Top Engineering Schools in Hawaii
1. University of Hawaii at Manoa – College of Engineering
Overview
The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) College of Engineering is the flagship institution for engineering education in Hawaii. Established in 1908, UH Manoa’s College of Engineering offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to meet the needs of Hawaii’s unique environment and economy. The college is known for its focus on sustainability, environmental engineering, and oceanographic research, with faculty and students often working on projects that address issues like renewable energy, water resources, and coastal engineering. The college is also closely linked with various research institutes, including the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute (HNEI) and the Pacific International Center for High Technology Research (PICHTR), providing students with hands-on experience in real-world projects.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: #140 in Best Engineering Schools (Graduate) by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 1,000 students.
- Graduate Enrollment: Around 250 students.
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering.
- Graduate: Master’s and PhD programs in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, and Ocean and Resources Engineering.
Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 58%
- Graduate Acceptance Rate: 30-40% (varies by program).
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Quantitative: 155–160
- Verbal: 150–155
Famous Alumni
- Colleen Hanabusa – Former U.S. Congresswoman and lawyer, known for her work in public policy.
- Edward Y. Chang – CEO and co-founder of Ekomed Technologies, leading expert in green energy solutions.
- Daniel Inouye – U.S. Senator and Medal of Honor recipient, instrumental in Hawaiian statehood.
- William S. Richardson – Former Chief Justice of Hawaii’s Supreme Court, founder of the William S. Richardson School of Law.
- Steven Choy – President and CEO of Hawaiian Electric Company, which focuses on renewable energy.
2. Hawaii Pacific University – College of Natural and Computational Sciences
Overview
Hawaii Pacific University (HPU), a private university located in Honolulu, offers engineering-related programs through its College of Natural and Computational Sciences. While not a traditional engineering school, HPU provides degrees in computer science, information systems, and environmental science, all of which have strong engineering components, particularly in areas like software engineering, systems engineering, and environmental sustainability. HPU’s programs are designed to be interdisciplinary, emphasizing both technical skills and practical applications in fields relevant to Hawaii’s environmental and technological needs. HPU’s close proximity to the Pacific Ocean makes it a prime location for students interested in studying coastal management, environmental science, and sustainable technologies.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: Not ranked for engineering, but ranked #60 in Regional Universities West by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 4,000 students (in total, including technology-related fields).
- Graduate Enrollment: Around 900 students.
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science, Environmental Science, and Information Systems.
- Graduate: Master’s degrees in Environmental Science and Information Systems.
Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Graduate Acceptance Rate: 50%
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Quantitative: 150–155
- Verbal: 145–150
Famous Alumni
- Tulsi Gabbard – Former U.S. Congresswoman and Presidential candidate.
- David Ige – Governor of Hawaii, with a focus on environmental sustainability and renewable energy.
- Shirley Daniel – Founder of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Study Centers Consortium.
- Beth Fukumoto – Former Minority Leader of the Hawaii House of Representatives.
- Brandon Ching – Co-founder of Zero Emissions Solutions, focused on renewable energy in the Pacific.
3. Chaminade University of Honolulu – Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Overview
Chaminade University, a private Catholic university located in Honolulu, offers engineering-related programs through its Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. While Chaminade does not offer traditional engineering degrees, it provides undergraduate programs in fields closely related to engineering, such as environmental studies and computer science. These programs emphasize hands-on learning, critical thinking, and a commitment to social justice and sustainability. Chaminade’s location in Hawaii also makes it a prime place for students to study environmental challenges, climate change, and sustainability, particularly in relation to the Pacific region’s unique ecosystems. The university’s small class sizes allow for personalized instruction and close relationships between faculty and students.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: #25 in Regional Universities West by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 1,200 students (in total, including science-related programs).
- Graduate Enrollment: Around 400 students.
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science, Data Science, and Environmental Studies.
- Graduate: Master’s degrees in Environmental Science, Criminal Justice with a focus on cybersecurity, and Forensic Sciences.
Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Graduate Acceptance Rate: 60%
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Quantitative: 145–150
- Verbal: 145–150
Famous Alumni
- Barbara Dalton – Executive Director of the Hawaii Energy Policy Forum.
- Brooke Van Dam – Associate Professor of Journalism, leading media scholar in climate change communication.
- Carmen “Hulu” Lindsey – Trustee at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, advocate for sustainability and renewable energy in Hawaii.
- Kanoa Leahey – ESPN sports broadcaster and television personality.
- Richard Kawakami – Former Speaker of the Hawaii House of Representatives.
4. Leeward Community College – Engineering Pathways Program
Overview
Leeward Community College, part of the University of Hawaii system, offers an Engineering Pathways program designed to prepare students for transfer into a four-year engineering program at institutions like the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The program focuses on providing foundational coursework in mathematics, physics, and introductory engineering, giving students a strong base in problem-solving and analytical skills. Leeward Community College offers associate degrees that allow students to transition smoothly into a bachelor’s program in engineering at a larger university. The college emphasizes accessibility and affordability, making it a popular choice for students looking to start their engineering education locally before transferring to a larger institution.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: Not ranked (community college).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 7,000 students (in total, across all disciplines).
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Associate degrees in Pre-Engineering and general sciences, with a focus on transfer pathways.
Acceptance Rate
- Open Enrollment: 100% acceptance rate (as a community college).
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Not applicable (undergraduate-only program).
Famous Alumni
- Josh Green – Current Lieutenant Governor of Hawaii, medical doctor, advocate for public health and sustainability.
- Gilbert Kahele – Former Hawaii State Senator, focused on infrastructure and community development.
- Jon Riki Karamatsu – Former Hawaii State Representative, attorney, and advocate for environmental sustainability.
- Amy Agbayani – Co-founder of the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission, advocate for immigrant rights and environmental justice.
- William S. Aila Jr. – Chairperson of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, leader in sustainable land management practices.
5. Honolulu Community College – Engineering Technology Program
Overview
Honolulu Community College (HonCC) offers an Engineering Technology program that provides students with the technical skills needed to pursue careers in industries such as construction, electrical engineering, and manufacturing. The college’s program is designed to prepare students for entry-level engineering technology positions or further study at four-year institutions. HonCC focuses on applied learning, with students engaging in hands-on projects and internships with local industries. The program is tailored to meet the workforce needs of Hawaii, particularly in areas like renewable energy, telecommunications, and infrastructure. HonCC’s strong ties to the University of Hawaii system ensure a smooth transition for students looking to continue their education in engineering at UH Manoa or other four-year institutions.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: Not ranked (community college).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 4,000 students (in total, across all disciplines).
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Associate degrees in Engineering Technology and Construction Management.
Acceptance Rate
- Open Enrollment: 100% acceptance rate (as a community college).
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Not applicable (undergraduate-only program).
Famous Alumni
- Daniel Akaka – Former U.S. Senator from Hawaii, focused on sustainable energy and infrastructure development.
- Ryan Yamane – Hawaii State Representative, advocate for renewable energy and transportation infrastructure.
- Ronald D. Kouchi – President of the Hawaii Senate, champion of sustainable economic development.
- Michael Gabbard – Hawaii State Senator, environmental advocate, and founder of the Hawaii Sustainable Energy Association.
- Mazie Hirono – U.S. Senator from Hawaii, advocate for environmental conservation and climate action.