California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt vs American University
Arcata, CA — Washington, DC
| Metric | California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt Arcata, CA | American University Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Arcata, CA | Washington, DC |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 5,612 | 7,266 |
| Acceptance Rate | 98.2% | 62.0% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,381 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,250 | $58,771 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $20,850 | $58,771 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,171 | $41,943 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,000 | $22,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 47.5% | 77.0% |
| Retention Rate | 76.0% | 88.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $37,382 | $61,328 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $47,626 | $77,370 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 313100.0% | 219000.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt
Arcata, CA
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt and American University compare?▼
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt (Arcata, CA) has an acceptance rate of 98.2%, in-state tuition of $8,250, and median 10-year earnings of $47,626. American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt or American University?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $47,626. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt or American University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt is the more affordable option at $13,171 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
American University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 77.0% vs 47.5%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
Related
Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025