Best Nursing Schools in Hawaii
Hawaii is not only the ideal destination for honeymooners and vacationers. It’s also one of the best states you could ever choose to start a new career as a nurse. Over the course of the next ten years, the number of nursing positions is expected to increase by 9%. If you’re looking for nursing programs in Hawaii, you’ll also find plenty of options whether they’re on campus or online. Learn about these options in the section below.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Hawaii
Top Performing Nursing Schools
The analysis reveals exceptional nursing programs in Hawaii based on their consistent NCLEX pass rates. Schools demonstrating superior performance indicate high-quality nursing education and student preparedness.
- University of Hawaii at Manoa leads with an impressive 98.92% pass rate across 92 total students.
- Kapiolani Community College follows closely with a 95.45% pass rate among 44 students.
- University of Hawaii Maui College maintains strong performance with a 93.55% pass rate for 31 students.
BSN vs ADN Program Performance
Comparing nursing program types provides valuable insights into educational pathways and NCLEX readiness.
- ADN programs demonstrate slightly higher average pass rates compared to BSN programs.
- ADN: 92.37% pass rate with 118 total students
- BSN: 87.16% pass rate with 296 total students
- MSN programs show the highest performance at 97.83% pass rate with 46 students.
Geographic Pass Rate Trends
Regional variations in nursing education performance highlight important geographic considerations for prospective students.
- Honolulu represents the largest nursing student population with 355 students and an 89.86% pass rate.
- Kahului demonstrates strong performance with a 93.55% pass rate among 31 students.
- Lihue shows perfect performance with a 100% pass rate, though with a smaller sample of 12 students.
Program Size and Performance
Program size correlates interestingly with NCLEX pass rates across different student enrollment levels.
- Small programs (<50 students) achieve the highest average pass rate at 93.78%.
- Medium programs (50-100 students) show an 89% pass rate.
- Large programs (>100 students) have the lowest average pass rate at 81.51%.
Kauai Community College
Lihue, HI - Public 2-Year - kauai.hawaii.edu
Associate - Nursing: Associate in Science Degree (Registered Nursing)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kauai Community College's Associate in Science Nursing program boasts an exceptional 100% NCLEX pass rate with 12 students successfully completing the program in 2023. Located in Lihue, this ACEN-accredited program provides a comprehensive two-year pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse. Students must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA and pass the TEAS entrance exam. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical judgment, and professional standards, offering hands-on clinical experiences. Graduates have seamless transfer opportunities to the University of Hawaii at Manoa for continued BSN education. The program's military-friendly environment and strong clinical preparation make it an excellent choice for aspiring nurses seeking a robust educational foundation in healthcare.
- ACEN accredited program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Minimum GPA 2.75 required.
- TEAS exam proficiency needed.
- Two-year curriculum includes summers.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Transfer options to UH Manoa.
- Focus on evidence-based practice.
- Emphasizes clinical judgment.
- Professional standards curriculum.
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, HI - Public 4-Year - manoa.hawaii.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Hawaii at Manoa's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers a comprehensive three-year cohort experience preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. With an impressive 100% NCLEX pass rate in 2023, this program stands out for its rigorous curriculum focusing on holistic patient care. Students benefit from diverse clinical settings, emphasizing cultural competence and professional nursing practices. The program requires SAT/ACT entrance exams and provides holistic admission review, with preference given to Hawaii residents. Prospective students can access financial aid and scholarships, making this an attractive option for aspiring nurses seeking hands-on training in health promotion, pathophysiology, and professional development.
- Cohort program completed in 3 years.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
- Holistic admission review process.
- Preference to Hawaii residents.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Courses in health promotion.
- Pathophysiology included.
- Professional nursing practices taught.
- Cultural competence emphasized.
- Financial aid available.
Bachelor's - High School Direct Entry in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Hawaii at Manoa's High School Direct Entry Nursing program is a four-year pathway specifically designed for recent high school graduates targeting the fall 2025 admission. With a focus on preparing beginning-level professional nurses, this program prepares students comprehensively for the NCLEX-RN exam. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based care, professional nursing values, and leadership skills. While the 2023 NCLEX data shows a 100% pass rate for the BSN program, this direct entry option provides a structured academic approach for students committed to nursing. SAT/ACT entrance exams are required, offering a direct route for high school graduates to secure their nursing education.
- Four-year full-time program.
- Direct entry for high school graduates.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Fall admission only.
- Focus on professional nursing values.
- Emphasizes evidence-based care.
