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Religious Studies, B.A.

*** This major will no longer be offered as of Fall 2025 ***

The world is a richly meaningful place and every life is an authentic contribution to that larger meaning. Understanding the world’s religions and spiritual traditions allows us to see how belief and belonging influence culture, ethics, and politics. Focusing on major religions of the world, spiritual paths, and secular belief systems, our curriculum helps students develop the capacity for scholarship and disciplined thought on the subject of religion and encourages them to utilize the study of religion to enrich their own quest for meaning, consider their values, and ponder the questions that have captivated  people for millennia.

Why this Program

The experiential program offers opportunities for direct observation and encounter with Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and other communities. 

 The major is designed to be completed in one or two years so you’ll have time to study abroad, do an internship, or complete a double major.

You will have ample opportunity to present your research findings at professional conferences, author papers, and intern with local community partners.

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Class meeting on lawn

Academics & Options

Our approach is international and multidisciplinary; we collaborate with World Languages and Cultures, Geography, Environmental Studies, History, Philosophy, Anthropology, and Art. The curriculum encourages the appreciation of cultural diversity as we consider traditional values, sacred texts, and religious history. 

Did You Know?

Experiential Weekends are 1.0 units and can be taken multiple times for credit.

Religious Studies is designed to work as a double major option for students in Biology, Psychology, and Anthropology.

Student in courtyard

Careers

A Religious Studies degree will give you a competitive edge in today’s increasingly diverse workforce. You will graduate with practical skills in communication and lifelong learning, so you can thrive—professionally as a citizen and future leader, and personally as an individual and community member.

  • Artist
  • Business Leader
  • Case Manager
  • Counselor
  • Doctor
  • Journalist
  • Lawyer
  • Nurse
  • Social Worker
  • Teacher

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Recreation Administration, B.A.

Find your future at Humboldt. The recreation, tourism, and leisure service industry is the largest and fastest growing in the world. With the increasing availability of leisure time, the demand for qualified recreation professionals is continually increasing. At Humboldt we are doing our part to meet this demand by offering a personalized atmosphere in which one can work, grow, and learn while majoring in recreation administration. We provide the opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge, understanding, and sensitivity needed to help secure a position in the recreation profession.
 

Why this Program

The North Coast provides a unique learning lab for students—connecting their education to practical experiences that can’t be found elsewhere.

Our campus provides a sense of care, support and belonging, and better prepares students to approach their chosen fields through a lens of social justice.

We strive for societal and economic improvement, demonstrated in our personal passions and the professions that we pursue.

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Peer partners training

Academics & Options

The Recreation Administration program uses an interdisciplinary approach and provides a variety of experiential learning modality. Students will take courses in programming, leadership, administration, management, philosophy, and inclusive recreation, as well as in their area of emphasis.

Program Emphases

The Diving Leadership emphasis at Cal Poly Humboldt prepares students to become certified dive professionals equipped with the skills, knowledge, and leadership abilities necessary for success in the scuba diving industry. With a strong focus on diver safety and proficiency, students gain hands-on experience developing personal underwater skills and leadership techniques by working closely with peers in the demanding waters of Northern California—conditions that build confidence and competence for diving anywhere in the world.

This interdisciplinary program supports a wide range of sub-aquatic research, education, and recreational activities. It serves as a valuable asset to fields such as marine biology, oceanography, fisheries, wildlife, geology, engineering, industrial technology, art, business administration, physical education, recreation administration, archaeology, and natural resources. Through a curriculum that meets the training standards of Cal Poly Humboldt, the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), and the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS), students are well-positioned to contribute to academic research, pursue advanced degrees, and enter careers in both government and the private sector. Whether your goals involve scientific diving, instruction, or exploration, the Diving Leadership program offers a strong foundation for a future beneath the surface.

Catalog Information

The Inclusive Communities option is an exciting route to prepare upcoming professionals for careers in municipal, county, state, and federal community based recreation programs, and private not-profit recreation programs. Community recreation provides people with daily opportunities for fun, fitness, and friendship, which is directly linked to individual and community quality of life. This program places emphasis on creating access for all community members, including individuals who experience disabilities, homelessness, poverty, and age related isolation. The courses focus on creating change through leadership, programming, planning, marketing and promoting, inter agency collaboration and community activism. Today's community recreation professionals are a strong component in a national movement to increase the quality of life for all citizens through a wider variety of recreation opportunities. 

