Transfer to Cal Poly Liberal Studies
Cal Poly’s Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies prepares students for careers in elementary education. The program provides a foundation in K–8 teaching and learning and is an important step toward earning a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.
Which Liberal Studies transfer pathway is right for you?
We offer two options to earn a Cal Poly Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies: the Bachelor’s Pathway Program (BPP) at Cuesta College and a traditional transfer path as a student at the Cal Poly campus. The best choice depends on where you want to study, your schedule and the kind of learning experience you need.
| BPP in liberal Studies at Cuesta College | Traditional Transfer at Cal Poly | |
|---|---|---|
| Where You Study | Cuesta College’s San Luis Obispo campus | Cal Poly’s San Luis Obispo campus |
| Best Fit For | Working professionals and students seeking a structured, flexible pathway | Students seeking a traditional on-campus Cal Poly experience and broader scheduling flexibility |
| Course Format | Evening, hybrid and online formats; in-person components are held at Cuesta | Primarily in-person courses on a traditional university schedule |
| Program Structure | Cohort-based, coordinated course sequence | More individualized course planning and a wider range of support-course options |
| Time to Degree | Approximately 2–4 years, depending on course load and prior preparation | Varies based on coursework, transfer credit, and course planning |
Bachelor’s Pathway Program in Liberal Studies at Cuesta College
Choose BPP at Cuesta if you want to earn your Cal Poly Liberal Studies degree while studying at Cuesta in a format designed to support work and other responsibilities. BPP offers a coordinated cohort experience and is particularly well aligned with students interested in early childhood education.
Traditional Transfer Path at Cal Poly
Choose the traditional transfer path if you want to complete your Liberal Studies degree on the Cal Poly campus. This option offers a more traditional university schedule, a broader range of support-course options, and flexibility to choose an area of concentration.
Still deciding?
Talk with an advisor at your community college about your transfer preparation and which pathway best fits your goals. The local colleges transfer center information can be found below:
Cuesta Transfer Center
805-546-3162
transfer@cuesta.edu
