Overview of California State Polytechnic University-Pomona
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) is a public polytechnic university located in Pomona, California. Established in 1938, Cal Poly Pomona is one of the 23 campuses of the California State University (CSU) system. The university is known for its hands-on, learn-by-doing approach to education, emphasizing practical experience in addition to a strong academic foundation. With a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, Cal Poly Pomona is recognized for its excellence in areas such as engineering, agriculture, business, and the sciences.
Academic Programs and Colleges: Cal Poly Pomona is organized into eight academic colleges, each offering a range of programs tailored to meet the needs of a variety of industries. The colleges include the College of Agriculture, the Collins College of Hospitality Management, the College of Business Administration, the College of Education and Integrative Studies, the College of Engineering, the College of Environmental Design, the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences, and the College of Science.
The academic programs at Cal Poly Pomona are designed to provide students with a strong theoretical foundation coupled with practical, hands-on experience. The university’s emphasis on applied learning aligns with its polytechnic mission and prepares students for successful careers in their chosen fields.
Polytechnic Focus and Learn by Doing: Cal Poly Pomona’s polytechnic focus is characterized by its commitment to practical, hands-on education. The Learn by Doing philosophy encourages students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations, fostering a deep understanding of their chosen disciplines. This approach extends across all academic colleges and programs, creating an environment where students actively engage in projects, research, internships, and collaborative ventures.
The polytechnic focus prepares students to enter the workforce with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary to make meaningful contributions to their respective industries. Whether in laboratories, design studios, or business internships, students at Cal Poly Pomona are encouraged to actively participate in their learning experiences.
Strong Programs in Engineering and Technology: Cal Poly Pomona is particularly well-regarded for its College of Engineering, which offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in disciplines such as aerospace engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. The emphasis on practical application and hands-on projects allows engineering students to gain valuable experience and apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
The College of Science also offers a diverse array of programs in areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. These programs provide students with a solid foundation in the sciences while encouraging exploration and research.
Agriculture and Environmental Design: The College of Agriculture at Cal Poly Pomona is known for its comprehensive programs in areas such as agribusiness, animal science, crop science, and agricultural science. The university’s agricultural focus includes hands-on experiences at the on-campus farm, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a practical setting.
The College of Environmental Design encompasses disciplines such as architecture, urban and regional planning, and landscape architecture. Students in these programs engage in design studios, community projects, and internships that contribute to their development as skilled professionals in the built environment.
Business and Hospitality Management: The College of Business Administration and the Collins College of Hospitality Management offer programs designed to prepare students for success in the dynamic fields of business and hospitality. The focus on experiential learning allows students to gain practical insights into industry practices, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
The Collins College of Hospitality Management, in particular, stands out for its strong connections to the hospitality industry. Students benefit from a hands-on education that includes working in the student-operated restaurant, the Restaurant at Kellogg Ranch, and engaging in internships with industry partners.
Diversity and Inclusion: Cal Poly Pomona values diversity and inclusion, and its student body reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. The university is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all students feel welcome and supported. Various programs, initiatives, and resources are in place to promote diversity and ensure that students have equitable access to opportunities and support services.
Research and Innovation: While Cal Poly Pomona’s primary focus is on undergraduate education, the university is also engaged in research and innovation. Faculty and students collaborate on research projects that contribute to advancements in their respective fields. The emphasis on applied research allows students to actively participate in cutting-edge projects and gain valuable research experience.
Campus and Facilities: Cal Poly Pomona’s campus is characterized by its modern facilities, green spaces, and diverse architectural styles. Notable facilities include the Innovation Village, a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, and the College of Science’s state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories. The university’s commitment to sustainability is evident in features such as the Collins College of Hospitality Management’s LEED Gold-certified building and the utilization of solar energy on campus.
Student Life and Extracurricular Activities: Cal Poly Pomona offers a vibrant student life with a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations. Students can participate in professional societies, cultural groups, and recreational activities. The Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) provides leadership opportunities and supports student-led initiatives, contributing to a sense of community and engagement on campus.
Extracurricular activities complement the academic experience, offering students opportunities to develop leadership skills, pursue personal interests, and build connections with their peers. The diverse array of clubs reflects the varied interests and passions of the Cal Poly Pomona student body.
Athletics: Cal Poly Pomona competes in NCAA Division II athletics as the Broncos. The university’s athletic programs include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and cross country, among others. Student-athletes contribute to the campus spirit and community pride, and the athletic facilities, including the Kellogg Gymnasium, provide spaces for training, competition, and recreational activities.
Global Education and Study Abroad: Cal Poly Pomona encourages global education and offers study abroad programs that allow students to explore different cultures, gain international perspectives, and engage in academic pursuits in various parts of the world. The university recognizes the importance of global competency and prepares students to thrive in a globally interconnected society.
Alumni Success: Cal Poly Pomona has a strong network of alumni who have excelled in diverse fields, including business, technology, engineering, agriculture, and the arts. Graduates of the university contribute to the workforce, innovation, and leadership in their respective industries. The alumni network provides a valuable resource for current students, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and insights into career paths.
Conclusion: California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, stands as a leading polytechnic institution with a commitment to hands-on education, practical application, and diversity. The university’s strong programs in engineering, agriculture, business, and the sciences prepare students for successful careers in a wide range of industries. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and global engagement, Cal Poly Pomona continues to play a vital role in shaping the education and future success of its students.
3801 W. Temple Avenue Pomona, CA 91768-2557
Phone: (909) 869-3210
Email: admissions@csupomona.edu
Web site: http://www.csupomona.edu
Rankings: California State Polytechnic University–Pomona
Located in Pomona, CA, California State Polytechnic University-Pomona is one of the best universities in the state of California. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for California State Polytechnic University-Pomona in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is California State Polytechnic University-Pomona.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 32 |
| Score: | 38 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 3.4 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 37 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 81.8% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 48.8% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 108 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 15.5% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 13.3% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 25:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 78.9% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 71 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 910-1150 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | N/A |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | N/A |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 52.8% |
| Financial resources rank: | 85 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 66 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 4.2% |
Essential Facts: California State Polytechnic University–Pomona
- California State Polytechnic University—Pomona is a public institution that was founded in 1938. It utilizes a semester-based academic calendar.
- Cal Poly Pomona currently offers bachelor’s degrees in 94 majors, 39 master’s degrees, 13 teaching credentials and a doctorate across 9 distinct academic colleges.
- California State Polytechnic University, Pomona is a public university with an acceptance rate of 55%. Cal Poly Pomona’s 1,438-acre campus sits on the eastern edge of Los Angeles Country.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 9% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 2% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 1% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 60% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 88% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance policies set by individual instructors, hazing prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA II |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | baseball, basketball, cross country, soccer, tennis, track and field (outdoor) |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, cross country, soccer, tennis, track and field (outdoor), volleyball |
| Student activities: | campus ministries, choral groups, concert band, dance, drama/theater, international student organization, jazz band, music ensembles, musical theater, opera, pep band, radio station, student government, student newspaper, symphony orchestra, television station |