Chaminade University of Honolulu
Acceptance rate
91.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$30,874
$48,374 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,831
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
53.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 66.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Chaminade University of Honolulu, located in the beautiful city of Honolulu, Hawaii, is a private Catholic university known for its commitment to liberal arts education and the development of the whole person. Established in 1955, the university emphasizes a strong sense of community and social responsibility, with a mission rooted in the Marianist tradition. The university's motto, "To be, rather than to seem," reflects its dedication to fostering authentic personal and intellectual growth among its students.
The campus is characterized by its stunning natural surroundings, offering students a unique blend of academic rigor and a vibrant cultural experience. With a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, Chaminade focuses on providing personalized attention through small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, which enhances the learning experience. The university is particularly known for its programs in education, business, and the sciences, preparing graduates for successful careers in various fields. Additionally, Chaminade's commitment to student life is evident in its active campus culture, which includes numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic opportunities that encourage students to engage and connect with one another, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Overall, Chaminade University of Honolulu stands out as a nurturing environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Chaminade University of Honolulu
Chaminade University of Honolulu, a private institution, has seen significant trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. Tuition fees have increased markedly, rising from approximately $20,090 for in-state students in 2014 to $29,970 in 2024, representing a staggering increase of nearly 49%. This upward trend is reflective of a broader concern in higher education, where rising costs can deter potential students and increase student debt loads, which has become a pressing issue in the United States.
Simultaneously, the graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory, especially for on-time graduates. The percentage of undergraduates graduating on time has risen from 25.1% in 2013 to around 43.3% in 2022. This improvement suggests that despite rising tuition, the university may be enhancing its academic support services, thereby enabling students to complete their degrees within the expected timeframe.
However, student retention rates have fluctuated. From a high of 85.9% in 2020, the rate has dipped to about 70.9% in 2023. This decline could indicate challenges within the student experience, especially considering the increased financial burden from tuition hikes. The retention rate is crucial as it often correlates with student satisfaction and institutional support, and a decline may affect future enrollment.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively steady at around 11:1, which is favorable and indicates that students receive a good level of attention from faculty members. However, maintaining this ratio while adapting to changes in enrollment numbers will be essential for ensuring quality education and support.
In conclusion, while Chaminade University has made strides in improving graduation rates, the challenges posed by rising tuition and fluctuating retention rates must be addressed to ensure the institution remains an attractive option for future students.
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Honolulu
- Nearest international airport
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), about 8 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Lynn Babington (President)
- Phone
- 8087354711
- Address
- 3140 Waialae Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96816-1578
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 94.4%, women 94.7%.
Data insights
Commentary on Admissions Trends at Chaminade University of Honolulu
The admission statistics for Chaminade University of Honolulu over the past years reveal significant insights into the university's evolving selectivity and gender dynamics. The admission rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with male acceptance rates ranging from 87.7% to 98.0%, while female rates have varied between 81.0% and 97.5%. This data indicates a relatively open admission policy, especially in recent years, which could appeal to a wider range of prospective students.
Moreover, the total enrollment figures have demonstrated a gradual increase, peaking at 303 students in 2023. However, there has also been a notable number of denied applications, particularly in 2021, where 189 applicants were turned away, suggesting a more competitive landscape during that period. The university's ability to accommodate a growing student body while managing rejection rates reflects a balance between maintaining academic standards and expanding accessibility.
The high number of deferred admissions, especially in 2020 with 1,227 deferrals, may point to external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted many students' plans for higher education. This trend warrants attention as it highlights the challenges universities face in adapting to unprecedented situations.
Overall, Chaminade University’s admissions data presents a picture of a school striving to maintain a welcoming atmosphere while navigating the complexities of selectivity and enrollment growth. As trends continue to evolve, it will be crucial for the university to monitor these dynamics closely to ensure that it meets the needs of its student population while upholding its academic integrity.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 4% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data for Chaminade University of Honolulu
The admissions data for Chaminade University of Honolulu over the years reveals significant trends in standardized testing and applicant demographics. Firstly, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has shown a notable decline, dropping from 82% in 2007 to just 39% in recent years (2021-2023). This decline may indicate a shift in the university’s admissions strategy, potentially moving away from a heavy reliance on standardized testing as a criterion for acceptance.
Regarding the SAT scores, the 25th percentile score for reading has increased slightly from 400 in 2007 to 500 in 2023, reflecting an upward trend in the academic performance of admitted students. However, the 75th percentile scores have remained relatively stable, suggesting that while the lower end of the score spectrum has improved, the top-performing students’ scores have not seen significant changes.
Additionally, this pattern mirrors broader trends in higher education where many institutions are reassessing the role of standardized tests in their admissions processes. The growing emphasis on holistic admissions practices may be contributing to the decline in test score submissions, as schools look to assess applicants more comprehensively.
