Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Hawaii
From the vibrant traditions of the hula and ukulele to forward‑thinking initiatives like the Hawaiʻi Promise Scholarship, the Aloha State blends rich culture with innovative education policy. Across six islands, Hawaii supports roughly 180,000 K‑12 students, many in remote or Native Hawaiian immersion programs—yet it still ranks among the top 10 states struggling with teacher vacancies, especially in rural and STEM classrooms. Island educators contend with long commutes, technology gaps, and the high cost of living, making qualified teachers a rare and prized resource.
Earning a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) in Hawaii boosts earning potential and moves you up the state salary schedule, it also opens doors to leadership roles, like department head or curriculum coordinator, and specialist positions supporting literacy, special education, and digital learning initiatives. Whether you prefer the flexibility of fully online cohorts, a hybrid model with summer residencies, or evening classes on Oʻahu or Maui campuses, there’s a program that fits your lifestyle. This guide ranks Hawaii’s top M.Ed. programs, highlights accelerated and budget‑friendly options, breaks down licensure pathways, and showcases in‑demand specialties and employers.

Table of Contents
2026 Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Hawaii
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, HI - Public 4-Year - manoa.hawaii.edu
Master's - MEd – Early Childhood Education
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Hawaii at Manoa's MEd in Early Childhood Education pioneers innovative leadership training for educators specializing in child development from birth to 8 years. This hybrid 30-month program strategically blends online seminars with intensive summer sessions, accommodating professionals across Hawaii and the Pacific Basin. Graduates emerge with advanced skills in supporting early learning environments, community engagement, and child developmental strategies. The program offers flexible non-licensure and add-a-field licensure tracks, requiring a 3.0 GPA and foundational child development coursework. Designed for experienced educators seeking career advancement, the curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and professional growth.
- 30-month interdisciplinary program
- Hybrid summer intensive format
- Multiple track options available
- Nationally accredited program
- Leadership preparation focus
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- 9 prerequisite credits recommended
- Summer sessions on Manoa campus
- Professional recommendation required
- Financial aid opportunities
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Administration (K-12)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Hawaii at Manoa's Educational Administration MEd in K-12 concentration prepares seasoned educators for transformative leadership roles. This comprehensive 30-credit program equips professionals with advanced administrative skills, emphasizing school policy development, organizational leadership, and strategic educational management. Targeting educators with minimum two years classroom experience, the program demands a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Graduates are strategically positioned to pursue administrative positions across educational levels, with coursework deeply exploring organizational dynamics, legal frameworks, and systemic educational policy implementation.
- 30-credit graduate program
- 2 years typical completion time
- Campus-based delivery
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- 2+ years teaching experience needed
- Multiple scholarship opportunities
- Thesis and project options available
- Nationally accredited program
- Flexible course formats
Master's - Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Hawaii at Manoa's Learning Design and Technology MEd empowers educational technology innovators through a cutting-edge 33-credit program. Designed for professionals seeking to revolutionize learning environments, the cohort-based curriculum develops advanced skills in instructional design, digital media development, and technological integration. Evening classes accommodate working professionals, providing flexible pathways across K-12 and corporate sectors. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, enabling graduates to emerge as versatile technological educational experts prepared for diverse career opportunities in rapidly evolving digital learning landscapes.
- 33-credit graduate program
- Cohort-based learning model
- Evening classes on campus
- Diverse career opportunities
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Core courses in educational technology
- Flexible elective options
- Professional technology skills
- Design-focused practicum
- Multiple career pathways
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Leadership & Research, Applied Behavior Analysis)
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Hawaii at Manoa's Special Education MEd provides a comprehensive online pathway for professionals supporting individuals with disabilities. Offering three specialized tracks—Leadership & Research, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Interdisciplinary—this 31-credit program emphasizes evidence-based practices and inclusive educational advocacy. With potential merit-based stipends and flexible part-time options, the curriculum prepares educators to develop advanced intervention techniques and collaborative strategies. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and relevant professional experience, positioning graduates as innovative special education practitioners across various educational and developmental contexts.
