University of Hawaii vs University of Nevada

University of Hawai?i vs University of Nevada

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

The University of Hawai?i at M?noa (UH M?noa) usually ranks in the top 400-500 in the world, and is strong in Oceanography, Earth & Environmental Sciences, Astronomy, and Asian-Pacific Studies. The University of Nevada (primarily UNR - Reno, but also well known is UNLV is usually ranked in the top 600-800 in the world, and is known for Hospitality Management (UNLV), Mining Engineering, Business, and Health Sciences. Hawai?i is known more strongly in the natural sciences and environmental research arena, while Nevada is stronger in hospitality, business, and applied engineering. 

General Information

UH M?noa, the flagship of the University of Hawai?i system, is located in Honolulu, has approximately 19,000 students, and has a strong international orientation in particular to Asia-Pacific collaboration. The University of Nevada has two major campuses - Reno (founded in 1874 with ~22,000 students) and Las Vegas (founded in 1957 at ~30,000 students) - that are larger in scale. UH has an island-based, globally oriented academic environment that is unique. 

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

UH M?noa has an acceptance rate around 84%, which is accessible to a range of students, but competitive in programs like Marine Biology and Nursing. The University of Nevada, Reno has an acceptance rate just below 85%, and UNLV has an acceptance rate slightly more selective in 75-77%. Nevada institutions attract a significant and growing number of regional students and an emerging number of internationals, while UH draws from both local Hawai?ian and Asia-Pacific.

Research Impact & Facilities

The University of Hawai?i at M?noa (UH) is a Carnegie R1 research university with world-class facilities in marine sciences, volcanology, and astronomy (Mauna Kea observatories). Schools in Nevada are R1 as well; the University of Nevada Reno (UNR), noted for earthquake engineering and mining, and the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), known for hospitality and innovation in business education. Both of these schools also emphasize applied research in environmental issues (human health, climate change, biodiversity, and sustainability) but may not yet have international prominence as specialized research institutions like campuses in Hawai?i.

Cost & Financial Aid

International undergraduate tuition at University of Hawai?i (UHM) averages annually around $34,000 and $37,000, while campuses in Nevada average between $25,000 and $28,000 for international undergraduate tuition, thus giving them a lower cost point. Housing and food costs in Honolulu are higher, but overall living costs are less expensive in Reno and Las Vegas. All the schools offer scholarships for international students, and UNR and UNLV provide broader merit-based aid to attract out-of-state and international students. 

Career Destinations & Graduates' Success

Graduates from the University of Hawai?i often pursue careers in environmental science, marine biology, healthcare, and education, with a strong demand in regional jobs in the Pacific Ocean. Graduates from universities in Nevada often find success in hospitality, gaming, engineering, healthcare, and business; Las Vegas provides immediate industry exposure. Hawai?i provides prestige through international research in niche sciences, while Nevada provides strong connections to professions, especially in hospitality and applied fields.