College of the Redwoods (CR) Introduction and Academics

Introduction

One of the most popular community colleges in Humboldt County, California, College of the Redwoods offers a number of programs that are slightly less traditional. For anyone who wants to go to school not just to learn about a typical field of work, but rather, wants to master a skill like woodworking, this is an excellent choice.

With a main campus of over 270 acres, the school often feels more like a traditional four-year college than simply a two-year community college. A student body of less than 7,000 students ensures the kind of attention needed not just to get an education, but to truly learn and to excel in a given area.

Information Summary

Ranks 311th in California and 3359th overall. See the entire top 2,000 colleges and universities list
Overall Score (about)	45.3
Total Cost On-Campus Attendance	$13,659
Admission Success rate	N/A
Student Ratio Students-to-Faculty	22 : 1
Retention (full-time / part-time)	55% / 44%
Enrollment Total (all students)	4,572

Academics

The curriculum provides a number of options for those interested in getting an education after high school, or all over again after already completing the steps needed to earn a degree. Those who want more technical training can choose from a number of vocational programs, while those interested in earning an associate’s degree will find that to be easy as well, with so many different options to choose from. The school is most famous for its fine woodworking program, which was started by one of the country’s master woodworks, James Krenov. For anyone who has been looking for a hands-on program that allows for immediate knowledge in an area that provides results, the instruction in making furniture and other objects is a compelling choice for an education. Other more traditional programs, such as nursing, medical assisting, and business are also offered for those who need the sort of training that ensures entry into the workforce in a less independent manner.

In addition to those degree and specific areas, there are also more hands-on programs designed to get students ready for a more traditional trade. One of the most popular is the school’s truck driving school, where it is possible to learn in less than two years all that it takes to become a successful truck driver. Other more contemporary fields, such as computer information sciences and digital media, are also gaining popularity with students in a growing digital world.

Located close to the Humboldt Bay Wildlife Refuge, the campus feels more like a place nestled in nature than in a large city. This provides a sense of community and tranquility that has proven attractive to numerous applicants, as it is a completely different post-secondary experience than a typical suburban or urban campus. The school’s architecture and structure is also finely attuned to its location.

Most Popular Fields of Study

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Admissions

Students interested in attending should have all of their application materials completed before the semester they intend on starting. Application materials include a completed application for admission, as well as a high school transcript or GED equivalent, a high school diploma, and any other college work completed. If you provide your college transcript while applying, then you may be eligible to transfer credit hours from your previous academic experience.

Financial Aid

Students should take care to first complete their FAFSA, which can greatly expedite the financial aid process. For any questions regarding scholarships, grants, or loans, as well as for help with completing the FAFSA successfully on the first attempt, there is the school’s office of financial aid. Here, counselors can provide help with any sort of forms, as well as recommendations for other pertinent grants and scholarships that might be available. The sooner you can make an appointment with a financial aid counselor, the better.

Student Financial Aid Details

Ranks 5924th for the average student loan amount.
Secrets to getting the best scholarships and financial aid in California.

Students

Student life takes advantage of the school’s unique surroundings. Located right next to the popular Humboldt Bay Wildlife Refuge in the heart of rural ranch land, the school’s look is very much rustic. With wooden beams and exposed wood in most buildings on campus, facilities are contemporary in their offerings while still maintaining a more traditional, down-home look.

In addition to buildings for classes, the campus features a rec center, library, and a number of different offices for job placement and academic assistance. Students are also welcome to start or join any of the school’s ever-changing clubs and student organizations, from government to more specific interests involving woodworking and other areas. And unlike a number of other community colleges, College of the Redwoods offers its students the chance to have a true college experience by providing on-campus housing in its different residences. On-campus students have a number of other activities to choose from that build community, from games night to Saturday evening movie options.

Student Enrollment Demographics

Athletics

Intercollegiate athletics are a big part of CR, with students having the option to participate in baseball, cross country, women’s and men’s soccer, softball, track and field, volleyball, and football. Students must be in good academic standing, however, to participate in the athletics program.

College of the Redwoods