Fourth straight year as overall No. 1 and 34th as best public master’s university also brings Cal Poly high marks as best value for in-state students and tops for veterans, among other accolades 

Contact: Matt Lazier
805-756-7109; mlazier@calpoly.edu

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. — Cal Poly has again ranked No. 1 overall in the West among public and private master’s-level universities in U.S. News & World Report’s 2027 Best Colleges rankings. The recognition marks the fourth consecutive year Cal Poly has earned the top overall position in the region of 15 western states and the 34th as No. 1 among regional public institutions.

Cal Poly also earned No.1 regional rankings for Best Colleges for Veterans (for the seventh straight year) as well as for Best Value for In-State Students (a new ranking).

“Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing education continues to prepare thousands of graduates each year to make an immediate, positive impact in their respective industries and careers,” said Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong. “Cal Poly’s continued recognition in these and other rankings reflects the dedication of our students, faculty and staff in pairing rigorous academics with hands-on learning, resulting in graduates who are ready to address the pressing problems of California, the nation and the world.”

This year’s rankings also place Cal Poly at No. 1 in computer engineering and electrical/electronic/communications engineering programs, tied for first in civil engineering, and at No. 2 in mechanical engineering and aerospace/aeronautical/astronautical programs.

And this year, the university is tied for 55th place regionally in social mobility — up 17 places from 2025.

The 2027 U.S. News Best Colleges rankings evaluated more than 1,700 higher education institutions nationwide on indicators that measure student outcomes (including retention and graduation rates as well as graduate earnings); peer assessment; faculty resources; and other factors. For more on the 2027 rankings, visit U.S. News & World Report at www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/us-news-ranks-best-colleges.

About Cal Poly

Cal Poly is a nationally ranked public university located in San Luis Obispo, California, and known for its Learn by Doing philosophy. Each year, more than 23,000 top-tier students come to San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Maritime Academy in Solano County to put knowledge into action, taking their learning outside the classroom as they prepare for careers in engineering, agriculture, science, business, humanities, maritime and the built environment. Cal Poly’s hands-on philosophy, small class sizes and close student-faculty mentorships result in graduates ready from day one to impact their communities, California and the world. For more information, visit www.calpoly.edu.  

# # #