🥇
$11,304
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
75.7
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Hawaii's defense and federal research presence drives CS demand, with Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Pacific Defense Solutions hiring locally
University of Hawaii at Manoa holds a CAE-R (NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Research) designation, aligning with the state's defense-sector needs
Hakia Research 2026
University of Hawaii at Manoa ranks #1 with $11,304/yr in-state tuition and a 66% graduation rate
The only research university in the state offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral CS degrees under one department
Hawaii CS graduates earn a $102,450 median salary, though the state's high cost of living offsets some of that premium
Job growth projected at 22% through 2032, with most positions concentrated in the Honolulu metro area
Brigham Young University-Hawaii offers an unusually affordable private option at $6,438/yr for CS
Hawaii Pacific University has the highest graduation rate in the state at 90%, but costs $35,580/yr
Leeward Community College provides the cheapest entry point at $3,144/yr with transfer pathways to UH Manoa
Starting at a community college can save over $16,000 in total tuition compared to four years at a university
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Hawaii Computer Science programs
We rank 7 accredited computer science 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 Science Degree Programs in Hawaii Worth It?
Answer
$102,450
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Hawaii deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $102,450 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $12,762/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Hawaii
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Hawaii by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Hawaii
4
Programs ranked
$14,768
Avg tuition/yr
50%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Hawaii ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science 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 science 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 science degrees in Hawaii, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Laie, HIPrivate nonprofit
$6,630
Tuition/yr
53%
Grad rate
74.5
Hakia Score
#4
Hawaii Pacific University
Honolulu, HIPrivate nonprofit
$33,792
Tuition/yr
35%
Grad rate
63.2
Hakia Score
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Hawaii
1
Programs ranked
$11,304
Avg tuition/yr
64%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Hawaii offers 1 master's degree programs in computer science, 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 science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$11,304
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
71.3
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Hawaii
1
Programs ranked
$11,304
Avg tuition/yr
64%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Hawaii is home to 1 doctoral programs in computer science, 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 science 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 Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Hawaii
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $12,762/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $31,905/year |
| Community college tuition | $3,191/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $76,572 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $19,142 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Hawaii
State Aid Programs
Hawaii offers several pathways for financing a computer science degree. The primary federal resource is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through (Federal Student Aid), which unlocks access to grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Hawaii residents attending University of Hawaii campuses may qualify for the Hawaii B Plus Scholarship, a merit-based award designed to support high-achieving students (University of Hawaii System). This scholarship is particularly valuable for students pursuing degrees at institutions like the University of Hawaii at Manoa or University of Hawaii at Hilo, which serve as primary computer science hubs in the state.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state-specific programs, students should explore institutional financial aid packages offered directly by their chosen school. The University of Hawaii System maintains a comprehensive financial aid portal with information on scholarships, grants, and loan options. Federal student aid eligibility, determined through FAFSA completion, covers tuition, fees, and living expenses. Community college students starting at institutions like Leeward Community College benefit from lower sticker prices, which can reduce overall borrowing needs. Students planning to transfer within Hawaii should leverage the (UH Transfer Database) to ensure seamless credential movement and maintain financial aid eligibility throughout their degree pathway.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Hawaii
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science 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 Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science 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 Science 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 Science Graduates in Hawaii
Find computer science jobs in Hawaii. These major employers across Hawaii metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science 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 Science Degrees in Hawaii
State Transfer System
Hawaii offers strong transfer pathways for computer science students through a comprehensive statewide system. The UH Transfer Database (https://www.hawaii.edu/admissions/transfer/) facilitates seamless transfer between institutions within the University of Hawaii System, allowing students to begin their education at community colleges and progress to four-year universities. Hawaii has 10 two-year institutions offering associate's degrees (IPEDS), with Leeward Community College leading in completions (39 in 2023). Other key transfer sources include Kapiolani Community College and Hawaii Community College, all charging $3,144 in annual tuition, making the pathway exceptionally affordable for students entering the field.