- Online synchronous program
- 31-credit graduate degree
- Multiple specialization tracks
- $650 per credit
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Merit-based stipends available
- Part-time study options
- No initial teacher licensure
- Faculty-guided personalized learning
- Potential loan forgiveness options
Master's - Master of Education in Teaching (Elementary Education)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Hawaii at Manoa's Elementary Education Master of Teaching represents an intensive two-year pathway to professional educator licensure. This comprehensive 46-credit program integrates advanced pedagogical theory with extensive classroom practice, preparing candidates for impactful K-6 teaching careers. Combining hybrid learning formats with mandatory field experiences, the curriculum develops sophisticated instructional skills through professional seminars and student teaching placements. With approximately $30,000 in-state tuition and potential financial aid opportunities, graduates earn both a master's degree and teaching license, positioning themselves as highly qualified elementary educators.
- Two-year field-based program
- Approximately $30,000 in-state tuition
- State Approved Teacher Education Program
- Hybrid learning format available
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Multiple financial aid opportunities
- Mandatory school placements
- 46 total credit program
- No prior teaching experience required
- Hawaiian Language Immersion option
Master's - Master of Education in Teaching (Secondary Education)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
- Two-year field-based teacher preparation
- 46-credit comprehensive program
- Multiple content area specializations
- Hybrid and face-to-face formats
- State-approved teacher licensure
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Multiple financial aid options
- Statewide and neighbor island cohorts
- Full-time student teaching
- Tuition around $30,000
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Administration (Higher Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
- 30-credit graduate program
- Campus-based, 2-year typical length
- Mid-level administrative focus
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Multiple funding opportunities
- Flexible course formats
- Individualized academic planning
Master's - Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology
Online Learning - Visit Website
- Fully online graduate program
- Two to three year completion
- 33-credit graduate degree
- Cohort-based learning model
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Six core courses required
- Evening live online sessions
- Research and practicum components
- Diverse career opportunities
- Accredited program
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis)
Online Learning - Visit Website
- Online synchronous program
- 31-credit graduate degree
- BCBA exam preparation
- $650 per credit
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Potential $8,000 merit stipends
- Fieldwork supervision included
- Part-time study option
- Faculty-guided curriculum
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Leadership & Research)
Online Learning - Visit Website
- Online synchronous program
- 31-credit graduate degree
- $650 per credit tuition
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Leadership & Research track focus
- Merit-based stipends available
- Potential loan forgiveness options
- Mandatory online orientation
- Dedicated faculty advisor
- Synchronous evening classes
Master's - Master of Education in Teaching (Dual Secondary and Special Education)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
- Two-year field-based program
- State-approved teacher licensure
- Hybrid program delivery
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Tuition approximately $30,000
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 46 total credits
- Dual licensure options available
- Financial aid and stipends
- Nationwide teacher certification
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI - Private 4-year - chaminade.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chaminade University of Honolulu's Master of Education in Educational Leadership is a 100% online program that can be completed in as few as 18 months, offering flexibility for working professionals. With 30 credit hours and multiple concentration options, it emphasizes research-based practices and leadership skills to enhance educational expertise. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam such as the GRE, but specific requirements should be verified with the university.
- 100% online program
- Complete in 18 months
- 30 total credit hours
- Multiple concentration options
- Research-focused curriculum
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Teaching with an Elementary Education concentration at Chaminade University of Honolulu is delivered online, focusing on advanced pedagogical skills and classroom management for elementary educators. It includes comprehensive curriculum development and specialized instructional strategies, preparing graduates for effective teaching. This master's program may necessitate an entrance exam like the GRE; check with the institution for details.
- Online Master's in Teaching
- Elementary Education Concentration
- Advanced Pedagogical Training
- Comprehensive Curriculum Development
- Specialized Instructional Strategies
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership (Catholic School Leadership)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chaminade University of Honolulu offers a campus-based Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a Catholic School Leadership concentration, tailored for roles in Catholic educational settings. It covers ethical leadership, Catholic philosophy, and organizational management, fostering transformative leaders. As a master's degree, an entrance exam such as the GRE might be required; confirm with the university for specifics.
- Specialized Catholic School Leadership focus
- Master's level educational leadership
- Campus-based program format
- Advanced pedagogical training
- Ethical leadership development
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Arts in Teaching with a Secondary Education concentration at Chaminade University of Honolulu prepares educators for secondary classrooms through rigorous coursework and practical experiences. Designed for flexibility, it supports working professionals and requires a bachelor's degree for admission. This master's program may involve an entrance exam like the GRE; verify requirements directly.
