How To Become a Nurse in Hawaii 2025

Nurses play a critical role in caring for people in their most vulnerable moments. It takes compassion, quick thinking, and precision to be a nurse. For Hawaii residents wondering how to become a nurse, know that you must complete an accredited nursing program, apply for state licensure, and pass board exams. Keep reading to learn more about nursing in Hawaii.

What Does an RN Do?

A certified registered nurse can work in various healthcare settings, including a hospital, outpatient facility, nursing home, or even a public school. Job duties include but are not limited to:

• performing a physical exam
• administering medication
• discussing your health history
• discussing your diagnosis
• making a health plan

A registered nurse (RN) cannot diagnose a condition or prescribe medication, but a doctor or nurse practitioner can. These jobs typically require a master's degree or higher.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Nurse in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, nurses must have either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which takes about two years, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which can take anywhere from one to four years to complete. If you already have a bachelor's degree, you may be eligible for 12-month accelerated nursing programs.

5 Steps To Become a Registered Nurse in Hawaii

There are multiple paths to filling in-demand nursing jobs. Eligible practicing nurses from other states can apply for a temporary license and license by endorsement. Those following the traditional route must still meet the educational requirements for nurses, including completing an approved nursing program, applying for a license with the state, and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). We will explore both paths below.

Step 1: Complete Nursing School

First, determine what nursing program is right for you. A licensed practical nurse (LPN) usually only needs an associate degree, but a bachelor's degree opens up more job opportunities. While not necessary to enter the field, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can open up even more leadership roles.

A good nursing program will cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, maintaining public health for diverse populations, leadership skills, and the basics of patient care. Your accredited program should also include clinical work in a local health facility, all of which prepare you to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

Step 2: Apply for RN Licensure

Before you graduate, apply for your RN license online or by mailing your application and documents to the Hawaii Board of Nursing. Applicants must include the completed application form, transcripts, a letter from your nursing school, a photo of your ID card and Social Security card, and the $40 application fee.

Applicants must also pass a criminal background check through fingerprinting. Once you apply for licensure, you can register for the NCLEX.

Step 3: Pass Board Exams

The NCLEX measures your knowledge and readiness for an entry-level nursing job. It is a five-hour exam that is taken online and includes four sections:

• safe and effective care environment
• health promotion and maintenance
• psychosocial integrity
• physiological integrity

Results should be available within six weeks. If you do not pass the first time, you can register to retake the test after 45 days. However, nurses who fail more than three times consecutively will be required to take a board-approved remedial course before attempting again.

Step 4: Opportunities for Out-of-State Nurses

In 2023, Hawaii determined the state was facing a steep nursing shortage. Now, practicing nurses from other states can receive a temporary license to practice in Hawaii. RNs and LPNs must be 18 or older and authorized to work in the U.S. Additionally, they should:

• be offered employment by a healthcare facility in Hawaii
• have a valid RN or LPN license
• have no active disciplinary action

Applicants must submit a form and pay applicable fees. Refer to the Hawaii Board of Nursing for additional information.

Step 5: Renew Your License

Nurses in Hawaii must renew their nursing licenses every two years. Licenses expire on June 30th of odd-numbered years. Within that two-year period, nurses must complete one learning activity option, including:

• 30 hours of continuing education
• a refresher course
• act as a preceptor to a nursing student
• research study or evidence-based practice project

Other options are available. Nurses must thoroughly document the activity and be ready to present documentation to the board as required.

Top Nursing Degree Programs in Hawaii

The first step in your nursing career is choosing a high-quality nursing school that will prepare you to provide excellent patient care. Your degree program should combine classroom study with hands-on clinical experience, often in the local community. Hawaii residents can choose from accredited online nursing programs or in-person programs.

1. University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaii (UH) Manoa offers a wide variety of nursing programs, including both in-person and online options. The high school direct-entry program is a full-time program that allows high school grads to earn their BSN in four years. Students can also enroll in pre-nursing and graduate-entry programs or pursue a master's degree, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Scholarships and financial aid are available.

• Estimated tuition cost: $480 per credit hour (in-state); $1,398 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. University of Hawaii at Hilo

Earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing at UH Hilo. This program focuses on providing excellent patient care to a diverse population in a rural environment. Students rely heavily on research and hands-on practice while working on health-related projects within the community.

This is the only BSN program on the outer islands, giving students unique clinical experiences in a rural area. UH Hilo admits 30 students every Fall.

• Estimated tuition cost: $312 per credit hour (in-state); $852 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. Chaminade University

Chaminade is a private school that offers two nursing programs: a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Mentorship and hands-on community experience are important aspects of the program; full-time students can earn their BSN in four years.

Applicants should have at least a 2.75 cumulative grade point average (GPA) as well as a C or better in Algebra II, chemistry, and biology. Transfer students who meet certain criteria can enter the program as sophomores.

• Estimated tuition cost: $39,200 per year (in-state); $39,200 per year (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. Kaua'i Community College

Kaua'i Community College's nursing program follows a ladder format: students who complete the first year of the curriculum receive a certificate of achievement. They can then take the NCLEX-PN exam to be licensed as a practical nurse.

Students who continue in the program earn their associate degree at the end of year two. Eligible graduates can then enter the fourth year of UH Manoa's BSN program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $131 per credit hour (in-state); $345 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

5. Kapiolani Community College

The associate degree program at Kapiolani focuses on ethics and professionalism, self-reflection, research, leadership, and a thorough understanding of healthcare. The 72-credit program prepares students for entry-level nursing. Graduates who would like to continue their education can transfer to UH Manoa or Hilo and enter the fourth year of the BSN program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $131 per credit hour (in-state); $345 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: ACEN

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Hawaii

Nurses are essential workers in every state in the country, which often means they can expect a higher salary. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that, on average, nurses in the U.S. earn $93,600 per year or $45 per hour. However, entry-level roles may earn less. In Hawaii, Indeed.com estimates a slightly higher average of about $50 per hour.

The BLS anticipates the call for nurses will only grow over time, with an expected 6% job growth over the next decade. That's good news for both seasoned nurses and those joining the field.

FAQs About How To Become a Nurse in Hawaii

Pursuing a nursing career along Hawaii's beaches is exciting, but it's normal to have a lot of questions. If you are wondering about costs, prerequisites, or even the best laptop for nursing students, keep reading to have your questions answered.

How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost in Hawaii?

Nursing school can get expensive, but finding online colleges that accept FAFSA can help lower costs. In Hawaii, the cheapest option is attending a community college to earn your associate degree. These programs cost about $131 per credit hour plus fees.

What Are the Prerequisites for a Nursing Degree?

Before applying to nursing school, you must have a high school diploma or your GED � but some programs may have additional prerequisites, including statistics, biology, or psychology. Working professionals can complete many of these self-paced nursing prerequisites online to get a jumpstart on their nursing education.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Nurse?

If you have a related bachelor's degree, then an accelerated BSN program can allow you to graduate in as little as one year. This may be the fastest way to become a nurse, but for those without any prior education, a two-year associate degree is the quickest option.

What Is the Easiest Nursing Degree?

Nursing school is hard work, and a firm understanding of math and science, as well as plenty of patience and compassion, will help you succeed. However, since an associate degree lays the groundwork for nursing, it may be the easiest nursing degree to start with. Remember that many companies do prefer nurses with a bachelor's degree.

Find a Nursing Degree

Hawaii may be a tropical paradise, but it still needs nurses to keep the population healthy. You can begin your career by applying to an accredited nursing program, applying for your license, and passing the NCLEX exam. Take a look at more quality schools featured on Learn.org and reach out to one to discuss your plans today.