| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Media & Mass Communication | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt (commonly known as Cal Poly Humboldt) is a public polytechnic university located in Arcata, California, USA. It is part of the California State University (CSU) system and is known for its focus on environmental sustainability, sciences, and hands-on learning experiences.
Location: Arcata, California, USA
Type: Public Polytechnic University
Founded: 1913 (formerly Humboldt State University, became Cal Poly Humboldt in 2022)
Campus Size: 144 acres
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Motto: "The University of Choice for Those Who Seek an Extraordinary Education in a Thriving, Sustainable World."
Cal Poly Humboldt offers undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), environmental sciences, and applied learning. Popular programs include:
Environmental Science & Management
Marine Biology & Oceanography
Forestry & Wildland Resources
Renewable Energy Engineering
Wildlife Conservation & Ecology
Business Administration & Entrepreneurship
Psychology & Social Sciences
State-of-the-art labs & research centers for marine biology, forestry, and engineering.
Sustainability-focused campus with eco-friendly initiatives.
Student housing & residence halls with various accommodation options.
Clubs & Organizations covering outdoor recreation, sustainability, cultural activities, and more.
Recreational activities including hiking, surfing, and kayaking near the scenic California North Coast.
Hands-on Learning – Strong emphasis on applied research and fieldwork.
Small Class Sizes – Personalized learning experience with a low student-to-faculty ratio.
Environmental Focus – One of the most sustainable universities in the U.S.
Affordable Education – Lower tuition compared to private universities.
Strong Career Support – Internship opportunities and industry connections.
Applied Fire Science & Management
Atmospheric Science
Biology (Botany, Marine Biology, Ecology, Wildlife, Zoology)
Chemistry
Computer Science
Data Science
Energy Systems Engineering
Environmental Resources Engineering
Environmental Science & Management
Forestry
Fisheries Biology
Marine Biology
Mathematics
Oceanography
Physics
Wildlife Conservation & Management
Business Administration
Economics
Marketing & Entrepreneurship
Anthropology
Art (Studio Art, Digital Arts, Art Education)
Communication Studies
Criminology & Justice Studies
English
Film Studies
History
Journalism & Mass Communication
Philosophy
Political Science
Sociology
Theatre Arts
Child Development
Kinesiology (Exercise Science, Physical Education)
Liberal Studies/Elementary Education
Psychology
Nursing (RN to BSN program)
Social Work
Master of Science in Biology
Master of Science in Environmental Systems (Energy Technology & Policy, Geology, Environmental Resources Engineering)
Master of Science in Fisheries Biology
Master of Science in Forestry
Master of Science in Kinesiology
Master of Science in Wildlife Conservation
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Arts in Applied Anthropology
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Master of Arts in Psychology
Master of Arts in Education
Teaching Credential Programs
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Applied Fire Science & Management |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Atmospheric Science |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Biology (General, Botany, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Wildlife) |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Data Science |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Energy Systems Engineering |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Environmental Resources Engineering |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Environmental Science & Management |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Forestry |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Fisheries Biology |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Marine Biology & Oceanography |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Wildlife Conservation & Management |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Marketing & Entrepreneurship |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Anthropology |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Art (Studio Art, Digital Arts, Art Education) |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Communication Studies |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Criminology & Justice Studies |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
English |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Film Studies |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
History |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Journalism & Mass Communication |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Theatre Arts |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Child Development |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Kinesiology (Exercise Science, Physical Education) |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Liberal Studies/Elementary Education |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Nursing (RN to BSN Program) |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
|
Social Work |
4 years |
$19,764 (International), $7,864 (In-State) |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Science in Biology |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Science in Environmental Systems (Energy Technology & Policy, Geology, Environmental Resources Engineering) |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Science in Fisheries Biology |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Science in Forestry |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Science in Kinesiology |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Science in Wildlife Conservation & Management |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Arts in Applied Anthropology |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Arts in Psychology |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Social Work (MSW) |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
|
Master of Arts in Education |
2 years |
$18,526 (International), $9,314 (In-State) |
Cal Poly Humboldt welcomes international students from around the world, offering a diverse and inclusive environment with strong academic programs, hands-on learning, and a focus on sustainability and environmental sciences.
Affordable Tuition – Lower tuition compared to private universities.
STEM & Research Opportunities – Strong programs in environmental sciences, forestry, marine biology, and engineering.
Small Class Sizes – Personalized attention from professors.
Beautiful Location – Surrounded by forests, beaches, and national parks in Northern California.
Career Support – Internship and research opportunities to build real-world skills.
For Bachelor's Programs:
High school diploma (equivalent to a U.S. high school education).
Minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale).
