I'm considering Cal Poly Pomona mainly for its engineering program. I know it has a strong reputation, but how does it rank compared to other California universities with similar focuses?
Cal Poly Pomona's College of Engineering is indeed well-regarded, particularly for its emphasis on practical education and hands-on experience, which prepare students well for industrial careers or graduate school.
As of U.S. News & World Report's 2024 rankings, Cal Poly Pomona's engineering undergraduate program is ranked #10 among public schools where doctorate is not offered.
In terms of California universities, Cal Poly Pomona is comparable to other Cal State schools. However, keep in mind that the University of California system and private universities like Stanford and Caltech are typically ranked higher due to their extensive research environments and larger pool of resources.
Remember that while rankings can give a general sense of a program's reputation, it's also important to consider other factors like hands-on learning opportunities, faculty members, the school culture, alumni network, and how well the curriculum aligns with your own career goals. For example, many students appreciate Cal Poly Pomona's "learn by doing" philosophy, which can give you practical skills and experiences that are highly valued in industry. Reputation can tell you how a school is generally perceived, but the fit should be your most important consideration.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.