California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt

Cal Poly Humboldt admits 98.8% of applicants, meaning fewer than 2 students in 100 are denied admission. This places the university in the Open Access category, with acceptance rates significantly above typical four-year institutions.

The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates that even among similar public regional universities, Cal Poly Humboldt maintains exceptionally inclusive admission policies. This level of accessibility means that most students who meet basic eligibility requirements and submit complete applications can expect admission.

The university's mission emphasizes broad educational access, particularly for students from Northern California's rural and coastal communities. For prospective students, this represents an opportunity to access specialized environmental and natural resource programs without the uncertainty typical of competitive admission processes.

Students should focus on academic preparation and program fit rather than admission strategy, as acceptance is highly likely for students meeting minimum California State University system requirements.

Cal Poly Humboldt's published cost of attendance reaches $24,412 annually, including $7,913 in-state tuition, $13,166 for room and board, and $836 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $19,793, raising total costs accordingly.

However, the average student pays $13,167 after financial aid, representing savings of $11,245 from the sticker price through grants, scholarships, and other assistance. This net price sits $926 above the peer median of $14,093, indicating costs slightly higher than similar public regional universities.

The university's location in rural Northern California contributes to moderate living costs compared to urban California institutions. Financial aid effectiveness varies significantly by family income, with low-income students receiving the most substantial support.

The combination of moderate sticker prices and meaningful financial aid creates accessible pathways for California residents, though out-of-state students face considerably higher costs. Students should plan for additional expenses related to the remote location, including transportation costs for students from other California regions.

Cal Poly Humboldt graduates demonstrate steady earnings growth over time. Median earnings rise from $37,382 six years after enrollment to $44,299 at eight years and $47,626 at ten years, representing 27.4% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes are based on cohorts ranging from 2,450 to 2,667 graduates across the different time horizons, providing solid confidence in reported figures. Earnings fall $2,638 below expectations compared to similar students nationally, placing the university at the 44.7th percentile for earnings uplift.

Low-income graduates earn $39,500, reflecting the institution's focus on access rather than premium earnings outcomes. The earnings distribution shows meaningful variation, with the gap between 25th percentile ($27,312) and 75th percentile ($69,390) representing a 2.5:1 ratio.

This spread reflects differences in program selection, with technical fields like engineering and forestry significantly outperforming liberal arts programs. Approximately 26.2% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education pathways.

Cal Poly Humboldt offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for evaluation. Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering ranks #3 nationally and #2 in California, graduating 68 students with median earnings of $71,510 and an exceptional value score of 93.1.

Forest Management ranks #6 nationally and #2 in California, with 65 graduates earning $51,526 and a strong value score of 77.3. Wildlife and Wildlands Science ranks #14 nationally and #1 in California, graduating 87 students with earnings of $33,037.

Computer Science produces 48 graduates annually with median earnings of $72,511, though ranking #154 nationally. Psychology represents the largest program with 175 graduates annually earning $38,617.

These specialized environmental and natural resource programs reflect the university's distinctive academic focus and regional economic context in Northern California.