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Cal Poly is a nationally ranked, four-year, comprehensive public university located in San Luis Obispo, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles on California's Central Coast. It is a distinctive learning community offering academically focused students a hands-on educational experience that prepares them for today's scientific and technical world. We start with the premise that all of our students, because they have met Cal Poly's high standards for admission are equipped to succeed. And then, our dedicated faculty and staff bring to bear their enormous talent and unwavering commitment to students' success. Central to this process is Cal Poly's distinctive Learn by Approaching. We provide students with daily opportunities to apply classroom theory to real-world problems in a comprehensive polytechnic education, grounded in the arts and sciences. Learn by Doing enables students to develop deep confidence in their knowledge and technical skills, preparing them to become resourceful and innovative professionals. They can help solve the problems of an increasingly complex and technological world. Highly motivated students, talented faculty, dedicated staff, and Learn's dynamic nature by Doing - these are essential facets of Cal Poly, but not the whole sum. An exceptional university succeeds only if it has the full engagement of the entire university community - students, faculty and staff, parents, alumni, and friends - one that joins together in a partnership of discovery. It is our commitment to provide innovative leadership to the campus community in attracting, developing, motivating, and retaining a highly-skilled, productive, and diverse workforce in contribution to the educational mission of Cal Poly. The Cross-Cultural Centers contribute to the University's commitment to diversity for a more inclusive and welcoming campus. Our Gender Equity, MultiCultural, and Pride Centers present services and programs to support our students under the shared values of family, diversity, learning, growth, and advocacy. A Center that plays an active role in creating a culturally rich environment at Cal Poly and San Luis Obispo instills understandings of diversity and inclusive excellence that cannot be separate from learning, teaching, collaboration, and trust. Cal Poly is consistently ranked a top university for academics, value, and graduate's salaries. We believe that students learn best through hands-on experiences. This Learn by Doing philosophy guides the curriculum for all of our majors and programs and sets us apart. Cal Poly is a nationally-ranked public university that prides itself on the individual success of our students. Our signature Learn by Doing approach to higher education gives you a powerful combination of academic expertise and hands-on experience. At Cal Poly, most classes are taught by professors in small classrooms — not large lecture halls. The resulting close community of high-achieving students and professors provide the inspiration and support to challenge yourself both academically and personally. Located in San Luis Obispo on California's sunny Central Coast, Cal Poly maintains a strong connection to industry in both the Bay Area and Southern California, allowing for more significant student opportunities. It is no coincidence that 89 percent of our graduates are employed full time or are in graduate school within one year of graduation. No matter what path you choose, we will help make sure that you are ready when you get there. Cal Poly believes that students learn best through hands-on experiences. This Learn by Doing philosophy guides the curriculum for all of our majors and programs and sets us apart. College is about more than academics; it's also about the experience. San Luis Obispo is an ideal place to live, explore, and grow while getting your education. Cal polys Learn by Doing philosophy, and strong partnerships with industry give you the confidence and experience for your next steps after graduation. As a graduate applicant, you have completed a four-year college course of study and hold an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association. You may have also completed equivalent academic preparation as determined by the appropriate campus authorities. Cal Poly does not partner with agents to represent or to administer any part of the application process. Agents who may assist students with the application process are not recognized as representatives of the University and do not have an agreement or any legal rights and responsibilities to represent Cal Poly. From all over the world, students come to Cal Poly to experience Cal Poly's unique 'Learn by Doing' approach. Regardless of the major or program at Cal Poly, the curriculum intentionally integrates theoretical learning with practical learning experiences. Working outside the confines of traditional classrooms, students participate as members of faculty-directed development teams, applying theory to real-world projects, problems, and challenges. The Hunger Program ensures that all students have access to nutritious meals each day to stay focused on their education and success at Cal Poly. Any student is welcome to use these free, confidential, no-hassle services. The Financial Aid Office helps you plan your finances and organize your resources to cover your college costs. Financial assistance is a resource designed to supplement the cost of education and is not intended to be used as a student's sole means of income. The types and amounts of aid Cal Poly awards or recommendations are subject to availability of funds, enrollment status, and financial need. Cal Poly students have a variety of financial aid programs available for assistance. Programs vary in eligibility criteria, award amounts, and repayment options. View full university