Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii)

Overview

Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii) is a private, co-educational university located in Laie, Hawaii. As a part of the Church Educational System of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), BYU-Hawaii offers a unique blend of spiritual and academic education.

History

Founded in 1955, BYU-Hawaii was established to provide higher education to students in the Pacific Islands and Asia, and to promote a greater understanding and integration of cultures. The university’s mission emphasizes the development of leadership skills and moral character.

Academic Offerings

BYU-Hawaii offers a wide range of undergraduate programs through its various colleges and schools, including:

• College of Business, Computing & Government
• College of Education & Social Work
• College of Language, Culture & Arts
• College of Math & Sciences
• College of Human Development

Popular majors include Business Management, Computer Science, Education, Biology, and International Cultural Studies.

Student Life

BYU-Hawaii provides a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs and organizations, cultural events, and recreational activities. The university’s location on the island of Oahu allows students to enjoy outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and exploring local cultural sites.

Unique Features

• Cultural Diversity: The student body represents over 70 countries, promoting a rich multicultural environment.
• Spiritual Education: Integration of spiritual and academic learning, with an emphasis on the values of the LDS Church.
• Work-Study Opportunities: Many students participate in the BYU-Hawaii Work Study program, which provides on-campus employment.
• Beautiful Campus: Located near the Polynesian Cultural Center and the North Shore, offering a picturesque setting for study and leisure.

Admissions

BYU-Hawaii’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and alignment with the university’s mission. Preference is given to members of the LDS Church, but students of all backgrounds are welcome.

Alumni

BYU-Hawaii alumni are leaders in various fields, particularly in education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:

• H. David Burton: Former Presiding Bishop of the LDS Church.
• Jonathan Napela: Hawaiian educator and church leader.
• Laie Elder: Influential community leader in Hawaii.

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Chaminade University of Honolulu

Overview

Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private Catholic university located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and service learning.

History

Founded in 1955 by the Society of Mary (Marianists), Chaminade University is named after Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. The university’s mission focuses on the development of intellectual, moral, and spiritual values.

Academic Offerings

Chaminade University offers programs across various schools and divisions, including:

• School of Business and Communication
• School of Education and Behavioral Sciences
• School of Humanities, Arts, and Design
• School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
• Division of Nursing

Popular majors include Forensic Sciences, Business Administration, Education, Psychology, and Criminal Justice.

Student Life

Chaminade University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, service opportunities, and cultural events. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.

Unique Features

• Catholic Tradition: Integration of faith and learning, with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
• Forensic Sciences Program: One of the most respected programs in the nation.
• Location: Situated in the heart of Honolulu, offering access to cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities.
• Small Class Sizes: Personalized education with close interaction between students and faculty.

Admissions

Chaminade University’s admissions process considers academic performance, extracurricular activities, and alignment with the university’s mission. The university seeks students who are committed to academic excellence and community service.

Alumni

Chaminade University alumni are successful in various fields, including education, business, healthcare, and public service. Notable alumni include:

• John Henry Felix: Businessman and former Honolulu City Council member.
• Maryknoll Sisters: Numerous alumni have joined this influential religious order.
• Ernest Y. Miyawaki: Renowned neurologist and philanthropist.

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Hawaii Pacific University (HPU)

Overview

Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) is a private, non-profit university located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Known for its strong programs in business, marine science, and international relations, HPU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1965, HPU has grown to become the largest private university in Hawaii. The university’s mission emphasizes academic excellence, global perspective, and community engagement.

Academic Offerings

HPU offers programs across various colleges, including:

• College of Business
• College of Liberal Arts
• College of Natural and Computational Sciences
• College of Health and Society

Popular majors include Business Administration, Marine Biology, Nursing, International Relations, and Computer Science.

Student Life

HPU provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university’s downtown Honolulu location and its scenic Oceanic Institute campus on the windward side of Oahu offer unique opportunities for study and recreation.

