Supporting our Students
Whether you need academic guidance, tools or a place to find help, our student services team is here to empower you with the resources that make college life easier and more meaningful.
Explore
See how the liberal arts come to life at Cal Poly through hands-on learning, creative work and real-world questions.
Transfer
Find key steps, requirements and resources to help you plan a smooth transition into your major.
Thrive
Connect with advising, support, opportunities and communities that help you make the most of your time here.
Academic Day
Each August, hear from the Dean and meet with your departments to kick off the new school year.
Starting with an introductory session for all majors and then separate presentations by department, you will receive important information for the upcoming school year. Language placement tests also happen on academic day.
Clubs And teams
Find your people and put your passions into practice.
CLA students publish journals, magazines and zines; run public relations campaigns; create short films and perform in music ensembles.
Looking for real-world learning? You can operate a printing shop and teach English abroad.
As a student in the Cal Poly College of Liberal Arts, I have found my time in college to be strengthened through hands-on learning and meaningful mentorship. Smaller class sizes in my major (Art and Design) have allowed me to build real relationships with professors who have challenged but also supported me in my academic journey.
Learn by Doing became real through projects that mirrored professional work. From branding assignments to collaborative design critiques, I have gained confidence in presenting ideas and thinking strategically, which are skills that now shape how I approach every opportunity, whether in leadership or through my work.