Cheapest Biology Colleges in Hawaii

Hawaii biology students face a striking cost divide between public and private options, with University of Hawaii at Hilo offering the state's most affordable program at just $12,063 net cost compared to Hawaii Pacific University's $30,557. The University of Hawaii system dominates biology education here, serving students who typically remain on the islands after graduation to work in marine research, conservation, or healthcare sectors that support the tourism industry. With Hawaii's unique ecosystem and marine environment, biology graduates find opportunities in both traditional medical fields and specialized environmental work.

Programs

$12,063 – $30,557

Net Price Range

$29,064

Avg. Program Earnings

51.6%

Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Biology, General Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Hawaii at Hilo Hilo, Hawaii	$12,063	$7,838	41.6%	84.2%
2	University of Hawaii at Manoa Honolulu, Hawaii	$13,181	$12,186	62.6%	72.8%
3	Brigham Young University-Hawaii Laie, Hawaii	$13,884	$6,438	54.4%	34.2%
4	Chaminade University of Honolulu Honolulu, Hawaii	$28,061	$29,970	58.1%	93.4%
5	Hawaii Pacific University Honolulu, Hawaii	$30,557	$33,020	41.2%	87.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Hawaii at Hilo such an affordable option for biology students?

UH Hilo offers the lowest net cost at $12,063 while maintaining an 84% acceptance rate and producing graduates who earn $35,060 annually. The public university benefits from state funding and provides strong value with relatively low student debt of $22,000 upon graduation.

How do graduation rates vary among Hawaii's biology programs?

University of Hawaii at Manoa leads with a 62.6% graduation rate, while both UH Hilo and Hawaii Pacific University show concerning 41% rates. BYU Hawaii maintains a solid 54% rate with the added benefit of highly selective admissions at just 34% acceptance.

Does staying in Hawaii after graduation limit biology career earnings?

Hawaii's isolation does constrain the job market, with biology graduate earnings ranging from $23,456 to $35,060 across programs. However, the state's high cost of living and specialized research opportunities in marine biology and conservation can offset lower nominal wages for some career paths.

More Biology, General Rankings

Best Value Biology, General in Hawaii Biology, General Under $20,000 in Hawaii

All Biology, General Programs Best Colleges in Hawaii Best Biology, General in Hawaii

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.