University of Hawaii at Hilo Profile

The University of Hawaii at Hilo (UH Hilo) is an exceptional institution that offers an enriching educational experience set against the backdrop of the beautiful Big Island of Hawaii. As part of the University of Hawaii System, UH Hilo stands out for its diverse and engaging curriculum, its commitment to student success, and its dedication to fostering a multicultural and globally aware community. With a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, the university provides students with ample opportunities to explore various fields of study while embracing the distinctive Hawaiian culture and environment.

Founded with the aim of providing accessible and high-quality education, UH Hilo has continued to expand its academic offerings and has become a hub for students from both within Hawaii and around the world. The university is known for its rigorous curriculum and student-centered approach to teaching and learning. UH Hilo offers undergraduate programs in fields such as the arts, sciences, business, social sciences, and humanities. For students pursuing advanced education, UH Hilo also offers graduate programs in select disciplines. These programs are designed to help students develop the intellectual skills and practical knowledge necessary for professional success and leadership roles in their chosen fields.

The university’s academic flexibility is one of its greatest strengths. In addition to the traditional on-campus programs, UH Hilo offers several distance learning opportunities that allow students to pursue their degrees at their own pace and from anywhere in the world. These online programs include a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology and a Post-Baccalaureate Secondary Teacher Education Program, among others. The ability to take courses online gives students the flexibility to balance their education with other responsibilities, such as work or family commitments. Whether students live in Hawaii, on the U.S. mainland, or abroad, UH Hilo’s distance learning programs enable them to access quality education and connect with peers and professors through digital platforms.

Distance learning at UH Hilo is not merely about convenience; it is also about quality. The university strives to offer a learning experience that mirrors the on-campus experience, with engaging course materials, interactive content, and strong online support systems. Students enrolled in these programs receive the same level of academic rigor as their on-campus peers, and they are encouraged to engage with their professors and fellow students through online discussions, virtual lectures, and collaborative projects. This commitment to delivering high-quality education through distance learning ensures that students can successfully complete their degrees without having to be physically present on campus.

Moreover, UH Hilo extends its educational reach through its North Hawaii Education and Research Center (NHERC), which serves as a satellite campus in the northern part of the Big Island. The NHERC offers both credit and non-credit courses, giving students in the area the opportunity to pursue their academic and professional goals without having to travel to the main campus. This outreach initiative is particularly beneficial for students who live in remote or rural areas of Hawaii, allowing them to access education that would otherwise be difficult to obtain. In this way, UH Hilo demonstrates its commitment to improving access to higher education for students across Hawaii, ensuring that opportunities for personal and academic growth are not limited by geographic location.

Accreditation is a fundamental aspect of assessing the quality of any higher education institution, and UH Hilo is fully accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). This accreditation ensures that the university meets the rigorous academic standards set by WASC, a respected regional accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Through its accreditation by WASC, UH Hilo affirms its commitment to providing students with a comprehensive and high-quality education that prepares them for success in the workforce or further academic pursuits.

One of the university’s flagship programs is its College of Pharmacy, which is the first accredited pharmacy program in Hawaii. This program offers a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree that prepares students to become licensed pharmacists. The College of Pharmacy focuses on delivering culturally competent healthcare, specifically tailored to meet the needs of Hawaii’s diverse population. Students in this program receive an education that emphasizes patient care, clinical practice, and leadership in pharmacy. This program is particularly important given Hawaii’s unique healthcare challenges, and UH Hilo’s College of Pharmacy is at the forefront of addressing these issues through its innovative and community-centered approach.

UH Hilo is also committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. The university has long been recognized for its efforts to create a welcoming community for students from a variety of backgrounds. According to U.S. News & World Report, UH Hilo is ranked 6th among national liberal arts colleges in terms of campus diversity. The university actively seeks to recruit students from a wide range of racial, ethnic, and national backgrounds, with an emphasis on creating a supportive learning environment where everyone can thrive. Additionally, the university has earned recognition for its efforts to engage international students. With 12 percent of its undergraduates coming from abroad, UH Hilo ranks tied for 4th in the nation for the percentage of international students. This international presence enriches the campus experience for all students, offering them the opportunity to interact with peers from diverse cultures and backgrounds.

In addition to its commitment to diversity, UH Hilo also places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. The university is located in one of the most ecologically unique regions in the world, and its campus and programs reflect this connection to the natural environment. Outside magazine, a well-known publication focused on outdoor adventures, ranked UH Hilo 19th out of 40 colleges that produce “smart grads with top-notch academic credentials, a healthy environmental ethos, and an A+ sense of adventure.” This recognition speaks to UH Hilo’s dedication to promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness among its students. The university’s location on the Big Island offers students unparalleled access to outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and exploring Hawaii’s active volcanoes. The university’s curriculum is infused with a strong environmental focus, encouraging students to engage in activities that promote sustainability and environmental stewardship.

UH Hilo’s commitment to the outdoors is reflected not only in its academic offerings but also in its campus culture. Students have numerous opportunities to engage in outdoor recreation and environmental research, making the university a great fit for students who are passionate about both academics and nature. The surrounding environment offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor education, with lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and an active volcanic landscape just outside the campus. Students can partake in these activities while pursuing their academic goals, blending academic study with the exploration of the natural world.

In conclusion, the University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a dynamic and diverse educational experience that prepares students for success in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world. Whether through its traditional academic programs, flexible distance learning options, or innovative outreach initiatives, UH Hilo ensures that students have access to high-quality education that meets their individual needs. With a focus on academic excellence, environmental sustainability, and diversity, the university provides students with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and make a positive impact on the world around them. Through its commitment to both academic and personal development, UH Hilo stands out as a top institution for students seeking an engaging and fulfilling educational experience.