California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) is a prominent institution within the CSU system, recognized for its “learn by doing” philosophy that blends academic rigor with real-world application. Established in 1938 and shaped by a significant land donation from cereal magnate W.K. Kellogg, the university has grown into a sprawling 1,438-acre campus offering diverse academic programs across eight colleges.
It excels in fields like engineering, architecture, business, and agriculture, boasting some of the largest and most highly ranked programs in the CSU system. With nearly 24,000 students, a strong international presence, and robust research initiatives supported by its Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Development, Cal Poly Pomona fosters innovation and economic impact.
Its alumni include notable figures in entertainment, politics, architecture, and business, reflecting the university’s legacy of producing influential leaders through a hands-on, polytechnic approach to education.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | California State Polytechnic University, Pomona |
| Established | 1938 (independent since 1966) |
| Campus Size | 1,438 acres |
| Location | Pomona, California (Los Angeles County) |
| Student Enrollment | ~24,000 students |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 28:1 |
| Notable Colleges | Engineering, Business, Agriculture, Environmental Design |
| Popular Majors | Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, Business Admin, Computer Science |
| Degrees Offered | 94 bachelor’s, 39 master’s, 13 credentials, 1 doctoral |
| Annual Out-of-State Tuition | $33,590 – $34,665 (excluding living expenses) |
| Living Costs (Est.) | $18,000 – $22,000 per year |
| Research Support | ORIED: Grants, IP/tech transfer, compliance, internal funding |
| Notable Alumni | Forest Whitaker, Hilda Solis, Thom Mayne, Jack Dangermond |
| Motto | “Instrumentum Disciplinae” (“Application of Knowledge”) |
| Website | www.cpp.edu |
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona: A Legacy of Hands-On Learning and Innovation
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) stands as a beacon of polytechnic education within the sprawling California State University (CSU) system. Renowned for its “learn by doing” philosophy, the university combines rigorous academics with practical, hands-on experience, preparing students for successful careers and impactful contributions to society.
A Rich History Forged from Philanthropy
Cal Poly Pomona’s roots trace back to 1938 when it opened as a satellite campus of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. A pivotal moment in its history occurred in 1949 when cereal magnate W.K. Kellogg generously donated his Arabian horse ranch to the state of California, establishing the foundation for the sprawling Pomona campus we see today. Initially an all-male agricultural college, the university began admitting female students in 1961 and officially separated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1966, becoming an independent institution within the CSU system.
Campus and Setting: An Oasis of Learning
Nestled on a sprawling 1,438-acre campus in Pomona, California, Cal Poly Pomona boasts one of the largest land areas among the CSU campuses. Its location in Los Angeles County provides students with access to a vibrant metropolitan area while offering a distinct academic environment.
The campus is designed to foster a comprehensive learning experience, with academic buildings, research facilities, residence halls, and recreational spaces integrated into the natural landscape. The iconic W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center continues to operate an award-winning breeding program, a testament to the university’s unique heritage.
Academic Excellence Across Diverse Fields
Cal Poly Pomona is structured into eight academic colleges, alongside the College of the Extended University, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university places a strong emphasis on applied sciences and technical arts, leading to many nationally recognized programs.
Colleges Include:
- Don B. Huntley College of Agriculture
- College of Business Administration
- College of Education and Integrative Studies
- College of Engineering
- College of Environmental Design
- The Collins College of Hospitality Management
- College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences
- College of Science
Popular and Highly Regarded Majors: Cal Poly Pomona is particularly well-known for its engineering, architecture, and business programs. Some of the most popular and specialized majors include:
- Engineering: Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering. Cal Poly Pomona boasts the largest Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, and Construction Engineering programs in the CSU system and consistently ranks highly among undergraduate engineering programs nationally.
- Business Administration: General Business Administration & Management, Accounting, Finance, Marketing Management, Computer Information Systems. The College of Business Administration is recognized among the best in the country.
- Environmental Design: Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning. The Urban and Regional Planning programs are highly ranked nationally, especially for non-Ph.D. programs. The Architecture and Landscape Architecture programs also receive significant accolades.
- Agriculture: Animal Science, Apparel Merchandising and Management, Food Science and Technology, Nutrition and Food Science, Plant Science. Cal Poly Pomona is the only institution in Southern California to grant degrees in agriculture.
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Communications
The university offers 94 bachelor’s degree programs, 39 master’s degree programs, 13 teaching credential programs, and one doctoral program.
Student Body and Enrollment
While exact student enrollment figures for 2024-2025 are still being finalized, Cal Poly Pomona is a very large institution, typically enrolling around 24,000 students. In 2023, 3,621 degrees were awarded to men and 3,442 to women, indicating a nearly balanced gender ratio.
The university also welcomes a significant international student population, with approximately 1,753 international students annually. The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 1:28, fostering a learning environment that balances broad exposure with focused instruction.
Costs and Affordability (2024-2025 Undergraduate Estimates)
Tuition and fees at Cal Poly Pomona vary slightly depending on the college of enrollment. For the 2024-2025 academic year, estimated costs for out-of-state undergraduate students (including non-resident tuition of $12,600 and an opportunity fee of $8,469) are:
- Colleges of Engineering, Architecture or Agriculture: Approximately $34,665 (tuition and fees)
- Colleges of Science and Math or College of Business: Approximately $33,915 (tuition and fees)
- College of Liberal Arts: Approximately $33,590 (tuition and fees)
These figures do not include living expenses, books, or miscellaneous costs, which can add an estimated $18,000-$22,000 per year depending on living arrangements (on-campus, off-campus, or living with family).
