University of Hawaii-West Oahu
Acceptance rate
95.3%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$20,544
In-state $7,584
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
2,814
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
19.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 32.7%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Hawaii-West Oahu (UHWO) is a public university located in Kapolei, Hawaii, and is part of the University of Hawaii System. Established in 1976, UHWO offers a unique blend of higher education that emphasizes both academic excellence and the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. The university's mission is to provide a comprehensive education and foster lifelong learning, which is reflected in its diverse array of programs and a strong commitment to community service. The campus is known for its beautiful surroundings, integrating the natural beauty of Hawaii with modern educational facilities, creating an inspiring environment for students.
In terms of academic offerings, UHWO primarily focuses on undergraduate programs, with a strong emphasis on liberal arts and professional studies. Popular majors include Business Administration, Public Administration, and Social Sciences, all designed to prepare students for successful careers in various fields. The university prides itself on providing a supportive learning atmosphere, with small class sizes that promote personalized attention and engagement between students and faculty. Additionally, UHWO is dedicated to fostering a vibrant campus culture that celebrates diversity and encourages student involvement in extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and cultural events. This holistic approach to education not only enhances the academic experience but also prepares graduates to be informed and engaged citizens.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The University of Hawaii-West Oahu, a public institution, has exhibited notable trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $6,336 in 2014 to a steady $7,584 from 2020 onward, marking a significant increase but stabilizing in recent years. Conversely, out-of-state undergraduate tuition has seen a similar upward trajectory, starting from $17,856 in 2014 and reaching $20,544 by 2023. This consistent increase in tuition reflects a broader trend in higher education where costs are continually rising, potentially influencing students' decisions regarding enrollment and financial planning.
Graduation rates at the university reveal a concerning trend. The percentage of students graduating on time has fluctuated, with a low of 0% in 2019, which is alarming compared to a peak of 16.67% in 2020. However, there was a notable recovery in 2023, with the rate reaching approximately 15.98%. This inconsistency may indicate challenges in student support and engagement, which are crucial for timely graduation.
Retention rates present a mixed picture. The retention of undergraduate students peaked at around 76.36% in 2020 but dropped to approximately 68.85% in 2023. This decline suggests potential issues in maintaining student satisfaction and engagement, which are essential for long-term success at any academic institution.
These metrics collectively paint a picture of a university facing challenges typical of many higher education institutions today, including rising costs and fluctuating student success rates. Addressing these issues will be vital for improving overall student outcomes and ensuring the institution's sustainability and reputation in the competitive landscape of higher education.
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Honolulu, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), about 9 mi
- Also known as
- UH West Oahu / UHWO
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Maenette KP Benham (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 8086892800
- Address
- 91-1001 Farrington Highway, Kapolei, HI 96707-4507
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 81.6%, women 86.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at University of Hawaii-West Oahu
The admission data from the University of Hawaii-West Oahu reflects significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years from 2009 to 2023. Initially, in 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 57.8%, while female acceptance was around 78.2%. This gap in acceptance rates highlights a trend seen in many universities where female candidates tend to be favored in admissions policies, possibly due to ongoing efforts to promote gender equity in higher education.
As the years progressed, the male acceptance rate experienced a notable increase, peaking at approximately 95.3% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate also rose to 96.8%. This indicates a shift in the institution's admission strategy, potentially in response to a growing applicant pool or institutional goals related to diversity and inclusion.
Enrollment numbers saw a dramatic rise from 35 students in 2009 to 301 in 2014, showcasing the university's expanding appeal and possibly the effectiveness of its recruitment strategies. However, the subsequent years exhibited fluctuations in enrollment figures, with a peak of 297 in 2017 and a slight decrease to 216 in 2023.
Interestingly, the number of students denied admission varied significantly, with the highest number being 368 in 2020. This spike could correlate with the pandemic's impact on higher education, as many institutions saw increased applications due to students opting for safer, local educational options.