Moreover, the overall number of students submitting SAT scores has decreased significantly, from 216 in 2007 to just 103 in 2023. This decline raises questions about prospective students' perceptions of standardized testing and its relevance in contemporary college admissions. As universities continue to adapt to changing educational landscapes, it will be crucial for Chaminade University to consider how these trends affect both their enrollment strategies and the diversity of their student body.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,937 applicants in 2025, 91.4% admitted
1,771 admitted 166 not admitted Yield 16.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counseling Psychology · Master's75 (3% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's36 (6% international)
- Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision · Master's33 (0% international)
- Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's19 (0% international)
- Nursing Practice · Doctoral16 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's15 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Chaminade University of Honolulu
The graduation data from Chaminade University of Honolulu presents interesting insights into the distribution of degrees across various disciplines in 2023. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 91 graduates at the bachelor's level, highlighting the university's commitment to healthcare education. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the post-pandemic landscape where nursing shortages have become a pressing concern nationwide.
In contrast, the Counseling Psychology program produced 73 master's degree graduates, reflecting a growing interest in mental health careers. This surge comes at a time when mental health awareness is at an all-time high, reflecting societal shifts toward prioritizing psychological well-being. Conversely, the Criminal Justice programs, while offering a variety of specializations, show a relatively modest output at the master's level, with only 28 graduates in Law Enforcement Administration.
The data also reveals a significant absence of international students in most programs, marking a potential area for growth for the university. For instance, while there are no international students among the 91 graduates in Registered Nursing, the International Business program has no reported graduates at all, indicating a possible gap in attracting diverse student populations in certain disciplines.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning academic programs with market needs, particularly in healthcare and psychology, while also indicating areas where Chaminade University could enhance its international recruitment efforts to foster a more diverse academic community.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $70,707 | ||||
| Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision. | $70,707 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,527-$55,981 | ||||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $47,527-$55,981 | ||||
| Montessori Teacher Education. | $47,527-$55,981 | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $47,527-$55,981 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $93,310 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $93,310 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $39,606 | ||||
| Clinical Psychology. | $51,977 | ||||
| Counseling Psychology. | $51,977 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $50,391-$70,896 | ||||
| Accounting and Business/Management. | - | ||||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||||
| Management Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $47,053 | ||||
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $47,053 | ||||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | $38,873 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - | ||||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Sciences. | - |
Students
2,709 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 30:70 · Freshman retention 70.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,229
- First-year undergraduates 281
- Graduate students 878
- Transfers and others 321
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,831)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Chaminade University of Honolulu in 2023
In 2023, Chaminade University of Honolulu showcased a diverse student body, particularly in terms of gender representation among different student categories. The undergraduate freshmen comprised 303 students, with a notable 64% being female. This trend of higher female enrollment continued among upperclassmen, where females made up 74.2% of the 1,018 students. The same pattern is observed in the transfer students, with a significant 75% of the 184 students being female.
Graduate students also reflected this tendency, with 72.6% of the 786 graduate students identifying as female. This overall trend towards a higher proportion of female students is consistent with national statistics, which indicate an increasing female presence in higher education institutions.
The racial composition of the student body is another critical aspect. While specific figures are not provided for upperclassmen and transfer students, the data indicates a commitment to diversity, with various ethnicities represented among the freshmen cohort. For instance, the freshman class included a mix of White, Asian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students, suggesting that Chaminade University is working towards creating an inclusive environment for students from various backgrounds.
In conclusion, the demographics of Chaminade University reflect broader trends in higher education, highlighting the increasing enrollment of female students and the importance of diversity within the student body. This commitment to inclusivity is essential for fostering a rich educational experience for all students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Chaminade University of Honolulu
The age distribution of students at Chaminade University of Honolulu reveals a diverse and vibrant academic community, primarily composed of younger individuals. The largest cohort is seen in the 18-19 age group, accounting for approximately 38% of the total female student population and 50% of the male students. This trend suggests that the university is popular among traditional college-aged students, likely fostering a dynamic campus life.
The 20-21 age bracket also showcases significant enrollment, particularly among undergraduate females, with a total of 322 students, further emphasizing the university's appeal to young adults pursuing higher education immediately after high school. Interestingly, enrollment begins to decline in the 22-24 age range, particularly for males, which may indicate a shift towards graduate studies or employment post-undergraduation.
Notably, the data reveals a growing trend of mature students in their late twenties to mid-thirties, particularly among females, suggesting the university's capacity to cater to non-traditional students. This demographic diversity enriches the academic environment, allowing for varied perspectives and experiences in classroom discussions.
