Cal State Long Beach vs Cal Poly Humboldt

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Cal State Long Beach (CSULB) and Cal Poly Humboldt?

  Cal State Long Beach (CSULB) is a large, comprehensive university located in a major metropolitan area, offering a wide range of programs and a vibrant campus life. Cal Poly Humboldt, on the other hand, is a smaller, more specialized polytechnic university located in a more rural setting, with a strong focus on environmental studies, natural resources, and applied sciences. CSULB generally has a higher student population and a more diverse range of academic disciplines, while Cal Poly Humboldt emphasizes hands-on learning and a close-knit community.

• Which university is better known for specific academic programs?

  CSULB is highly regarded for its programs in engineering, business, art (especially film and design), and nursing. Cal Poly Humboldt excels in environmental science, forestry, wildlife management, fisheries biology, and other natural resource-related fields. If you're interested in a career in the environment or natural sciences, Cal Poly Humboldt is a strong choice. For engineering, business, or arts-related fields, CSULB is a great option.

• How do the campus environments differ between CSULB and Cal Poly Humboldt?

  CSULB offers a classic, large university experience with a bustling campus, numerous student organizations, and easy access to the amenities of Long Beach and Southern California. Cal Poly Humboldt provides a more intimate and nature-focused environment, surrounded by redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean. The campus culture at Humboldt is generally more outdoorsy and environmentally conscious, while CSULB's campus reflects the diversity and energy of a major urban center.

• What are the typical class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios at each university?

  Due to its larger size, CSULB generally has larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses. The student-to-faculty ratio is typically higher than at Cal Poly Humboldt. Cal Poly Humboldt, with its smaller student body, offers smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for more personalized attention from professors.

• How do the locations of CSULB and Cal Poly Humboldt impact student life?

  CSULB's location in Long Beach provides students with access to beaches, entertainment venues, diverse cultural experiences, and internship opportunities in various industries. Cal Poly Humboldt's location in Arcata offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, with access to hiking trails, redwood forests, and the coast. Student life at Humboldt tends to revolve around outdoor activities and environmental awareness, while CSULB students benefit from the vibrant urban environment and career opportunities in Southern California.

• What are the admission requirements like for CSULB and Cal Poly Humboldt?

  Both CSULB and Cal Poly Humboldt are part of the California State University system, so they share similar general admission requirements, including minimum GPA and course requirements. However, due to higher demand, CSULB may have more competitive admission standards for certain programs. It's best to check the specific admission requirements for your intended major on each university's website.

• How do the costs of attending CSULB and Cal Poly Humboldt compare?

  Tuition and fees are generally similar across the California State University system. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors such as housing, transportation, and personal expenses. Long Beach, being a larger city, may have higher housing costs compared to Arcata. Be sure to factor in the cost of living in each location when making your decision.

• What kind of career services and internship opportunities are available at each university?

  CSULB, located in a major metropolitan area, offers a wide range of internship and career opportunities in various industries, including aerospace, engineering, healthcare, and entertainment. Cal Poly Humboldt, while located in a more rural area, provides strong connections to environmental organizations, government agencies, and natural resource management companies. Both universities offer career counseling, resume workshops, and job fairs to help students prepare for their careers.

• Which university is more diverse?

  CSULB is known for its diverse student body, reflecting the demographics of Southern California. Cal Poly Humboldt, while striving for greater diversity, has a smaller and less diverse student population compared to CSULB. If campus diversity is a significant factor in your college decision, CSULB may be a better fit.

• What are the housing options like at CSULB and Cal Poly Humboldt?

  CSULB offers a variety of on-campus housing options, including residence halls and apartments. Due to its location in a densely populated area, off-campus housing near CSULB can be competitive and relatively expensive. Cal Poly Humboldt also offers on-campus housing, and off-campus housing in Arcata is generally more affordable and readily available compared to Long Beach. Consider your housing preferences and budget when evaluating your options.