Catalog Information

The Outdoor Leadership emphasis is designed for students who envision themselves working outside, helping others grow, play, and safely experience the natural world. Through hands-on experiences in land, water, and snow-based environments, students develop professional wilderness living skills aligned with industry standards. The curriculum guides students through three key stages: building technical backcountry skills, learning to lead and instruct outdoor adventure programs, and understanding how to manage outdoor recreation and education organizations.

Students enhance their leadership experience by participating in the Outdoor Assistantship program and have the opportunity to earn the Outdoor Leader Certificate from the Wilderness Education Association. To further meet industry expectations, they are encouraged to complete Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid certification through Outdoor Adventures

Catalog Information

The Tourism Management option at Cal Poly Humboldt is designed for students interested in working in one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly growing industries. This program prepares students to create, manage, and enhance tourism experiences in diverse settings such as resorts, meeting and event planning, convention and visitor bureaus, tour operations, and recreation businesses. With a strong focus on community engagement and sustainability, students explore how tourism can be a powerful tool for improving quality of life, conserving natural resources, and promoting balanced economic development.

Through hands-on projects, site visits, and interactions with industry professionals, students develop the practical skills and professional insight needed to succeed in today’s tourism sector. The program emphasizes tourism’s role in both community and economic development, using real-world case studies to analyze the relationship between destinations, residents, and visitors. With California being one of the world’s top tourism destinations, students have exceptional opportunities to build industry connections and launch successful careers locally, nationally, or abroad.

Did you know?

The recreation, tourism and leisure services industry is the largest and fastest-growing industry in the world — designing and providing leisure experiences through outdoor adventure companies, hotels and resorts, corporate wellness programs, youth agencies, municipal recreation departments, and many other organizations.

Outside magazine called Arcata a “dream town” for outdoor play.

Humboldt County has 110 miles of coastline and more than 160,000 acres of majestic redwoods.

Outdoor recreation is the 4th largest economy in the United States. In 2020, it generated $689 billion in consumer spending and 4.3 million jobs.

In 2020 the travel and tourism industry in the US supported 6.3 million jobs with nearly 1 million of those jobs in California.

The dive Leadership emphasis is the only program in California that leads directly to Dive Master certification as part of your college degree.

Diving training in the pool

Careers

The recreation administration program helps assure that students have the practical experience needed and the academic competencies required to obtain a position and succeed in an exciting, challenging, and personally satisfying profession.

  • Recreation Director
  • Community Center Director
  • Recreation Specialist
  • Park Superintendent
  • Recreation Supervisor
  • Outdoor Adventure Recreation
  • Outdoor Leader
  • Camp Director
  • Challenge Course Facilitator
  • Inclusion Specialist
  • Environmental Educator
  • Divemaster
  • Scuba Instructor
  • Diving Safety Officer
  • Tour Guide
  • Hotel Manager
  • Visitors Bureau Director
  • Event Planner
  • Airport Desk Agent
  • Guest Relations Manager
     
Bowling in Redwood Bowl

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Rangeland Resource Science, B.S.

Rangeland Resources is applied terrestrial ecology. You learn through practical experience—a given at Cal Poly Humboldt. You’ll get hands-on learning in some of the world’s most spectacular and important rangeland ecosystems, personal attention from faculty, and a clear path to a career outdoors.

Why this Program

Field Intensive

Our program arguably spends more time afield than any other major on campus and students participate in contests and workshops.

Small and Unique Program

Our program typically has about 50 students learning and discovering together, alongside other natural resources and sciences majors.

Seriously Creative Conservation

We teach and learn about applied terrestrial ecology; developing expertise in soils, plants, animals, and related human interactions.

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Rangeland students in the field

Academics & Options

You’ll learn through fieldwork, hands-on experiences, and faculty connections, gaining an understanding of how important rangelands are as wildlife habitat and to human society.

