Humboldt State University, Arcata, California
Humboldt State University is renowned nationally and internationally for its academic excellence, intensive research and unique programs. Our small class sizes allow students and faculty to work closely together and for students to receive personalized attention and support. HSU has outstanding natural science and resources programs, and also excels in the areas of business, humanities and liberal arts. Come join us at our safe, welcoming campus on the northern California coast surrounded by towering redwood trees.
Our campus is located 435 km north of San Francisco in the safe town of Arcata (population: 17,000). Visitors from around the world come to this beautiful part of California to see the pristine beaches, clear blue rivers and world-famous redwood trees. Redwood National Park, located 60 km north of Arcata, is home to some of the oldest redwood trees in the world.
For city-lovers, San Francisco is just a 5-hour car ride away, or a one hour flight from the Arcata/Eureka Airport. Direct flights to San Francisco leave several times a day. Arcata has a moderate climate year-round, so you’ll never have to worry about being too hot or too cold. Our average low is 4°C and our average high is 14°C.
You don’t need four walls and a chalkboard to go to class. At Humboldt State, students get an education that goes way beyond lecture halls and textbooks. This beach, just 20 minutes from campus, is one of many outdoor classrooms at HSU. Explore where we’re located in wonderful northern California.
When you aren’t in class or enjoying all that Humboldt State University and the surrounding community have to offer, you will be living in your choice of on- or off-campus housing. If you decide to live on campus, choices include single, double or triple rooms in traditional residence halls, as well as apartment and suite-style living. On-campus residents can also choose to live in residence halls organized around a theme, called Special Living Communities. These give you a chance to learn for a year alongside people who share your interests.
Study at Humboldt State University
With a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs such as Business, Biology, Mathematics, Education, Environmental Resource Engineering, Computer Science, Music, and Art, you’ll easily find a program that suits you.
With a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs such as Business, Biology, Mathematics and Environmental Resource Engineering, you’ll easily find a program that suits you. Intensive academic English preparation can be taken at the International English Language Institute (IELI), and options for conditional admission, as well a one semester or one year study in California, are available.
The Bridge Program permits upper-level students to begin taking Humboldt State University classes with American students while completing their IELI requirements. The IELI staff will help you select appropriate courses that not only meet your needs and interests but also help you get a “head start” on your university studies. Advanced IELI students who do not pursue degree studies may still take Humboldt State courses.
HSU Study California is an opportunity for international students to visit Humboldt State University for a semester or a year. The experience allows you to interact with American students, faculty and other international students. For those who are a part of the HSU Study California program, every day is an adventure in American culture - meeting new people, trying new foods and learning something new.
During your stay, you will have the opportunity to:
- Take university courses, earning credits that may transfer to your home university
- Interact with American students and faculty
- Live in on- or off-campus housing
- Experience northern California and American culture
- Participate in clubs, student events and activities
Undergraduate Study
Humboldt State University welcomes qualified international applicants in its highly ranked undergraduate programs. With an average class size of 29, you won’t have to compete for your professor’s attention here.
Graduate Study
Graduate studies at Humboldt State University are academically challenging and research based, and are designed to prepare students for active careers. With eleven programs to choose from, you’ll have no problem finding something that suits your interests. As a graduate student, you’ll take your studies a step further—by designing and leading research projects that align with your academic and professional interests. Present your idea, and we’ll give you the freedom to explore it.