Overall, the trends indicate a responsive admission process that adapts to changing demographics and societal factors, while the consistent rise in female acceptance rates reflects broader shifts towards gender equality in education.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 7% submitted SAT, 48% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at University of Hawaii-West Oahu
The data from the University of Hawaii-West Oahu presents a notable trend in the admission test scores over the years, particularly for SAT and ACT. A significant observation is the gradual increase in the SAT reading and mathematics scores among admitted students from 2009 to 2023, indicating a rising academic standard and competitiveness within the applicant pool. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading score increased from a low of 370 in 2009 to 510 in 2023, while the 75th percentile score climbed from 500 to 610. This upward trajectory suggests that the university is attracting higher-performing students, which could be reflective of broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly emphasizing standardized test performance.
Moreover, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has seen a significant decline, dropping from 77% in 2009 to just 9% in 2022 and 2023. This could be indicative of a national shift where more colleges are adopting test-optional policies, responding to criticisms regarding the equity of standardized testing. The decline in submission rates may also correlate with a growing focus on holistic admissions processes, considering factors beyond test scores.
Conversely, the ACT scores demonstrate a more stable pattern, with consistent submission rates and scores over the years. This stability could suggest that while SAT submission is waning, ACT remains a relevant and preferred assessment for a portion of the applicant pool.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of admission test scores at the University of Hawaii-West Oahu reflects both institutional growth and shifts in the broader educational context, prompting a re-evaluation of how admissions criteria align with student success and institutional goals.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
773 applicants in 2025, 95.3% admitted
737 admitted 36 not admitted Yield 32.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from University of Hawaii-West Oahu
The graduation data from the University of Hawaii-West Oahu reveals intriguing insights into the academic landscape of the institution, particularly in the realm of undergraduate education. Business Administration and Management leads the pack with 219 graduates, comprising 0.9% international students, indicating the program's strong appeal among local students. This aligns with broader trends in higher education, where business degrees are consistently among the most sought after due to their versatility and relevance in the job market.
Public Administration and Social Sciences also show noteworthy numbers, with 115 and 106 graduates respectively, reinforcing the importance of these fields in fostering civic engagement and social awareness among students. The absence of international students in these programs may suggest a need for more targeted recruitment strategies to attract a diverse student body, especially as global perspectives become increasingly vital in these disciplines.
Interestingly, the data shows a significant drop in numbers for more specialized programs such as Cyber/Computer Forensics and Animation, which only produced 7 and 47 graduates, respectively. This could reflect the niche nature of these fields, potentially impacting future workforce readiness in areas critical to national security and creative industries.
Moreover, the lack of master's or doctoral graduates across all programs indicates a potential gap in advanced educational offerings, which could limit opportunities for students seeking further specialization. As the demand for higher qualifications continues to rise in many sectors, the University may need to consider expanding its graduate programs to better serve its students and the wider community. Overall, the data presents a mixed picture, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement in the university's academic offerings.
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 | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $46,013 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | $45,938 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | $38,024 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | $33,417 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $54,546 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences. | - | |
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $57,959 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $29,429 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism. | - |
Students
2,814 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 77.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,798
- First-year undergraduates 196
- Transfers and others 820
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,814)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Demographic Insights of University of Hawaii-West Oahu Students in 2023
The student population at the University of Hawaii-West Oahu showcases a diverse demographic landscape, particularly notable in the gender distribution among different categories of students. In 2023, the undergraduate new freshmen represent 216 students, with a male-to-female ratio of 44.4% to 55.6%. This slight female majority is a common trend across many educational institutions, reflecting broader societal changes in higher education enrollment patterns.
For the undergraduate continuing students, the numbers increase significantly to 1,813, with a more pronounced disparity in gender representation: 34.5% male and 65.5% female. This trend not only highlights the engagement of women in higher education but also raises questions about the retention rates of male students in comparison to their female counterparts.
The undergraduate transfer students, numbering 462, also exhibit a similar trend with 31.6% male and 68.4% female. The persistent female dominance in these categories indicates a shifting paradigm in educational pursuits, where women are increasingly opting for further studies and career advancement.
Overall, the data reflects a growing trend of female students in higher education, which is consistent with national statistics. As institutions continue to promote inclusivity and diversity, it will be essential to address the underlying factors contributing to these gender disparities. Understanding the reasons behind higher female enrollment can help universities tailor their programs and support systems to foster a more balanced educational environment for all students.
