Cal Poly Humboldt: Northern California’s First Polytechnic University & STEM Leader

Cal Poly Humboldt, formerly Humboldt State University, became Northern California’s first polytechnic university in 2022, marking a significant shift toward STEM-focused, hands-on education supported by a $458 million state investment. Located in Arcata near redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean, the university combines a strong liberal arts foundation with emerging programs like Data Science, Marine Biology, and Cannabis Studies.

With plans to launch 27 new programs by 2029, it offers diverse degrees, robust research opportunities, and a dynamic campus life enriched by vibrant student organizations, athletics, and outdoor adventures. Its alumni include notable figures like SpongeBob creator Stephen Hillenburg and NFL player Alex Cappa.

Cal Poly Humboldt: Northern California’s First Polytechnic University

Arcata, California – What was once known as Humboldt State University has officially transformed into California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, or “Cal Poly Humboldt,” marking a significant shift in its academic focus and a substantial investment in its future. Established in 1913, this comprehensive public university, nestled on a 161-acre campus at the edge of a redwood forest with commanding views of Humboldt Bay and the Pacific Ocean, is now the third polytechnic in California and the first in Northern California.

A New Era: The Polytechnic Transformation

The name change, officially enacted on January 26, 2022, was not merely a rebranding effort but a strategic evolution backed by a historic $458 million investment from the state of California. This monumental funding aims to bolster high-demand programs, expand hands-on learning opportunities, address workforce shortages in STEM fields, revitalize the North Coast economy, close equity gaps in higher education, and provide solutions to complex social and environmental issues.

By 2029, Cal Poly Humboldt plans to introduce a total of 27 new academic and experiential programs, with 12 already launched in 2023. This transformation emphasizes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) while maintaining a strong foundation in the liberal arts, fostering a unique blend of practical, interdisciplinary education.

Academic Excellence and Diverse Programs

Cal Poly Humboldt offers a wide array of academic programs, encompassing 49 types of bachelor’s degrees, 21 different master’s degrees, and numerous education-related credentials. While the university does not confer doctoral degrees, its focus on interdisciplinary and applied learning is evident across its three academic divisions: the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, the College of Professional Studies, and the College of Natural Resources & Sciences.

Popular majors traditionally include those in natural resources and conservation, biology and the biological sciences, social sciences, psychology, and business. With the polytechnic transition, new and expanded offerings are emerging, such as:

1. Applied Fire Science & Management
2. Cannabis Studies
3. Data Science
4. Energy Systems Engineering
5. Engineering & Community Practice
6. Mechanical Engineering
7. Software Engineering
8. Geospatial Science & Technology
9. Environmental Resources Engineering
10. Marine Biology
11. Oceanography
12. Wildlife
13. Forestry
14. Rangeland Resource Science

The university also provides various minors and certificate programs, including Climate Justice & Resilience Leadership, Environmental & Natural Resources Planning, and Industry Training for Cannabis Professionals. Beyond on-campus instruction, Cal Poly Humboldt offers online programs through its College of Extended Education & Global Engagement, including a Master of Social Work and a Master of Arts in Applied Anthropology.

Research and Experiential Learning

A cornerstone of Cal Poly Humboldt’s mission is its commitment to innovative research and hands-on learning. The university’s location provides a unique living laboratory, allowing students to connect their education to practical experiences. Key research facilities and initiatives include:

Humboldt State University Marine Lab: Established in 1965, this ocean-side facility in Trinidad provides classrooms, wet labs with free-flowing seawater, small boats, a scientific diving program, and the campus flagship vessel, the 90 ft. R/V Coral Sea. It supports teaching and research in marine science, fisheries, and oceanography.

Office of Research & Sponsored Programs: This office supports and manages diverse research projects, from examining food and housing insecurity among college students to studying the impact of climate change on redwoods. These projects often involve industry partnerships and significantly contribute to student success.

Wildlife Care Facility: A dedicated center for the rehabilitation and study of local wildlife.

Public Natural History Museum and Public Art Gallery: These facilities offer opportunities for research, community engagement, and cultural enrichment.

Mountain-top Astronomy Observatory: Providing unique opportunities for astronomical research and observation.

Campus Life and Community

Cal Poly Humboldt’s 144-acre main campus offers a vibrant student life. Approximately 6,156 students were enrolled in 2023, with 85.6% attending full-time. The student body is diverse, with 50.3% White, 29.4% Hispanic or Latino, and representation from various other racial and ethnic backgrounds. The retention rate for full-time undergraduates in 2023 was 76%.

The university provides on-campus housing, with 86% of freshmen choosing to live in school housing. Campus dining options prioritize local, organic, vegan, and gluten-free choices.

Student engagement is fostered through over 100 academic, career, cultural, sports, and lifestyle clubs, including three social fraternities and three social sororities. The university boasts a range of student activities, including student government, a student newspaper (“The Lumberjack”), a literary magazine, and a radio station.

Athletics: Cal Poly Humboldt is home to the Lumberjacks, with school colors of green and gold. The Division II Athletics program comprises 11 varsity teams competing in the California Collegiate Athletic Association or the Great Northwest Athletic Conference, including men’s and women’s basketball, cross-country, soccer, and track and field, along with women’s crew and softball. A wide array of intramural and club sports are also available.

The surrounding city of Arcata, with a population of approximately 17,697, contributes to the college-town atmosphere, offering a vibrant scene of coffee shops, art galleries, bookstores, and yearly festivals. Its proximity to ancient redwood forests and wild coastlines provides unparalleled opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, canoeing, and surfing, making it an ideal “adventure town” for students.

