Pitzer College

Pitzer College, a private liberal arts institution in Claremont, California, is known for its commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and intercultural understanding. Founded in 1963, it emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary exploration, and active student engagement. As a member of The Claremont Colleges consortium, Pitzer offers students the advantages of a small college environment with the extensive resources of a larger university system.

Academics

Pitzer College offers 41 majors and 22 minors, many of which are cross-disciplinary, with a strong curricular emphasis on social sciences, behavioral sciences, international programs, and media studies. Popular majors include Research and Experimental Psychology, Environmental Science, Organizational Behavior Studies, and Political Science. The college encourages students to actively plan their course of study, offering flexibility, and a significant percentage of students even self-design their own majors. Pitzer's academic approach is deeply infused with social justice, intercultural understanding, and environmental sustainability, encouraging critical thought and experiential learning. Students also have the unique opportunity to enroll in classes at the other Claremont Colleges, broadening their academic horizons.

International Students

Pitzer College welcomes over 120 degree-seeking international students from more than 25 countries, with an additional 10-20 visiting exchange students annually. International students constitute approximately 11% of the total student body, contributing to a globally diverse campus community. The Office of International Programs provides support and resources to enhance international students' academic, cultural, and social experiences, helping them maintain their F-1 status. English proficiency is required, with specific TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo Test scores needed for admission, and some students may be required to take specialized English courses.

Campus & Location

Pitzer's 35-acre campus is located in Claremont, California, a suburban community approximately 35 miles east of Los Angeles. Claremont offers a blend of city amenities without the constant hustle, featuring restaurants, art galleries, parks, and shops within walking distance of The Claremont Colleges. The campus itself is known for its environmentally sustainable design, including LEED-certified buildings and drought-tolerant landscaping. Transportation to Los Angeles is accessible via Metrolink, and nearby attractions include Mount Baldy for hiking and skiing, and popular Southern California destinations like Disneyland and Malibu.

Career Outcomes

Pitzer College graduates earn an average of $37,000 in their early careers. The college demonstrates strong student success with 83% of students completing their degree within six years, placing it in the top 10% nationally. Pitzer's Career Services works to connect students with employment opportunities and reports career outcome data for recent graduates, with 47% securing full-time employment and 22% pursuing graduate or professional school within six months of graduation. Pitzer alumni have gone on to work at notable employers such as AECOM, Capital One, and Cisco, and many receive Fulbright US Student Program awards. The college emphasizes preparing students for both professional careers and civic participation, fostering skills for ethical decision-making and global awareness.