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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Hawaii Pacific University

Honolulu, Hawaii · www.hpu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

85.9%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$34,392

$55,442 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

3,533

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

38.2%

4-year; 6-year rate 45.5%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) is a private university located in Honolulu, Hawaii, known for its vibrant multicultural environment and commitment to academic excellence. Established in 1970, HPU has grown to become one of the largest private universities in the state, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university emphasizes a global perspective, attracting students from over 65 countries, which enriches the learning experience and promotes cross-cultural understanding. HPU's campus is situated in a picturesque setting, just a stone's throw away from beautiful beaches and the Pacific Ocean, providing students with a unique and inspiring backdrop for their studies.

The university prides itself on small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty members. Many professors at HPU are active in their respective fields, bringing real-world experience into the classroom. The university also offers various student services, including academic advising and career development resources, which support students in achieving their academic and professional goals. In addition to academics, HPU promotes a vibrant campus life, offering numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that encourage student involvement and community engagement. With a strong focus on preparing students for successful careers, HPU boasts a robust alumni network, with graduates thriving in various industries both locally and globally.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Hawaii Pacific University

Hawaii Pacific University, a private institution, has experienced notable trends in tuition, student enrollment, and graduation rates over recent years. The tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a significant increase, rising from $20,180 in 2014 to $36,080 in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 79%, reflecting a broader trend in rising higher education costs across the United States. Such tuition hikes can pose challenges for prospective students and families, potentially impacting enrollment numbers.

In terms of student enrollment, the total number of undergraduate students has steadily declined from 5,582 in 2014 to 4,151 in 2023. This drop of over 25% raises concerns about the university's appeal and accessibility. A declining student population could lead to reduced revenue for the institution, further complicating its financial situation amidst increasing tuition costs.

Graduation rates also provide insight into the institution's performance. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has improved from about 22% in 2013 to approximately 31% in 2023. This positive trend suggests that the university may be enhancing its support services and academic programs, leading to better student outcomes. However, the retention rate has fluctuated, with a notable decline to around 58.8% in 2023 from higher figures in previous years. This instability raises questions about student satisfaction and the effectiveness of retention strategies.

Overall, while Hawaii Pacific University is making strides in graduation rates, it faces significant challenges with rising tuition and declining enrollment. These factors will require careful attention and strategic planning to ensure the institution's long-term viability and success.

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Honolulu
Nearest international airport
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), about 4 mi
Honolulu, Hawaii
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
John Gotanda (President)
Phone
8085440200
City
Honolulu, Hawaii
Address
1 Aloha Tower Drive, Honolulu, HI 96813

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
83.8%
Women
86.3%

In 2020: men 70.2%, women 76.4%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions and Enrollment at Hawaii Pacific University

The admission data from Hawaii Pacific University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly regarding acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. The data shows a decline in male acceptance rates from approximately 84% in 2009 to about 84% in 2023, while female acceptance rates have experienced a similar decline from around 88% to 88%. This suggests that while the university has aimed for a diverse student body, the competition for spots has intensified over the years.
Notably, the enrollment numbers peaked in 2022 with 790 students, indicating a possible response to increased outreach or program offerings. However, this was followed by a notable drop to 582 in 2023, which raises questions about the university's attractiveness and the potential impact of external factors such as changing demographics or shifts in higher education preferences post-pandemic.
The number of denied applicants has fluctuated significantly, peaking at 1,795 in 2022, which may reflect a tightening of admission standards or an increase in applications. The high number of deferred admissions, especially in 2021 and 2022, suggests that many students may have chosen to postpone their studies due to uncertainties in the educational landscape, perhaps influenced by the ongoing effects of COVID-19.
This data highlights the evolving nature of college admissions and the challenges institutions like Hawaii Pacific University face in balancing enrollment, accessibility, and maintaining quality. Overall, the trends indicate a need for continuous adaptation to attract and retain students in a competitive environment.

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

Nursing School#195▲99

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 · 15% submitted SAT, 9% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total998–1200Peer median 1158
ACT composite19–27
SAT Reading
510–610
600700800
SAT Math
488–590
600700800
ACT composite
19–27
253036

Data insights

Admissions Trends at Hawaii Pacific University

The admission data from Hawaii Pacific University reveals significant fluctuations in student performance on standardized tests over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the number of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied considerably, with the percentage of admitted students contributing their scores showing a notable decline in recent years. For instance, in 2007, 77% of the admitted students submitted SAT scores, while this percentage dropped to just 18% by 2023.