Program Concentrations

This option qualifies graduates for federal employment as Rangeland Management Specialists and Soil Conservationists managing wildlife and fisheries habitats, recreation, watershed values, open space, and biofuels, in addition to traditional uses such as livestock grazing, for food and fiber production and fuels management.

Contact Susan Marshall if you have questions or would like more information about this option.

Rangeland Resources Requirements
 

This option is usually favored by those looking for a career as wildland soils managers working to prevent erosion, keep our surface waters clean, and help determine appropriate land uses based on soil resources. It qualifies graduates for federal employment as Soil Scientists and Soil Conservationists.

Contact Susan Marshall if you have questions or would like more information about this option.

Wildland Soil Science Requirements

Did You Know?

Our curriculum fulfills the educational requirements to take the exam to become a California Certified Rangeland Manager through the Board of Forestry.

For 50 years employers have sought out the quality and specialized skill sets they know Humboldt Range and Soils students and alumni have. We teach and learn about applied terrestrial ecology; developing expertise in soils, plants, animals, and related human interactions.

We are surrounded by private and public rangelands, which give unparalleled opportunities for research and internships and other applied learning.

Rangeland students in the field

Careers

Forestry and rangeland scientists are in high demand. Our graduates have gone onto careers in private and public sectors, and tribal and nonprofit conservation agencies. They hold leadership positions at land management agencies and teach at major universities.

  • Biological Science Technician (0404)
  • GIS Application Specialist
  • Habitat Restoration Specialist
  • Hunting/Fishing Guide
  • Land Management Supervisor
  • Natural Resource Specialist
  • Resource Management Specialist 
  • Ranch and Rangeland Manager
  • Rangeland Mgmt Specialist (0454)
  • Range Technician (0455)
  • Soil Conservationist (0457)
  • Soil Scientist (0470)
  • Watershed Technician
Rangeland student studying grassStudent using microscope

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Psychology, B.A.

Exploring the complexities of the mind and behavior of humans and animals is at the heart of Psychology at Cal Poly Humboldt, which is among the largest majors here. Students passionate about Psychology who have a spirit for adventure come from around the state to learn about all the things that make us, well, us. Led by supportive faculty, our rigorous program is grounded in the practical experiences that you need to be prepared for today’s workforce or a post baccalaureate degree. In other words, a bachelor’s degree in Psychology can take you places, whatever your next step in life may be after graduation.

Why this Program

Undergraduate students have the opportunity to conduct research in one of several labs—an experience often reserved for graduate students.

We prepare our students to apply their knowledge and skills from psychology to create a socially just and equitable society.

Our courses address the impact of culture and context on human functioning, fostering an appreciation for differences through research and applied experiences.

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Psychology students in class

Academics & Options

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology provides excellent preparation for careers and graduate school. Students find rewarding careers in mental health and human services, social welfare, education, business, law, medicine, and other fields. They’re also routinely accepted into master’s and prestigious Ph.D. programs. 

While we do offer some courses online, we are not an online program.

Did You Know?

Pursue your bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Cal Poly Humboldt, and then enroll in our Academic Research M.A. program as an undergraduate during your senior year.

Participate in several hands-on learning opportunities and earn units toward your degree, including serving as a teaching assistant or research assistant in one of our many research labs.  

Present and publish research as an undergraduate. Each year, we take students to present their work at professional academic conferences.  

Complete your own project when you enroll in an independent studies course or senior honors thesis. 

Experience unique courses such as Community Psychology, which includes a service placement at a local community organization.

Psychology students on bacolny

Careers

Students develop highly marketable skills such as the ability to collect, organize, analyze, and interpret data, write reports, exhibit interpersonal skills, and communicate effectively. An undergraduate degree is also helpful in many health and mental health positions, and for careers in areas such as college admissions, human resources, management training, survey research, customer relations, and more.

  • Academic Counselor
  • Behavioral Medicine Practitioner
  • Behavioral Technician
  • Clinical Psychologist 
  • College Instructor 
  • Conflict Resolution Mediator
  • Corrections Officer 
  • Counselor/Therapist 
  • Data Analyst
  • Day Care Center Director
  • Early Childhood Specialist 
  • Forensic Psychologist 
Psychology students in class

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Political Science, B.A.