For Master’s Programs:
A recognized bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
International students must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum 61 (undergraduate), 80 (graduate).
IELTS: Minimum 6.0 (undergraduate), 6.5 (graduate).
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 95.
Exemptions available for students from English-speaking countries or those who completed prior education in English.
Submit an online application through Cal State Apply.
Pay the $70 application fee.
Provide official transcripts (translated if necessary).
Submit English proficiency test scores.
Graduate students may need to submit letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.
Step 1: Check Eligibility Requirements
GPA Requirement: Minimum 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
High School Diploma: Must be equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 61
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo: Minimum 95
Step 2: Submit Online Application
Apply via Cal State Apply: https://www.calstate.edu/apply
Application Fee: $70 (non-refundable)
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Official high school transcripts (translated if necessary).
English proficiency test scores (if applicable).
SAT/ACT scores are NOT required, but submitting them is optional.
Step 4: Receive Admission Decision
Applications are reviewed within 2-4 weeks after submission.
Accepted students will receive an admission offer via email.
Step 5: Accept Admission & Pay Enrollment Deposit
Log in to the student portal and accept the admission offer.
Pay the enrollment deposit to confirm your spot.
Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa (For International Students)
Receive Form I-20 from the university.
Apply for an F-1 student visa at the U.S. embassy/consulate.
Step 7: Register for Classes & Attend Orientation
Sign up for courses online through the university portal.
Attend orientation programs for new students.
Step 1: Check Eligibility Requirements
GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
Bachelor’s Degree: Must be from an accredited institution.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo: Minimum 105
Step 2: Submit Online Application
Apply via Cal State Apply: https://www.calstate.edu/apply
Application Fee: $70 (non-refundable)
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Official transcripts from previous universities.
English proficiency test scores (for international students).
Letters of Recommendation (typically 2-3, varies by program).
Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement.
Resume/CV (for some programs, like MBA or research-based degrees).
Step 4: Receive Admission Decision
Graduate applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks.
Admission decisions are sent via email and the student portal.
Step 5: Accept Admission & Secure Student Visa (For International Students)
Accept the admission offer online.
Receive Form I-20 for visa processing.
Apply for an F-1 student visa and attend the visa interview.
Step 6: Register for Classes & Attend Orientation
Work with an academic advisor to register for courses.
Attend graduate student orientation.
Term |
Undergraduate Deadline |
Graduate Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester (August Start) |
October – April 30 |
October – March 1 |
|
Spring Semester (January Start) |
August – September 30 |
August – September 30 |
Note:
Deadlines may vary for certain graduate programs.
Some highly competitive programs may have earlier deadlines.
High School Diploma (or equivalent to a U.S. high school education).
Minimum GPA: 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale).
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 61
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo: Minimum 95
No SAT/ACT required (optional submission).
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) (some programs may accept 2.75).
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo: Minimum 105
Additional Requirements (varies by program):
Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
Statement of Purpose (Personal Statement)
Resume/CV (for business or research-based programs)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Global Humboldt Scholarship |
High-achieving international students with a strong academic record |
Up to $5,000 per year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
President’s Scholarship |
First-year students with a high GPA (3.75+), leadership, and community service |
Up to $5,000 per year |
Undergraduate |
|
Humboldt First Scholarship |
California residents who are first-generation college students |
Up to $1,000 per year |
Undergraduate |
|
CSU System-wide Scholarships |
Merit-based and financial-need scholarships for students across the CSU system |
N/A |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Humboldt Loyalty Grant |
Available for continuing students with strong academic performance |
Up to $2,000 per year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Graduate Equity Fellowship |
For underrepresented graduate students with financial need |
Up to $3,000 per year |
Graduate |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Awarded to student-athletes based on performance and coach recommendation |
N/A |
Undergraduate |
|
Departmental Scholarships |
Offered by individual academic departments based on merit and research potential |
N/A |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Arcata, California, USA |
|
Campus Size |
144 acres |
|
Campus Facilities |
Modern classrooms, research labs, library, student union, fitness center, dining halls |
|
Housing Options |
On-campus residence halls, apartments, themed communities |
|
Room Types |
Single, double, triple, and apartment-style housing |
|
Amenities in Housing |
Furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, laundry, study lounges, kitchen (in some units) |
|
Meal Plans |
Required for residence hall students; optional for apartment residents |
|
On-Campus Housing Cost (Per Year) |
$6,638 – $13,756 (Varies by room type) |
|
Meal Plan Cost (Per Year) |
$5,814 – $7,586 (Based on plan selection) |
|
Off-Campus Housing Cost (Estimated) |
$10,000 – $15,000 per year (Rent, utilities, food) |
|
Nearby Facilities |
Grocery stores, restaurants, medical centers, public transport |
|
Recreational Facilities |
Gym, outdoor sports fields, hiking trails, kayaking, biking |
|
Student Life |
Over 100 student clubs, cultural events, leadership programs |
|
Transportation |
Shuttle services, bike-friendly campus, local bus connections |
Student life at Cal Poly Humboldt is vibrant, community-driven, and deeply connected to nature. With a focus on hands-on learning, sustainability, and outdoor adventure, students enjoy a well-rounded university experience both inside and outside the classroom.
