🥇
$11,304
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad rate
75.2
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best game development 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
Game Development 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
Game Development 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 Game Development programs
We rank 6 accredited game development 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 Game Development Degree Programs in Hawaii Worth It?
Answer
$102,450
Yes. The best game development 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
Game Development Degree Rankings in Hawaii
Compare the top-ranked Game Development programs in Hawaii by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Game Development 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 game development 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 game development 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 game development degrees in Hawaii, these top-ranked game development schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Game Development 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 game development, 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 game development 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 Game Development 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 game development, 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 game development 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.
Game Development 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 Game Development Students in Hawaii
State Aid Programs
Students pursuing game development degrees in Hawaii have access to multiple funding pathways to reduce educational costs. The Hawaii B Plus Scholarship offers merit-based support specifically for students attending University of Hawaii campuses, providing a valuable opportunity for qualifying applicants at institutions like the University of Hawaii at Manoa and University of Hawaii at Hilo. Federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) remains the foundation for most financial packages, allowing students to access grants, loans, and work-study opportunities regardless of institution type. The Hawaii B Plus Scholarship and other state-specific programs are administered through the University of Hawaii System, making them accessible to the 7 institutions in Hawaii offering game development programs.
Key Programs & Amounts
For comprehensive information on federal student aid eligibility, application procedures, and loan options, students should visit Federal Student Aid, which provides personalized aid estimates based on individual circumstances. Many Hawaii institutions also offer institutional scholarships and assistantships that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Community college students transferring within the UH system benefit from the UH Transfer Database, which facilitates seamless credential transfer and can reduce overall degree completion costs. When combined with state and federal grants, these resources make game development education more accessible across Hawaii's diverse student population. Additionally, the College Scorecard at collegescorecard.ed.gov offers detailed financial aid data by institution to help students compare net price and aid packages before enrolling.
Game Development Degree ROI Calculator, Hawaii
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a game development 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.
Game Development Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a game development 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
Game Development 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 Game Development Graduates in Hawaii
Find game development jobs in Hawaii. These major employers across Hawaii metro areas are actively hiring game development degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Game Development Jobs in Honolulu
HIHawaiian Airlines
airline
Bank of Hawaii
finance
Oceanit
tech
Pacific Defense Solutions
defense
Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard
military
Transfer Pathways for Game Development Degrees in Hawaii
State Transfer System
Hawaii's transfer system is streamlined through the UH Transfer Database, which facilitates smooth transitions from community colleges to University of Hawaii four-year institutions. With 10 two-year institutions statewide, including Leeward Community College, University of Hawaii Maui College, Hawaii Community College, and Kauai Community College, each charging $3,144 in annual tuition, students can earn an associate's degree in game development or related fields like computer science before transferring. These community colleges provide foundational coursework in programming, mathematics, and digital media that articulate directly into bachelor's degree programs at universities like University of Hawaii at Manoa and University of Hawaii at Hilo.
How Transfers Work
Transfer agreements within the University of Hawaii System ensure that credits earned at community colleges transfer seamlessly into bachelor's programs, saving students both time and money. Students completing an associate's degree in game development or computer science can enter a four-year institution at the junior level, reducing overall tuition costs. The average public in-state tuition at four-year UH institutions is $7,284 annually, making the community college-to-university pathway significantly more affordable than starting at a four-year campus. The Hawaii B Plus Scholarship further supports transfer students attending University of Hawaii campuses. For strategic career planning, students should explore transfer-friendly programs through Computer Programming in Hawaii, Computer Science in Hawaii, and compare transfer pathways with programs in other states like Game Development in California and Game Development in Texas.
Why Pursue a Game Development Degree in Hawaii?
Industry & Workforce
Hawaii offers a unique environment for aspiring game developers, with 7 institutions across the state providing dedicated game development programs at multiple degree levels. According to IPEDS, Hawaii awarded 120 bachelor's degrees, 14 master's degrees, and 1 doctoral degree in game development during the 2023 academic year. The University of Hawaii at Manoa leads the state with 100 completions, establishing itself as the premier destination for game development education in the islands. This concentration of expertise creates a strong pipeline of skilled professionals entering the field.
Salary Outlook
The cost of education in Hawaii remains competitive compared to national averages. Public four-year institutions charge an average in-state tuition of $7,284 annually, with top-ranked programs like Brigham Young University-Hawaii offering tuition as low as $6,438, making Hawaii one of the most affordable regions for game development study. Students can leverage the Hawaii B Plus Scholarship for merit-based financial aid at University of Hawaii campuses. Major employment hubs across Honolulu, Hilo, and surrounding regions, combined with the presence of major employers like the U.S. Military and State of Hawaii, provide graduates with diverse career pathways. Explore how Computer Science in Hawaii and Software Engineering in Hawaii complement game development credentials for enhanced career prospects.
Game Development Program Availability in Hawaii
4 Programs
Hawaii offers 4 accredited game development programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Honolulu, Maui, Kailua.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Game Development Job Market & Salary Data in Hawaii
Employment Outlook
Hawaii's game development sector represents a niche but growing opportunity within the state's technology landscape. According to BLS State Data, Hawaii's overall tech employment provides context for specialized fields like game development. The state currently has 7 institutions offering game development programs, with 5 bachelor's degree programs producing 120 completions annually. This relatively concentrated pipeline suggests a specialized but active market for game development professionals across the islands.
Salaries by Metro
The Honolulu metro area serves as Hawaii's primary tech hub, where most game development employment opportunities cluster. Beyond traditional game studios, Hawaii's major employers, including the U.S. Military, State of Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines, and Kaiser Permanente, increasingly incorporate interactive media, simulation, and training applications that leverage game development skills. Students graduating from programs like those at University of Hawaii at Manoa, which leads the state with 100 completions, find diverse career pathways in both entertainment and enterprise sectors. For comprehensive salary and employment trend data, prospective students should consult the College Scorecard and BLS resources to understand competitive compensation and job stability in Hawaii's unique market.
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 Game Development 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 Game Development Programs in Other States
Best Game Development Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 202
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 53
- Median Tuition
- $5,500
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Oregon
- Total Programs
- 19
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 81
- Median Tuition
- $7,600
Best Game Development Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 122
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 71
- Median Tuition
- $43,700
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 20
- Median Tuition
- $13,900
Game Development Degree Programs in Hawaii: FAQ
What are the best game development degree programs in Hawaii?
The best game development 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 game development degree programs cost in Hawaii?
Game Development 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 game development degree graduates earn in Hawaii?
Game Development 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 game development degree programs in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii offers 0 accredited online Game Development 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 game development degree graduates in Hawaii?
Major Game Development 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 game development degree program worth it in Hawaii?
A game development 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 game development degree programs take in Hawaii?
Standard completion times for game development 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 game development degree students in Hawaii?
Hawaii game development 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.