🥇
$11,304
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad rate
75.2
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: U of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific, Brigham Young University-...
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $6,438 to $35,580/year
Brigham Young University-... offers the most affordable option at $6,438/yr
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 1 master's, 1 doctoral in Hawaii
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Major employers: Hawaiian Airlines, First Hawaiian Bank, HMSA, Kaiser Permanente
Tech hubs in Honolulu and Maui
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Engineering degree programs near 10+ cities across Hawaii
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Hawaii Computer Engineering programs
We rank 6 accredited computer engineering programs in Hawaii using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Hawaii Worth It?
Answer
$102,450
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in Hawaii deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $102,450 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $15,167/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Hawaii
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Hawaii by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in Hawaii
4
Programs ranked
$15,167
Avg tuition/yr
78%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Hawaii ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 2 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific, Brigham Young University-..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Hawaii computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $87,083, 11% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Honolulu, Maui, Kailua metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Hawaiian Airlines, First Hawaiian Bank, HMSA.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $6,438 to $35,580 annually, with an average of $15,167/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 78%, with the highest reaching 90%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Hawaii's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in Hawaii, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Hawaii
1
Programs ranked
$11,304
Avg tuition/yr
66%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Hawaii offers 1 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Hawaii at Manoa, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Hawaii earn a median salary of $102,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Honolulu, Maui, Kailua creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Hawaiian Airlines, First Hawaiian Bank, HMSA actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $11,304/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Hawaii's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$11,304
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad rate
71.6
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in Hawaii
1
Programs ranked
$11,304
Avg tuition/yr
66%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Hawaii is home to 1 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Hawaii at Manoa are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Hawaii PhD holders earning a median of $128,063, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Honolulu, Maui, Kailua region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Hawaiian Airlines, First Hawaiian Bank, HMSA.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Hawaii programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in Hawaii, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Computer Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in Hawaii
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $15,167/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $37,918/year |
| Community college tuition | $3,792/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $91,004 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $22,750 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in Hawaii
State Aid Programs
Hawaii computer engineering students have access to multiple funding pathways, starting with federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). All students should complete the FAFSA at Federal Student Aid to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. The state of Hawaii also offers merit-based support through the Hawaii B Plus Scholarship, available to qualifying students attending University of Hawaii System campuses. This scholarship recognizes academic achievement and helps reduce the cost burden for eligible undergraduate and graduate students in computer engineering programs across the state.
Key Programs & Amounts
Individual institutions in Hawaii provide additional institutional aid packages. The University of Hawaii System administers multiple scholarship programs for computer engineering majors, while private institutions like Hawaii Pacific University and Brigham Young University-Hawaii offer merit scholarships based on academic performance and test scores. Students should contact their institution's financial aid office directly to learn about departmental scholarships specific to computer engineering. Additionally, the UH Transfer Database helps students who begin at community colleges transition affordably to four-year programs while maintaining financial aid eligibility. For comprehensive information about federal student loan options, grants, and repayment plans, visit Federal Student Aid. Prospective students are encouraged to explore College Scorecard for detailed cost and aid data at individual Hawaii institutions.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Hawaii
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in Hawaii. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Engineering Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Hawaii metro areas
Honolulu$113K
Maui$108K
Kailua$102K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Honolulu | $113K |
| Maui | $108K |
| Kailua | $102K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in Hawaii
Find computer engineering jobs in Hawaii. These major employers across Hawaii metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Engineering Jobs in Honolulu
HIHawaiian Airlines
airline
Bank of Hawaii
finance
Oceanit
tech
Pacific Defense Solutions
defense
Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard
military
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Hawaii
State Transfer System
Hawaii's structured transfer system facilitates smooth progression from community colleges to four-year universities for computer engineering students. The UH Transfer Database provides comprehensive articulation agreements and course equivalencies, helping students plan their educational pathways efficiently. With 10 two-year institutions across the islands, community college completion offers an affordable entry point, particularly through programs like Leeward Community College at $3,144 annually. The University of Hawaii System streamlines the transfer process for students seeking to complete their first two years at a community college before advancing to bachelor's degree programs at University of Hawaii campuses.
How Transfers Work
Students leveraging Hawaii's transfer pathways can significantly reduce overall program costs while maintaining educational quality. An associate degree from a community college covers general education and foundational technical coursework, preparing students to transfer directly into junior-level computer engineering programs at 11 four-year institutions statewide. The University of Hawaii at Manoa, University of Hawaii at Hilo, and Hawaii Pacific University have established clear pathways for community college transfers. Students should verify specific prerequisites and course equivalencies through the UH Transfer Database before enrolling. Additionally, the Hawaii B Plus Scholarship supports transfer students at University of Hawaii campuses. For broader context on technical education options, explore Software Engineering in Hawaii and Network Administration in Hawaii as complementary transfer pathways.
Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in Hawaii?
Industry & Workforce
Hawaii offers a unique environment for computer engineering students, with 7 institutions offering programs across the state (IPEDS). The University of Hawaii system serves as the primary hub for computer engineering education, with the flagship University of Hawaii at Manoa dominating completions in the field. Students can choose from 5 bachelor's programs, 1 master's program, and 1 doctoral program across the islands, providing pathways from associate degree through doctoral research (IPEDS). Whether studying on Oahu, the Big Island, or other Hawaiian locations, students benefit from a growing tech ecosystem centered in Honolulu and surrounding regions.
Salary Outlook
The financial appeal of studying computer engineering in Hawaii is significant. Public in-state tuition averages $7,284 annually, while out-of-state students pay approximately $20,556 (IPEDS). The most affordable option, Brigham Young University-Hawaii, charges just $6,438 per year. Merit-based aid through the Hawaii B Plus Scholarship supports students attending University of Hawaii campuses. Beyond affordability, Hawaii's major employers, including the U.S. Military, State of Hawaii government, Hawaiian Airlines, and Kaiser Permanente, create strong career opportunities for computer engineering graduates. Explore related programs like Computer Science in Hawaii, Software Engineering in Hawaii, and Information Technology in Hawaii to broaden your technical education options.
Computer Engineering Program Availability in Hawaii
4 Programs
Hawaii offers 4 accredited computer engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Honolulu, Maui, Kailua.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Hawaii
Employment Outlook
Hawaii's computer engineering job market is shaped by a unique blend of federal military presence, state government operations, and growing private sector demand. The state's strategic location in the Pacific makes it a hub for defense and aerospace technology employers, particularly across Oahu and the Honolulu metropolitan area. According to BLS State Data, Hawaii's technology sector continues to expand, with computer engineering roles seeing steady demand across multiple industries. Major employment centers are concentrated in Honolulu, Hilo, Kailua, Kapolei, and Pearl City, with the Honolulu metro area serving as the primary job market for computer engineering graduates.
Salaries by Metro
The state's Computer Engineering programs produce a substantial talent pipeline, with 190 bachelor's degree completions annually across 5 institutions (IPEDS). The University of Hawaii System, overseen by the University of Hawaii System, plays a critical role in workforce development through its bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Career advancement opportunities are further supported by state-level initiatives like the Hawaii B Plus Scholarship, which provides merit-based funding for students at University of Hawaii campuses. Those considering graduate studies should note that 1 institution offers master's degrees with 32 completions annually, providing pathways for specialized expertise in embedded systems, signal processing, and advanced computing architectures.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Hawaii$66,593$148,553
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in Hawaii
Online Programs
0 available in Hawaii
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$13,650/yr$15,167/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 187
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 49
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Oregon
- Total Programs
- 21
- Median Tuition
- $10,500
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 129
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 74
- Median Tuition
- $44,200
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 24
- Median Tuition
- $12,100
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Hawaii: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Hawaii?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Hawaii based on our methodology are: 1) University of Hawaii at Manoa (66% graduation rate), 2) Hawaii Pacific University, and 3) Brigham Young University-Hawaii. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Hawaii offers 4 total accredited programs across 2 public and 2 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in Hawaii?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in Hawaii vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $15,167/year, while private institutions average $33,367/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $3,792/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $60,668 at public schools to $133,470 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer engineering degree graduates earn in Hawaii?
Computer Engineering professionals in Hawaii earn a median salary of $102,450, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $66,593, while senior roles exceed $148,553. Salaries vary by metro area: Honolulu ($112,695), Maui ($107,573) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer engineering degree programs in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii offers 0 accredited online Computer Engineering programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer engineering degree graduates in Hawaii?
Major Computer Engineering employers in Hawaii include Hawaiian Airlines, First Hawaiian Bank, HMSA, Kaiser Permanente, Servco. The Honolulu and Maui metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Hawaii universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Hawaii's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in Hawaii?
A computer engineering degree program in Hawaii offers strong ROI with a $102,450 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $15,167/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($115,768), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer engineering degree programs take in Hawaii?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in Hawaii are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Hawaii community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Hawaii university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in Hawaii?
Hawaii computer engineering degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Hawaii state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Hawaii's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Hawaii salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.