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University of Hawaii at Hilo

Hilo, HI

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Maluna a{{okina("Above all nations is humanity")

1945
Founded
Public university
Type
2,260
Total Students
2,971
Undergrad
568
Graduate
$491M
Endowment
(2023)
$8K
Tuition (In-State)
$21K
Tuition (Out-State)
$12K
Avg Net Price
90%
Acceptance Rate
42%
Graduation Rate
6-year
70%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Wendy Hensel

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Hawaii at Hilo

Experience a unique island education at the University of Hawaii at Hilo.

Nestled in the vibrant city of Hilo, Hawaiʻi, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo (UH Hilo) stands as a proud public institution within the esteemed University of Hawaiʻi System. With its unique island setting, UH Hilo offers an unparalleled environment for learning and discovery, attracting a diverse student body that includes both Hawaiʻi residents and international scholars.

The university's journey began in 1945 as the Hilo Center, a branch campus of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Its very existence was forged by community resilience, as local residents and legislators rallied to save the institution from closure in the 1950s, solidifying its place as a vital educational cornerstone. This foundational spirit of community and dedication culminated in its reorganization in 1970, marking its transformation into the distinct and comprehensive University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo we know today.

Academically, UH Hilo offers a robust portfolio designed to prepare students for diverse careers and advanced studies. With 33 undergraduate and 3 graduate degree programs, students have a wide array of choices across liberal arts, education, agriculture, and vocational fields. The university's commitment to quality education is underscored by its long-standing accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission since 1976.

Serving a student population of 3,539, UH Hilo fosters a close-knit yet globally aware community. The beautiful 115-acre campus provides a backdrop for a rich student experience, embodying its inspiring motto, "Maluna aʻe o nā lāhui āpau ke ola ke kānaka" – "Above all nations is humanity."

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1945, it evolved from the Hilo Center into a distinct public university within the University of Hawaiʻi System.
  • Offers a comprehensive selection of 33 undergraduate and 3 graduate degree programs.
  • Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission since 1976, ensuring high academic standards.
  • Serves a diverse student body of 3,539, including a significant number of Hawaiʻi residents and international students.
  • Located on a picturesque 115-acre campus in Hilo, Hawaiʻi.
  • Guided by the meaningful Hawaiian motto: "Maluna aʻe o nā lāhui āpau ke ola ke kānaka" ("Above all nations is humanity").

Timeline

1945
Established as Hilo Center at Lyman Hall of the Hilo Boys School.
1951
Community and legislators successfully resisted an attempt by Governor Oren E. Long to close the school.
1955
Moved to its present location on a 30-acre parcel of land.
1970
Reorganized and renamed Hilo College, merging with Hawaii Community College to become the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.
1976
Received accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
1990
Hawaiʻi Community College was separated from the university.
🏛️
81 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Wendy Hensel
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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