Notable Alumni

Cal Poly Humboldt has produced a diverse range of successful alumni across various fields. Some notable individuals include:

• Stephen Hillenburg: Creator of the beloved animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants.
• Mike Patton: Renowned singer, songwriter, and producer, best known as the lead vocalist of Faith No More and Mr. Bungle.
• John Kiffmeyer (Al Sobrante): Former drummer for the punk rock band Green Day.
• Alex Cappa: Professional American football guard for the Cincinnati Bengals.
• Brad Willis: Former NBC News foreign correspondent and Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award recipient.
• Jeffrey D. Levine: Former United States Ambassador to Estonia.
• Jason Conger: American attorney and politician who served in the Oregon House of Representatives.
• Chuck Smead: American long-distance runner, a silver medalist in the Marathon at the 1975 Pan American Games.

Cal Poly Humboldt’s evolution as a polytechnic university positions it as a leader in applied education, providing students with the skills and experiences necessary to address the complex challenges of the 21st century.

FAQs about Cal Poly Humboldt

What is Cal Poly Humboldt?
Cal Poly Humboldt is a public university in Arcata, California, and the first polytechnic institution in Northern California. It emphasizes applied learning, especially in STEM fields, while maintaining a strong liberal arts foundation.

When did Humboldt State become Cal Poly Humboldt?
The name change became official on January 26, 2022, marking its transition into a polytechnic university.

Where is Cal Poly Humboldt located?
It is located in Arcata, a small city in Northern California, near redwood forests, Humboldt Bay, and the Pacific Ocean.

What makes Cal Poly Humboldt a polytechnic university?
As a polytechnic university, it focuses on applied sciences, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, with hands-on learning and interdisciplinary programs.

How large is the Cal Poly Humboldt campus?
The campus covers 161 acres on a hillside with views of Humboldt Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

How many students attend Cal Poly Humboldt?
As of 2023, approximately 6,156 students were enrolled, with 85.6% attending full-time.

What degrees does Cal Poly Humboldt offer?
The university offers 49 bachelor’s degrees, 21 master’s degrees, and a variety of education-related credentials. It does not currently offer doctoral programs.

What are some popular majors at Cal Poly Humboldt?
Popular majors include natural resources, biology, psychology, business, and social sciences.

What new programs are being introduced as part of the polytechnic transformation?
New and upcoming programs include Data Science, Mechanical Engineering, Marine Biology, Cannabis Studies, Environmental Resources Engineering, and more.

What is the focus of Cal Poly Humboldt’s academic transformation?
The transformation emphasizes STEM disciplines, hands-on and experiential learning, workforce development, and solutions to social and environmental challenges.

How much funding has Cal Poly Humboldt received for its transformation?
The university received a historic $458 million investment from the state of California.

What academic colleges does Cal Poly Humboldt have?
There are three colleges: the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences; the College of Professional Studies; and the College of Natural Resources & Sciences.

Are online programs available at Cal Poly Humboldt?
Yes, online programs are available through the College of Extended Education & Global Engagement, including a Master of Social Work and a Master of Arts in Applied Anthropology.

What types of research opportunities are available?
Students can engage in marine science at the Marine Lab, wildlife rehabilitation, environmental research, and community-based studies supported by the Office of Research & Sponsored Programs.

What are some notable research facilities at Cal Poly Humboldt?
Key facilities include the Marine Lab, Wildlife Care Facility, Astronomy Observatory, and Public Natural History Museum.

What is student life like at Cal Poly Humboldt?
Student life includes over 100 clubs and organizations, social fraternities and sororities, student media, and a strong culture of outdoor and environmental activities.

What percentage of students live on campus?
About 86% of freshmen choose to live in on-campus housing.

What dining options are available on campus?
Campus dining emphasizes local, organic, vegan, and gluten-free options.

What athletic programs are offered?
Cal Poly Humboldt competes in NCAA Division II with 11 varsity teams known as the Lumberjacks, along with a range of intramural and club sports.

What are Cal Poly Humboldt’s school colors and mascot?
The school colors are green and gold, and the athletic teams are called the Lumberjacks.

What is the retention rate at Cal Poly Humboldt?
The retention rate for full-time undergraduates in 2023 was 76%.

What kind of town is Arcata, where the university is located?
Arcata is a small, vibrant college town with a population of around 17,697, known for its arts scene, eco-conscious community, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

What outdoor activities are available near campus?
Students enjoy hiking, surfing, camping, kayaking, and exploring redwood forests and coastline areas near the university.

Who are some notable alumni of Cal Poly Humboldt?
Notable alumni include Stephen Hillenburg (creator of SpongeBob SquarePants), NFL player Alex Cappa, musician Mike Patton, and former U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey D. Levine.

Does Cal Poly Humboldt offer support for hands-on learning?
Yes, the university emphasizes experiential learning through labs, fieldwork, research projects, and community engagement.

Are there certificate or minor programs at Cal Poly Humboldt?
Yes, the university offers a range of minors and certificates including Climate Justice & Resilience Leadership and Industry Training for Cannabis Professionals.

Is Cal Poly Humboldt part of the California State University (CSU) system?
Yes, it is one of the 23 campuses in the CSU system.

What is unique about Cal Poly Humboldt’s educational approach?
Its unique approach blends STEM-focused, hands-on learning with a strong foundation in liberal arts, set in a living laboratory of forests, oceans, and diverse ecosystems.