The University of Hawaiʻi (UH) System is set to expand its online programs. This move comes after two significant reviews: one from the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems and another from the University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA). The goal is to add online options while maintaining existing in-person classes.
This shift is urgent. Each year, around 11,000 Hawaiʻi residents leave the state to enroll in online programs from out-of-state institutions—a number similar to that of a midsize university. The UH aims to keep these students in-state and attract more adult learners who might find traditional classroom settings challenging.
UH President Wendy Hensel emphasized the commitment to make education accessible for everyone in Hawaiʻi. She mentioned, “These analyses create a strategy that aligns our programs with the needs of the workforce here, offering flexible options that fit various lifestyles.”
Creating Flexible Pathways
Kim Siegenthaler, a senior advisor to President Hensel, recently shared these findings with the Workforce Learning Community. There’s a strong focus on high-demand sectors like business, healthcare, education, and STEM fields.
One key part of this expansion is developing stackable credentials. This allows students to earn qualifications that build upon each other, making it easier for them to advance in their careers. The UPCEA recommends adding online options to over 100 existing programs and introducing more than 30 new courses.
Discussions are ongoing among the 10 UH campuses to decide which programs to develop first. The first wave of online programs is planned for rollout in fall 2026 and spring 2027.
A Historical Perspective
In the past, many students pursued degrees solely through in-person classes. However, the rise of online education has changed this landscape dramatically. According to a recent survey by the Online Learning Consortium, over 70% of students believe that online learning is just as effective as traditional learning methods. This trend highlights a growing acceptance of virtual education, making the UH’s expansion both timely and necessary.
Looking Ahead
In the digital age, education must adapt. With flexible and accessible programs, the UH is aiming to equip students for the future. As workforce needs evolve, so too must the ways we learn. This is an exciting chapter for education in Hawaiʻi, and the potential impact on the community can be transformative.
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