Our program will help you to understand how social justice, culture and the environment are interrelated and how to effectively and equitably address social, political, and environmental issues. You will learn the knowledge and skills to be an effective global citizen and achieve your career goals in diverse worlds, ranging from law to business to nonprofit to public policy. In addition to our small discussion-based classes, we emphasize the “hands-on” learning, such as internships, our Model UN and Moot Court programs, engaging in scholarly research projects, and study abroad.

Why This Program

You won’t get lost in the crowd. None of our major courses have more than 45 students, and many have fewer than 30.

Through our dual degree pathway, you can complete a B.A. in Political Science and an M.A. in Social Science, Environment & Community in five years.

Experience component of the program recognizes the importance of “hands-on” learning outside the classroom.

Interdisciplinary faculty expertise in the environment, global politics, policy, and law.

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Political Science students in class

Academics & Options

Our classes focus on critical engagement with current political practices. They will give you the skills you need to go to graduate school or to pursue a career in political organizing, public policy, government, or law.

Program Concentrations

Politics, economics, and culture are increasingly global. This concentration will develop your understanding of the actors and organizations that shape our world, while deepening your understanding of the diverse peoples, politics, and cultures outside the United States.

Global Politics Requirements

Whether you want to go to law school, work for a government agency, or advocate for change with non-governmental organization, you will develop the knowledge of the legal and policy-making process needed to work effectively from the grassroots to Congress.

Law & Policy Requirements

Environmental concerns are not just technical problems, they’re key social and political challenges. This concentration explores links between environmental issues, social justice, individual freedom, and strategies for change.

Politics of Environment & Sustainability Requirements

Did you know?

Hands-on learning opportunities include our Model UN and Moot Court programs, internships, research opportunities with faculty, and studying abroad.

Choose a concentration in law and policy, politics of environment and sustainability, or global politics—or complete a major without a concentration.

Our dual degree pathway enables exceptional students to simultaneously earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in the Environment & Community M.A. in Social Science program.

Spend a semester living, learning, and working in Sacramento or Washington, D.C. and earn credit.

Students attending class

Careers

Our graduates find fulfilling jobs or pursue more education in diverse fields. Some trek the globe, working with non-governmental organizations, tackling international issues, and addressing some of the biggest challenges the world faces. Others become entrenched in the political world as elected officials, lobbyists, legislative analysts, or consultants. Or, they find jobs in the world of nonprofit organizations as organizers, advocates, and leaders. And, many of our graduates pursue advanced degrees in law, policy, political science, or other social sciences.

  • Attorney
  • Elected Official
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Journalist
  • Legislative Assistant
  • Marketing Research Analyst
  • Nonprofit Leader
  • Policy Analyst
  • Political Consultant
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Union Leader
Model United Nations exercise

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Physics, B.S.

Hands-on learning and research are at the heart of our program. Small class sizes make it easier to get one-on-one attention from professors who are eager to help. And our graduates are in high demand in this high tech world.

Physics & Astronomy gives you the perspective and problem solving skills needed to better understand our world and universe.

Why this Program

Hands-on Research

You’ll get hands-on use of equipment in our dedicated optics and electronics laboratories, as well as  opportunities for original research through our Gravitational Research Laboratory Physical Oceanography opportunities, our off-campus observatory, and you may possibly co-author a scientific paper.

Small Class Sizes

Physics and astronomy are crowded fields at many universities. Our small class sizes mean you’ll always get classes you need and close attention from professors.

Ready for the Next Step

When you're considering graduate study—which is required for many careers in the field—we will guide you based on your strengths and our excellent reputation.

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students at movie night up at the fickle hill observatory

Concentrations

The Bachelor of Science in Physics in physics is designed for those students who expect to enter one of the various fields of research or development in government or in private industry. Students can also move onto graduate studies and teaching at all levels.

Catalog information: Major Requirements for B.S.

Major Academic Plan (MAP): 

Bachelor of Science in Physics with a concentration in Astronomy includes three specialized courses for those interested in a career in astronomy or astrophysics and is relevant for those who would like to pursue careers or graduate work in these fields, including the rapidly evolving area of gravitational wave astrophysics.

