission to create graduates who are prepared for leadership in a modern, global society.

The HPU Sharks Division II athletic program includes 14 men’s and women’s teams in sports including basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer. Students also take part in numerous official clubs and organizations, from special interests like the Gardening Club or the Anime Club, to professional organizations like the Developing Women Leaders group. Numerous opportunities for leadership and service are provided by official groups and institutional activities, and community service is a key part of HPU’s dedication to Hawaiian life and values.

Ready to start your journey?

Ready to start your journey?