Research and Innovation: Driving Progress
Cal Poly Pomona is deeply committed to research, innovation, and economic development. The Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Development (ORIED) plays a crucial role in supporting faculty, students, and staff in their scholarly pursuits. ORIED provides comprehensive support, including:
- Grant and Contract Proposal Submissions: Serving as the central portal for external funding.
- Grant and Proposal Preparation: Assisting researchers in developing competitive proposals.
- Compliance Oversight: Ensuring adherence to federal, state, and university research regulations, including human subjects research (IRB) and animal care (IACUC).
- Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer: Facilitating the protection and commercialization of university inventions.
- Internal Funding Opportunities: Offering programs like Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities (RSCA) awards and Strategic Interdisciplinary Research Grants (SIRG) to foster internal research.
The university actively encourages interdisciplinary research and scholarly collaborations, linking its core competencies with the private sector to promote economic growth and societal benefit.
Notable Alumni: Leaders and Innovators
Cal Poly Pomona boasts a distinguished alumni network who have made significant contributions across various fields. Some notable alumni include:
- Forest Whitaker: Academy Award-winning actor and director.
- Hilda Solis: Former U.S. Secretary of Labor.
- Jim Zorn: Former NFL quarterback and coach.
- Dr DisRespect (Guy Beahm): Popular livestreamer and esports personality.
- Kevin Lyman: Founder of the Warped Tour.
- Thom Mayne: Pritzker Prize-winning architect.
- Larry Wilmore: Comedian, actor, and television host.
- Jack Dangermond: Founder and president of Esri (Environmental Systems Research Institute).
- Kim Rhode: Olympic medalist in shooting.
- Ronald Burkle: Billionaire businessman and investor.
Cal Poly Pomona continues to uphold its polytechnic mission, providing a dynamic and practical education that empowers its graduates to become leaders and innovators in a rapidly evolving world.
FAQs about Cal Poly Pomona
What is Cal Poly Pomona known for?
Cal Poly Pomona is known for its “learn by doing” approach, strong engineering, architecture, business, and agriculture programs, and its commitment to hands-on education.
When was Cal Poly Pomona founded?
The university was established in 1938 as a satellite of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and became an independent institution in 1966.
Who donated the land for Cal Poly Pomona’s campus?
Cereal magnate W.K. Kellogg donated his Arabian horse ranch in 1949, which became the foundation for the campus.
Where is Cal Poly Pomona located?
Cal Poly Pomona is located in Pomona, California, in Los Angeles County.
How large is Cal Poly Pomona’s campus?
The campus spans 1,438 acres, making it one of the largest in the CSU system.
What is the student population at Cal Poly Pomona?
The university typically enrolls around 24,000 students.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Cal Poly Pomona?
The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 28:1.
How many colleges does Cal Poly Pomona have?
Cal Poly Pomona has eight academic colleges and the College of the Extended University.
What are the most popular majors at Cal Poly Pomona?
Popular majors include Mechanical Engineering, Business Administration, Architecture, Computer Science, and Animal Science.
Is Cal Poly Pomona’s engineering program highly ranked?
Yes, its undergraduate engineering programs are consistently ranked among the best nationally, especially in Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering.
What types of degrees does Cal Poly Pomona offer?
The university offers 94 bachelor’s, 39 master’s, 13 teaching credential programs, and 1 doctoral program.
Does Cal Poly Pomona support research and innovation?
Yes, the university supports research through its Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Development (ORIED), offering funding, compliance, and grant assistance.
What is the cost of tuition for out-of-state students at Cal Poly Pomona?
Tuition and fees for out-of-state undergraduates range from approximately $33,590 to $34,665, depending on the college.
What are the estimated living expenses for students?
Living expenses range from $18,000 to $22,000 per year depending on housing arrangements.
Does Cal Poly Pomona admit international students?
Yes, and it typically enrolls around 1,753 international students annually.
What is the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center?
It’s a historic facility on campus that runs an award-winning Arabian horse breeding program, reflecting the university’s agricultural heritage.
Are there any notable alumni from Cal Poly Pomona?
Yes, notable alumni include Forest Whitaker, Hilda Solis, Thom Mayne, Jack Dangermond, and Kim Rhode.
What makes Cal Poly Pomona unique among CSU campuses?
Its polytechnic focus, expansive campus, hands-on education model, and unique programs like agriculture and architecture set it apart.
Does Cal Poly Pomona offer interdisciplinary research opportunities?
Yes, the university promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and provides internal funding to support such initiatives.
How is Cal Poly Pomona’s College of Business Administration ranked?
The College of Business Administration is recognized as one of the best in the country, offering programs in accounting, finance, marketing, and more.
What kind of support does ORIED provide to researchers?
ORIED assists with grant submissions, compliance, intellectual property protection, and internal research funding.
Is Cal Poly Pomona part of the California State University system?
Yes, it is one of the 23 campuses in the CSU system.
When did Cal Poly Pomona start admitting female students?
The university began admitting female students in 1961.
What is Cal Poly Pomona’s motto?
The motto is “Instrumentum Disciplinae,” which means “Application of Knowledge.”
What types of credential programs are offered at Cal Poly Pomona?
The university offers 13 teaching credential programs through its College of Education and Integrative Studies.
Does Cal Poly Pomona offer doctoral programs?
Yes, it offers one doctoral program.
How can students apply for financial aid at Cal Poly Pomona?
Students can apply through FAFSA and explore additional institutional scholarships and aid options available via the university’s financial aid office.
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