- Leadership in nursing included.
- Campus-based program.
- For class of 2025 graduates.
- Secure academic path.
Bachelor's - UH West Oahu Pre-Nursing to UH Manoa Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The UH West Oahu Pre-Nursing to UH Manoa Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers a strategic pathway for students transitioning into nursing careers. Requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA and specific prerequisite course completions, this competitive program aligns with the university's strong nursing education standards. With a 100% BSN NCLEX pass rate in 2023, students receive comprehensive training in health promotion, illness management, and professional development. The program provides individual academic advising and prepares graduates for diverse healthcare settings. SAT/ACT entrance exams are mandatory, ensuring a rigorous selection process for committed nursing candidates seeking a structured and supportive educational experience.
- Competitive admission process.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Minimum GPA requirement 3.0.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Individual academic advising.
- Focus on health promotion.
- Illness management training.
- Professional development included.
- Theoretical and practical blend.
- Diverse healthcare settings prep.
Kapiolani Community College
Honolulu, HI - Public 2-Year - kapiolani.hawaii.edu
Associate - Associate in Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kapiolani Community College's Associate in Science Nursing program delivers exceptional preparation for aspiring registered nurses, boasting an impressive 95.45% NCLEX pass rate in 2023. With 44 students successfully completing the program, students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practice. Located in Honolulu, the program requires the ATI TEAS entrance exam and maintains a 2.5 GPA admission standard. Unique program features include seamless transfer pathways to Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs at UH Mānoa and UH Hilo, emphasizing safety, ethics, and evidence-based practice. Students gain skills for diverse healthcare settings, with clinical practicums providing hands-on experience. The program is accredited by ACEN and approved by the Hawaii State Board of Nursing, ensuring high-quality nursing education.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Blends theory and clinical practice.
- Eligible for BSN programs at UH.
- Requires 'C' or higher in prerequisites.
- 2.5 GPA requirement for admission.
- ATI TEAS exam required.
- Focus on safety and ethics.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
- Offered at Diamond Head campus.
- Also available at Leeward CC site.
University of Hawaii Maui College
Kahului, HI - Public 4-Year - maui.hawaii.edu
Associate - Associate in Science Nursing (ASN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Hawaii Maui College offers a robust Associate in Science Nursing (ASN) program with an impressive 93.55% NCLEX pass rate in 2023, based on 31 students tested. The program provides comprehensive nursing education through practical nurse (PN) and registered nurse (RN) pathways, emphasizing patient-centered care and cultural competency. Students benefit from hands-on clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings, gaining practical skills essential for professional nursing practice. The campus-based curriculum is strategically designed to prepare students for successful healthcare careers, with a strong focus on evidence-based practice and professional ethics. Military-friendly and offering financial aid opportunities, the program prioritizes Hawaii residents and provides a solid foundation for future nursing advancement.
- Campus-based program
- Offers PN and RN pathways
- Focus on patient-centered care
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Emphasizes cultural awareness
- Evidence-based practice
- Professional ethics training
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships for eligible students
- Competitive admission
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI - Private 4-year - chaminade.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chaminade University of Honolulu's BSN program boasts an impressive 89% NCLEX pass rate in 2023, with 100 students successfully completing the program. The curriculum provides a comprehensive nursing education emphasizing evidence-based practice and holistic patient care. As a Roman Catholic and military-friendly institution, the program offers diverse learning experiences with strong community partnerships. Students benefit from individualized mentoring and clinical courses that prepare them for dynamic healthcare environments. Prospective students must meet competitive GPA requirements and complete prerequisite courses. The program focuses on developing critical leadership and communication skills essential for modern nursing professionals. Accredited by CCNE, graduates are well-positioned for impactful nursing careers across various healthcare settings.
- Four-year full-time program.
- Emphasizes hands-on learning.
- Requires health compliance.
- Values-based approach.
- Strong community partnerships.
- Individualized mentoring.
- Clinical courses included.
- Competitive GPA required.
- Prerequisite courses needed.
- Leadership skills development.
