Online Degrees in Hawaii

College education has been greatly affected by the recent recession. Campus schools in Hawaii have definitely been affected. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Hawaii is one of 41 states that cut services for higher education in 2009. Although the economy is starting to show signs of improvement, tuition increases combined with reduced funding for students is making it more difficult than ever for students to afford to attend schools in Hawaii. Students who can't afford to attend a campus school in the state should know that Hawaii online degrees may be their next best choice.

Get the 411 on Hawaii Online Degrees

In order to meet postsecondary educational demands to increase enrollments with less resources, Hawaiian institutions of higher education have increased the delivery of education through online programs, particularly in education, special education, nursing, and health care. Consequently, most colleges, universities, and vocational schools in Hawaii offer many of their programs online.

Online Degree Programs in Hawaii: Which Degree Levels Do They Offer?

Hawaii online degrees are available for almost any educational level including:

• High school diploma or GED
• Certificate and diploma
• Associate's degree
• Bachelor's degree
• Master's degree
• Doctoral degree

Schools in Hawaii also offer hybrid programs that include an on-campus component for educational programs that require them.

Which Benefits Can Hawaii Degree Programs Offer You?

Enrolling in one of the online degree programs in Hawaii can offer you many benefits including:

• Flexibility scheduling your classes
• Option to continue working and maintain family responsibilities while attending school
• No relocation expenses to attend a campus school
• Ability to study from remote locations
• Obtaining a degree that can enhance your employment and earning potential

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the average worker with a bachelor's degree or higher earns $1,000 or more per week and has an unemployment rate of 5 percent or lower. By comparison, workers without a college degree average less than $700 per week and have an unemployment rate of 8 percent or higher. Higher education can pay off by preparing you to be competitive in today's job market, whether you're looking for a new career or want to be promoted in your current career.

Which Jobs Are Available in Hawaii Once You've Earned Your Degree?

According to the BLS, the annual mean income in 2009 for Hawaii residents for all occupations was $42,760. Based on Hawaii Department of Labor statistics, overall employment is expected to increase by 7.1 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the Hawaii Workforce Informer (HIWI). Although Hawaii's top industry is tourism, HIWI predicts the highest percentage employment growth in personal care services, various health care fields, community and social services, computers and math.

Substantial growth is also expected in education, training, and library occupations. Enrolling in one of the many Hawaii online programs and obtaining your degree can be the gateway to a career in one of these growth industries in Hawaii.