Initially called "Tokai International College," its first academic term began on October 8, 1992.

The only American campus of the Tokai University Educational System (TES) of Japan, HTIC reflects the combined educational philosophies of Tokai founder Shigeyoshi Matsumae and former University of Hawaii Vice President for Community Colleges Richard Kosaki.

The Liberal Arts Program introduces students to various fields of knowledge, including the arts and humanities, languages, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, and places a strong emphasis on learning and communication skills.

The goal of the College Preparatory Program is to acclimate international students to American college study for students intending to pursue a higher education in the English language.

Students enrolled in International Programs at HTIC engage in intensive study of English while pursuing research in fields such as anthropology, history, medicine, and marine science.