Best Community Colleges in Hawaii of 2023

Hawai’i Community College in Hilo, HI, is the best community college in Hawaii and offers students high-quality services through its partnership with the University of Hawai'i at Hilo. This includes access to academic, library, and career services provided by the University of Hawai’i. The school offers nearly 30 programs of study, including accounting, agriculture, business technology, carpentry, and culinary arts. In addition to degree programs, HCC offers certificate programs to help students develop and advance their professional skills. While HHC doesn’t offer online courses directly, students can enroll in online classes through the Hawai’i Community College System. Distance learners can access online support services like tutoring, tech support, and academic advising services.

Based in Honolulu, Kapi’olani Community College serves almost 7,000 students through its on-campus and online programs. The school provides several popular programs, many of which are based on the state’s leading industries, including tourism and nursing. Students can also pursue non-credit certificates in subjects like phlebotomy and massage therapy. KCC is the best choice for distance learners due to the number of fully-online programs the school offers, including associate degree programs in Hawaiian studies, liberal arts, business administration, accounting, and information technology. Students can also access free online resources like tutoring, STEM mentoring, online math and writing support, and counseling services. High school students in the area can enroll at KCC to participate in the college's dual credit program, helping them get started on their degrees before they graduate high school.

Honolulu Community College is part of the broader Hawai’i Community College System and is the best option for students interested in pursuing a liberal arts degree. The college’s associate in liberal arts programs, which include Hawaiian studies, natural sciences, Asian studies, communication, and psychology, all transfer to four-year universities in Hawaii, allowing students to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Honolulu Community College offers online programs for distance learners and working adults that require flexible schedules. The school also offers a great selection of unique courses and programs, such as ROTC, a cybersecurity program, apprenticeship training, continuing education courses, and cooperative education programs. New students can enroll during the fall, spring, and summer, and students that want to bypass placement testing requirements can submit standardized test scores instead.

Another school in the Hawai’i Community College System, Leeward Community College, excels in providing high-quality certificate programs that help students develop in-demand skills and prepare students to enter the workforce quickly. Certificate programs can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis, and many of these programs, including the business essentials and teaching certificates, can be completed online. Online programs are delivered via accelerated five-week courses to provide more flexibility to distance learners. LCC also offers plenty of associate degree programs that encompass subjects like business, digital media, management, health, and television production. LCC is dedicated to helping students finance their education and assists with applying for financial aid, scholarships, and other programs to help students save on costs like books and living expenses.

Kaua'i Community College allows students to choose from several associate degrees and certificate programs that span in-demand subjects like accounting, automotive technology, business, culinary arts, and hospitality and tourism. Courses are offered in in-person, online, and hybrid formats to accommodate students with different needs. KCC offers exceptional student resources and facilities that enhance the student experience. On campus, students can find an academic health center, electric vehicle charging stations, tech support services, computer labs for student use, a performing arts center, student clubs and organizations, and recreational facilities, including four tennis courts and a student lounge. The school also provides student counseling and advising, apprenticeship training, and career support services to ensure students are set up for success upon graduating from college.

Windward Community College is the best community college in Hawaii for students interested in pre-college programs. WCC offers a variety of pre-college programs that let students earn college credit while in high school. The Educational Talent Search (ETS) program helps people in grades six through twelve with college planning, and the Running Start program provides an opportunity for high school students to enroll in college classes through the University of Hawai‘i system. Other pre-college programs include TRIO Upward Bound, Early College High School, and the PACES program. College-aged students can choose from a variety of associate degree and certificate programs like business, Hawaiian studies, and performing arts. Those that attend WCC can access counseling, career support, and advising services to help them plan their education and career pathways.

University of Hawai’i Maui College is the top community college in Hawaii for adults interested in continuing education courses. UHMC offers non-credit career training and professional development courses in a wide range of topics, including business, apprenticeship, computer technology, farming, and fitness. The college also provides free Hawaiian language classes at the beginner and intermediate levels. Students can pursue certificates and associate’s degrees as well as two bachelor’s degrees in applied business and information technology and sustainable science management. Individuals who enroll in online courses through the Hawai’i Community College System can receive in-person support as needed through the University Center in Maui, making it easier for distance learners to receive personalized instruction.