California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is a very large public master's university (large program) located in San Luis Obispo, California, with an undergraduate enrollment of 21,996. The institution offers master's-level programs across multiple professional and academic fields alongside its undergraduate curriculum, serving students seeking advanced credentials in applied disciplines. As a public institution primarily funded through state appropriations and federal grants, it operates within the broader California postsecondary education landscape and is regionally accredited, making its credits and degrees eligible for federal financial aid. With a 31% acceptance rate, admission is moderately selective. Admission is competitive but accessible, with 31% of applicants receiving offers each year. Net price for families earning \$48,001–$75,000 averages $9,896 per year. The highest program-level earnings outcomes are in CIP 00 — 10-year median earnings among aid recipients in these fields reach $235,241. The 4-year graduation rate is 86%, 41 percentage points above the national average of 45%. Among students who received federal financial aid, 10-year median earnings are $90,768. FIRE rates the campus free speech climate at 56/100 — a mixed record on speech protections.