Academic Comparison between Humboldt State and San Diego State

California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt and San Diego State University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Both Schools are four-year, public and located in California

Comparison at a Glance

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

  • Both schools are four-year, public schools.
  • San Diego State has more expensive tuition & fees ($21,328) than Humboldt State ($20,997).
  • It is harder to admit to San Diego State than Humboldt State.
  • San Diego State has more students with 41,137 students while Humboldt State has 6,237 students.
  • Humboldt State has a lower number of students per faculty with 16 to 1 while San Diego State's ratio is 27 to 1.
  • San Diego State has more full-time faculties with 1,012 faculties while Humboldt State has 271 full-time faculties.
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Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

California State Polytechnic University-Humboldtvs.San Diego State University
Arcata, CaliforniaLocationSan Diego, California
Four-year, PublicSchool Typefour-year, Public
Master's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Master's College and University (larger programs)Carnegie ClassificationResearch University (high research activity)
In-State$8,397
Out-Of-State$20,997
2025 Tuition & Fees
In-State$8,728
Out-Of-State$21,328
65%% Receiving Financial Aid53%
$10,739Average Amount of Financial Aid$11,851
98.20 %Acceptance Rates36.19 %
5.89 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)20.36 %
-SAT Score-
-ACT Score-
49 %Graduation Rate76 %
6 %Transfer-out Rate2 %
76 %Retention Rate91 %
6,237Student Population41,137
271Number of Faculties1,012
16 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio27 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), Study Abroad, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycareOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare