The concurrent-enrollment program allows eligible students from Humboldt and Del Norte counties to enroll in lower-division Cal Poly Humboldt courses for just $25 per semester. Supported by the Redwood Coast K-16 Education Collaborative Grant Program, the program removes financial barriers and connects students with academic advising and campus resources to help them succeed.
For students considering college, taking a university course while still in high school can make the transition feel far less intimidating. Many students have the academic ability to succeed in college, but navigating admissions, course selection, and campus life can seem overwhelming before they ever set foot on a university campus.
The High School Scholars Program was designed to bridge that gap.
Rather than simply offering college classes, the program pairs students with a dedicated academic advisor who helps them explore majors, understand transfer pathways, and identify courses that may count toward both high school graduation and future college degree requirements. Students also have access to campus resources, including academic advising, the Learning Center, and the Writing Center, giving them the same support available to Cal Poly Humboldt students.
"There are many reasons why high school students consider taking college-level courses," said Alison Hodges, lead academic advisor in the Academic Advising Center. "Some students are still developing their college-going identity and use dual or concurrent enrollment as a way to test the waters while they still have the support net of their high school teachers and counselors. Success in these classes shows the students that they, too, belong here."
Students can choose from available lower-division courses across a wide range of disciplines, provided they meet course prerequisites and receive approval from their high school. Because students register shortly before the semester begins, they fill available seats without taking spaces away from regularly admitted University students.
For some students, the program offers access to courses not available at their own schools. Others use it to accelerate progress toward a college degree or explore subjects that spark new interests.
The impact is already evident.
"The course I took exceeded every expectation I had," one High School Scholar shared in a recent program survey. "I came into the class with a genuine interest, and they amplified it with every class. My professors treated me like a normal student, and it was incredible. The professors taught the best class I've ever taken, and it made me excited for future college classes."
Cal Poly Humboldt Early Assessment Coordinator Melissa Donner has been visiting local schools to introduce students and counselors to the program, helping them navigate each step of the application process.
"I've been getting a lot of interest," Donner says. "Some students want another opportunity to be involved with the University. For smaller and rural schools, it's also opening up options they may not otherwise have, including online courses for students who can't regularly travel to campus."
Beyond earning college credit, the program is intended to strengthen college readiness across the North Coast by helping students build confidence before they enroll full-time. Students may take classes in person or online, expanding access for those throughout Humboldt and Del Norte counties.
The High School Scholars Program is open to juniors and seniors attending high schools in Humboldt and Del Norte counties who have a 3.0 GPA or higher. Students may enroll in up to two lower-division courses (a maximum of 6 units) each semester.
"This effort is our chance to invest in our local students and provide a pathway for them to experience higher education with ample support from their home high schools and our campus resources. We’re also here to cheer them on regardless of where they plan to continue their education after high school,” Hodges says.
Students interested in participating can learn more about eligibility, deadlines, and the application process by visiting humboldt.edu/registrar/hss.
Students who may not be eligible for the High School Scholars program may still explore concurrent enrollment opportunities at Cal Poly Humboldt through the College of Extended Education’s standard high school concurrent enrollment processes.