Humboldt State University (HSU) is a public university located in Arcata, California. It is part of the California State University (CSU) system, which is the largest public higher education system in the United States. As a public institution, HSU receives state funding and offers lower tuition rates for California residents compared to private universities.
The university focuses on undergraduate and graduate programs, with an emphasis on environmental sciences, natural resources, and liberal arts. Public universities like HSU prioritize accessibility and affordability while maintaining academic standards, distinguishing them from private institutions that rely more on tuition and endowments.