About California Polytechnic State University
California Polytechnic State University, commonly known as Cal Poly, is a public university located in San Luis Obispo, California, United States. Founded in 1901 as a vocational high school, it evolved into a polytechnic institution in 1947 and joined the California State University system in 1960. Cal Poly is renowned for its "Learn by Doing" philosophy, emphasizing hands-on, experiential learning across its programs. The university spans a 6,000-acre campus, including a working ranch, and serves over 22,000 students. Key achievements include high rankings in engineering and agriculture programs, with alumni leading in industries like technology and sustainable design. Cal Poly's mission focuses on preparing students for real-world challenges through applied education and research. The main campus is in San Luis Obispo, with additional facilities supporting its agricultural and environmental initiatives. For more details, visit the California Polytechnic State University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States and Academic Jobs in California.
Cal Poly boasts six colleges: Engineering, Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Architecture and Environmental Design, Business, Liberal Arts, and Science and Mathematics. It has produced notable alumni such as Weird Al Yankovic and John Madden. The university emphasizes sustainability, with initiatives like zero-waste goals and renewable energy projects. In recent years, Cal Poly has invested heavily in STEM education, ranking among the top public universities for undergraduate engineering programs according to U.S. News & World Report. Its research centers focus on areas like cybersecurity, biotechnology, and sustainable agriculture, contributing to California's innovation economy. For academics and job seekers, Cal Poly offers a vibrant community with access to coastal California lifestyles, making it an attractive destination for higher education jobs at California Polytechnic State University.
The university's history reflects a commitment to practical education, starting from its roots in training teachers and farmers to becoming a hub for technological advancement. Today, Cal Poly collaborates with industry leaders like Boeing and NASA, providing students and faculty with real-world projects. This approach has led to high employment rates for graduates, often exceeding 95% within six months of graduation. If you're interested in professor positions at California Polytechnic State University or research jobs at California Polytechnic State University, the institution's focus on interdisciplinary work and community engagement sets it apart in the academic landscape.
Cal Poly's campus life includes over 300 student organizations, Division I athletics, and a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The university has been recognized for its efforts in supporting underrepresented students in STEM fields. For those exploring academic careers at California Polytechnic State University, the institution provides resources like professional development workshops and research grants. Discover more about lecturer roles at California Polytechnic State University and rate professors at California Polytechnic State University through AcademicJobs.com's tools.
Faculty Job Opportunities at California Polytechnic State University
💼 Faculty job opportunities at California Polytechnic State University are abundant, particularly in high-demand fields like engineering, agriculture, and business. As of 2025 trends, there's a growing need for assistant professors in sustainable technologies and data science, driven by California's tech boom. Key departments include the College of Engineering, which hires for roles in mechanical, electrical, and biomedical engineering, and the College of Agriculture, focusing on food sciences and environmental management. Lecturer positions at California Polytechnic State University often emphasize practical teaching, aligning with the "Learn by Doing" motto. Research fellows can explore opportunities in innovation hubs like the Center for Coastal Marine Sciences. According to recent data from the California State University system, job openings have increased by 15% in STEM areas, with Cal Poly leading in applied research roles.
Salary ranges for these positions vary: Assistant Professors typically earn $85,000-$105,000 annually, while Associate Professors range from $95,000-$125,000, and Full Professors can expect $115,000-$160,000, based on 2025 estimates from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education and Glassdoor. Factors influencing pay include department, experience, and grant funding. For instance, faculty in the Orfalea College of Business may see higher salaries due to industry partnerships. Explore professor positions at California Polytechnic State University and higher education jobs at California Polytechnic State University through AcademicJobs.com. Link to Higher Ed Jobs for filtered searches by Cal Poly.
Current trends show a shift toward interdisciplinary roles, such as those combining AI with agriculture for precision farming. Cal Poly's job market is competitive, with a focus on diversity hiring to reflect California's demographics. Adjunct and part-time lecturer roles at California Polytechnic State University offer flexibility for those starting academic careers. Research jobs at California Polytechnic State University often come with access to state-of-the-art labs and collaborations with Silicon Valley firms. For job seekers in Academic Jobs in California, Cal Poly stands out for its emphasis on real-world impact. Check out Faculty Jobs and Lecturer Jobs tailored to Cal Poly.
To apply, candidates should highlight hands-on experience and research publications. Cal Poly values teaching excellence, often requiring demonstrations during interviews. With over 200 faculty openings projected for 2025, now is an ideal time for academic opportunities at California Polytechnic State University. Salaries in California Polytechnic State University academia are competitive, often supplemented by benefits like housing assistance in high-cost San Luis Obispo. For more on rate professors at California Polytechnic State University, visit Rate My Professor.
Assistant Professor in Engineering
Focus on sustainable design; salary $90,000-$110,000.
Lecturer in Agriculture
Hands-on teaching in food sciences; salary $70,000-$90,000.
Research Fellow in Business
Innovation and entrepreneurship; salary $80,000-$100,000.
Associate Professor in Liberal Arts
Interdisciplinary studies; salary $100,000-$130,000.
