About College of the Redwoods
The financial picture makes sense for most students. In-state tuition costs just $1,147, and the average student pays $3,214 after aid. That's affordable even for families earning under $30,000, who pay only $2,129 net price. Graduates earn a median of $36,243 ten years later, while typical debt sits at $8,080 with monthly payments of $86. The 25% six-year graduation rate reflects the reality that many community college students work full-time or attend part-time.
The Corsairs field 14 varsity sports with 208 total athletes, giving this small college a surprisingly active athletic scene. Nearly 97% of students come from California, creating a tight community feel. With 170 housing spots available, most students commute from nearby towns along the rugged Humboldt County coast.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 37.2%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 25.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $36,243
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $71,575 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Associate | $32,569 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $31,848 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $23,456 |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Associate | $16,786 |
Campus Life
The 17:1 student-faculty ratio means smaller classes where professors know your name, but don't expect a typical college social scene. Since 96.65% of students come from in-state and most already live in the area, weekends often mean work, family time, or outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby redwood forests. The rural setting means limited nightlife or campus events compared to bigger colleges. Students here tend to be older, working adults and recent high school graduates who chose to stay local. The Corsairs compete in 14 sports with 208 total athletes, but athletics don't dominate campus culture like at four-year schools.
- Setting
- Rural-Fringe
- Housing Capacity
- 170 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Founded
- 1964
Campus Safety (2023)
4 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dating Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Stalking | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 40°–55°F
- July Avg
- 52°–63°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 40.4"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 50.2%
- Women
- 49.8%
- White
- 50.9%
- Black
- 3.6%
- Hispanic
- 23.5%
- Asian
- 2.9%
- In-State Students
- 96.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 33.4%
Location
- Address
- Eureka, California 95501-9300
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $36,243
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $40,720
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $24,800
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 36.0%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $86/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $8,080
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at College of the Redwoods?
As a community college, College of the Redwoods maintains an open admission policy for students with a high school diploma or equivalent. The school serves 3,514 students in California's remote North Coast region, providing accessible higher education in forestry and coastal communities. Nearly 97% of students come from in-state, reflecting its role as a local educational anchor.
How much does College of the Redwoods cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $3,214 annually at College of the Redwoods. In-state tuition runs just $1,147, making it one of California's most affordable college options. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay only $2,129 net cost, while those earning $30,000-$48,000 pay $3,237.
What academic programs is College of the Redwoods known for?
College of the Redwoods operates on a semester system with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. The school has built a reputation for natural resources programs, reflecting its location in California's timber country. Students can choose from career-focused programs that prepare them for the region's forestry, healthcare, and technical industries.
What are the graduation and employment outcomes at College of the Redwoods?
The six-year graduation rate stands at 25%, which is typical for rural community colleges serving working students and those needing remedial coursework. Graduates earn a median salary of $36,243 after ten years, with 88% finding employment. Monthly loan payments average just $86, reflecting the school's affordability and modest debt loads.
Where is College of the Redwoods located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Eureka, California, in a rural-fringe setting among the towering redwood forests. Housing capacity reaches only 170 students, as most of the 3,514 enrolled commute from surrounding communities. The Corsairs compete in 14 varsity sports as an independent program with 208 total athletes.
Does College of the Redwoods serve a diverse student population?
The student body reflects Northern California's demographics with 50.88% white students and 23.51% Hispanic students. Women comprise 49.8% of enrollment while men make up 50.2%, creating an even gender split. About 33% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating the school serves many low-income families in this economically challenged region.
