Nursing in Hawaii

Schools, Licensure and Requirements

Hawaii offers various pathways for aspiring nurses, from Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. Prospective students can choose from 11 nursing schools offering a range of programs including LPN, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and advanced practice degrees. Well-known institutions for nursing education in Hawaii include the University of Hawaii at Manoa School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene, Hawaii Pacific University, and Chaminade University of Honolulu. The cost of nursing programs varies; LPN programs can range from $5,000 to $15,000, ADN programs from $10,000 to $25,000, and BSN programs from $30,000 to $60,000. These costs are estimates and can vary based on the institution and program length.

Hawaii reports a significant nursing shortage, contributing to the high demand for qualified nurses in the state. This shortage is reflected in the competitive salaries offered to nursing professionals. Graduates can expect to earn a median annual salary of approximately $62,020 as an LPN and $119,710 as an RN. These salaries are higher than the national average, reflecting the high demand and cost of living in Hawaii.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene is renowned for its comprehensive programs, including BSN, MSN, and DNP pathways. Hawaii Pacific University offers a blend of theoretical and clinical experiences, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare settings. Chaminade University of Honolulu emphasizes a holistic approach to nursing, integrating liberal arts and professional training. These institutions, along with others in the state, provide a solid foundation for a successful nursing career in Hawaii.

To learn more about specific nursing programs and institutions in Hawaii, we encourage you to explore the comprehensive list of nursing schools we have compiled for your convenience. This list provides detailed information about each program, including curriculum, admission requirements, and contact information, empowering you to make an informed decision about your nursing education journey in Hawaii.

Quick Stats about Hawaii

11
Nursing Schools
82.7 %
Avg NCLEX Rate
Not NLC
Compact State
$120,067
Avg RN Salary

Hawaii's NCLEX-RN Pass Rate vs. National Average

Compare Hawaii's NCLEX-RN pass rates to the national average over the years, including the number of students who took the exam.

Hawaii's NCLEX-PN Pass Rate vs. National Average

Compare Hawaii's NCLEX-PN pass rates to the national average over the years, including the number of students who took the exam.

Browse Programs by Type

Browse all nursing programs available in Hawaii, organized by degree type. Click any program to see schools offering that program with detailed information for easy comparison.

Doctoral Programs

Nursing Scholarships for Hawaii Students

Filipino Nurses’ Organization of Hawaii Scholarship
Offered by: Hawaii Community Foundation

This scholarship is available for Hawaiian full-time undergraduate and graduate students who are majoring in nursing and are of Filipino ancestry. Applicants must have permanent address in Hawaii.

Hawaii Pacific Gerontological Society Nursing Scholarship Fund
Offered by: Hawaii Community Foundation

The eligible candidate for this scholarship  must have been accepted in a nursing program at a two or four year college or university in Hawaii, pursing an RN or LPN degree.

Isemoto Contracting Co. Ltd. Scholarship Fund
Offered by: Hawaii Community Foundation

Applicant to this scholarship must be graduate of a high school on the island of Hawaii and be accepted as an upper classman into one of the following college programs: school of engineering, teacher education program, or nursing program.

Hawaii State Board of Nursing

King Kalakaua Building, 335 Merchant Street, 3rd Floor
Honolulu, HI 96813

Mailing Address

PVLD/DCCA
Attn: Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 3469
Honolulu, HI 96801

Phone: 808.586.3000

Fax: 808.586.2689

Contact Person: Lee Ann Teshima, Executive Officer