SF URBAN
San Francisco Urban Program, Cal Poly Architecture
Founded in 1988, The SF Urban Program continues to provide an immersive urban design experience in one of America’s most dynamic and diverse regions. Since its inception over 800 students have come through the program, many of whom returned to work in Bay Area firms and participate as studio reviewers, internship mentors, and guest presenters.
CAL POLY IS CONVERTING TO THE SEMESTER SYSTEM IN FALL 2026. THE SF URBAN PROGRAM WILL THEN BE CHANGED TO A SPRING SEMESTER 15-WEEK PROGRAM AS OF JANUARY 2026 WITH A DIFFERENT MIX OF COURSES AND SCHEDULE AT THAT TIME. The contents of this website refer to the two-quarter program operated between 2014 and 2025.
Classes Overview
The two-quarter SF Urban Program combines courses in Design and Professional Internships for both quarters, plus a Professional Practice and Housing Concepts class. Classes are held in downtown San Francisco. The Design Studio project is a two-quarter long study done for a community group with a focus on housing plus public open space. The design class meets for the first 6 weeks of Winter Quarter and the last 6 weeks of Spring Quarter
Internship Overview
SF Urban features an eight-week paid professional Internship. Student Internships are organized as 4-week long session each quarter, during which time students have one evening class. Internship applications occur during the fall prior to the start of the program. The firm offerings include a wide range of firms from large and international offices to small practices. Many offices extend internships during spring break and over the summer months.
Experience Overview
The SF Urban Program features many night and weekend cultural events through the ”Great Architecture, Great Experience” series with free tickets. Students also explore neighborhoods on Friday “Sketch Walks” and take several all day field trips. Students maintain and curate their own Instagram account to capture their authentic take on the program and events.
Get Involved.
The SF Urban Program is always looking for meaningful partnerships and support from offices and alumni. Help the program as a studio host, guest lecturer, project reviewer, or by other means.
SF Urban Supporters
Thanks to the following firms that provide invaluable in-kind donations of their office space for our studios, classes, and reviews.