Cal Poly Humboldt has a close-knit student community with over 100 student clubs and organizations. These include academic societies, cultural organizations, environmental groups, and social clubs. Students can participate in student government (Associated Students), debate clubs, music groups, and leadership programs.
Located in Arcata, California, Cal Poly Humboldt is surrounded by redwood forests, beaches, and mountains, offering students a perfect environment for hiking, biking, surfing, kayaking, and rock climbing. The university’s Center Activities program organizes trips for outdoor adventures, including camping and whitewater rafting.
As California’s only polytechnic university focused on sustainability, students are encouraged to take part in eco-friendly initiatives, including conservation projects, community gardening, and climate action programs. The university is known for its commitment to renewable energy, sustainable farming, and environmental research.
Students enjoy a variety of events throughout the year, such as:
Humboldt Homecoming Week – Celebrating school spirit with games and performances.
Indigenous Peoples Week – Honoring Native American culture and traditions.
Music & Arts Festivals – Featuring live performances, theater shows, and student art exhibits.
Farmers Markets & Local Festivals – Showcasing local produce, crafts, and food.
Cal Poly Humboldt has NCAA Division II athletics, with teams competing in soccer, basketball, cross country, rowing, and more. The Student Recreation Center provides access to a gym, fitness classes, rock climbing walls, and intramural sports leagues.
Students can live in on-campus residence halls or apartments, which provide a community-focused environment with social events, study lounges, and meal plans. Dining options include sustainable and locally sourced food, with vegan, vegetarian, and global cuisine options.
The university provides strong career counseling, internships, and networking opportunities to help students prepare for their future careers. The Learning Center offers tutoring, study groups, and academic support services.
The Academic & Career Advising Center (ACAC) helps students with:
Resume & Cover Letter Writing
Mock Interviews & Job Search Assistance
Internship & Research Opportunities
Networking Events & Career Fairs
Graduate School Advising
Cal Poly Humboldt has partnerships with government agencies, tech firms, environmental organizations, and businesses. Students gain internships and job placements in industries such as:
STEM & Environmental Sciences:
U.S. Forest Service
National Park Service
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Renewable energy companies
Marine biology research institutes
Business & Management:
Local and national business firms
Marketing agencies
Nonprofit organizations
Engineering & Technology:
Tech companies in California
Energy and sustainability firms
Research and development labs
Health & Human Services:
Hospitals & clinics
Community health organizations
Social work agencies
Graduates from Cal Poly Humboldt have high employment rates, especially in STEM and environmental fields.
Field of Study |
Average Starting Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Engineering & Environmental Science |
$60,000 – $85,000 |
|
Business & Management |
$50,000 – $70,000 |
|
Computer Science & IT |
$65,000 – $90,000 |
|
Biology & Marine Science |
$45,000 – $65,000 |
|
Social Work & Psychology |
$40,000 – $55,000 |
Work-Study & Part-Time Jobs – Available for students on-campus.
Local Businesses & Startups – Opportunities in Arcata and nearby cities.
Many graduates find employment within six months of graduation or pursue further studies in top universities. The university’s strong alumni network helps connect students with industry professionals.
Acceptance Rate: 91% (Approximately)
Cal Poly Humboldt has a high acceptance rate, making it an accessible university for students who meet the academic requirements. The university focuses on inclusive education, welcoming both domestic and international students.
Part of the California State University (CSU) System, which follows an inclusive admission policy.
Emphasis on academic readiness rather than competitive selection.
Strong demand for STEM, environmental, and sustainability programs.
GPA: Minimum 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale).
High School Diploma (or equivalent).
SAT/ACT: Not required (optional submission).
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 61
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo: Minimum 95
GPA: Minimum 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) (Some programs may accept 2.75).
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo: Minimum 105
Additional Requirements (Varies by Program):
Letters of recommendation (2-3).
Statement of Purpose.
Resume/CV (for business or research-based programs).
Location: Arcata, California, USA
Cal Poly Humboldt is located in Arcata, a small town on the Northern California coast, known for its beautiful redwood forests, scenic beaches, and strong environmental focus.