Unique Features

• Global Perspective: Diverse student body representing over 65 countries.
• Marine Science Program: Strong focus on marine biology and oceanography, with access to the Oceanic Institute.
• Urban and Coastal Campuses: Offers the best of both urban and coastal living.
• Professional Focus: Emphasis on practical experience and career preparation.

Admissions

HPU’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a demonstrated interest in the chosen field of study. The university seeks students who are committed to academic excellence and global engagement.

Alumni

HPU alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, healthcare, marine science, and international relations. Notable alumni include:

• Tulsi Gabbard: Former U.S. Representative.
• Michael N. K. Wright: CEO of Outrigger Enterprises Group.
• Kimberly-Rose Ka’iulani Kekoa: Marine biologist and environmental advocate.

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University of the Nations

Overview

University of the Nations (UofN) is a private Christian university with its main campus in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. As part of the Youth With A Mission (YWAM) network, UofN offers a unique blend of academic and spiritual education focused on missionary work and global service.

History

Founded in 1978 by Loren Cunningham and Howard Malmstadt, UofN was established to provide a training ground for Christian missionaries. The university’s mission focuses on equipping students with practical skills and spiritual guidance for global service.

Academic Offerings

UofN offers programs across various colleges, including:

• College of Christian Ministries
• College of Communication
• College of Education
• College of Health Care
• College of Humanities and International Studies
• College of Science and Technology

Programs are often structured around YWAM’s Discipleship Training School (DTS) and other specialized training tracks.

Student Life

UofN provides a vibrant and spiritually enriching campus life with numerous mission trips, community outreach projects, and spiritual development activities. The university emphasizes global service and intercultural experiences.

Unique Features

• Mission Focus: Strong emphasis on missionary work and global service.
• Intercultural Experience: Diverse student body with a focus on intercultural understanding.
• Practical Training: Hands-on training and real-world application of skills.
• Spiritual Development: Integration of spiritual growth and academic learning.

Admissions

UofN’s admissions process considers academic performance, spiritual commitment, and a demonstrated interest in missionary work and global service. The university seeks students who are passionate about their faith and dedicated to serving others.

Alumni

UofN alumni are active in various fields, particularly in missionary work, community service, and education. Notable alumni include:

• Loren Cunningham: Founder of Youth With A Mission (YWAM).
• Darrell Tunningley: Author and evangelist.
• Janet Myhre: Educator and missionary.

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Argosy University, Hawaii

Overview

Argosy University, Hawaii was a private, for-profit university located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It offered a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in psychology, business, and education.

History

Founded in 2001 as part of the Argosy University system, the Hawaii campus aimed to provide accessible higher education to working adults and non-traditional students. Argosy University, Hawaii closed in 2019 following the broader closure of the Argosy University system.

Academic Offerings

Before its closure, Argosy University, Hawaii offered programs across various fields, including:

• Psychology
• Business Administration
• Education
• Criminal Justice
• Health Sciences

The university was known for its doctoral programs in psychology and education.

Student Life

Argosy University, Hawaii provided a supportive environment for working adults and non-traditional students, with flexible class schedules and online learning options. The university emphasized practical experience and professional development.

Unique Features

• Flexible Learning: Evening, weekend, and online classes to accommodate working students.
• Professional Focus: Emphasis on career-oriented education and practical experience.
• Small Class Sizes: Personalized education with close interaction between students and faculty.
• Urban Campus: Located in downtown Honolulu, offering access to cultural and professional opportunities.

Admissions

Admissions at Argosy University, Hawaii considered academic performance, professional experience, and a demonstrated commitment to the chosen field of study. The university sought students who were motivated and career-focused.

Alumni

Despite its closure, Argosy University, Hawaii has alumni who have gone on to successful careers in psychology, business, education, and health sciences. Notable alumni include:

• Dr. Melvin K. Rahming: Clinical psychologist and educator.
• Dr. Brenda Cartwright: Counselor and author.
• Dr. Henry C. Vinson: Healthcare administrator and community leader.