| Location | Arcata, United States | Funding Type | Public |
|---|---|---|---|
| No of Students | 6983 | Establishment | University |
| Founded In | 1913 | Estimated Cost of Living | 12000 USD |
| Address | 1 Harpst Street Arcata, CA 95521 |
Humboldt State students enjoy an extraordinary college experience, taking small classes taught by professors who know them by name. They live and learn in one of the world's most beautiful places—near ancient redwood forests, mountains, and beaches. We are located 275 miles north of San Francisco in the town of Arcata, which is recognized as one of the West's best college towns.
History
Humboldt State Normal School was established as a teacher's college on June 16, 1913, by then-California Governor, Hiram Johnson. It was named after the famous German scientist Alexander von Humboldt. The cities of Arcata and Eureka (and to a lesser extent Fortuna) competed with one another to host the new campus. Arcata eventually won the university when William Preston, and the Union Water company, donated 55-acres. It opened on April 6, 1914, in the former Arcata Grammar School building with 78 students and 5 faculty. On May 26, 1915, the first commencement of the first graduating class occurred, a class of 15 women.
The first graduate awarded their degree in 1915 was local historian Susie Baker Fountain, who went on to catalog much of Humboldt County history from 1850-1966. Baker was a columnist for the Blue Lake Advocate and her extraordinary, lifelong collection of newspaper clippings and images are available for viewing in HSU Special Collections.
Why Humboldt State?
Humboldt State University offers students a unique experience through a mix of academic programs, hands-on experiences, and commitment to social and environmental responsibility – all in the midst of an awe-inspiring natural environment. We’re also smaller than most public universities in California, and most students live on campus or nearby. So when you’re a student at HSU, you have a chance to get very involved in-class projects and extracurricular activities. That’s a big reason our alumni have such fond memories of their time here. You not only earn a degree at HSU, but you also develop skills and confidence that give you an advantage in your career and help you make the world better.
7,774 Students
not too big, not too small
48 majors
lots of academic options
Great Value
a public school with comparably low tuition
21:1
the student to faculty ratio
A Close-Knit Community
At HSU, professors, staff, and fellow students are here to support you – in the classroom and beyond. Most of our classes are small, giving you a chance to be actively involved in discussions. And you’ll really get to know your professors, who will challenge you and help you develop a passion for learning.
Real-World Experience
From academic internships to service projects, our students get to put their learning to work in the real world. They do seismic readings, art exhibitions, health studies, social work projects, and more. They study marine life at beaches where they also surf, and observe tree growth patterns in the same forests where they hike.
Sustainability at our Core
Humboldt State is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability. We care about protecting the environment and building a more just society — a commitment you’ll find throughout our curriculum. More than 200 of our courses have a sustainability theme.
Students often lead the way. They manage the university’s eco-demonstration house, and they voted for a fee to fund student-led renewable energy projects. Four decades ago, students helped create the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary, an innovative wastewater treatment facility.
Inspired by Place
HSU is the northernmost campus in the California State University system, located in a rural area 270 miles north of San Francisco. Our stunning natural environment is both a natural laboratory and a great place for adventure. Our “backyard” is 110 miles of coastline and 680,000 acres of state and national parks.
Uniagents do not charge any fee from the students for admissions, scholarships or any support services. Any agents or individuals who ask for any money on behalf of Uniagents must be reported to: grievance@uniagents.com
If you are a user of Plan Study Abroad or Global Reach. Our paid services are listed on the website and must be paid directly.