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Last Updated on February 20, 2022

Sports Degrees in Hawaii

Hawaii can be a great place to work, study, and live, and it also has quite a few sports career opportunities here that do not exist elsewhere around the country. There are a smaller number of schools here compared to some of the more populous states, but it’s hard for other states to beat Hawaii’s stunning beauty, amazing surf, and rich culture. 

There are large, established schools in Hawaii as well as relatively newer colleges and universities that are tailored towards students that are looking for a smaller, more intimate learning atmosphere, and many of these smaller schools are able to offer specialized programs that bigger schools either do not have or do not focus on as much.

Sport Management Degree Programs in Hawaii

Sport Management is a growing field throughout the U.S., and Hawaii is no exception. The University of Kansas, offers a successful “study away” program in which students are able to volunteer at PGA tournaments, and “experience Hawaii’s unique water sports”.

Hawaii is an appealing destination for sport management internships because of the number of high-profile events that are hosted on the Islands each year including golf tournaments, college football games, surf competitions, ironman’s and marathons.

Kinesiology Programs in Hawaii

U.S. News & World Report ranked Hawaii as having the best healthcare in the nation compared to all other states. This means there are plenty of top tier hospitals and medical facilities that can offer roles to entry-level and experienced candidates with a background in Kinesiology. The University of Hawaii’s Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science department offers a variety of programs that will be of interest for students interested in kinesiology.

In this section:
Kinesiology Master’s Programs

Kinesiology Master’s Programs

University of Hawaii at Manoa | Honolulu, HI
Master of Science in Kinesiology & Rehabilitation Science

Delivery Method: On Campus and Online

Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours

Concentrations: Physical Activity/Adapted Physical Activity, and Rehabilitation Counseling

Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $650

Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,402

GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes

The Kinesiology department at the University of Hawaii Manoa combines cutting-edge research and practical application to promote equality, diversity, and improved healthcare access for underserved communities, particularly Native Hawaiians and other minorities.

University of Hawai’i at Manoa | Honolulu, HI
Ph.D. Kinesiology

Delivery Method: On Campus and Online

Credits Required: 46 Credit Hours

Earn a PhD in Education of Kinesiology in just three to four years with their comprehensive program. Immerse yourself in campus-based coursework while also enjoying the flexibility of online classes. Tailored for passionate professionals, their program is perfect for those aiming to enter academia or teach at the collegiate level. Enroll now and take the next step in your educational career.

University of Hawaii- Manoa | Honolulu, HI
M.S. in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science

Delivery Method: On Campus

Credits Required: 30

Concentrations: Physical Acticivity and Adapted Physical Activity

Total Tuition: $7,800 in-state, $16,824 out-of-state, full-time tuition and fees, per semester

GRE (or GMAT) Required: No

Unlock a comprehensive program in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science at the prestigious University of Hawaii-Manoa. Gain a strong foundation in kinesiology, rehabilitation science, and related disciplines, equipping yourself for a successful career in healthcare and research. Their Master’s degree program offers unparalleled research opportunities within the department, allowing you to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field while gaining invaluable research experience. Benefit from the expertise and mentorship of their experienced faculty members, who guide you through coursework and research endeavors. They emphasize the importance of multiculturalism and diversity considerations in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science, ensuring you develop the skills to effectively work with diverse populations and address unique individual needs. Their program goes beyond theory, incorporating practical application and hands-on learning experiences. Through internships, clinical rotations, and community engagement, you’ll have the chance to apply your knowledge and skills in real-world settings. Prepare yourself for a fulfilling and impactful career in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science with the University of Hawaii-Manoa.

University of Hawaii- Hilo | Hilo, HI
B.A. in Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences

Total Tuition: $20672 per year

The Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences program at the University of Hawaii-Hilo offers a wide range of courses to students. These courses cover various aspects of Kinesiology, including exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, sport psychology, and nutrition. This diversity allows students to customize their education to their specific interests. By earning a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in this program, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this dynamic field. The program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning experiences. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, such as exercise science laboratories and research centers, where they can apply their theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills through experiential learning. The University of Hawaii-Hilo actively promotes and supports research in Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences. Students have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty members on research projects, which helps them develop critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Engaging in research also keeps students updated on the latest trends and advancements in the field. Situated in a beautiful natural environment, the University of Hawaii-Hilo offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and sports. Hawaii’s tropical climate and diverse landscape provide a unique backdrop for studying Kinesiology. Students can take part in hiking, water sports, and other recreational activities that complement the program’s curriculum.

