California State Polytechnic University, commonly known as Cal Poly, is a public university. It is part of the California State University (CSU) system, which is one of the largest public higher education systems in the United States. Cal Poly operates with state funding and follows the CSU system’s mission of providing accessible, affordable education.
The university has two campuses—Pomona and San Luis Obispo—both of which emphasize hands-on learning and applied research. As a public institution, Cal Poly receives government oversight and adheres to state regulations, distinguishing it from private universities that rely primarily on tuition and endowments.