The range of SAT reading and math scores has also experienced changes. Initially, the 25th percentile for SAT reading started at 420 in 2007 and showed gradual improvement, peaking at 540 by 2012. However, it declined to 530 in 2023. The upper ranges of these scores have shown a similar trend, indicating either a change in the applicant pool or a shift in the university's admissions strategy.

As for ACT scores, while specific data is not presented here, the trend of declining submission rates may reflect a broader national trend where students are increasingly opting for test-optional policies in college admissions. This shift has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted many institutions to reconsider the weight of standardized test scores in their admissions processes.

Overall, these trends suggest that Hawaii Pacific University is witnessing a transformation in its applicant demographics and admissions criteria, aligning with a growing movement towards more holistic evaluations of student potential beyond standardized testing.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

14,206 applicants in 2025, 85.9% admitted

12,198 admitted 2,008 not admitted Yield 3.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1170 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's54929 international (5.3%)
Master's24015 international (6.3%)
Doctoral1071 international (0.9%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
120
Business Administration and Management, General
92
Psychology, General
44
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
43
Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography
39
Computer Science
24
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
23
Communication, General
16
Environmental Studies
15
Public Health, General
14

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral93 (0% international)
  • Business/Commerce, General · Master's61 (11% international)
  • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's44 (0% international)
  • Public Health, General · Master's26 (0% international)
  • Nursing Practice · Doctoral14 (7% international)
  • Social Work · Master's13 (8% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Hawaii Pacific University 2023

The graduation data for Hawaii Pacific University in 2023 reflects notable trends across various disciplines, particularly in the fields of health, business, and education. Notably, in the health sector, registered nursing and public health programs produced a total of 37 graduates, indicating a strong focus on healthcare professions, which is consistent with the increasing demand for healthcare services globally. This trend is further emphasized by the recent public health challenges faced worldwide, underscoring the importance of training in this field.

In the realm of business education, traditional programs yielded a significant number of graduates, highlighting the university's commitment to preparing students for a competitive job market. The business administration sector, in particular, is fostering a new generation of professionals equipped to tackle challenges in various industries. Interestingly, while the number of international students graduating in business remains modest, it reflects the university's growing global presence.

Educational programs also show promise, with a total of 25 graduates across various teaching disciplines, echoing the critical need for educators in both elementary and secondary education. This aligns with broader societal efforts to enhance educational quality and accessibility. Additionally, the presence of international students in these programs indicates a rich cultural exchange that benefits the academic environment.

Overall, Hawaii Pacific University is successfully aligning its graduation outcomes with labor market demands, particularly in health, business, and education sectors. This strategic focus not only prepares graduates for immediate employment but also supports long-term career growth in increasingly vital fields.

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

Health professionshas 326 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Public Health, General.-
Physical Therapy/Therapist.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$91,251-$103,868
Nursing Practice.$91,251-$103,868
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other.-
Businesshas 178 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business/Commerce, General.$56,757
Business Administration and Management, General.$55,921-$84,754
Organizational Leadership.$55,921-$84,754
Labor and Industrial Relations.-
Human Resources Development.-
Management Information Systems and Services, Other.-
Liberal arts has 87 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
General Studies.-
Biologyhas 67 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$34,442
Biochemistry.-
Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography.$31,726
Homeland security has 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$45,008
Homeland Security.-
Computer and information sciencehas 49 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Psychology has 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$36,777
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
International/Globalization Studies.-
Marine Sciences.-
Sustainability Studies.-
Business Analytics.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Public administrationhas 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Public Administration.$47,534
Social Work.$58,707
Educationhas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Elementary Education and Teaching.$62,646
Secondary Education and Teaching.$62,646
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor.-
Communication has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Communication, General.$43,124
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Natural resources has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental Science.-
Water, Wetlands, and Marine Resources Management.-
Social sciencehas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
National Security Policy Studies.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Engineeringhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering.-
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.-
History has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Military History.-
Visual and Performing artshas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Digital Arts.-
Fine and Studio Arts Management.-
Physical scienceshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Oceanography, Chemical and Physical.-
English has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-

Students

4,921 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 56.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,533)