- Online program flexibility.
- Concentration in Secondary Education.
- Prepares for real-world teaching.
- Bachelor's degree required for admission.
- Combines academic and practical experiences.
- Designed for working professionals.
- Focus on educational excellence.
- Tailored for diverse life stages.
- Investment in future educators.
- Skills for diverse classrooms.
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Special Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Chaminade University of Honolulu's online Master of Arts in Teaching with a Special Education concentration equips educators to support diverse learners with inclusive strategies, curriculum design, and behavioral interventions. It includes internships for practical experience and is ideal for career changers. A bachelor's degree is required for admission, and as a master's program, an entrance exam such as the GRE may be needed; check with the university.
- Online program format.
- Concentration in Special Education.
- Prepares for diverse learner needs.
- Focus on inclusive education strategies.
- Curriculum design and behavioral interventions.
- Practical internship experience included.
- For career changers and educators.
- Bachelor's degree required for admission.
- Competitive program costs.
- Blends theory with application.
Hawaii Pacific University
Honolulu, HI - Private 4-year - hpu.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Elementary Education
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Hawaii Pacific University's Master of Education in Elementary Education is a 12-month hybrid program that prepares educators for K-6 classrooms through 36 credit hours and 450 hours of clinical practice. It offers flexible 100% virtual or seated options, focusing on pedagogical skills, cultural responsiveness, and technology integration in a multicultural Pacific Rim setting. The program is nationally accredited, Hawai'i State approved, and emphasizes small class sizes with mentorship from experienced teachers. As a master's level program, it does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for aspiring educators seeking licensure preparation.
- 12-month full-time program
- 100% Virtual or Seated
- 450 hours clinical practice
- K-6 Licensure Preparation
- Hawai'i State Approved Program
- Small Class Sizes
- Multicultural Learning Environment
- Nationally Accredited
- Mentorship by Experienced Teachers
- Online Course Flexibility
University of Hawaii at Hilo
Hilo, HI - Public 4-Year - hilo.hawaii.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Hawaii at Hilo's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is a two-year campus-based program preparing educators for initial licensure in Hawaii, with tracks in elementary and secondary education. It emphasizes research-based pedagogical methods, technology integration, and extensive field experiences. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, 3.0 GPA, teaching experience, and passing professional assessments; no entrance exam is specified as required for this master's level program.
- Two-year comprehensive teaching program
- Elementary and secondary tracks
- Initial Hawaii teacher licensure
- 40+ hours youth experience required
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Extensive field experience
- Research-based pedagogical methods
- Technology instruction focus
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on Elementary Education, this Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at the University of Hawaii at Hilo is a two-year program leading to teacher licensure. It involves 36 credit hours, action research, and full-time enrollment, with admission requiring a 3.0 GPA, youth experience, and recommendation letters. The Praxis II exam is required for this master's level program.
- Two-year teacher licensure program
- Elementary Education concentration
- 36 total credit hours
- Requires 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Minimum 40 hours youth experience
- Initial licensure first year
- Action research second year
- Full-time summer/fall/spring enrollment
- Praxis II exam requirement
- Three recommendation letters needed
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Secondary Education concentration in the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at the University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a rigorous two-year path to initial teacher licensure. It includes 36 graduate credits, field experiences, and a focus on technology and research-based methods. Admission mandates a 3.0 GPA and youth experience; no entrance exam is specified as required for this master's level program.
- Two-year teacher licensure program
- Initial Hawaii teacher certification
- 36 total graduate credits
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Full-time summer-fall-spring enrollment
- Field experience and clinical practicum
- Research-based teaching methods
- Technology integration focus
- Specialized secondary track
- Minimum 40 hours youth experience required

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Fastest M.Ed. Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii’s remote geography makes time and travel precious. These quick, short, accelerated tracks let working teachers complete an M.Ed. in as little as 12–16 months through intensive terms and blended residencies.
| School | Specialty | Program Length | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa | Curriculum & Instruction | 12 months | Campus & online |
| Hawaiʻi Pacific University | Educational Leadership | 12 months | Hybrid |
| Brigham Young University–Hawaiʻi | Special Education | 12–14 months | Online |
| University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo | Early Childhood Education | 14 months | Online |
| University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu | Teaching | 15 months | Online |
| Chaminade University | School Counseling | 16 months | Campus |
Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in Hawaii
With island premiums affecting tuition, these affordable, low‑cost, budget‑friendly programs help you graduate without breaking the bank.
