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.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Hawaii
Rankings empower nursing students to make informed decisions by comparing programs on objective, standardized criteria. For our Best Nursing Schools in Hawaii ranking, Registerednursing.org evaluates schools based solely on NCLEX pass rates, ensuring a clear measure of program effectiveness. See our methodology for details: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
When comparing program types, ADN programs in Hawaii achieved higher average pass rates than BSN programs, while MSN programs led overall.
- BSN: 87.16% average pass rate (296 students)
- ADN: 92.37% average pass rate (118 students)
- MSN: 97.83% average pass rate (46 students)
Top Performing Schools
The University of Hawaii at Manoa stands out as the top-performing school, followed by Kapiolani Community College and the University of Hawaii Maui College.
- University of Hawaii at Manoa: 98.92% pass rate (92 students)
- Kapiolani Community College: 95.45% pass rate (44 students)
- University of Hawaii Maui College: 93.55% pass rate (31 students)
Pass Rate by Program Size
Smaller nursing programs tend to have higher average pass rates, with programs enrolling fewer than 50 students performing best.
- Small (<50 students/year): 93.78% average pass rate (241 students)
- Medium (50-100 students/year): 89.00% average pass rate (100 students)
- Large (>100 students/year): 81.51% average pass rate (119 students)
Geographic Trends
Honolulu produces the most nursing graduates and maintains a strong average pass rate, while Kahului and Lihue show even higher rates.
- Honolulu: 89.86% average pass rate (355 students)
- Kahului: 93.55% average pass rate (31 students)
- Hilo: 83.87% average pass rate (62 students)
- Lihue: 100.00% average pass rate (12 students)
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 in Nursing (Registered Nursing) is a career ladder program that lets you earn a Practical Nurse certificate after the first year and continue to RN licensure. The curriculum covers health promotion, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and clinical care across the lifespan. You'll complete a clinical immersion experience and prepare for the NCLEX-RN. The program is ACEN accredited and ranked #1 in Hawaii. It offers a clear pathway to a BSN at UH Manoa. With a focus on hands-on learning and small cohorts, you'll develop critical thinking and leadership skills. Graduates are eligible for RN licensure and can pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 73 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Career ladder concept
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 Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Hawaii at Manoa is a three-year, in-person, full-time cohort program designed for current and former college students. Admission is competitive, with priority given to Hawaii residents. The curriculum covers health promotion, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical nursing across various settings, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Students benefit from a structured pathway, experienced faculty, and a strong cohort model that builds lasting connections. With an average combined GPA of 3.94 among accepted applicants and a selective acceptance rate, this program emphasizes academic excellence and readiness for professional nursing practice.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 3-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- Apply by 2027-01-05
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Bachelor's - High School Direct Entry in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a High School Direct Entry in Nursing program, a full-time, cohort-based Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) designed for recent high school graduates who are Hawaii residents. This four-year program prepares beginning-level generalist professional nurses to deliver care across diverse healthcare settings. Students complete a comprehensive curriculum that builds foundational nursing knowledge and clinical skills, culminating in eligibility for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. The cohort model fosters close collaboration and peer support, while dedicated advising ensures a smooth transition. Graduates emerge ready to pursue registered nursing careers in hospitals, community health, and other healthcare environments.
- 4-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Prepares beginning-level generalist professional nurses
- Hawaii residency required
- Contact via [email protected]
- Schedule an advising appointment
Bachelor's - UH West Oahu Pre-Nursing to UH Manoa Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
This BSN pathway offers UH West Oahu Pre-Nursing students a structured three-year, full-time route to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UH Manoa. You'll take in-person classes at UH West Oahu with periodic simulation events at Manoa, moving through the curriculum as a tight-knit cohort. The program covers health promotion, pathophysiology, pharmacology, women's and child health, community and public health nursing, psychiatric-mental health nursing, and leadership. You'll build skills in clinical reasoning, patient care, and cultural competence, with special attention to Indigenous health in Hawai‘i and the Pacific. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. Admission is competitive, with priority given to West Oahu students, and includes a holistic review of GPA, TEAS scores, personal statement, and resume.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 3-Year program
- Apply by 2026-08-01
- Starts spring
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
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 in Nursing program prepares students for entry-level registered nursing practice. The curriculum blends theoretical instruction with hands-on clinical experience, covering core nursing values, evidence-based care, and leadership skills. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. The program offers a clear pathway to BSN degrees at UH Manoa and UH Hilo. Admission is selective, with applicants evaluated on GPA, TEAS scores, and healthcare experience. Students benefit from small cohorts, two campus locations, and a supportive learning environment. Financial aid and scholarships are available.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
University of Hawaii Maui College
Kahului, HI - Public 4-Year - maui.hawaii.edu
Associate - Associate in Science Nursing (ASN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN) at University of Hawaii Maui College is a 73-credit, two-year program that prepares students for RN licensure and entry-level nursing positions. Part of the Hawaii Statewide Nursing Consortium, the curriculum blends liberal arts, behavioral and natural sciences with bioethical issues, technology, cultural awareness, and evidence-based practice. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations at Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital, Kaiser Permanente, and other local facilities. Graduates are ready for careers in hospitals, clinics, home health, and long-term care. The program also offers a seamless pathway to a BSN through UH Manoa. ACEN accredited and TEAS exam required for admission.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2-Year program
- 73 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-01-31
- Starts fall
- 88% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
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 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a direct-entry, four-year lock-step program designed for students committed to a full-time, on-campus nursing education. Grounded in Marianist values, the curriculum integrates hands-on clinical experiences with evidence-based practice. You will study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and complex disease management while completing clinical rotations in maternal-newborn, pediatric, psychiatric, and public health nursing. The program prepares you for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and careers in hospitals, clinics, community health, and beyond. Accredited by CCNE, the program features small classes, personalized faculty mentoring, and a Four Year Graduation Guarantee. With strong community partnerships and a focus on service, justice, and peace, Chaminade equips you to become a compassionate, skilled nurse ready to meet the demands of a dynamic healthcare environment.
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Year program
- Complete in four-year lock-step degree
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Direct-entry, lock-step program
- Four Year Graduation Guarantee
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Values-based Marianist education
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
See Related Articles
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
- ACEN accredited
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Approved by Hawai'i State Board of Nursing
- Transfer agreements to four BSN programs
- Prepares for entry-level RN positions
- Careers in hospitals, long-term care
University of Hawaii at Hilo
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
- Rural clinical learning experiences
- Learning lab with high fidelity manikins
Honolulu, HI
Chaminade University of Honolulu
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Year program
- Complete in four-year lock-step degree
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Direct-entry, lock-step program
- Four Year Graduation Guarantee
Hawaii Pacific University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 4 concentration options
- Exams: TEAS
- Apply by 2026-02-01
- Full-time enrollment
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Prerequisite courses required
Kapiolani Community College
- Associate - Associate in Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 3-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- Apply by 2027-01-05
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Bachelor's - High School Direct Entry in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Prepares beginning-level generalist professional nurses
- Hawaii residency required
- Contact via [email protected]
- Bachelor's - UH West Oahu Pre-Nursing to UH Manoa Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 3-Year program
- Apply by 2026-08-01
- Starts spring
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
Kahului, HI
University of Hawaii Maui College
- Associate - Associate in Science Nursing (ASN)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2-Year program
- 73 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-01-31
- Starts fall
- 88% licensure pass rate
Lihue, HI
Kauai Community College
- Associate - Nursing: Associate in Science Degree (Registered Nursing)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 73 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
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