California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo Logo

California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, United States

"Discere Faciendo"

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo educates students across a broad range of disciplines within the state and internationally – consistently ranking amongst the top institutions in California, particularly at 19.0 globally. The institution boasts a substantial alumni network spanning numerous successful careers, including 17,047 publications and 333,856 citations, representing a significant commitment to research and education.

Est. 1901 30% Acceptance
731
World Ranking
Global University Rank

Basic Information

University Type
Not specified
Funding
Not specified
Highest Degree
Master
Founded
1901
Acceptance Rate
30%
Languages
Not specified
Last Updated
Updated on June 21, 2026
Address
1 Grand Ave. San Luis Obispo, California, 93407 United States

Tuition Costs (Annual)

Bachelor's Degree
$7,176
Master's Degree
$7,176
Doctorate Degree
$16,680

Academic Metrics

17047
Publications
333856
Citations

Programs Offered

Agriculture

Bachelor's

Agricultural Business Agricultural Engineering Agriculture Animal Science Aquaculture Dairy Science Food Science Forestry

Master's

Agricultural Education Agriculture Food Science

Biology

Bachelor's

Bacteriology Biology

Master's

Biology

Business

Bachelor's

Business Administration Management

Master's

Business Administration Leadership Management

Chemistry

Bachelor's

Biochemistry Chemistry Materials Engineering

Master's

Materials Engineering

Communications

Bachelor's

Communication Studies Journalism

Computer Science

Bachelor's

Computer Science Software Engineering

Master's

Computer Science

Economics

Bachelor's

Economics

Master's

Economics

Education

Master's

Counselor Education Education Special Education

Engineering

Bachelor's

Aerospace Engineering Biomedical Engineering Civil Engineering Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering Engineering Technology Industrial Engineering Mechanical Engineering

Master's

Aerospace Engineering Biomedical Engineering Civil Engineering Electrical Engineering Engineering Technology Industrial Engineering Mechanical Engineering Packaging Science

Environmental Sciences

Bachelor's

Environmental Science Geography

Master's

Environmental Science

Fine Arts

Bachelor's

Architecture Fine Arts Graphic Design

Master's

Architecture

Healthcare

Bachelor's

Nutrition Public Health

Master's

Nutrition

History

Bachelor's

History

Master's

History

International Studies

Bachelor's

General Studies Urban Studies

Master's

Urban Studies

Law

Master's

Law

Literature

Bachelor's

English Foreign Languages Language Studies Spanish

Master's

English

Mathematics

Bachelor's

Mathematics Statistics

Master's

Mathematics Statistics

Performing Arts

Bachelor's

Music Theatre

Philosophy

Bachelor's

Philosophy

Physics

Bachelor's

Physics

Psychology

Bachelor's

Child Development Psychology

Master's

Psychology

Public Administration

Bachelor's

Political Science

Master's

Public Administration

Sociology

Bachelor's

Cultural Studies Social Sciences

Trades

Bachelor's

Baking and Brewing Parks & Recreation Sports

Master's

Fire Science

About California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo

California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly SLO) stands as a distinguished and expansive institution of higher learning located in the vibrant coastal city of San Luis Obispo, California. Established in 1901 by visionary educators, Cal Poly has continually evolved into a renowned provider of rigorous academic programs across diverse disciplines. The university boasts a substantial student population, consistently around 47,000 undergraduate and graduate students, contributing significantly to the local economy and community. Its location within San Luis Obispo provides an unparalleled setting for exploration, fostering a unique environment of innovation and engagement.

Cal Poly's commitment is deeply rooted in practical application and research, offering a wide array of majors catering to diverse career paths. The university emphasizes experiential learning through robust partnerships with businesses and industries across the region, preparing graduates for fulfilling roles in technology, agriculture, engineering, business, and many other sectors. The institution distinguishes itself through its specialized programs such as Animal Science, which fosters an environment for collaboration with nearby agricultural endeavors. Faculty are highly valued, with many holding distinguished positions and contributing to cutting-edge research within the state.

The university's graduate school is recognized as a leader in specific fields including engineering and computer science, consistently employing the best talent from around the globe. The institution maintains a substantial collection of published works across numerous disciplines and actively participates in ongoing scholarly projects. Cal Poly has extensive connections to the surrounding region, recognizing its importance for economic development and community advancement.

Located within a beautiful region of California, Cal Poly is committed to fostering an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and personal growth. The university also actively contributes to the local culture through events, community outreach, and engagement with nearby businesses and organizations. A focus on sustainability permeates the campus environment, driving efforts toward environmental stewardship. The establishment dates back to 1901 means it's one of California’s oldest institutions and has a rich history that spans over a century.

Cal Poly SLO is dedicated to providing an enriching educational experience that balances academic rigor with real-world preparation for active and engaged citizens, contributing significantly to the state’s cultural landscape and future workforce. The institution consistently strives to reach excellence in all its endeavors, ensuring a continuing legacy of innovation and achievement. Further information on specific programs and departments can be found at edurank.org

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