However, as age increases, the overall student numbers decline sharply, particularly in the 50-64 and over 65 categories, with very few students electing to pursue degrees later in life. This pattern reflects broader national trends in higher education where older adults are underrepresented, despite growing initiatives aimed at lifelong learning.
Overall, the age composition data illustrates Chaminade University's strength in attracting younger students while also highlighting the potential for enhancing programs aimed at older demographics, thus promoting inclusivity and lifelong education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
6 in 2025 · 1.7% in 2016
6 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Chaminade University
The data on international student enrollment at Chaminade University of Honolulu reveals significant trends over nearly two decades. Overall, the number of undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a gradual decline in both total enrollment and the number of international students. In 2004, international students made up 1.18% of the undergraduate population, a figure that saw some variation but remained relatively low throughout the years, peaking at 1.74% in 2010. However, by 2023, this percentage had dropped to a mere 0.32%.
The graduate student enrollment reflects a similar pattern, with international students constituting a small fraction of the total graduate population. Notably, there was a significant increase in the percentage of international graduate students in 2015, reaching 3.42%, but this was not sustained in subsequent years, with numbers falling back down to 0.60% by 2022.
These trends may reflect broader shifts in global student mobility and changes in U.S. immigration policies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many universities have faced challenges in attracting international students, which could be attributed to travel restrictions and a more competitive global landscape for higher education. As universities strive to recover from these impacts, they must consider strategies to enhance their appeal to international applicants, such as offering more remote learning options and fostering a welcoming campus environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$48,374
- Undergraduate tuition
- $30,874
- Room and board
- $17,500
- Graduate tuition
- $26,880
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 42% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 42%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$70.8M
Expenses$65.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Pacific West Conference
Pacific West Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 27 | 23 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 8 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 32 | 25 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 8 |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 4 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 26 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 7 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
| Tennis | - | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Chaminade University of Honolulu:
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University of Hawaii at Manoa - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its diverse programs and research opportunities, particularly in fields related to the Pacific region.
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Stanford University - A prestigious institution ranked 3rd, Stanford is renowned for its rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life. It is located in California and offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is famous for its distinguished faculty and research output. It offers a comprehensive education with a strong emphasis on social sciences and engineering.
-
University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is recognized for its academic excellence and diverse student body. It is well-known for its programs in film, medicine, and the arts.
-
University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is celebrated for its agricultural and environmental sciences, along with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement.
These institutions provide a variety of academic and research opportunities, contributing to the vibrant educational landscape of the region.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Chaminade University of Honolulu
The crime data from Chaminade University of Honolulu over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in the crime rate per 1,000 students. In 2014, the university experienced a sharp increase in reported incidents, with a crime rate of 4.36, which was a notable contrast to previous years where the rates were considerably lower. This spike could potentially reflect broader societal issues or specific events that occurred within that timeframe.
The years following 2014 saw a peak in crime rates in 2015 at 8.64 per 1,000 students, followed by a dramatic decline in 2018 to just 1.26. This reduction might indicate successful crime prevention measures, increased safety awareness, or a change in student behavior and campus culture. Conversely, the uptick in 2020, possibly linked to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests that external factors can significantly impact campus safety.
Interestingly, incidents related to substance abuse, such as drug and alcohol arrests, seem to be a persistent concern, although the data does not specify exact numbers for each category. The trends also highlight the importance of ongoing efforts to maintain campus safety and address the underlying issues that contribute to crime.
Overall, the data underscores the need for continuous monitoring and proactive strategies to ensure the safety and well-being of students at Chaminade University, as fluctuating crime rates can affect the overall campus environment. For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Chaminade University of Honolulu include Tony Gonzales (Former US representative from Texas), Tony deBrum (Marshallese politician, former foreign minister) and Elaine Duke (Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security).
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Tony Gonzales 1980–
Former US representative from Texas
-
Tony deBrum 1945–2017
Marshallese politician, former foreign minister
-
Elaine Duke 1958–
Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security
-
Kuany Kuany 1994–
South Sudanese-Australian basketball player
-
Melissa Melendez 1968–
California State Senator
-
Amatlain Elizabeth Kabua 1953–
Marshall Islands Permanent Representative to the UN
-
Louis Molina 1972–
Former New York City Correction Commissioner
-
Danny Yamashiro 1967–
Author, MIT chaplain, researcher and podcast host
-
Shannon Nishi 1985–
Karateka and 2019 Pan American Games gold medalist
More alumni (3, by field)
Politics and law
-
Jeffrey Fowler 1956–
Navy vice admiral, 60th Superintendent of the Naval Academy
-
Joey San Nicolas 1973–
Mayor of Tinian in the Northern Mariana Islands
-
Bob McDermott 1963–
Hawaii state legislator
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.