Catalog information: Major Requirements for the Astronomy Concentration, B.S.

Major Academic Plan (MAP):

Bachelor of Arts in Physical Science is less specialized and more adaptable to studies in various fields, including preparation for teaching at the secondary school level.

Catalog information: Major Requirements for B.A.

Major Academic Plans (MAPs): 

Did You Know?

Stars to Rocks, our first-year learning community, gets you connected to professors quickly, as well as a cohort of like-minded students who support each other throughout college.

Starting salaries in the private sector can range on average from around $60,000 for Bachelor’s degree recipients to over $100,000 for those with a Ph.D.

The median wage for Physicists and Astronomers in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $129,000. 

Undergraduates can join the American Physical Society, the main professional organization for those studying physics and working in the field, for free for their first year.

Student working in Gravitational Research Lab

Careers

Whether your interests lie in the far reaches of the universe or in the subatomic workings of our own world, we have a course of study and the enthusiastic teachers to prepare you for an exciting and fulfilling career.

  • Physicist
  • Astronomer/Astrophysicist
  • Secondary science teacher
  • Scientific Programmer
  • Physical Oceanographer
  • Physical Chemist
  • Geophysicist
  • Biophysicist
  • Medical/radiological technologist
  • Telescope operator
  • Staff Scientist (Industry, University, or National Laboratory)
  • Financial Analyst
Students attending class

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Philosophy, B.A.

The Philosophy major offers a broad education in the liberal arts, an excellent background for advanced professional training, and an opportunity for students to develop communication and problem solving skills that are valued by employers in a wide variety of fields. The goal is to become acquainted with, evaluate and respond critically and imaginatively to the important elements of the human experience, and to do so in a scholarly manner with an eye toward appropriating the best for oneself and one’s culture.

Why This Program

Improve your skills in logic-based critical thinking, written communication, problem solving, oral communication, analytical thinking, and textual interpretation and analysis.

Study the history of ideas - East and West: issues in ethics, environmentalism, feminism, epistemology, philosophy of science, happiness and flourishing. Examine individual thinkers and movements in depth.

The goal is to examine ourselves, diverse cultures, and different world views with the aim of analyzing and contributing toward a reformation of self and environment.

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a student at a desk with other student in the background

Academics & Options

Philosophy majors must earn a minimum grade of “C-” in all courses taken to fulfill the major requirements; and must earn a minimum overall GPA of 2.00 in the major.

Did You Know?

According to a 2018 World Economic Forum post, philosophy majors have higher average salary potential than many other majors, with the biggest increase of any major in earning power during the first 10 years after graduation.

Figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency show philosophy graduates are in growing demand from employers. 

Our campus is nestled in a spectacular setting of redwood forests, rushing rivers, ocean beaches, and mountain ranges. The physical beauty of the natural surroundings offers an environment exceptionally well suited to exploration and adventure as well as peaceful contemplation and growth.

two students looking at a piece of paper

Careers

Philosophy provides a foundation for the development of logical, critical and creative reasoning, analytical reading and writing, and creative problem-solving skills. Since those skills are highly valued by employers and graduate and professional programs alike, meaningful career opportunities for Philosophy graduates exist in a variety of fields.

  • Business
  • Education 
  • Government 
  • Journalism 
  • Law 
  • Medicine 
  • Politics 
  • Non-Profit Organization 
  • Teaching
  • Theology
Professor Loren Cannon

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Oceanography, B.S.

Among the few undergraduate programs of its kind in California and the oldest on the West Coast, a Bachelor of Science in Oceanography at Cal Poly Humboldt provides a firm foundation in the study of the physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects of the ocean through a rigorous combination of academics and practical oceangoing experience on the North Coast.

Why This Program

Location

On a unique stretch of coastal California known as the North Coast, Humboldt is minutes away from the Pacific Ocean.

Practical Experience

The program is grounded heavily in field-based experiences including aboard our 90-foot ocean-going research vessel and at Humboldt’s Marine Lab.

Curriculum

Rigorous and broad, our program can be tailored to a range of subdisciplines in science, such as Biology, Chemistry, Geology and Physics, even SCUBA. 

