Kaneohe, located on the eastern side of Oahu, Hawaii, is a scenic coastal town that offers not only stunning natural beauty but also access to quality higher education. While smaller in size compared to major cities, Kaneohe is home to notable educational institutions that serve local students and contribute to the development of Hawai‘i’s workforce in healthcare, education, and applied sciences.
Top Public Colleges & Universities in Kaneohe
Windward Community College – Part of the University of Hawai‘i system, Windward Community College offers associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs. It's known for programs in Hawaiian Studies, veterinary technology, and liberal arts.
University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (nearby in Honolulu) – Though not in Kaneohe, UH Mānoa is the flagship campus of the state’s public university system and is located about 30 minutes away. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees and is known for its research in oceanography, Hawaiian culture, and public health.
Leeward Community College (accessible from Kaneohe) – Located on the leeward side of Oahu, this college is another University of Hawai‘i community campus offering transfer programs, vocational training, and continuing education opportunities.
Honolulu Community College (near Kaneohe) – Located in urban Honolulu and easily accessible from Kaneohe, this school specializes in applied trades, transportation, computing, and natural sciences.
Kapiʻolani Community College (accessible from Kaneohe) – Known for its culinary arts, nursing, and health sciences programs, this college supports Kaneohe residents through its accessible programs and strong transfer paths to UH Mānoa.
Top Private Colleges & Universities in Kaneohe
Hawai‘i Pacific University (HPU) – Kāneʻohe Campus (Hawai‘i Loa Campus) – Located right in Kaneohe, the scenic Hawai‘i Loa Campus is part of HPU and offers degrees in nursing, biology, marine science, and public health. It is recognized for its small class sizes and global student community.
Chaminade University of Honolulu (near Kaneohe) – A Catholic Marianist university located in Honolulu, just a short drive from Kaneohe. It’s known for strong programs in education, forensic science, and criminal justice.
Remington College – Honolulu Campus (accessible from Kaneohe) – Though not in Kaneohe proper, Remington College offers career-focused degree programs in health sciences, criminal justice, and business, serving students across Oahu.
Argosy University (formerly in Honolulu) – Before its closure, this institution had served students in Kaneohe and beyond, offering graduate degree programs in psychology, business, and education.
Pacifica Graduate Institute – Hawai‘i Extension (program-based) – While primarily based in California, Pacifica has offered programs and intensive retreats in Kaneohe, especially for advanced training in psychology and counseling rooted in depth psychology.