University of Hawaii at Hilo

Nestled in the vibrant city of Hilo on the stunning island of Hawaiʻi, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo (UH Hilo) offers a unique educational journey unlike any other. As a proud public university and a vital part of the esteemed University of Hawaiʻi System, UH Hilo provides a distinct blend of academic rigor and unparalleled island life. It's a place where diverse perspectives converge, rooted in the spirit of 'Maluna aʻe o nā lāhui āpau ke ola ke kānaka' – 'Above all nations is humanity' – a motto that encapsulates its welcoming and inclusive community.

Tracing its roots back to 1945 as the Hilo Center, the university has a rich history of resilience and growth. What began as a branch campus of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, evolving through various iterations like the Hilo Branch, UH Hilo truly blossomed after its reorganization in 1970. This pivotal moment established it as a distinct campus within the newly formed University of Hawaiʻi System. Over the decades, the Big Island community rallied to support its only college, ensuring its continuous development and establishing its independent identity.

Today, UH Hilo is a fully accredited institution, offering a robust array of academic opportunities with thirty-three undergraduate and three graduate degree programs. Students benefit from a strong emphasis on liberal arts, education, agriculture, and vocational fields, preparing them for a dynamic future. With a student body of over 3,500, predominantly Hawaiʻi residents but also attracting a significant number of international students, UH Hilo fosters a diverse and supportive learning environment where community and global perspectives thrive amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of its island home.