The value of a college degree is increasingly under scrutiny. Rising tuition costs have outpaced inflation, leading to a student debt crisis with long-term financial consequences for graduates.
Simultaneously, the job market has shifted, with many employers now emphasizing practical skills and experience over traditional credentials. 74% of companies are focusing on upskilling their workforce through practical training, and many employers believe that practical skills are a more accurate measure of a candidate’s potential to succeed than a degree alone.
This trend, coupled with the emergence of alternative education paths like online courses and self-directed learning, has challenged the conventional higher education model.
Yet, Cal Poly stands out as a notable exception amidst this changing landscape. The university is attracting more students than ever and is far from experiencing a decline in interest.
For the 2024-2025 academic year, nearly 79,000 students applied to Cal Poly, according to the SLO Tribune, leading to an even more competitive admissions process. Why is Cal Poly still so attractive if college in general is losing appeal?
Students say the hands-on learning approach, top-rated programs, and ideal Central Coast location are a few of the reasons why Cal Poly is such an appealing school. These factors combine to make Cal Poly an increasingly attractive option for prospective students, even as the idea of college becomes less appealing.
Cal Poly’s commitment to hands-on learning is a cornerstone of its educational philosophy. The unique “Learn by Doing” motto is more than just a slogan; it’s an integral part of the curriculum across all majors. Students come to Cal Poly to engage in practical, real-world projects from the get-go, gaining valuable experience in their fields of study.
Cal Poly alumna Kathleen Aranjo shared, “The ‘Learn by Doing’ motto played out immediately for me. When you get out into the workforce, you have to work with people and as part of teams. The classes that had us work on projects prepared me to step into a job where I had clients that I needed to work with individually, but also within a larger organization.”
This focus on practical skills and real-world experience addresses the concern that many college graduates lack job-ready skills. This is a common criticism in the ongoing debate about why students should even go to college.
The distinctive learning approach extends beyond traditional lab work, including internships, collaborative research with faculty, and industry partnerships. Students entering the workforce from Cal Poly are more appealing because employers know they are getting candidates who have succeeded in a challenging environment.
“The Learn By Doing philosophy definitely plays out as [students] enter the workforce. Many Fortune 500 companies came to Cal Poly to recruit students, and I even ended up working for one after I graduated,” Aranjo added.
Beyond academics, Cal Poly’s picturesque location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant community life that attracts many prospective students.
Gianna Vasquez, a second-year Communications Studies major, said, “The proximity to the beach and hikes is the major selling point of our campus.”
Cal Poly’s picturesque location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant community life that attracts many prospective students. Nestled between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, our campus provides easy access to stunning beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
“The lively atmosphere and culture that make up Cal Poly initially drew me to come here,” Vasquez said, “and what student wouldn’t be interested in that?”
While the overall value of college may be diminishing, Cal Poly demonstrates that a holistic college experience—combining academic rigor, practical skills, and quality of life—can still appeal to students.
The charming downtown area, just minutes from campus, boasts a thriving cultural scene with local shops, restaurants, and events. Our central coast location also puts students within driving distance of major cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, offering opportunities for weekend getaways. Cal Poly’s location is a significant draw for students seeking a well-rounded college experience.
As the value of college education continues to decrease, or at least come into question, Cal Poly is overcoming the trend by offering a unique, comprehensive learning experience that remains attractive to students.