Two or more races
949 · 26.9%
Hispanic
752 · 21.3%
White
688 · 19.5%
Asian
392 · 11.1%
International
268 · 7.6%
Black
158 · 4.5%
Unknown
106 · 3.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
27.1%
18–19
20.8%
20–21
20.5%
22–24
13.0%
25 and over
18.6%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.2%
22–24
15.6%
25–29
18.9%
30–34
17.1%
35 and over
47.2%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Hawaii Pacific University in 2023

The student body composition at Hawaii Pacific University for 2023 reflects a diverse and vibrant community. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 582 students, with a significant majority of 75.1% being female, which indicates an increasing trend of women pursuing higher education. This pattern is consistent across the undergraduate continuing students, where 65.6% are also female, suggesting that women are not only entering college in larger numbers but are also remaining enrolled.

Interestingly, the transfer students present a more balanced gender distribution, with males making up 45.7% of the group. This shift may suggest that transfer students, who often bring experience from other institutions, may exhibit different demographic trends compared to first-time freshmen.

The graduate student population, consisting of 725 students, also follows the trend of a higher female representation at 65.1%. This aligns with national trends showing that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, highlighting their growing presence in academia.

Furthermore, the data indicates a notable presence of various racial and ethnic groups among the students, although specific breakdowns for the current year are not fully available. Historically, universities in the U.S. have been making efforts to enhance diversity, and it appears that Hawaii Pacific University is continuing this trend.

Overall, the demographic data from 2023 illustrates a university environment that is becoming more inclusive, with a strong representation of women and a diverse student population, which is crucial for fostering a rich educational experience.

Demographic Insights on Student Age Composition at Hawaii Pacific University

The age distribution of students at Hawaii Pacific University reveals some interesting trends that reflect broader societal patterns in higher education. A significant proportion of the student body consists of individuals under the age of 24, with nearly 60% of the total population falling within this age bracket. This is indicative of the traditional college demographic, where younger students typically pursue undergraduate degrees immediately after high school.

Notably, the number of male undergraduates is impressive, especially in the under 18 category, with 452 males compared to 679 females. This trend continues in the 18-19 age group, highlighting a potential gender disparity as the transition to higher education begins. Interestingly, as students progress into the 20-21 and 22-24 age ranges, the male figures decline, while female enrollment appears more stable, suggesting that females may be more likely to continue their education.

The data also indicates a small but significant presence of graduate students, particularly among the 22-24 and 25-29 age groups, where the numbers of both male and female students are notable. This could reflect the increasing trend of individuals pursuing advanced degrees, often later in life as they gain work experience or seek career advancement.

In terms of older students, those aged 30 and above comprise a smaller percentage of the student body, yet they contribute to the diversity of experiences and perspectives within the learning environment. This aligns with rising trends in lifelong learning, where individuals return to education for personal or professional development.

Overall, the age demographics at Hawaii Pacific University illustrate a vibrant and diverse student population, with strong representation from younger individuals, while also highlighting the importance of supporting non-traditional students in their educational journeys.

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.

Undergraduates7.6%

268 in 2025 · 10.9% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 10.9%2017: 10.8%2018: 10.0%2019: 10.4%2020: 7.3%2021: 4.3%2022: 8.9%2023: 11.3%2024: 9.0%2025: 7.6%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students3.3%

46 in 2025 · 22.6% in 2016

0% 12.5% 25% 2016: 22.6%2017: 17.4%2018: 14.7%2019: 15.0%2020: 16.2%2021: 6.8%2022: 15.8%2023: 12.3%2024: 5.7%2025: 3.3%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Hawaii Pacific University

The data regarding international student enrollment at Hawaii Pacific University reveals significant trends over the years. Between 2004 and 2023, the number of undergraduate students and the proportion of international students have experienced noticeable fluctuations. In 2004, international students made up 15.8% of the undergraduate population, a figure that has since declined to 11.35% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changes in global mobility, visa regulations, and competition from other universities that attract international students.

In contrast, the graduate student enrollment data paints a different picture. The percentage of international students in graduate programs peaked at 34.97% in 2007 but has since decreased to 12.28% by 2023. The sharp drop in the ratio of international graduate students could reflect broader trends in higher education, particularly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted traditional academic pathways and led to uncertainties regarding travel and study abroad.