Exercise Science Programs in Hawaii

There are plenty of jobs available for people with a degree in exercise science. With over 120 private schools, even more public schools, hospitals, sports teams, and recreation departments all over the state, Hawaii can be a great opportunity for someone to further their career and what better place to sharpen this skill than in paradise?

Two of the top undergraduate exercise science programs are the University of Hawaii’s Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science and BYU’s Hawaii’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science offering.

Brigham Young University – Hawaii | Laie, HI
BS in Exercise and Sport Science

Total Tuition: $19776 per year

Take a look at a world of career possibilities with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from BYU-Hawaii. Their graduates are equipped for diverse roles in athletic training, fitness instruction, sports coaching, and more. Their comprehensive curriculum delves into vital subjects like exercise principles, motor learning, and biomechanics, giving students a solid foundation in the field. Not only does their degree pave the way for further post-baccalaureate study in areas like human growth and aging, athletic training, biomechanics, exercise physiology, and health, but it also opens doors to professional programs such as physical therapy.

Athletic Training Programs in Hawaii

With both large and small universities, there are plenty of opportunities to explore athletic training at various levels. Hawaii also has plenty of job opportunities for students who complete their degree or certification, and there are many people on the island looking to maximize their performance and athletic abilities. The University of Hawaii has a well-known Master’s of Athletic Training program which is housed in their department of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science.

Athletic Training Master’s Programs

University of Hawai’i at Manoa | Honolulu, HI
Master of Science in Athletic Training

Delivery Method: On Campus

Credits Required: 45 Credit Hours

Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $650

Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,402

Calling all aspiring athletic trainers! The MS in Athletic Training Program at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM) is your ticket to success. As the only program of its kind in the State of Hawai‘i, they are dedicated to providing top-notch education rooted in the Native Hawaiian value of mālama – taking care, preserving, and protecting. Join them in a culturally-enriched learning environment and gain the skills you need to thrive in the world of athletic training, locally, nationally, and internationally.

What is it like to live in Hawaii?

If you enjoy the outdoors, then it is hard not to fall in love with Hawaii. It is famous for its world-class surfing but there is also incredible hiking, scuba diving, mountain biking, and a very active community of people that are actively organizing all sorts of sports and activities. It is one of the less populated states, with a population of about 1.4 million people, and about ⅔ of its population lives on Oahu.

One major drawback is the high cost of living. Living in paradise certainly has its price. Residents of Hawaii pay higher to much higher than average prices for everything from food to gasoline to housing. However, with a good plan, perhaps one that includes earning a specialized degree and landing a skilled job in the sports industry, you will be able to earn adequate wages, live a good comfortable life and save for the future. 

If you’re moving to Hawaii from somewhere else, you’ll have to factor some travel costs into your annual budget if you intend to visit friends and family in the mainland. Getting around each island is made easier by fairly good public transportation like buses, while traveling between islands often requires flights.

Are there Sports Jobs in Hawaii?

For people looking to work in the sports industry, most of the opportunity is in Oahu. Two-thirds of the state’s population are located on this island, and it is the location of the capital, Honolulu. There are also some opportunities on Maui, but the jobs are limited, and the competition is tight. 
There are limited opportunities working for professional sports teams in Hawaii, however, there are major events held here yearly that make for great career opportunities. One of the biggest events is the Ironman Race held annually in Kona. It attracts some of the best endurance athletes in the world who are tough enough to run a full marathon and bike 112 miles in sometimes dangerously hot temperatures, and then swim 2.4 miles in the ocean! This is not the only event that gets international attention. There is also the Sony Open, a PGA tour event held annually on Oahu, the Pacific Rim Cup Soccer Tournament, and the Los Angeles Clippers have held preseason games and practice in Hawaii for the last several years, though the Coronavirus pandemic prevented their trip to paradise in the 2020 and 2021 preseasons. Fitness instructors, dive masters, sailing instructors, and surf teachers can find work at resorts and companies specializing in these and other popular island sports, and there is the possibility of advancement to the managerial level or starting one’s own company, particularly for those holding relevant college degrees.

Schools in Hawaii

There are some very prestigious private schools scattered throughout the islands. These can offer great educational opportunities for people looking to move to Hawaii with kids, and can be potential employers for coaches and physical education teachers. There are some very highly rated public schools that also offer excellent job opportunities and make Hawaii a great place to raise kids.