Cal Poly Accepting Applications for Degree Programs at Hancock

NOVEMBER 5, 2025-- Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo is now accepting applications for two bachelor’s degree programs offered on Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus. Applications for both programs — Business Administration and Sociology — are open through Dec. 1, with classes beginning in fall 2026. 

The degree pathways are part of a broader Cal Poly at Hancock initiative, announced earlier this year, which allows Central Coast students to earn a Cal Poly degree without commuting to San Luis Obispo. The programs bring Cal Poly faculty and coursework directly to Hancock’s Santa Maria campus, providing students with a flexible, affordable, and high-quality educational experience close to home. 

“This partnership continues to expand life-changing opportunities for our students,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “These degree pathways allow Hancock students to earn a world-class Cal Poly education while staying rooted in the communities where they live, work, and support their families.” 

Enrolled students will enjoy full Cal Poly student status — including access to library resources, advising and career support, while also maintaining access to Hancock’s services and facilities. 

Bachelor’s Pathway in Business Administration 

Through Hancock’s partnership with Cal Poly’s Orfalea College of Business, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with a Management and Human Resources concentration — all without leaving Santa Maria. 

The program prepares students for careers in management, human resources, and organizational leadership. Students will develop essential leadership skills, learn to cultivate inclusive workplaces and gain experience solving business challenges through Cal Poly’s “learn by doing” approach. 

The program features in-person classes taught by Cal Poly faculty, flexible scheduling designed for working students, and a cohort model that helps students progress through the curriculum together.  

The business program begins fall 2026; applications close Dec. 1. For program details and application information, visit https://orfalea.calpoly.edu/undergraduate-programs/bachelors-pathway-hancock-business-administration. 

Bachelor’s Pathway in Sociology 

Now in its second year, the sociology degree pathway gives students the opportunity to earn a Cal Poly Bachelor of Arts in Sociology degree, also without commuting to San Luis Obispo. 

The degree will prepare students for careers in a range of fields, including criminal justice, law, social services, government, business, and education. Students will complete all required coursework via a hybrid model taught by Cal Poly faculty. The program’s schedule was designed for students balancing school, work and family. 

The sociology program begins fall 2026; applications close Dec. 1. More information is available at https://socialsciences.calpoly.edu/hancock. 

CSUCI Bachelor of Science in Nursing  

In addition to the Cal Poly bachelor’s degree pathways, Hancock also offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pathway in partnership with California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI). The BSN program allows registered nurses and associate degree nursing graduates to complete their bachelor’s degree locally through a flexible and fully online format.  

“Together, these innovative partnerships underscore Hancock’s mission to make higher education more accessible and responsive to the needs of the Central Coast,” Walthers said.