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Work in the marine lab

Academics & Options

Oceanography examines the entire range of ocean processes, including physics, chemistry, and geology, as well as biology. 

Sub-disciplines

Students who major in Oceanography can also tailor the program to a range of sub-disciplines that have an oceanic focus, making it easy to earn a minor in other disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, and Geology.

  • Biological Oceanography: the study of marine ecosystems and how they function.
  • Chemical Oceanography: the study of how chemicals move through the marine environment.
  • Geological Oceanography: the study of plate tectonics, classification of major bathymetric features, and the distribution, transport and deposition of recent sediments in the marine environment.
  • Physical Oceanography: the study of the physical conditions and physical processes within the ocean such as waves, currents, eddies, gyres and tides.
Students at tidepool

Did You Know?

Oceanography examines the entire range of ocean processes, including physics, chemistry, and geology, as well as biology. Oceanography requires understanding a broad range of scientific fields and techniques to engage with the ocean as a whole system.

The ocean covers 70 percent of the planet and is crucial to our survival.

Oceanographers pick a specialization based on the aspect of the oceans of most interest to them.

Student with sea star

Careers

With a strong foundation in science and oceanic studies, you will have the knowledge and skills to tackle some of the most pressing issues that affect the health of our oceans and planet. Those issues include rising seawater, pollutants, the impact of human activity on marine ecosystems, and seismic activity. 

  • Oceanographer
  • Marine Biologist
  • Hydrologist/Water Pollution Technician
  • Marine Resource Specialist
  • Hydrographic Survey Technician
  • Scientific Diver
  • Research Assistant
  • Laboratory Assistant
  • Oceanographic Instrumentation Technician
  • NOAA Corps Officer
  • Physical Oceanographer
  • Chemical Oceanographer
  • Coastal/Ocean Engineer
  • Geological Oceanographer
  • Aquaculture Technician
R/V Coral Sea

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Nursing, B.S.

New roles for nurses are emerging and nursing education is changing to meet the complex health care needs of our population. Grounded in the Caring Science®, and in partnership with local health care agencies, Humboldt’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares registered nurses with the knowledge, attitude, and skills to address the unique needs of rural communities while fostering a culture of compassion and resiliency towards those they work with and serve.

Humboldt’s BSN program is community-focused with a part-time model designed for working registered nurses.

Why this Program

Learn While You Work

Excel through a blend of online and in-person coursework that relates to your profession, including community health fieldwork.

A Rural Perspective

Experience unique perspectives on the complex social health needs of a remote and rural region.

Personal Attention

Establish meaningful connections with other students, professors, and advisors through small cohorts.

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Nursing class using virtual reality

Academics & Options

The nursing (RN-BSN) program is designed for students who have earned an associate degree in nursing and want to advance their skills in leadership, care management, and health promotion. 

Did You Know?

  • Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Part-time - Earn your degree while you work
  • Flexible hybrid program, two synchronous intensives per semester
  • Earn Public Health Nurse (PHN) certification
  • Nurses with an ADN and new ADN RN graduates welcome
two nursing students looking at a laptop

Careers

BSN-prepared nurses will gain essential skills in critical thinking and change management, in order to lead and promote innovation in health care systems.

Humboldt's RN to BSN Program prepares nurse leaders who practice cultural humility in rural areas populated by diverse communities.

  • Public Health Nurse
  • RN Care Coordinator
  • Chronic Disease Manager
  • Leadership and Management
  • Team-Based Care Leader
  • Health & Wellness Coach
  • RN Visits
  • Telehealth
  • Health Education
  • Disaster Response

Learn While you Work

Through a blend of online and in-person coursework, and combined with community health fieldwork, students will learn practical strategies to develop innovative solutions that promote a culture of health and wellness in our rural region.  The part time model of the program is designed to fit around working RNs’ schedules, and in addition to opening opportunities in Public Health and the VA, nurses will have the knowledge and skills to lead in a variety of settings in hospitals and beyond.

