experience is the curriculum
Our Learn by Doing philosophy sets us apart from other colleges and universities. From your first moments on campus, you will combine classroom theory with hands-on, real-world experiences. This powerful combination gives you the skills and confidence to become successful from day one in your career and throughout the rest of your life.
Undergraduate education
Learn by Doing allows our undergraduates to experience education differently. You are encouraged to participate in applied research, work directly with industry partners across California and begin the process of discovering your passions and changing the world.
Graduate education
As a graduate student, you will participate in hands-on learning experiences, research, industry projects and more while earning your degree. This practice-orientated approach to graduate education gives you the advanced knowledge and leadership skills necessary to hit the ground running and make a difference in your career from day one.
Learning in Action
On the Job Learning
Nothing prepares you for your future career like getting in there and actually doing the work. Many of our majors require you to complete an internship or cooperative learning experience as a core part of your program.
Senior Projects
As an undergraduate, you will need to complete a senior project before graduation. This could mean engaging in scholarly research, working with industry partners or even starting your own business.
Explore the World
You are preparing for a career in a world more connected than ever before. Cal Poly offers more than 500 ways to experience the world in 75 different countries to help you gain a new perspective.
Student Research,
Lifelong Learning
At Cal Poly research is a not only a way to test new ideas and create new knowledge, it’s also a powerful learning tool.