Why Work at California Polytechnic State University
Working at California Polytechnic State University offers unparalleled opportunities for academic careers, blending innovative research with a supportive community in scenic San Luis Obispo. The "Learn by Doing" approach fosters collaboration, allowing faculty to engage in practical projects that impact students and industries. Benefits include competitive salaries, comprehensive health plans, and professional development funds. Cal Poly's research strengths in engineering and sustainability provide access to grants and partnerships, enhancing career prospects. Faculty enjoy a work-life balance with proximity to beaches and wineries. Explore why academic careers at California Polytechnic State University are rewarding through Higher Ed Career Advice.
Unique advantages include tenure-track support and interdisciplinary teams. Notable for its high faculty satisfaction rates, Cal Poly ranks well in work environment surveys. For those in professor jobs at California Polytechnic State University, the emphasis on real-world application leads to fulfilling roles. Link to Rate My Professor for insights from the community.
Salary Guide for Faculty at California Polytechnic State University
📊 The salary guide for faculty at California Polytechnic State University reflects its position in the competitive California higher education market. Based on 2025 data from the California State University Salary Database and AAUP reports, average salaries are robust, influenced by rank, department, and experience. Assistant Professors earn $85,000-$105,000, with engineering roles at the higher end due to demand. Associate Professors range from $95,000-$125,000, while Full Professors command $115,000-$160,000. Factors like location in high-cost San Luis Obispo add cost-of-living adjustments, and grants can boost earnings by 10-20%. Compared to national averages, Cal Poly salaries are 15% higher in STEM fields.
In the College of Engineering, salaries often exceed $120,000 for tenured positions, while liberal arts faculty might start at $80,000. Trends show a 5% annual increase due to state funding and union negotiations. Benefits include retirement contributions up to 10% and health coverage. For accurate figures, consult Professor Salaries. Salaries in California Polytechnic State University academia vary by negotiation skills and publication records. Adjunct roles pay $5,000-$7,000 per course, suitable for entry-level. Overall, faculty salaries at California Polytechnic State University support a comfortable lifestyle in San Luis Obispo.
Recent analyses indicate that women and minority faculty may face slight disparities, but Cal Poly's equity initiatives are addressing this. For highest paid professors at California Polytechnic State University, look to department chairs in business, earning up to $180,000 with administrative stipends. Compare with other CSU campuses via University Salaries. This guide helps job seekers negotiate effectively for faculty jobs at California Polytechnic State University.
Additional perks like sabbaticals and research leaves enhance total compensation. In 2025, budget allocations prioritize salary growth in high-demand areas like cybersecurity and sustainable agriculture. For personalized advice, explore resources on AcademicJobs.com.
| Rank | Average Salary | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $95,000 | $85,000-$105,000 |
| Associate Professor | $110,000 | $95,000-$125,000 |
| Full Professor | $135,000 | $115,000-$160,000 |
| Lecturer | $80,000 | $70,000-$90,000 |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at California Polytechnic State University
⭐ Discover top educators at California Polytechnic State University through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. This platform helps students and academics rate professors based on teaching style, clarity, and engagement, aiding in course selection and recognizing excellence in programs like engineering and agriculture. Professor ratings at California Polytechnic State University highlight those excelling in hands-on learning.
Dr. Lynne Slivovsky (Electrical Engineering)
Rating: 4.8/5 - Praised for innovative projects.
Dr. Scott Hazelwood (Biomedical Engineering)
Rating: 4.7/5 - Excellent in research integration.
Dr. Mary Pedersen (Agriculture)
Rating: 4.9/5 - Hands-on teaching expert.
Dr. Brian Self (Mechanical Engineering)
Rating: 4.6/5 - Engaging lectures.
Dr. Jean Lee (Business)
Rating: 4.8/5 - Real-world business insights.
Career Progression at California Polytechnic State University
Career progression at California Polytechnic State University follows a structured path, starting from lecturer roles to tenure-track positions. Entry-level academics often begin as assistant professors, advancing to associate with tenure after 5-7 years of research and teaching. Salaries increase accordingly, from $90,000 to $130,000+. Strengths in engineering offer robust funding, with professional development through workshops. Link to Higher Ed Career Advice for guides.
Tenure emphasizes publications and grants; Cal Poly supports this with mentorship. Explore career paths at California Polytechnic State University via Professor Jobs.
Research and Innovation at California Polytechnic State University
🔬 Research at California Polytechnic State University focuses on sustainability, AI, and biotechnology, with centers like the Digital Transformation Hub. 2025 trends include climate resilience projects, funded by NSF grants exceeding $20 million annually. Collaborations with industry drive innovation in agriculture and engineering. Explore Research Jobs at Cal Poly.
Major areas include renewable energy and food security, with opportunities for interdisciplinary work.
Resources for California Polytechnic State University Academics
- 🎓 Professional development via Cal Poly's Center for Teaching, Learning & Technology.
- Union support through California Faculty Association for benefits and negotiations.
- Health and retirement plans, including CalPERS.
- Research grants from the CSU system.
- Access to Higher Ed Career Advice.
Student Life and Perspectives at California Polytechnic State University
Student life at California Polytechnic State University is dynamic, with clubs, athletics, and hands-on projects. Programs in engineering lead to strong career outcomes, with 95% employment rates. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection. Resources include career centers and scholarships via Scholarships.
Perspectives highlight inclusive community and practical education.