Hawaii Engineering Schools

Engineering students in Hawaii benefit from a unique academic and environmental setting. The state’s emphasis on sustainability, energy innovation, and ocean sciences provides distinct opportunities for applied learning and research—right in the heart of the Pacific.

Why Study Engineering in Hawaii

Hawaii offers a distinctive blend of academic rigor and cultural richness, making it an appealing destination for engineering students. With its focus on sustainability, ocean technologies, and renewable energy, the state supports a wide variety of types of engineering jobs.

Highlights include:

  • Sustainability Leadership: Hawaii is a national leader in renewable energy and environmental engineering initiatives. 
  • Ocean and Earth Sciences Integration: Unique opportunities in marine engineering, volcanology, and climate research. 
  • Cultural and Geographic Distinction: Studying in Hawaii offers exposure to indigenous knowledge systems and global perspectives. 
  • Strategic Pacific Location: Proximity to Asia-Pacific industries and research collaborations enhances global engineering engagement. 

Some of the Top Engineering Schools in Hawaii

Though Hawaii has a relatively small number of higher education institutions, it offers strong engineering programs that emphasize sustainability, global engagement, and cutting-edge research. The schools listed below represent op options in the state. A more complete list of ABET-accredited programs appears later in this profile.

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Engineering

The College of Engineering at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a comprehensive engineering education with bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in civil, electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering. It also includes a bachelor's program in construction engineering and options in engineering science. The college is distinguished by a strong emphasis on sustainability and resilience, informed by its unique island setting.

With more than 10,000 degrees awarded since its founding in 1912, the college supports over 1,300 undergraduate and 200 graduate students. Academic programs are supported by a full-time faculty of 88, alongside adjuncts and emeriti. Research and education are intertwined, and students benefit from opportunities such as scholarships, community-based projects, and partnerships like the W. M. Keck Observatory collaboration.

About the University

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is a public research university located in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. Known for its diverse student body and strong research initiatives, UH Mānoa serves as the flagship campus of the University of Hawaiʻi system.

Hawaiʻi Pacific University Department of Computer Science and Engineering

Hawai‘i Pacific University offers several ABET-accredited undergraduate engineering degrees through its Department of Computer Science and Engineering. These include:

  • Electrical Engineering 
  • Biomedical Engineering 
  • Biotechnology Engineering 

The programs emphasize the application of engineering, mathematics, and science to develop creative and practical solutions for contemporary challenges. Students are trained to design within real-world constraints such as economic, environmental, ethical, and sustainability factors. The curriculum includes opportunities to work individually and in multidisciplinary teams, using modern engineering tools and practices.

The department also offers a 3+2 Math+Engineering dual degree option, enabling students to earn two accredited degrees from different institutions over five years, catering to students interested in specializations not currently offered at HPU.

About the University

Hawai‘i Pacific University is a private university located in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Known for its diverse student population and island setting, the university offers a unique blend of academic rigor and cultural perspective.

Engineering Scholarships and Financial Aid in Hawaii

Hawaii offers financial aid opportunities to support students pursuing engineering degrees. These include state-funded scholarships, federal grants, and institutional awards designed to promote access and retention in STEM fields.

Key programs and resources include:

Students should also complete the FAFSA to access federal and most state-level financial aid options.

Engineering Licensure and Other Resources in Hawaii

Professional licensure ensures that engineers meet rigorous standards of competency and ethics. In Hawaii, licensure is required for those offering engineering services directly to the public. The state also offers academic and professional resources to support engineering education and career development.

Key organizations and resources include:

These resources help guide students from classroom learning to licensure and career success.

FAQs About Engineering Education in Hawaii

Can I earn an engineering degree online in Hawaii?
 Yes. While local institutions primarily offer in-person programs, students in Hawaii can access accredited online engineering bachelor's degree and online engineering master's degree options from universities across the U.S.

What are Hawaii’s strongest engineering fields?
 The state excels in environmental, civil, marine, and electrical engineering—fields that align with its geography and sustainability goals.

Is licensure required to work as an engineer in Hawaii?
 Yes, especially for roles involving public safety or regulated industries. The Hawaii Board of Professional Engineers oversees the licensing process.

Do Hawaii schools offer engineering internships or research opportunities?
 Yes. The University of Hawaii at Manoa and Hawaii Pacific University partner with local and international organizations to offer research projects, internships, and co-op experiences.

ABET-Accredited Engineering Programs in Hawaii

Choosing an ABET-accredited engineering school is essential for students who plan to pursue professional licensure or enter competitive technical fields. Hawaii offers select programs that meet these rigorous standards, ensuring a strong foundation in both theory and applied practice.

These programs are designed to prepare graduates for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, advanced study, and long-term career growth in a range of engineering disciplines.

Hawaii Pacific University Honolulu - Computer Science

- Biomedical Engineering

- Biotechnology Engineering

- Electrical Engineering
University of Hawaii at Manoa Honolulu - Biological Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Ocean and Resources Engineering

- Global Environmental Science

- Computer Engineering

- Construction Engineering

Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Hawaii was compiled in 2025. Because program offerings and accreditation statuses may change, readers are encouraged to consult the ABET official website and the individual university websites for the most current information. Additional resources mentioned throughout this profile—such as the Hawaii Board of Professional Engineers and the Hawaii Community Foundation—can provide further guidance on academic and licensure planning.

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