Why Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering at Cal Poly?
Learn By Doing
Cal Poly’s emphasis on hands-on learning opens doors for students to pursue research, internships, and beyond. Our industry-relevant coursework allows students to personally engage with their major, applying concepts in practice, not just learning theory. The devoted staff bring their industry experience to the classrooms that allow students to cultivate practical, career-ready skills from day one.
Project Based Learning
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering students receive early exposure to manufacturing processes and engineering tools, with first-year students engaging in hands-on material joining and tooling labs. These state-of-the-art labs provide IME students with meaningful projects that closely align with industry-necessary skills and collaboration standards.
Our industry-trained faculty presents students with real industry problems and collaborative, hands-on work. Learning happens through real challenges, not just lectures.
To learn more about our facilities, visit our lab facilities page.
Small Classes, Big Opportunities
Cal Poly offers the best of both worlds: small class sizes and big opportunities. Close-knit classroom environments allow students to make meaningful connections with professors and peers, making learning personal and engaging. At the same time, it provides endless possibilities through its wide range of student clubs, resources, and experiences that make it feel anything but small.
Industry Connections
Our program provides students with the experience that industries seek. Over 80% of students graduate having completed 1 or more internships, gaining professional experience and promoting career growth upon graduation. Cal Poly attracts many companies with constant career fairs, senior projects, and networking opportunities!
Extracurricular and Leadership Opportunities
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering students can grow professionally and personally through active involvement in clubs, programs, and mentorships. These learning opportunities provide leadership roles, hands-on projects, industry connections, and valuable teamwork experience. Beyond the major, Cal Poly offers hundreds of additional clubs that allow students to explore new interests and build community across campus.
To learn more about our IME clubs, visit our clubs page.
To view all Cal Poly clubs, visit here.
Study Abroad
Explore study abroad programs and experiences designed for industrial and manufacturing engineering students in exciting destinations. These programs offer a unique opportunity to earn credit while studying abroad with fellow Cal Poly students and learning from experienced professors at distinguished universities.
To learn more, visit our Study Abroad Page
Why San Luis Obispo?
Located on the beautiful central coast of California, SLO offers a wide variety of adventures, from charming downtown cafes to breathtaking views of the hills and the ocean. With the incredible California weather, SLO offers something for everybody!
LEARN BY DOING, LEAD BY INNOVATION
View how our engineering programs are leading the way.