I've been a student at HSU for about a month now and I haven't witnessed any of the horrors mentioned in the 1-star review. True, there are some errors in the publication, but that was pointed out by the staff from the very beginning and apologies were made. I could have used the GI Bill, but I chose to pay out of pocket. $9,300 may sound like a lot, but considering that about half of that is the cost for equipment/materials that you keep (compare this to a traditional college where you buy books and or supplies for your major)... it seems like a pretty reasonable fare. You're purchasing SPECIALIZED equipment and textbooks to become a certified professional diver. Other perks you get free as a student: unlimited air refills ($10-15 a tank), discounts at the dive shop (10%), free boat rides outside of class if the private charters have seats available (~$125 per ride), and outstanding customer service.
Staff is both professional and laid back. They contact you immediately when there are any issues and they're willing to work with you. E.g. If GI Bill is late for tuition, HSU lets you use rentals free until the payment comes through so you're not stuck with an unexpected bill for equipment purchase. They do what they can to minimize the negative impact on students.
Curriculum emphasizes safety first. Might get boring but it's there for a reason. If you're a danger to yourself or others, an ass-chewing is better than an injury or death. You might have your feelings hurt but your body remains intact. Instructors are rotated which can be both a blessing and a curse. I've had two instructors now (Brian and Chris). Both are very knowledgeable and have different teaching styles. This is by design to better serve ALL the students because not everyone learns the same way. Keep in mind you aren't the only one trying to learn... Pro-tip: If you don't understand something, speak up respectfully and they'll be happy to help you learn another way. Even the other classes' instructors are happy to make time for you if you just ask (Thanks Charles!).
HSU isn't right for everyone. However, if you can come with a positive attitude, be prepared before you go class, and be willing to learn and enjoy the ocean... this is a great place to be a student! It's a tight knit community that supports diver growth and professional development in and out of the classroom. I've learned a lot about diving from all sorts of people: Angie and Sherye (admin), Cody and Kelvin (boat Captains), as well as George, Chris, and Alana (Schofield Dive Shop). The first time I met the team at Honolulu Scuba Company (Honolulu Dive Shop), they helped me track down and recover my wetsuit that walked off the Ala Moana Harbor on its own... I really don't think you can find this great of an education, community, and customer service anywhere else.
$9,300... totally worth it! read more