A nurse talking to an older patient sitting in a chair

A Rural Perspective

Located along the North Coast of California, where the majestic redwood forest meets the Pacific Ocean, students will gain perspective on the complex needs of a remote and rural region with numerous Tribal communities. Through their community health practicum, students will provide care and advocacy for an underserved population in a local health care organization.

person looking through VR headset

Personal Attention

Each student brings their own unique learning style, perspective, and experience that enhances the learning of the group. Our small cohort size promotes a learning environment that is conducive to collaboration with other students. Online learning offers flexibility for working students, as well as a platform where all students can have a voice in the classroom. Whether in person or virtually, professors meet with individual students and the class to provide frequent and meaningful feedback and each student will have access to a professional advisor. 

a person talking to a child

Accreditation & Certification

Accreditation

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at California Polytechnic University, Humboldt, is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education http://www.ccneaccreditation.org.

Public Health Nurse Certification

This program is approved for the Public Health Nursing Certificate by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).

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Native American Studies, B.A.

Native American Studies at Cal Poly Humboldt is more than an academic discipline. We're a continuation of Indigenous knowledge from time immemorial with a distinctly tribal perspective on major global challenges, such as climate change, environmental justice, and place-based initiatives. As the first  campus in the California State University (CSU) system to offer a baccalaureate degree in Native American Studies, and still the only program of its kind in the CSU, Native American Studies continues to develop as a stand-alone department, with active input from tribes.

Cal Poly Humboldt is not only a proven leader in serving Native American students in California, but our broad program appeals to non-Native students who are passionate about law and policy, social and environmental justice, sustainability and natural resource management.

Why This Program

Our curriculum helps students develop a critical perspective as well as cultural breadth through the study of Native American perspectives and worldviews.  Students in our program are better prepared for careers by learning how to navigate tribal sovereignty and engage in tribal knowledges.

Located on unceded territory of the Wiyot people and surrounded by 13 Native Tribes, Humboldt provides students across majors opportunities to collaborate with and learn from local tribes through place-based learning initiatives and programs.

Our program is home to the first Food Sovereignty Lab & Traditional Ecological Knowledges Institute, which engages with Indigenous knowledges, environmental management, health, and racial equity  all while recognizing our responsibility to Indigenous communities.

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Cutcha Baldy and Rachel Sundberg presenting at Sumeg Village

Academics & Options

Native American Studies is a stand-alone major that can also complement majors at Cal Poly Humboldt. Students are prepared to engage with critical perspectives and Indigenous knowledges and for working with tribal communities and tribal peoples. 

Program Emphases

Federal Indian Law is the foundation of the United States legal system. Develop a critical understanding of law, politics, and policy development with courses like Tribal Justice Systems and Tribal Water rights.

Explore and engage with Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Indigenous Science, and place-based learning through courses focused on sustainability and environmental justice.

Engage with tribal knowledges and literatures to develop key understandings of language resurgence, and Native American literature and traditions.

Critical approaches to social science, health sciences, and interdisciplinary hands on learning for community health, wellness, and research. Classes include: Native American Health; Native American Psychology; and Decolonizing Public Health.

Did You Know?

The northernmost campus in the California State University (CSU), Humboldt is located on Wiyot land with 13 federally recognized tribes in the University’s service area.

Cal Poly Humboldt was the first among 23 campuses in the California State University system to offer a baccalaureate degree in Native American Studies.

Designed to explore healthy, traditional Indigenous food systems and provide hands-on learning opportunities with Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Indigenous Sciences, the Food Sovereignty Lab &

Traditional Ecological Knowledges Institute engages with Indigenous knowledges, environmental management, health, and racial equity. 

Graduate at commencement

Careers

A degree in Native American Studies, especially when combined with a minor in a specific field, helps prepare you for graduate school in several social sciences, to teach, and pursue professional careers. 

  • Archival Researcher 
  • Counselor Consultant 
  • Cultural Arts Teacher 
  • Cultural Resource Specialist 
  • Curator 
  • Environmental Policy Historian 
  • Human Services Worker 
  • Health Education Specialist
  • Lawyer
  • Linguist 
  • Mental Health Worker 
  • Natural Resource Manager 
  • Nonprofit Executive Director
  • Social Worker 
  • Teacher 
  • Tribal Administrator 
  • Tribal Council Member
  • Tribal Liaison
Native mural

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