What Is It Known For?
Honolulu Community College’s’ history dates back to 1920 when it started as the Territorial Trade School in Kapālama.
Over the years, it changed names and grew in scope, becoming part of the University of Hawai’i system in 1964. Two years later (1966), it got its current name and the power to grant Associate degrees.
Today, Honolulu CC serves over 3,000 students each year.
Degrees & Certifications
Honolulu Community College has much to offer when it comes to degrees and certificates. You’ll find programs in:
- Construction & Trades
- Technology & Design
- Human Services
- Liberal Arts & Transfer, and more.
Class Schedules
Honolulu Community College knows students have busy lives, so they offer flexible class schedules. You can find morning, afternoon, and evening classes to fit your day.
Some courses are even available online, making it easier to learn from home. What’s more, the school offers a selection of weekend classes, so you’re able to plan around your schedule.
For an up-to-date class schedule, visit the Honolulu CC Class Availability website. You can also contact the school directly for inquiries on externships or clinicals.
Is It Legit?
Yes, the Honolulu Community College is a legitimate educational institution. It’s officially recognized by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC). This accreditation shows that the school meets high academic standards.
Acceptance Rate
Honolulu Community College has an open admission policy, meaning it has 100% acceptance rate. However, some programs have limited spots due to high demand.
Here’s what you need to apply:
- Be 18 or older, or
- Have a U.S. high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Students under 18 can still look into Dual Credit options like Early College or Running Start. These programs give younger students a chance to get a head start on their college education while still in high school.
How Much Does It Cost (Tuition)
At Honolulu Community College, tuition costs vary depending on your residency status. For the Summer 2025 semester, Hawaii residents pay $131 per credit, while non-residents are charged $345 per credit.
These rates can add up differently based on how many credits you take and the additional fees that apply.
Check the college’s tuition and fees page for a complete breakdown of costs or contact the school directly.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Communications
Healthcare
- Psychology
Professional Services
- Cosmetology
- Fashion Technology
Skilled Trades
- Carpentry
- Electrical
- HVAC
- Sheet Metal
- Welding
- Construction Technology
- Auto Body Repair & Painting
- Automotive Technology
- Diesel Mechanics Technology
Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Networking
Campus Locations
Honolulu 874 Dillingham Blvd. Honolulu, HI 96817
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Honolulu Community College has a very positive reputation, with particular praise for its supportive staff and quality curriculum. While a few older reviews point out minor issues, recent feedback is overwhelmingly favorable.
Overall Score: 4.2/5 Stars
Common Praises
Dedicated and Supportive Staff: Many reviews praise the college’s “great staff,” “experienced instructors,” and “fantastic staff” who are described as “very helpful.” A recent review from a month ago specifically calls out the great advisors and instructors.
Positive and Well-Maintained Campus: Reviewers describe the campus as “very well put together,” “very nice,” and “clean.” The student life organization is also praised for helping to maintain the area.
Strong Programs and Curriculum: Students feel the curriculum is “great,” and the professors ensure that students understand what they are learning. One reviewer from a month ago specifically praises the safety program as being a top feature of the college.
Common Criticisms
Isolated Issues with Staff: An older review from six years ago complains about a “very rude” and “arbitrary” ESL teacher.
Campus Environment and Construction: A review from several years ago mentions people smoking and vaping on campus, but this is an isolated incident. More recently, an 11-month-old review notes that the campus is “under construction all the time.” The college’s website confirms ongoing improvements, including a new Advanced Manufacturing Program Facility.
Cost: One old review from seven years ago describes the school as being “a bit expensive.” However, the tuition for in-state students is $131 per credit, which is considered an inexpensive option compared to many other colleges in the country.
Momentum
The reviews for Honolulu Community College are very positive, with the most recent feedback being highly favorable and focused on the quality of staff and programs. The college’s student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1, and 63% of the faculty are full-time, suggesting a strong level of support for students. The college has a “smoke-free campus policy” that prohibits the use of all tobacco products, including vapes, which is a recent change that would address one of the older criticisms. The ongoing campus construction is part of a long-range development plan to revitalize the school and its programs, including the new Advanced Technology and Training Center.