Kapiolani Community College

For in-state students, Kapiolani Community College offers a high affordability score and low median debt, making it a potentially sound investment, though the moderate median earnings and low graduation rate should be considered.

Graduates from Kapiolani Community College can expect median earnings of approximately $44,599 ten years after entry, according to Department of Education data.

Kapiolani Community College's graduation rate of 21.2% is significantly lower than the national average for similar institutions, which may indicate challenges in student retention and program completion.

The median debt for students graduating from Kapiolani Community College is relatively low at $9,229.

The admission rate for Kapiolani Community College is listed as N/A, so its selectivity cannot be determined from the provided data.

Kapiolani Community College (KCC) operates with an open-door admissions policy, meaning it does not have a published acceptance rate and generally admits all high school graduates or GED recipients who apply. The focus is on providing access to higher education within the University of Hawaii system. While there isn't a competitive "get in" process based on grades or test scores for initial admission, meeting basic requirements is necessary. Applicants typically need to submit a high school transcript or GED scores, and potentially placement test results in English and Math to determine appropriate course placement. For specific competitive programs like Nursing or Culinary Arts, there may be additional prerequisite courses or higher GPA requirements within those programs once admitted to the college. The key to success at KCC isn't getting accepted, but rather navigating the academic requirements and utilizing the resources available to succeed in your chosen field of study.

For residents of Hawaii, Kapiolani Community College (KCC) is generally considered a very worthwhile investment. The in-state tuition is remarkably affordable at $3,284 per year. With a median debt of $9,229, graduates are not burdened by excessive loans. The median 10-year earnings of $44,599 indicate that KCC graduates are finding stable employment that allows them to recoup their educational costs relatively quickly. If we consider the total cost of two years of tuition ($6,568) and the median debt, a student might graduate with around $15,000-$20,000 in total debt. At the median salary, this debt could realistically be paid off within 1-3 years. The ROI score of 240 further solidifies its value. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition ($8,420/year) makes the value proposition less pronounced, but it can still be competitive if the specific program aligns perfectly with career goals and local job market needs. Overall, KCC offers a strong return on investment, particularly for in-state students seeking career-focused education.

Kapiolani Community College (KCC) excels in programs that directly feed into Hawaii's key industries. The **Nursing (ADN)** program is highly regarded and prepares graduates for in-demand registered nurse positions within the state's healthcare system, often leading to immediate employment at hospitals like The Queen's Medical Center or Hawaii Health Systems Corporation. The **Culinary Arts** program is another standout, leveraging KCC's location in a major tourist destination. Graduates are sought after by top-tier restaurants and hotels across Oahu, including establishments within the Halekulani Corporation and Hyatt Regency Waikiki. The **Hospitality and Tourism Management** programs also offer excellent career prospects, aligning with the state's largest economic driver. For those interested in public service or business, programs in **Administrative Justice** and **Business Administration** provide a solid foundation for entry-level roles or transfer to four-year degrees. These programs are well-supported by local industry connections and offer clear career pathways.

Student life at Kapiolani Community College (KCC) is shaped by its urban Honolulu setting and its role as a commuter and transfer-oriented institution. While it doesn't have traditional sprawling quads or extensive on-campus housing, KCC offers a vibrant student experience focused on community and engagement. The campus features modern facilities, including a popular student center, library, and various learning labs. Students can get involved in numerous clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, from academic societies related to specific majors (like nursing or culinary arts) to cultural and recreational groups. The college hosts regular events, workshops, and cultural activities that foster a sense of community. Given its location near Waikiki and the broader Honolulu area, students have easy access to beaches, hiking trails, cultural sites, and a wide array of dining and entertainment options. While many students commute, the campus environment encourages interaction and provides resources like counseling and student support services to help students succeed both academically and personally.

Kapiolani Community College (KCC) is committed to making education accessible through various forms of financial aid. The primary source of aid is federal and state grants, such as the Federal Pell Grant and Hawaii State Post-Secondary Education Grants, which do not need to be repaid. For the 2022-2023 academic year, approximately 70% of full-time undergraduates received some form of financial aid. The average amount of grant or scholarship aid awarded per student was around $5,000-$6,000, significantly offsetting the cost of tuition and living expenses. KCC also offers federal student loans, which must be repaid, and work-study opportunities that allow students to earn money through part-time campus jobs. Institutional scholarships, often funded by alumni and community partners, are also available for eligible students, particularly those in specific programs like Culinary Arts or Nursing. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine their eligibility for the widest range of aid options.

