Life at cal poly
Learn by Doing is as much a lifestyle as an academic approach. And nowhere is that more clear than right here, where it was born. On campus, and in the surrounding area of San Luis Obispo, a supportive community, opportunities for exploration and endless possibilities strengthen your academic experience.
The secret is out
Just 10 minutes from the Pacific Ocean along scenic Highway 101, and midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo — SLO to us — is arguably California’s most collegiate of college towns.
Make Yourself at Home
From modern residence halls and campus apartments to chic downtown San Luis Obispo lofts, on- and off-campus housing is as varied as your dining options. Campus alone offers 800 menu options across 34 dining venues, including Jamba®, which started here as a senior project. Welcome home. Hope you are hungry.
find your place
Sports and Recreations
Getting and staying fit benefits the mind as well as the body. So cheer on your Division 1 Mustangs, participate in a club or intramural sport, workout or rejuvenate in our 30,000 square foot rec center or become a member of Cal Poly’s racing or rodeo teams – or maybe both.
Clubs & Organizations
Learn by Doing opportunities are everywhere. Enhance your education, while also making lifelong friends and building a professional network, by joining a club or organization. You have more than 400 to choose from. Still can’t find one? You can start your own.
Arts and Culture
Creativity is consistently ranked among the top skills employers look for in candidates. Whether it’s expressing your creativity or appreciating another’s, you’ll find robust music and arts programs and vibrant arts communities across campus and throughout the Central Coast.
Being, Becoming and Belonging
We have diligently worked toward a learning community in which individual differences are a collective strength. There’s work still to do, and you can help. When you bring your authentic, whole self to Cal Poly, we all move closer to becoming our best selves and to realizing true belonging.
A Healthy, Happy Environment
California’s population routinely ranks among America’s healthiest, and locally, we've been called America’s happiest city. We care deeply about your physical and mental health and offer a wide range of programs and services to build healthy practices and support your wellbeing.
