Introduction
Cal Poly and Long Beach State are two public universities in California with strong academic programs and vibrant campus communities. While they share similarities, these institutions also have distinct characteristics that set them apart. This article will explore the key differences between Cal Poly and Long Beach State, including their admissions, academics, extracurricular activities, and alumni outcomes, to help prospective students make informed decisions about their college search.
Admissions
Cal Poly
- Average GPA: 3.84
- Average SAT Score: 1330
- Average ACT Score: 31
- Acceptance Rate: 28%
Long Beach State
- Average GPA: 3.68
- Average SAT Score: 1260
- Average ACT Score: 28
- Acceptance Rate: 33%
Comparison: Cal Poly has a slightly higher acceptance rate than Long Beach State.
Academics
Cal Poly
- Known for: Engineering, Architecture, and Agriculture
- Undergraduate Programs: 65 bachelor’s degrees and 28 master’s degrees
- Graduate Programs: 15 doctoral degrees and 39 master’s degrees
- Faculty-to-Student Ratio: 17:1
- Research Expenditure: $102.9 million
Long Beach State
- Known for: Business, Nursing, and Art
- Undergraduate Programs: 85 bachelor’s degrees and 63 master’s degrees
- Graduate Programs: 25 doctoral degrees and 55 master’s degrees
- Faculty-to-Student Ratio: 19:1
- Research Expenditure: $65.6 million
Comparison: Both Cal Poly and Long Beach State offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Cal Poly has a stronger reputation for engineering and sciences, while Long Beach State is known for its business and health sciences programs.
Extracurricular Activities
Cal Poly
- Clubs and Organizations: 640+
- Athletic Teams: 21 NCAA Division I teams
- Performing Arts: Multiple campus theaters, concert bands, and choirs
- Community Service: Over 500,000 community service hours per year
Long Beach State
- Clubs and Organizations: 480+
- Athletic Teams: 20 NCAA Division I teams
- Performing Arts: Multiple campus venues for music, theater, and dance
- Community Service: Over 400,000 community service hours per year
Comparison: Both Cal Poly and Long Beach State offer a diverse array of extracurricular activities. Cal Poly has a slightly larger number of clubs and organizations, while Long Beach State has a slightly smaller number of athletic teams.
Alumni Outcomes
Cal Poly
- Median Salary (10 years after graduation): $90,000
- Employment Rate (within 1 year of graduation): 96%
- Graduate School Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Notable Alumni: Elon Musk (Tesla and SpaceX), Joe Kelly (San Francisco Giants)
Long Beach State
- Median Salary (10 years after graduation): $75,000
- Employment Rate (within 1 year of graduation): 93%
- Graduate School Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Notable Alumni: Steve Perry (Journey), Snoop Dogg (Rapper and Entrepreneur)
Comparison: Cal Poly graduates earn higher median salaries than Long Beach State graduates, while Long Beach State has a higher graduate school acceptance rate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not considering fit: Both Cal Poly and Long Beach State are large universities with diverse campuses. It’s important to visit both schools and interact with students and faculty to ensure a good fit.
- Overlooking financial aid: The cost of attendance at both schools is similar, but there may be financial aid options available that can make a difference.
- Ignoring extracurricular activities: Extracurricular activities are an important part of college life. Make sure to explore the options at both schools and find activities that you’re interested in.
Pros and Cons
Cal Poly
Pros:
- Strong engineering and science programs
- High alumni earnings potential
- Beautiful campus with a vibrant student life
Cons:
- Competitive admissions
- Higher cost of attendance than Long Beach State
- Fewer graduate program options than Long Beach State
Long Beach State
Pros:
- More affordable than Cal Poly
- Wider range of graduate program options
- Close proximity to Los Angeles
Cons:
- Lower alumni earnings potential than Cal Poly
- Less prestigious than Cal Poly
- Less convenient location for students who want to live on campus
Conclusion
Cal Poly and Long Beach State are two excellent universities with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Cal Poly is a better choice for students who are primarily interested in engineering and science programs and who are willing to pay a higher cost of attendance. Long Beach State is a better choice for students who are looking for a more affordable option, for students who want a wider range of graduate program options, or for students who want to be close to Los Angeles.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which school is right for you is to visit both campuses and talk to students and faculty. By doing your research and making an informed decision, you can choose the university that will best help you achieve your academic and career goals.
