🥇
$11,304
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad rate
75.2
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best data science 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
Data Science 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
Data Science 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 Data Science programs
We rank 6 accredited data 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 Data Science Degree Programs in Hawaii Worth It?
Answer
$102,450
Yes. The best data science 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
Data Science Degree Rankings in Hawaii
Compare the top-ranked Data Science programs in Hawaii by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Data Science 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 data 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 data 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 data science degrees in Hawaii, these top-ranked data science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Data Science 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 data 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 data 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
66%
Grad rate
72.1
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Data Science 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 data 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 data 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.
Data Science 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 Data Science Students in Hawaii
State Aid Programs
Students pursuing data science degrees in Hawaii have access to multiple financial aid pathways, beginning with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Through (Federal Student Aid), undergraduates and graduate students can explore federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Hawaii residents attending University of Hawaii campuses benefit from the Hawaii B Plus Scholarship, a merit-based award designed to support academic achievement. This state-specific program complements federal aid and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible students across the University of Hawaii system's seven institutions offering data science programs.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal resources, individual institutions offer institutional scholarships and assistantships. The University of Hawaii at Manoa, which leads the state with 100 data science completions, provides graduate assistantships and scholarship opportunities for qualified applicants. Hawaii Pacific University and Brigham Young University-Hawaii also maintain institutional aid programs to support their data science learners. Students should consult each institution's financial aid office and explore (College Scorecard) for detailed aid availability and net price calculators. Community college students at institutions like Leeward Community College can leverage federal aid while keeping costs low, then transfer within the (UH Transfer Database) system to complete bachelor's degrees affordably.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator, Hawaii
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data 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.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+697%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,289,731
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
6 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$114,286
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)$2,325,139
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)$120,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.1%
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
Data 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 Data Science Graduates in Hawaii
Find data science jobs in Hawaii. These major employers across Hawaii metro areas are actively hiring data science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data 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 Data Science Degrees in Hawaii
State Transfer System
Hawaii's transfer system is designed to help seamless movement from two-year to four-year institutions, particularly within the University of Hawaii system. The UH Transfer Database provides a comprehensive tool for students to identify how coursework completed at community colleges like Leeward Community College, which offers data science instruction at $3,144 annually, will transfer and apply toward bachelor's degrees at institutions like University of Hawaii at Manoa or University of Hawaii at Hilo. With 10 two-year institutions in the state, students have numerous entry points to begin their data science education at an affordable cost before advancing to a four-year degree.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements between Hawaii's community colleges and universities ensure that students who complete foundational coursework in mathematics, statistics, and computer science at the two-year level will receive full credit toward their bachelor's degree. This pathway is particularly valuable for students seeking to minimize costs, starting at a community college with average tuition of $3,144 and then transferring to a four-year public institution averaging $7,284 in in-state tuition. The UH system's transfer protocols streamline the process, reducing bureaucratic delays and ensuring clear degree pathways. For additional information about transfer options and related fields, explore data analytics in Hawaii and machine learning in Hawaii, which often share course requirements with data science programs.
Why Pursue a Data Science Degree in Hawaii?
Industry & Workforce
Hawaii offers a growing ecosystem for data science education with 7 institutions offering data science programs across the state (IPEDS). The University of Hawaii system dominates the landscape, with the University of Hawaii at Manoa leading the way with 100 completions, making it the clear anchor for data science training in the islands. Whether you're pursuing an associate degree at one of Hawaii's 10 two-year institutions, a bachelor's degree at one of 11 four-year colleges, or an advanced degree, you'll find options across Oahu, the Big Island, and beyond. The state's strategic location in the Pacific makes it an ideal hub for organizations working with military, government, and healthcare sectors that increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making.
Salary Outlook
Major employers in Hawaii, including the U.S. Military, State of Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines, and Kaiser Permanente, actively recruit data science professionals, creating strong employment prospects for graduates (BLS State Data). Studying data science in Hawaii also positions you to work in the Honolulu metro area, one of the state's primary tech and business hubs. For affordability, Hawaii's public four-year institutions average $7,284 in in-state tuition, with schools like Brigham Young University-Hawaii offering programs at just $6,438 annually. Additionally, students attending University of Hawaii campuses may qualify for the Hawaii B Plus Scholarship, a merit-based aid program supporting resident students. Explore how Hawaii's data science programs compare to national best programs and most affordable options across the country.
Data Science Program Availability in Hawaii
4 Programs
Hawaii offers 4 accredited data science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Honolulu, Maui, Kailua.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Science Job Market & Salary Data in Hawaii
Employment Outlook
Hawaii's data science job market is supported by a diverse employer base spanning government, healthcare, hospitality, and defense sectors. The state's major employment centers are concentrated in the Honolulu metro area and across the Big Island, with significant opportunities in Kailua, Kapolei, and Pearl City. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Hawaii's labor market reflects unique demand patterns driven by the state's strategic military presence and growing healthcare infrastructure. Data science professionals in Hawaii benefit from a specialized job market that values expertise in both traditional analytics and emerging technologies.
Salaries by Metro
The University of Hawaii System plays a critical role in workforce development, with 7 institutions across the state offering data science programs at various levels. The system produced 115 bachelor's degree completions, 14 master's degree completions, and 1 doctoral completion in data science, according to IPEDS data. University of Hawaii at Manoa dominates the field with 100 completions, establishing it as the primary pipeline for data science talent in the state. Students interested in career pathways should explore related programs such as Data Analytics in Hawaii and Machine Learning in Hawaii, which offer complementary skill development and networking opportunities within Hawaii's professional ecosystem.
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 Data Science 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 Data Science Programs in Other States
Best Data Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 180
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Oregon
- Total Programs
- 19
- Median Tuition
- $11,100
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 77
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Data Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 120
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 71
- Median Tuition
- $47,600
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 33
- Median Tuition
- $11,400
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $13,900
Data Science Degree Programs in Hawaii: FAQ
What are the best data science degree programs in Hawaii?
The best data 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 4 total accredited programs across 2 public and 2 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do data science degree programs cost in Hawaii?
Data Science 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 data science degree graduates earn in Hawaii?
Data 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 data science degree programs in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii offers 0 accredited online Data 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 data science degree graduates in Hawaii?
Major Data 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 data science degree program worth it in Hawaii?
A data 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 $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 data science degree programs take in Hawaii?
Standard completion times for data 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 data science degree students in Hawaii?
Hawaii data 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.