Salaries for Kapiolani Community College (KCC) graduates vary significantly by major and industry. Based on the median 10-year earnings of $44,599 for all alumni, this provides a general benchmark. Graduates from the **Nursing (ADN)** program can expect starting salaries typically ranging from $60,000 to $75,000 annually, depending on the healthcare facility and experience level. This is a high-demand field in Hawaii, offering strong earning potential. Alumni from the **Culinary Arts** and **Hospitality and Tourism Management** programs might start in roles such as line cooks, sous chefs, or front desk supervisors, with initial salaries often ranging from $35,000 to $50,000. With experience and advancement, these figures can increase substantially. Graduates from **Business Administration** or **Administrative Justice** programs often enter roles like administrative assistants, paralegals, or entry-level management positions, with starting salaries typically between $40,000 and $55,000. These figures are estimates and can be influenced by factors like internships, additional certifications, and the specific employer.

Kapiolani Community College (KCC) does not offer traditional on-campus dormitories or student housing. As a primarily commuter and transfer-focused institution located in an urban setting, KCC relies on students arranging their own off-campus housing. This is a common model for community colleges, especially those situated in major cities where local housing markets are the primary solution. Students seeking housing typically look for apartments, shared housing, or rooms for rent in the surrounding Honolulu area. The college does provide resources and information to assist students in their housing search, often through its student services or housing office, which may include listings of available off-campus rentals or advice on navigating the local rental market. Students should budget accordingly for housing costs, which are a significant factor in the overall cost of attending college in Honolulu.

Kapiolani Community College (KCC) is not primarily structured as a research institution in the traditional sense, especially when compared to large research universities. Its focus is predominantly on undergraduate education, workforce development, and preparing students for transfer to four-year institutions. However, KCC does offer opportunities for student engagement in research, particularly within science-related fields like biology and chemistry, often through faculty-mentored projects or participation in programs like the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) or the McNair Scholars Program. These opportunities allow students to gain valuable research experience, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for advanced studies. While KCC may not have extensive research facilities or large-scale research grants typical of R1 universities, the available research opportunities are valuable for students aiming to pursue STEM degrees or careers and provide a solid foundation for future academic or research endeavors.

Kapiolani Community College (KCC) is a strong contender within the University of Hawaii system and among community colleges nationwide, particularly for students targeting careers in Hawaii. Compared to other UH community colleges like Hawaii Community College or Honolulu Community College, KCC's primary advantage lies in its location within the state's largest economic hub, offering unparalleled access to internships and jobs in tourism, healthcare, and government. Its graduation rate (21.2%) is comparable to or slightly lower than some other UH community colleges, which often hover in the 20-30% range, reflecting the challenges inherent in community college completion nationwide. KCC's median earnings ($44,599) are competitive within this group. When compared to mainland community colleges, KCC's unique selling point is its direct pipeline to the Hawaiian job market and its island setting. However, mainland institutions might offer a wider array of specialized vocational programs or potentially lower costs of living for students relocating from the continental US, though tuition for non-residents at KCC is higher.

Employers in Hawaii, particularly those in sectors that Kapiolani Community College (KCC) serves, generally hold a positive view of KCC graduates. The college has established strong relationships with local industries, especially in hospitality, culinary arts, and healthcare. Employers recognize that KCC provides practical, hands-on training tailored to the needs of the Hawaiian economy. For instance, hospitals and clinics frequently hire KCC nursing graduates due to their solid clinical training and understanding of local healthcare practices. Similarly, hotels and restaurants actively recruit from KCC's culinary and hospitality programs, valuing the graduates' skills and work ethic. The career services department often facilitates direct connections between students and employers through job fairs and internship placements, reinforcing employer confidence. While KCC might not have the same brand recognition as a major university on a national scale, within Hawaii, a degree or certificate from KCC is respected as a credential for entry-level positions and a solid foundation for career advancement.