Demographics of University of Hawaii-West Oahu Students: A Closer Look at Age Distribution
The age composition of students at the University of Hawaii-West Oahu reveals significant insights into the educational landscape of this institution. Notably, the majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18 to 24 years. Specifically, students aged 22 to 24 represent the largest demographic group, with 570 individuals, comprising both undergraduate and graduate females and males. This trend aligns with national patterns in higher education, where younger students dominate enrollment figures.
Interestingly, there is a stark absence of graduate male students, indicating that the university may have a predominantly undergraduate focus or that graduate programs are less popular or available at this particular campus. Female students consistently outnumber male students across all age categories, with the largest discrepancy observed in the 20-21 age group, where there are 339 females compared to 147 males. This gender imbalance is reflective of broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been steadily increasing over the years.
Moreover, the data highlights that the population of students aged 30 and above is relatively small, with only 88 students aged 30-34 and even fewer in older categories. This could suggest that the institution primarily attracts younger individuals, potentially due to its programs or campus culture.
As universities continue to adapt to changing demographics and societal needs, understanding the age distribution of the student body at the University of Hawaii-West Oahu is essential for shaping future educational offerings and policies. With the increasing emphasis on lifelong learning, there may be opportunities to engage older students in more programs tailored to their needs.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
11 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at University of Hawaii-West Oahu
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Hawaii-West Oahu reveals significant insights into the trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students increased from 810 to 2913, highlighting a growing interest in the university. However, the number of international students has remained relatively low, with a peak of only 25 in 2018, which translates to about 0.81% of the total undergraduate population that year.
This percentage trend indicates that while the total student body is expanding, international students still make up a small fraction of the population. The percentages fluctuated between 0.30% to 1.05% during the observed years, which could reflect various factors, including global competition among universities, changes in immigration policies, and the university's marketing strategies to attract international students.
In recent years, particularly in 2022 and 2023, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of international students, with 18 students in 2022 and 24 in 2023, resulting in a percentage of 0.60% and 0.82%, respectively. This slight uptick may be indicative of a rebound following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as universities worldwide have been striving to restore international enrollment.
Overall, while the numbers suggest a growing interest, the university still has considerable room for improvement in attracting and retaining international students. As global educational trends continue to evolve, the University of Hawaii-West Oahu may need to enhance its strategies to diversify its student body further.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$39,252
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $20,544
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,584
- Room and board
- $18,708
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 5% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 41%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$64.4M
Expenses$62.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding the University of Hawaii-West Oahu:
-
University of Hawaii at Manoa (Rank: 170) - This is the flagship campus of the University of Hawaii System, known for its research programs and diverse student body.
-
San Francisco State University (Rank: 178) - Located in San Francisco, this university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement.
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University of California-Berkeley (Rank: 15) - One of the leading public research universities in the United States, UC Berkeley is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
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Stanford University (Rank: 3) - As one of the most prestigious universities globally, Stanford is well-known for its cutting-edge research and its beautiful campus in the heart of Silicon Valley.
-
University of California-Davis (Rank: 28) - UC Davis is recognized for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science, and health care, making it a key player in research and innovation.
These institutions provide a diverse array of academic programs and opportunities for collaboration, making the area around the University of Hawaii-West Oahu a vibrant educational hub.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges 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 University of Hawaii-West Oahu
The crime statistics from the University of Hawaii-West Oahu reveal a generally low incidence of crime over recent years, with most years reporting zero arrests or offenses per 1,000 students. Notably, the years 2013 through 2018 show no reported incidents, indicating a commendable level of safety on campus during that period.
In 2016 and 2017, there was a slight increase, with a recorded total of two arrests in each year, translating to an average rate of 0.74 and 0.75 per 1,000 students, respectively. This uptick, although minor, suggests that the university experienced some challenges regarding safety in those years. However, the rates remained significantly lower than in many other institutions across the United States, where crime rates can often be a concern.
From 2018 onwards, the statistics returned to low levels, with only one incident per year recorded from 2020 to 2023, maintaining an average rate around 0.32 to 0.34 per 1,000 students. This stability in recent years, despite the global challenges such as the pandemic, reflects positively on the university's safety protocols and community initiatives.
Overall, the data indicates that the University of Hawaii-West Oahu is a relatively safe environment for students, with low crime rates that are likely to foster a conducive learning atmosphere. Continuous efforts in maintaining safety and awareness can further enhance these positive trends. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to the following link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
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.