Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Hawaii

Hawaii, renowned for its tropical paradise, also boasts some impressive liberal arts colleges. Offering a unique combination of rigorous academics and a diverse cultural experience, Hawaii’s liberal arts institutions cater to students seeking an education that extends beyond traditional academic boundaries. This article will explore Hawaii’s best liberal arts colleges, exploring their programs, annual costs, enrollment, and SAT score range.

Hawaii Pacific University

Located in the heart of Honolulu, Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) is the largest private university in the Central Pacific.

Information About Liberal Arts Programs

HPU offers many undergraduate and graduate programs, significantly emphasizing liberal arts. Students can choose from majors such as Anthropology, English, International Studies, and more.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The annual cost at HPU is approximately $27,400. The university has about 4,000 students; the SAT score range for admitted students is 1030 to 1220.

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Chaminade University of Honolulu, a private Marianist university, offers an inclusive learning environment rooted in the liberal arts tradition.

Information About Liberal Arts Programs

Chaminade’s curriculum incorporates a wide range of liberal arts disciplines. Its programs include Environmental, Historical & Political, Religious, and more.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The annual cost at Chaminade University is about $27,334. The university enrolls around 1,100 undergraduate students with an SAT score range of 930 to 1120.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii

Located in Laie, Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYU–Hawaii) is a private university operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Information About Liberal Arts Programs

BYU–Hawaii provides a broad liberal arts education. Their programs cover various disciplines, including English, History, Intercultural Peacebuilding, and Pacific Island Studies.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The annual cost at BYU–Hawaii is about $5,720. The university has an enrollment of roughly 3,200 students, with an SAT score range of 1060 to 1250.

University of Hawaiʻi Maui College

The University of Hawaiʻi Maui College in Kahului offers a unique blend of technical, professional, and liberal arts education.

Information About Liberal Arts Programs

This college offers an Associate in Arts (AA) degree in Liberal Arts and several Bachelor’s degrees. The AA program allows students to explore a variety of subjects, including the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The annual cost at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College is approximately $3,144 for in-state students and $8,280 for out-of-state students. The college has an enrollment of around 3,500 students. As a community college, SAT scores are not typically required for admission.

University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu

Located in Kapolei, the University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu offers a range of liberal arts and professional studies programs.

Information About Liberal Arts Programs

This university offers various Bachelor’s degrees in liberal arts fields, including Humanities, Social Sciences, and Public Administration, designed to prepare students for a range of career paths.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The annual cost at the University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu is about $7,512 for in-state students and $20,904 for out-of-state students. The university has an enrollment of about 3,100 students. SAT scores are not generally required for admission, but a range of 990 to 1140 is typical for those who submit scores.

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Three Other States

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California

California is home to some of the nation’s top liberal arts colleges, including Pomona College, Harvey Mudd College, and Claremont McKenna College. These institutions boast rigorous academic programs and rich campus life.

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nevada

While Nevada might not have many liberal arts colleges, institutions like Sierra Nevada University stand out for their commitment to a liberal arts education.

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas

Texas offers several excellent liberal arts colleges, including Southwestern University and Austin College, both known for their commitment to a comprehensive liberal arts education.

What’s on the SAT?

The SAT is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. It comprises two sections: Mathematics and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. There’s also an optional Essay section. The test measures critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for college success.