Moreover, the overall decline in total student enrollment at Hawaii Pacific University over the years suggests that the institution may need to strategize on how to attract and retain both domestic and international students. The fluctuation in international student numbers highlights the importance of adapting to changing global circumstances, enhancing recruitment efforts, and fostering an inclusive environment that appeals to a diverse student body. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, universities must remain proactive to maintain their international student enrollment levels.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$55,442

Undergraduate tuition
$34,392
Room and board
$21,050
Graduate tuition
$21,485
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 53% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 55%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$112M

Tuition and fees
$75.8M67.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$13.5M12.0%
Gifts and private grants
$6.1M5.5%
Sales and services of educational activities
$5.6M5.0%
Government grants and contracts
$4.5M4.1%
Investment return
$3.1M2.8%
Other
$3.3M3.0%

Expenses$113M

Institutional support
$43.2M38.2%
Instruction
$21.0M18.6%
Student services
$15.8M14.0%
Academic support
$15.7M13.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$12.6M11.1%
Research
$4.8M4.3%

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.

All faculty
$85,457peers $68,006
Professor
$102,804peers $78,041
Associate professor
$90,648peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$84,136peers $63,827
Instructor
$65,616peers $55,171
Lecturer
$59,329peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Pacific West Conference

Pacific West Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer2426
Baseball44-
Basketball1613
Gymnastics-26
Volleyball-24
Softball-23
Beach Volleyball-19
Tennis98
Cross Country69
Golf66
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer1418
Baseball22-
Basketball1210
Beach Volleyball-19
Volleyball-15
Golf85
Gymnastics-13
Softball-12
Cross Country65
Tennis55
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3025
Baseball42-
Gymnastics-27
Basketball1610
Tennis1111
Volleyball-17
Golf97
Softball-16
Cross Country69

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Hawaii Pacific University:

  1. University of Hawaii at Manoa - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its research initiatives and beautiful campus.

  2. Stanford University - A prestigious institution ranked 3rd in the nation, Stanford is renowned for its academic excellence and innovation across various fields.

  3. University of California-Berkeley - Ranked 15th, UC Berkeley is a leading research university known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  4. University of California-Davis - With a ranking of 28, UC Davis is recognized for its research and commitment to sustainability, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  5. University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is known for its strong academic programs and dynamic campus culture, making it a top choice for students from around the world.

These institutions are known for their strong academic programs and vibrant campus communities, making them excellent choices for students considering higher education in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
126
Drug referrals
46
Motor vehicle theft
17
Rape
7
Burglary
4
Robbery
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Hawaii Pacific University

The crime data from Hawaii Pacific University reveals a concerning trend over the years, particularly in the increases observed in specific types of offenses. From 2013 to 2018, the average number of crimes per 1000 students rose sharply, culminating in a significant peak in 2018 with an alarming rate of 5.07. This spike in crime could indicate a range of factors, including heightened awareness of reporting mechanisms or an actual increase in criminal activity on or around campus.

Notably, the data shows a decline in crime rates in 2020 and 2021, with figures dropping to 2.64 and 1.89 respectively. This could be attributed to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in reduced campus activity and student presence. However, in 2022 and 2023, the rates began to climb again, suggesting that the university may be facing ongoing challenges in maintaining campus safety.

Particularly concerning is the number of drug-related arrests and alcohol offenses, which have shown fluctuations but consistently appear as significant issues. The university community must prioritize safety and support measures, including counseling and educational programs aimed at reducing substance abuse and promoting safer behaviors among students.

In summary, while the data reflects some variation, the overall trend suggests the need for sustained efforts in crime prevention and community engagement to ensure a safe environment for all students. For more details on calculating crime rates, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Hawaii Pacific University include Sarah Palin (Former Alaska governor and 2008 Republican VP nominee), Tulsi Gabbard (Former US Director of National Intelligence) and Christopher Loeak (Former President of the Marshall Islands).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

  • Sam Rasoul 1981–

    Virginia House of Delegates member and attorney

    Also attended: Roanoke College

  • Secilil Eldebechel 1968–

    Palauan politician, nominated as finance minister in 2013

  • Lauren Cheape 1987–

    Hawaii State House member and pageant titleholder

Arts and media

  • Carolyn Suzanne Sapp 1967–

    Miss America 1992, first from Hawaii

Sports

  • Demetrius Beauchamp 1991–

    American Samoan national team soccer player

  • Rico Garcia 1994–

    Major League Baseball pitcher

  • Jeremy Zielinski 1999–

    Soccer player

    Also attended: Stonehill College

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.