Hawaii Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
To begin your new career, you’ll need a degree to get licensed. Entry-level nursing degrees include an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). To learn about the differences and how they may apply to you, read below.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you’re looking for the quickest route to licensure, you’ll want to go with either an ADN or a nursing diploma. These degree programs are designed to supply you with the minimum training required to get licensed and usually can be completed in only a year or two. If you’re already working as an LPN, you may be able to enroll in an LPN to RN bridge program which can lead to either an ADN or a BSN in a shorter amount of time than if you eroll in a traditional ADN or BSN program.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Hawaii include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Hawaii.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
ADN degree programs and nursing diploma programs are great options for students looking to get into the field as fast as possible, but if you’re hoping to get a little more training before diving into a new career, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is likely the better option. BSNs can also help you secure job opportunities faster as this degree is usually the more attractive option to employers (compared to ADNs and nursing diplomas). A traditional BSN takes four years to complete, but if you are already licensed as an RN, you can take advantage of RN to BSN programs. Accelerated BSN programs may also be a viable option if you have a bachelor’s degree already.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Hawaii typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Working nurses who want to go back to school to get their BSN degree have an easy path to do so through a Hawaii RN to BSN program. These programs are open to students with an RN license, an ADN, an at least a year of nursing experience. From start to finish, most nurses can complete an RN to BSN program in as little as 2 years.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
If you have a bachelor’s degree already (even if it’s in a subject other than nursing) you can switch your major and get your BSN in only a year or two through a Hawaii ABSN program. This is a great option for students looking for a career change later in life.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Lastly, if you’re hoping to eventually practice independently as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse, you’ll need to graduate from either a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, or a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs range between 2 and 6 years following a bachelor’s degree program.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Hawaii:
- Hawaii Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Hawaii MSN Program
- Hawaii Accelerated MSN Program
- Hawaii RN to MSN Programs
- Hawaii Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Hawaii DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Hawaii
The final step in the process is getting licensed. To get licensed as an RN, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and send a completed application to the Hawaii Board of Nursing and pay the required fee. Once the board has processed your application, you should receive your license within the coming weeks or months. Remember, you’ll need to maintain licensure through continuing education courses.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Hawaii
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Hawaii Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Before you begin applying to nursing programs, it’s important that you double-check each one to make sure that it meets the proper requirements for RN program accreditation. Accreditation for nursing programs in the US is supplied by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If your program is not accredited by one of these two organizations, you will not meet the board’s requirements for licensure.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Hawaii
List of Nursing Schools in Hawaii
Hilo, HI
Hawaii Community College
- Associate - Associate in Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Approved by Hawai'i State Board.
- ACEN accredited program.
- LPN-to-ASN pathway available.
- Financial aid options.
- Disability services provided.
- Covers general education.
- Includes nursing courses.
University of Hawaii at Hilo
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Culturally focused nursing care.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
- Competitive admission process.
- Rural clinical experiences.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Limited cohort sizes.
- Emphasis on transcultural nursing.
- Community health projects.
Honolulu, HI
Chaminade University of Honolulu
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year full-time program.
- Emphasizes hands-on learning.
- Requires health compliance.
- Values-based approach.
- Strong community partnerships.
- Individualized mentoring.
- Clinical courses included.
- Competitive GPA required.
Hawaii Pacific University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Multicultural learning environment
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Focus on patient-centered care
- Teamwork and collaboration emphasis
- Evidence-based practice curriculum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Located in Honolulu, HI
Kapiolani Community College
- Associate - Associate in Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Blends theory and clinical practice.
- Eligible for BSN programs at UH.
- Requires 'C' or higher in prerequisites.
- 2.5 GPA requirement for admission.
- ATI TEAS exam required.
- Focus on safety and ethics.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Cohort program completed in 3 years.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
- Holistic admission review process.
- Preference to Hawaii residents.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Courses in health promotion.
- Pathophysiology included.
- Professional nursing practices taught.
- Bachelor's - High School Direct Entry in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year full-time program.
- Direct entry for high school graduates.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Fall admission only.
- Focus on professional nursing values.
- Emphasizes evidence-based care.
- Leadership in nursing included.
- Campus-based program.
- Bachelor's - UH West Oahu Pre-Nursing to UH Manoa Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Competitive admission process.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Minimum GPA requirement 3.0.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Individual academic advising.
- Focus on health promotion.
- Illness management training.
- Professional development included.
Kahului, HI
University of Hawaii Maui College
- Associate - Associate in Science Nursing (ASN)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Offers PN and RN pathways
- Focus on patient-centered care
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Emphasizes cultural awareness
- Evidence-based practice
- Professional ethics training
- Financial aid available
Lihue, HI
Kauai Community College
- Associate - Nursing: Associate in Science Degree (Registered Nursing)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Minimum GPA 2.75 required.
- TEAS exam proficiency needed.
- Two-year curriculum includes summers.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Transfer options to UH Manoa.
- Focus on evidence-based practice.
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