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information/Observations for Prospective Students IMPORTANT
Request Information about Cal Poly
Computer Requirements
Gensler's LA new lobby desk designed by Cal Poly students
Visit the Gallery and Exhibitions web pages to learn about student work
How to study for a final of ARCH 241 (Fall 2010): How to Study
Faculty thoughts on Architecture Students (Fall 2008): YouTube
Summer High School workshop (2010): YouTube

Cal Poly Links:

For a more comprehensive understanding of Cal Poly's historical trend data on admissions, enrollment, degrees awarded, faculty/staff data, and financial aid., go to

Cal Poly Fact Book Fall 2011.pdf IMPORTANT

Cal Poly Fact Book Fall 2010.pdf

Cal Poly Fact Book Fall 2009.pdf

Cal Poly Fact Book Fall 2008.pdf

Cal Poly Fact Book Fall 2007.pdf

Cal Poly Named Tops In the West for 20th Year by US News

For the 20th straight year, Cal Poly has been rated the best public-master’s university in the West in U.S. News & World Report’s 2013 America’s Best Colleges guidebook. Cal Poly ranked sixth in the magazine’s overall list of the West’s best universities, including both public and private institutions that provide “a full range of undergraduate and master’s-level programs but few, if any, doctoral programs.”

U.S. News ranks colleges that grant doctoral degrees, such as those in the University of California system, in a separate category. “Being named Best in the West for 20 straight years is a terrific acknowledgment of Cal Poly’s sustained excellence over a long period of time,” said Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong. “The credit belongs to our faculty and staff for their unwavering dedication and commitment to our students’ success, and it underscores the power of our Learn by Doing philosophy.”

For additional information, go to U.S. News 2012 Ranking

DesignIntelligence: Architecture Program Ranks 4th in 2012

The Architecture Department ranked third among undergraduate programs in the 2012 DesignIntelligence survey ranking public and private degree programs nationally. Cal Poly’s Architecture program has made the nation’s Top 20 list since 2003 with a ranking of sixth or better. The full report can be ordered at the America's Best Architecture & Design Schools, 2012 Edition

The Survey also rates the best institutions at preparing students for specific skills. Cal Poly's Program continuous to be ranked the top program in the West with additional skills assessment rankings that position our program as:

In this year's introduction, James P. Cramer, writes that "... and California Polytechnic state University, San Luis Obispo continued to hold 4th place. Cal Poly deserves mention as one of the most consistently ranked schools in our research. Prior to this year’s ranking at 4, it achieved rankings as follows: 4, 3,3,4,6,3,4,3 (averaging 3.77 over the past nine years). it is impressive to see a school so highly regarded year after year."

This report gives much resonance to the integrity of our pedagogical responsibilities. Our learn by doing philosophy combines common sense and intellectual curiosity, and our graduates are well positioned to become the next team players in a world of increased complexity. In particular this year’s 2012 Design Intelligence rankings sends a clear message that practitioners recognize the importance of a polytechnic education. The Architecture Department remains ambitious in educating creative leaders who can work in an integrative and interdisciplinary manner; a professional path that continues to be demonstrated successfully by our alumni.

Address, Directions, and campus visit

California Polytechnic State University,
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Architecture Department
One Grand Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407-0282

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The Architecture Department office is located in building 05-Room 212A.

Choosing an architectural school is an important decision that cannot be taken lightly. How to choose from over 125 accredited programs in the US can seem to be a daunting prospect. We invite you to visit our campus and schedule a personal tour of the architecture facililites led by the Department Head.

For additional information, go to the Cal Poly Visitors web page.
Please contact the Architecture Department to schedule a visit.

Helpful links

San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce
San Luis Obispo Hotels and Motels
San Luis Obispo Regional Airport
Cal Poly interactive campus map
Cal Poly Visitor Parking Tips

Driving to San Luis Obispo

California Highways 101 provide an easy and beautiful scenic ride from San Francisco or Los Angeles. Take the Cal Poly exit and proceed on Grand Avenue towards the North till you encounter the Main North campus entrance. Please request a visitor's parking permit and ask for directions to the Architecture Department.

Approximate Driving Times

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