California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt

98.2%Acceptance

$7,913Tuition

5,491Students

47%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$47,626Earnings

Public4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindNCAA Division IIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt

Cal Poly Humboldt turns environmental passion into career preparation among the towering redwoods of Northern California. This polytechnic university enrolls 5,491 students who come to study forestry, environmental science, and sustainability programs that benefit from the remote Arcata setting. The school's hands-on approach to learning produced notable graduates like Stephen Hillenburg, creator of SpongeBob SquarePants, and surfboard designer Tom Wegener. With a 98% acceptance rate, the school welcomes nearly all applicants ready for its specialized programs.

Students pay an average net price of $13,167 after financial aid, making this one of the more affordable paths to a four-year degree in California. Graduates earn a median of $47,626 ten years after graduation with typical debt of $18,000. The monthly loan payment of $191 represents a manageable burden given the earning potential. Nearly 46% of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the school's role serving working-class families.

The Lumberjacks compete in 14 NCAA Division II sports with 271 student-athletes. However, the 47% six-year graduation rate signals that many students struggle to finish their degrees. The 76% retention rate suggests students who stay engaged with the campus community have better success navigating the challenging academic environment.

Academics & Faculty

Cal Poly Humboldt stands out for its environmental science and forestry programs, taking advantage of its location in California's redwood country. The polytechnic focus means hands-on learning in fields like sustainable agriculture, marine biology, and renewable energy systems. With a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, students get meaningful access to professors for research projects and fieldwork. However, the 46.6% six-year graduation rate reflects the challenges many students face completing their degrees. The school attracts environmentally minded students who want to study sustainability in action. Programs in natural resources management and environmental engineering draw students from across California's 91.6% in-state population.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Full-Time Faculty: 52.8%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 46.1%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 46.6%
Retention Rate: 75.6%
Median Earnings (10 years): $47,626
Carnegie Classification: Master's University (Large)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Computer Science.	Bachelor	$53,775
Social Work.	Master	$53,045
Psychology, General.	Master	$52,941
Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering.	Bachelor	$48,265
Natural Resources Conservation and Research.	Master	$41,565
Plant Sciences.	Bachelor	$39,927
Forestry.	Bachelor	$38,289
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Bachelor	$36,294
Health and Physical Education/Fitness.	Master	$36,134
Biology, General.	Master	$30,771

View all 70 programs →

Campus Life

Humboldt sits in the redwood forests of far northern California, nearly 300 miles from San Francisco. The campus houses 40% of its 5,491 students in dorms, creating a tight-knit community where you'll recognize faces across the quad. Pack layers and a rain jacket, coastal fog and drizzle dominate much of the year, with temperatures rarely breaking 70 degrees even in summer.

With 91% of students from California, most know they're trading city convenience for natural beauty. Weekends revolve around outdoor adventures like hiking in Redwood National Park, surfing at nearby beaches, or exploring the quirky downtown Arcata plaza. The 75% retention rate reflects students who embrace this remote lifestyle. Campus traditions include the Lumberjack Days festival and a strong environmental activism culture that matches the school's forestry and sustainability focus. The 14:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name, especially important since only 46% graduate in four years. Students here choose immersion in nature over urban amenities, finding community in shared outdoor passions and environmental values.

Setting: Town-Remote
Housing Capacity: 2,191 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available

Campus Safety (2023)

55 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential	Noncampus	Public Property
Stalking	16	1	0	0
Rape	7	6	0	0
Burglary	9	2	1	0
Domestic Violence	2	2	0	0
Fondling	2	1	0	0
Arson	2	0	0	0
Robbery	2	0	0	0
Aggravated Assault	1	0	0	0
Motor Vehicle Theft	0	0	0	1

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 40°–55°F
July Avg: 52°–63°F
Annual Precipitation: 40.4"
Annual Snowfall: 0.0"

Student Demographics

Cal Poly Humboldt draws students who want to study environmental science and forestry in one of California's most remote corners. With 92% of students coming from in-state, this reflects the school's strong reputation among Californians seeking hands-on programs in natural resources. Nearly half receive Pell Grants, showing the university serves working-class families who value practical education. Women make up 55% of enrollment, higher than typical for polytechnic schools, likely due to strong environmental science programs that attract female students interested in sustainability careers.

Men: 44.5%
Women: 55.5%
White: 51.0%
Black: 2.6%
Hispanic: 29.7%
Asian: 3.1%
In-State Students: 91.6%
Pell Grant Recipients: 45.7%

Location

Arcata sits in Northern California's remote redwood region, about 280 miles north of San Francisco. The town of 18,000 doubles as a classic college town where students make up nearly 30% of the population. Towering coastal redwoods surround the campus while Humboldt Bay provides access to rugged Pacific coastline. The area attracts outdoor enthusiasts drawn to hiking, surfing, and environmental activism. With 92% of students coming from in-state, most arrive from California's urban centers seeking a slower pace among ancient forests. The nearest major city, Sacramento, lies over 300 miles southeast. Students considering colleges in California may also compare Cal Poly Humboldt with similar schools in the region.

Address: Arcata, California 95521-8299

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $47,626
Median Earnings (5 years): $48,458
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $30,200
Loan Repayment Rate: 57.7%
Monthly Loan Payment: $191/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $18,000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt?

The university accepts 98.18% of applicants, making it one of the most accessible state schools in California. This open admission approach aligns with Cal Poly Humboldt's mission to serve students interested in environmental and technical fields in remote Northern California.

How much does California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $13,167 annually after aid, with 45.71% receiving financial assistance. The school keeps costs relatively low for a four-year degree, though graduates typically carry $18,000 in debt upon completion.

What is California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt known for academically?

The university has built its reputation around environmental programs, forestry, and sustainable practices. With a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, students get hands-on experience in the redwood forests and coastal ecosystems surrounding the remote Arcata campus.

How do graduates from California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt perform in the job market?

Alumni earn a median salary of $47,626 ten years after graduation, with a 94.1% employment rate. The school's focus on practical environmental and technical skills prepares students for careers in sustainability and natural resource management.

Where is California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt located and what is campus life like?

The 5,491-student campus sits in the remote town of Arcata in Northern California's redwood country. With housing for 2,191 students and 14 NCAA Division II sports teams nicknamed the Lumberjacks, the university creates a tight-knit community surrounded by pristine wilderness.

Does California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt have notable alumni?

The university's most famous graduate is Stephen Hillenburg, creator of the SpongeBob SquarePants cartoon series, who studied marine biology here. The school's combination of environmental science and creative programs continues to produce graduates who blend scientific knowledge with modern thinking.