| School | Specialty | Tuition Range* | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu | Teaching | $500/credit | Online |
| University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo | Early Childhood Education | $525/credit | Online |
| Hawaiʻi Pacific University | Special Education | $540/credit | Hybrid |
| University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa | Curriculum & Instruction | $575/credit | Campus & online |
| Chaminade University | School Counseling | $595/credit | Campus |
| University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu | TESOL | $500/credit | Online |
*Published 2024–25 in-state or online rates; fees vary. Explore a full list of affordable programs
What Master’s in Education Degrees Lead to Hawaii Teacher Licensure?
Hawaii offers an Alternate Route to Licensure (ARL) for career-changers, embedding student teaching and Praxis assessments into master’s curricula. These paths award both an M.Ed. and a Hawaii Professional Educator License.
| Licensure Path | Certification Level | Key Requirements | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alternate Route to Licensure | Professional Educator License | Bachelor’s GPA ≥ 2.75, Praxis II, fingerprint clearance | 36–42 credits; blended |
| Traditional Master’s Path | Adds endorsements | Valid temporary license, 3.0 GPA, background check | 30–33 credits; campus/online |
| Post‑Master’s Endorsement | Specialist endorsements | Completed M.Ed., 15 credit hours in endorsement area | 15 credits; online |
See our full teaching-licensure guide for full details, including application deadlines and reciprocity.
Are Online Master’s in Education Programs Available in Hawaii?
Online learning is essential for island educators balancing classroom duties and remote communities. Many universities offer 100% online concentrations, while hybrids combine on-campus residencies with web-based lectures. Online programs remove travel hurdles but require strong self-discipline and reliable internet—common on Oʻahu but less consistent on neighbor islands.
Pros of Online Study
- Flexible pacing for working teachers
- Access to all Maui and Big Island concentrations
- No relocation required for residencies
Potential Drawbacks
- Variable internet speeds in rural areas
- Limited face‑to‑face networking
- Tech fees and proctored-exam costs
Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in Hawaii
Typical application checklists include:
- Bachelor’s degree with 3.0+ GPA
- Official transcripts from all institutions
- Praxis Core or GRE/MAT scores (waivers available)
- Résumé detailing professional or fieldwork experience
- Two recommendation letters (supervisor, principal, or professor)
- Personal statement on educational philosophy
- Background check for student teaching placements
Popular Master’s in Education Specialties in Hawaii
Educators align graduate study with Hawaii’s unique needs:
- Curriculum & Instruction
- Educational Leadership
- Special Education
- School Counseling
- Early Childhood Education
- TESOL
Top Employers & Districts Hiring M.Ed. Graduates
Hawaii’s Department of Education and private schools value master’s credentials:
- Hawaii State Department of Education – largest U.S. district; roles in curriculum and policy
- Kamehameha Schools – the world’s most extensive private school system serving Native Hawaiians
- Chaminade University – faculty and instructional design positions
- University of Hawaiʻi System – academic and advising roles
- ʻIolani School – college counseling and leadership opportunities
- Hawaii Pacific University – program coordination and student-success roles
For salary benchmarks, visit our M.Ed. Salary Guide.
Your Next Step Toward a Master’s in Education in Hawaii
Ready to combine your aloha spirit with advanced credentials? Hawaii’s M.Ed. programs offer flexible formats, island-friendly tuition, and direct licensure pathways—so you can lead change in your community, whether on Oʻahu or the outer islands. Elevate your impact and enrich student lives by exploring accredited M.Ed. programs tailored for Hawaii.
Sources
- Hawaii State Department of Education – Teacher Vacancy Report
- University of Hawaiʻi Oficina
- Hawaii Pacific University Tuition & Fees
- Brigham Young University–Hawaiʻi Graduate Programs
- Chaminade University Program Details
- Hawaii Teacher Standards Board
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Education Occupations
Stay informed with expert insights on Master’s in Education programs, career development, and leadership opportunities. Whether you’re evaluating schools, preparing for admissions, or exploring career paths after graduation, our carefully selected articles offer valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions and maximize your Master’s in Education investment.
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