Trade Schools in Hawaii
Attending a trade or vocational school in Hawaii can be an incredible investment. Not only can it lead to a successful career in an array of wonderful fields with high demand, but it can also serve as a veritable avenue to become a valuable member of society, contributing significantly to human growth.
Carefully researching the key components of attending trade schools in Hawaii is one of the most important steps to getting the best out of the entire experience. To that end, we have provided below a comprehensive guide containing everything individuals must know about the topic.
We discuss in detail the average tuition and total cost, financial aid incentives available to trade school students, accreditation requirements, and the top schools in the state.
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Average Cost of Trade Schools in Hawaii
While it is impossible to accurately outline the exact cost of attending a trade school in Hawaii, it is possible to acquire a general picture of the possible average cost based on the accumulation of related costs and the data provided by relevant organizations such as the Hawaii Department of Education and the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools, among others.
Going by this, we have deduced that the average cost of attending a private trade school in Hawaii is usually between $21,500 and $36,500, while the average cost of attending a public trade school is between $12,000 and $18,000.
Breaking Down the Cost
The most predominant agents influencing the total average cost of attending a trade school are the tuition fees, cost of materials and books, equipment cost specific to each program, and student fees.
The average tuition fee for private trade schools in Hawaii is $15,000 - $30,000, while the average tuition cost of attending a public trade school is $6,000 - $12,000.
For both trade schools in the state, the average equipment cost ranges from $500 to $5,000, while the average student and book fees range from $500 to $1,500.
Relevant Determinants
There are several key players in determining how much a student will pay for a trade program in Hawaii, and these fees differ from institution to institution. However, among the most dominant of these factors are location, specialization, and program length.
Longer programs cost more, as do those located in urban areas and those requiring a high degree of specialization. Of course, financial aid and scholarships can help immensely with these costs.
Financial Aid for Trade Schools in Hawaii
Financial aid and scholarships can help immensely with tuition and overall education costs of individuals attending trade schools in the state. Below, we discuss some of the most notable scholarships to consider, including state and national grants and scholarships.
- Hana Lima Scholarship - available to high school graduates with Hawaiian ancestry enrolled in a trade school in the state. Offers $1,500.
- Pauahi Foundation Scholarships - contains multiple grants for students of Hawaiian ancestry, including trade and technical students.
- Hawaii Community Foundation - offers a range of scholarships, including one for aspiring trade school students.
- Hawaiian Civic Club of Honolulu Scholarship - Candidates applying for the Hawaiian Civic Club of Honolulu must be enrolled in a trade school and be prepared to write a 750-word essay.
Licensing and Accreditation for Trade Schools in Hawaii
Hawaii’s public and nonprofit trade schools usually seek regional accreditation, while private trade schools are more inclined toward national accreditation. Both, of course, are valid.
In this regard, the state’s most prominent accrediting agency for trade schools is the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission must accredit online trade schools in Hawaii.
On a programmatic level, national organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs approve programs in their fields. Some of the main reasons for aspiring trade students in Hawaii to attend accredited schools include ease of getting a job, increased access to grants and scholarships, and more.
Top Vocational Trade Schools in Hawaii
The list below contains some of the most popular trade schools in Hawaii
Honolulu Community College
Honolulu, HI Online + Campus
Honolulu Community College offers more than 50 programs, including both online and offline options. 25 of these are associate programs, while the rest offer certificates. Only 1 associate program can be completed online.
Tuition
$3,174 - $8,310Contact
- honcouns@hawaii.edu
- (808) 845-9211
Hawaii Community College
Hilo, HI Online + Campus
Hawaii Community College offers diverse programs in healthcare, education, stem fields, and more. It includes 40+ associate programs and 70+ certificate programs. The school strongly emphasizes agricultural fields, including aquaculture and renewable energy.
Tuition
$3,204 - $8,340Contact
- hawccinf@hawaii.edu
- (808) 934-2500
Kauai Community College
Puhi, HI Online + Campus
Kauai Community College offers Hawaiian studies, marine science, culinary arts, business, and more programs. It is perfect for Hawaiian residents looking for a beautiful learning environment emphasizing culture and cultural preservation.
Tuition
$3,252 - $8,388Contact
- arkauai@hawaii.edu
- (808) 245-8225
Leeward Community College
Pearl City, HI Online + Campus
At Leeward Community College, students can receive hands-on training with strong support services for veterans. Along with its business, liberal arts, and STEM programs, the school is also notable for its dedicated nursing program, which has a high graduate success rate.
Tuition
$3,209 - $8,345Contact
- leeapply@hawaii.edu
- (808) 455-0642
Kapiolani Community College
Honolulu, HI Online + Campus
Kapiolani Community College offers unique programs such as the Fashion Design and Film Production programs, highlighting its commitment to humanities and liberal arts. However, individuals looking for business, education, and healthcare programs can also consider the school a veritable destination for comprehensive training.
Tuition
$3,284 - $8,420Contact
- kapinfo@hawaii.edu
- (808) 734-9555
Windward Community College
Honolulu, HI Online + Campus
Windward Community College offers strong and vibrant art programs, with an equally vibrant art and social scene. Students will experience various performances, events, and galleries to keep them stimulated and inspired as they learn.
Tuition
$3,194 - $8,330Contact
- wccocet@hawaii.edu
- (808) 235-7433
Maui Community College
Kahului, HI Online + Campus
Lastly, Maui Community College is another wonderful destination to receive comprehensive and top-quality training as an aspiring trade and technical professional in Hawaii. The school offers natural sciences, humanities, education, business, and technology programs.
Tuition
$3,278 - $8,414Contact
- uhmcelwd@hawaii.edu
- (808) 984-3231