How Transfers Work
Students completing associate's degrees in computer science or related programs can transfer directly into bachelor's degree programs at institutions like the University of Hawaii at Manoa, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Brigham Young University-Hawaii, and Hawaii Pacific University. Articulation agreements between community colleges and four-year institutions ensure that coursework credits transfer appropriately, minimizing delays and additional costs. The UH Transfer Database provides detailed information about course equivalencies and transfer requirements. Additionally, students should explore national affordable programs to understand comparative pathways outside Hawaii. The Hawaii B Plus Scholarship (https://www.hawaii.edu/) provides merit-based support for University of Hawaii students, including transfer students. This structured pathway enables cost-effective progression from associate's to bachelor's degrees while building technical expertise throughout the journey.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Hawaii?
Industry & Workforce
Hawaii offers a unique setting for computer science education with 8 institutions offering programs across multiple degree levels, from associate's through doctoral degrees (IPEDS). The state produced 193 computer science completions in 2023, demonstrating a solid pipeline of talent. The University of Hawaii at Manoa leads the way with 124 completions, establishing itself as the premier destination for CS education in the islands. For those comparing Hawaii to other tech hubs, explore Computer Science in California and Computer Science in Texas to understand the broader landscape.
Salary Outlook
Hawaii's tech sector is supported by major employers including the U.S. Military, State of Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines, and Kaiser Permanente, creating strong career opportunities for graduates. The Honolulu metropolitan area serves as the primary employment hub, with additional opportunities across Oahu, the Big Island, Maui, and Kauai. Affordability is a key advantage, the average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions is $7,284 annually, significantly lower than the out-of-state average of $20,556 (IPEDS). Prospective students should also explore related fields like Software Engineering in Hawaii, Data Science in Hawaii, and Cybersecurity in Hawaii to identify complementary career paths.
Computer Science Program Availability in Hawaii
5 Programs
Hawaii offers 5 accredited computer science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Honolulu, Maui, Kailua.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Hawaii
Employment Outlook
Hawaii's computer science job market is supported by a diverse employer base and growing opportunities across multiple sectors. The state is home to major employers including the U.S. Military, State of Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines, and Kaiser Permanente, all of which actively recruit computer science professionals. The Honolulu metro area serves as the primary tech hub in the state, offering the highest concentration of tech-focused positions and career advancement opportunities. According to (BLS State Data), Hawaii's technology sector continues to expand, with demand for software developers, systems analysts, and IT professionals remaining strong across government, healthcare, and private sectors.
Salaries by Metro
Entry-level and experienced computer science graduates from Hawaii institutions can explore opportunities in cities including Honolulu, Hilo, Kailua, Kapolei, and Pearl City. The state's geographic location and military presence create unique career pathways in cybersecurity, defense technology, and infrastructure development. Prospective graduates should consider related fields like (Software Engineering in Hawaii), (Data Science in Hawaii), and (Cybersecurity in Hawaii) for broader career options. For comparative market insights, students may also research (Computer Science in California) and (Computer Science in Texas) to understand regional salary variations and career growth trends across the Pacific region.
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 Science Programs in Hawaii
Online Programs
0 available in Hawaii
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$11,486/yr$12,762/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 Science Programs in Other States
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Oregon
- Total Programs
- 30
- Median Tuition
- $8,800
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 89
- Median Tuition
- $40,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $10,300
Computer Science Degree Programs in Hawaii: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Hawaii?
The best computer science 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 5 total accredited programs across 3 public and 2 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Hawaii?
Computer Science degree program costs in Hawaii vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $12,762/year, while private institutions average $28,076/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $3,191/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $51,048 at public schools to $112,306 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 science degree graduates earn in Hawaii?
Computer Science 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 science degree programs in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii offers 0 accredited online Computer Science 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 science degree graduates in Hawaii?
Major Computer Science 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 science degree program worth it in Hawaii?
A computer science degree program in Hawaii offers strong ROI with a $102,450 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $12,762/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 science degree programs take in Hawaii?
Standard completion times for computer science 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 science degree students in Hawaii?
Hawaii computer science 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.