Hawaii Pacific University Rankings

Hawai'i Pacific University (HPU) stands as a distinguished private institution of higher learning located in the heart of Honolulu, Hawai'i. Offering a broad array of undergraduate and graduate programs, HPU emphasizes the integration of liberal arts, business administration, communication, and sciences, making it a versatile university with a diverse student body. Established in 1965, HPU has garnered a strong academic reputation, with a commitment to providing a world-class education while fostering a unique connection to its island setting. Over the years, the university has developed into one of Hawai'i’s most notable institutions, offering opportunities for students to engage with both the local community and the global stage.

HPU offers a wide variety of academic programs through its different schools and colleges. At the undergraduate level, students can choose from disciplines such as business administration, communication, liberal arts, and sciences, with specialized concentrations and interdisciplinary opportunities available in areas such as environmental studies, public health, and psychology. These programs are designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rapidly changing workforce by emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness. The university's approach combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that graduates leave equipped with the skills necessary to succeed in their chosen careers.

At the graduate level, HPU offers advanced degrees in fields like business administration, social work, communication, and nursing. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, for instance, has been designed to cater to professionals who seek to further their careers in leadership roles within the business world. Similarly, the nursing programs at HPU are renowned for their rigor, providing students with the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience to succeed in the healthcare field. The Master of Social Work (MSW) program, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), is another key offering at HPU, drawing students who are dedicated to making a positive social impact and working in various social services and advocacy roles.

Hawai'i Pacific University’s academic standards are bolstered by a solid foundation of accreditation, ensuring that the institution meets and exceeds the expectations set by national and regional accrediting bodies. The university is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), a prestigious organization that recognizes institutions for their adherence to academic excellence. Additionally, HPU’s nursing program, which offers both Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees, is approved by the Hawai'i Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). This accreditation affirms the university’s commitment to providing high-quality nursing education, preparing students to meet the demands of the healthcare industry. Furthermore, HPU’s Bachelor of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), validating its standing as a top-tier institution for social work education.

HPU’s ranking profile further reinforces its status as a leading university, especially within the context of regional institutions in the western United States. According to the 2011 edition of U.S. News & World Report, Hawai'i Pacific University is ranked 68th among Tier 1 Regional Universities in the West. This ranking reflects the university's consistent commitment to offering quality educational programs and supporting students’ academic and professional growth. Additionally, HPU is among fewer than 10% of institutions nationwide to be listed in Barron’s Best Buys in College Education, a distinction earned for its affordable tuition and exceptional value. The guidebook, which evaluates colleges based on both the quality of education and the affordability of tuition, has placed HPU as one of the best options for students seeking a high-caliber education without the financial burden often associated with private universities.

The university has also gained recognition for its contributions to the athletic field. HPU is ranked 19th among NCAA Division II universities in the 5th Annual National Collegiate Scouting Association (NCSA) Collegiate Power Rankings (2007). This ranking is a testament to the university’s strong athletic programs, which are a significant part of the student experience at HPU. The university has a well-established tradition in sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball, providing student-athletes with the opportunity to excel both academically and athletically. The NCSA rankings, which assess colleges based on athletic performance, academics, and student engagement, place HPU in a strong position within its division, highlighting its achievements and dedication to providing a holistic college experience.

One of the unique aspects of Hawai'i Pacific University is its connection to the tourism industry, an area that is particularly significant in Hawai'i given the state's global status as a major tourist destination. HPU's Travel Industry Management Program (TIM) is among the top in the world, ranked 59th globally based on the volume of publications in leading tourism research journals over a five-year period (2004-2009). This ranking, established by a study conducted by the College of Charleston-South Carolina, underscores HPU’s prominence in the field of tourism education and research. The program offers students opportunities to study the complexities of tourism management, from hospitality to sustainable tourism practices, providing them with the expertise to thrive in an industry that is crucial to Hawai'i's economy. As the tourism sector continues to evolve, HPU’s TIM program ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to tackle the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

In addition to its academic programs, Hawai'i Pacific University fosters a vibrant campus community where students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, cultural exchanges, and service learning. The university’s location in Honolulu offers a unique advantage, with students having access to a diverse and dynamic cultural environment. HPU’s campus is situated in a metropolitan area that blends the natural beauty of Hawai'i with the conveniences of urban life, making it an ideal place for students who are seeking a balance between academic rigor and lifestyle. The university’s commitment to global citizenship is also evident in its efforts to provide students with study abroad opportunities, internships, and service learning experiences that contribute to their personal and professional development.

The diversity of HPU's student body further enhances its appeal. With students from all 50 states and more than 60 countries, the university provides a truly international learning environment. This global perspective is a core element of the university’s mission, and it enriches the educational experience by exposing students to a wide array of ideas, cultures, and viewpoints. HPU’s strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion prepares students to work in a global society, where cultural competence and the ability to collaborate across borders are essential skills.

Overall, Hawai'i Pacific University represents an institution where academic excellence, cultural diversity, and global engagement converge. Whether through its accredited programs in nursing, social work, or business, or its prestigious rankings in the fields of tourism management and athletics, HPU has firmly established itself as a university of choice for students seeking a comprehensive, well-rounded education. Its strong reputation for offering high-quality, affordable education, combined with its emphasis on global awareness and community involvement, positions HPU as an important player in higher education, not only within the Pacific region but on a broader, international scale. With its continued focus on providing a transformative academic experience, Hawai'i Pacific University is poised to remain a leading institution in the years to come.