Distance Learning

Learn from Anywhere, Thrive at UH Hilo

Now that you have a little insight on why online learning is a great way to build your future, now take a look at what it is and how you might enroll.

What is Distance Learning?

Distance learning means taking your classes online instead of in a traditional classroom. An online program is recognized as either a fully online or hybrid program. To be successful, you’ll want to know where to get help when you need it. You can use navigational and orientation support to learn how to find your way around the online system and campus resources, IT support if you get stuck with logins, passwords, or technical issues, and library support to get access to research articles, e-books, and databases for your assignments. Everyone’s experience with distance learning is different, so you may need more help in one area than another—there isn’t a one-size-fits-all path. The important thing is to know that support is available and to reach out when you need it.

Can students enroll in our online programs with confidence?

Yes! At the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo (UH Hilo), you’ll find a wide variety of programs designed to prepare you for your career, graduate study, or lifelong learning. Our programs combine academic excellence with personal attention, cultural connection, and real-world experiences that help you succeed both locally and globally. UH Hilo is also participates with the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements(NC-SARA), which means we can offer distance learning programs to students in most states with the same high standards of quality and support. For more information visit the UH System State Authorization for Distance Education page

UH Hilo Also follows ADA Compliance Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation act of 1973-section 504 and 508, individuals with disabilities have protections against discrimination and are assured access to programs, services and activities. The University of Hawaiʻi is committed to providing accommodations to ensure students with disabilities equal access to education.

• Accessibility at UH
• Instructional Design for distance learning and online learning

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is accredited through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and follows important policies from both the UH System and the federal government. You can also see our WSCUC Institutional Accreditation page on how our online programs meet expectation. This means that when you take classes with us, you can trust that your courses meet high standards of quality. For online programs, UH Hilo carefully plans and reviews each course to make sure students get a strong and supportive learning experience. If you would like to learn more information on our online program accreditation status please contact Accreditation Liaison Officer (WSCUC), Seri Luangphinith

• Students enrolled in fully online programs are exempt from submitting Health Clearances, and are excluded from certain mandatory student fees in accordance with Hawaiʻi Administrative Rule 11-157 (§11-157-3.05 pp. 157-5, 157-6) and EP 6.208 Mandatory Student Fees.

• Students enrolled in hybrid programs are required to submit Health Clearances and will be assessed mandatory student fees, in accordance with Hawaiʻi Administrative Rule 11-157 and EP 6.208 Mandatory Student Fees, during terms when the student is enrolled in courses with hybrid or in-person components.

Distance Learning Programs Offered at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo

Distance Learning Programs Offered at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa

In an effort to strengthen UH Hilo's impact on the community, Island and state of Hawaiʻi (Strategic Plan: Goal 5), UH Hilo provides our island residents the opportunity to access our UH sister institutions' distance learning programs.

Below are the UH Distance Learning Programs that are offered by interactive video (ITV) on the UH Hilo campus.

Where to get support for Distance Learning?

Below you’ll find several types of support. Read through the criteria to see which option matches your situation and connect with the right resource

Other Student Services and Support