About the campus
Cal Poly Pomona is part of the 22-school California State University system. Founded in 1938 as a southern campus of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, it became an independent university in 1966. During the academic year 2024-2025, Cal Poly Pomona served 27,196 students on campus, including 25,255 full- and part-time undergraduate students. Cal Poly Pomona currently offers bachelor’s degrees in 94 majors, 39 master’s degree programs, 13 teaching credentials, and one doctorate. Last year, over 6,500 students graduated from Cal Poly Pomona.
Cal Poly Pomona is the most diverse polytechnic institute in the nation and ranked one of the top public universities in the West, by U.S. News. Its large campus features many new and state-of-the-art facilities, including a recently opened residence hall complex. The facilities will also provide CSSSA with the first opportunity in many years to expand into new artistic disciplines that are reflective of the creative industries in California.
Positioned near the entertainment hubs of Los Angeles and Hollywood, Cal Poly Pomona’s location is ideal for CSSSA’s professional experts and guest artists, providing an intimate setting within commuting distance to the many arts industry resources in Southern California.
Student Life
Residential Halls
The Residential Halls are located close to the academic classrooms, library, and dining facilities. Each residential hall houses two or three students per room, with communal restrooms located in each wing. There is a laundry room, study areas, and common spaces. Each dorm room has individual climate control and high-speed internet connection. Each student will have the following furnishings provided: twin xl bed, desk, chair, dresser, wastebasket, and a closet. For a suggested packing list, reference the Student Handbook.
Dining
Centerpointe Dining Commons is a state-of-the-art, all-you-can-eat dining facility located in the heart of the Cal Poly Pomona campus. It serves as the central hub for student dining, offering a modern and welcoming environment for the CSSSA community during the summer. The dining stations serve vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. For attendees with severe food allergies, arrangements can be made – contact us early!
Student Health Services
Student Health Services (SHS) is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. and provides students with affordable, accessible, and student-centered health care and wellness services. It is located on the Cal Poly Pomona campus near the visual arts and architecture facilities. CSSSA students can visit Student Health Services for minor first aid treatment, routine medical care, and fill prescriptions during business hours. For after-hours care, CSSSA employs EMTs and nurses to address urgent student medical issues.
Unique Campus Resources
The Aratani Japanese Garden, often cited as people’s favorite campus spot, provides a serene location for relaxing with shaded grass areas and a koi pond. The 2.5-acre Kellogg Rose Garden features over 200 different rose varieties. The Rain Bird BioTrek Project is an educational experience for visitors of all ages that features a rainforest greenhouse, California native and Mesozoic gardens, and interactive stations. Cal Poly Pomona is also the home of the Kellogg Arabian Horse Center that has approximately 75 horses and foals.
Recreational Activities
CSSSA has a variety of recreational activities occurring during the week and on weekends. Optional Sunday field trips allow students to experience local culture and arts in the metro and greater Los Angeles area. CSSSA’s Recreation Director hosts fun activities for students, such as themed movie screenings, collage and crafting events, board game showdowns, open mic nights, and dance parties. These events offer students invaluable opportunities to connect with each other and unwind.
Mental Health Counselors
CSSSA is dedicated to supporting the whole student, including mental health and wellness. Students seeking mental health counseling should meet with one of CSSSA’s on-campus counselors. Counselors have regular hours to meet with students individually. Additionally, counselors plan a series of wellness activities throughout the program. Students may also utilize the Quiet Room for online therapy appointments.
