Associate Degree in IT Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Getting an Associate Degree in IT in Honolulu, Hawaii

If you’re considering a career in the dynamic world of Information Technology (IT), earning an Associate Degree in IT can be a great first step. This degree equips students with foundational technical skills and knowledge to enter roles such as IT support, network administration, or cybersecurity. Honolulu, Hawaii, offers a variety of opportunities for students to pursue IT education while enjoying the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the islands.

In this guide, you’ll learn about IT Associate Degree programs in Honolulu, Hawaii, career opportunities, prerequisites, and additional resources to help you succeed in the IT field.

About Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is located on the island of Oahu and serves as the state’s economic and cultural hub. Known for its iconic Waikiki Beach, historic Pearl Harbor, and breathtaking Diamond Head crater, the city combines urban amenities with stunning natural landscapes. Honolulu’s thriving economy includes sectors like tourism, healthcare, and technology, making it an ideal location for pursuing an IT career. For more information about the city, visit the official Honolulu website.

IT Associate Degree Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu offers several options for earning an Associate Degree in IT, with programs tailored to meet the demands of the modern technology workforce. Below are three local institutions offering IT Associate Degree programs:

1. Honolulu Community College

Program: Associate of Science in CENT – Information Assurance
Description: This program emphasizes information assurance, preparing students for roles in cybersecurity, network administration, and IT support. Students gain hands-on experience with real-world IT systems.
Website: Honolulu Community College IT Program
Location: Kalihi-Palama neighborhood, Honolulu

2. Leeward Community College

Program: Associate in Science in Information and Computer Science – Information Security
Description: This program focuses on information security and assurance, teaching students how to protect computer systems and networks. It is also designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD).
Website: Leeward Community College IT Program
Location: Pearl City, approximately 11 miles from downtown Honolulu

3. Hawaii Community College

Program: Associate of Science in Information Technology
Description: This program covers programming, hardware and software support, database management, and networking. Students acquire skills for roles in IT support and system administration.
Website: Hawaii Community College IT Program
Location: Hilo, Big Island, approximately 210 miles from Honolulu

If you’re open to exploring schools outside of Honolulu, these programs provide additional options to meet your educational goals.

IT Employment Opportunities in Honolulu

Honolulu’s growing technology sector provides a variety of employment opportunities for IT graduates. Below are some of the top technology-focused organizations in the city:

1. Hawaiian Telcom

Description: A leading provider of telecommunications and technology solutions in Hawaii, offering services such as IT consulting, cybersecurity, and network solutions.
Website: Hawaiian Telcom Careers
Location: Downtown Honolulu

2. Hawaii Pacific Health

Description: One of Hawaii’s largest healthcare systems, employing IT professionals to manage electronic health records, cybersecurity, and network infrastructure.
Website: Hawaii Pacific Health Careers
Location: Kapiolani area

3. Oceanit

Description: A technology and engineering firm specializing in IT innovation, including software development and cybersecurity solutions.
Website: Oceanit Careers
Location: Downtown Honolulu

These organizations reflect the diverse range of industries requiring skilled IT professionals in Honolulu.

Prerequisites for IT Associate Degree Programs

To enroll in an IT Associate Degree program in Honolulu, students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Minimum GPA: 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Entrance Exams: Standardized tests are generally not required, but some schools may have placement exams.
Technical Skills: Basic computer literacy is recommended, though not always mandatory.

Specific admission criteria may vary by institution, so it’s important to check with the school directly.

IT Certifications and Career Advancement

Earning industry-recognized certifications alongside your Associate Degree can significantly boost your employability. Here are some popular certifications to consider:

CompTIA A+: Entry-level certification covering foundational IT skills. Learn more
CompTIA Network+: Focuses on networking concepts and infrastructure. Learn more
CompTIA Security+: Emphasizes cybersecurity principles and practices. Learn more
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Specializes in networking and security. Learn more
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: Provides foundational knowledge of cloud computing. Learn more

These certifications can complement your degree and open doors to higher-paying roles and advanced positions.

Get Started Today

Pursuing an Associate Degree in IT in Honolulu, Hawaii, can be the first step toward an exciting and rewarding career in technology. With a variety of local programs, employment opportunities, and professional resources, Honolulu offers a supportive environment for aspiring IT professionals. Take the next step by contacting a school today to explore your options and begin your journey toward a career in IT.