Claremont McKenna College

Quick Facts about Claremont McKenna College

• Type: Private Non-Profit
• Students: 1,349
• International: 15%
• Campus: Suburban
• Language: English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
• Intakes: August, January

About Claremont McKenna College

Academics

CMC's curriculum places a strong emphasis on the social sciences, particularly economics, government, public affairs, finance, and international relations. Popular undergraduate majors include Economics, Political Science, and International Relations. The college also offers unique multidisciplinary programs such as the Oxford-style Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) major and the Robert Day School of Economics and Finance, which includes a Master of Arts in Finance. Students benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, with most classes having fewer than 19 students, fostering an intimate learning environment.

International Students

International students constitute a significant and valued part of the CMC community, making up almost 15% of the student body. International Student Services (ISS) provides comprehensive support, including guidance on immigration, cultural integration, and a pre-orientation program for new students. While English is the language of instruction, the Modern Languages and Literature department and the Oldenborg Center contribute to a diverse linguistic and cultural environment. Students from 46 countries are represented, with China, India, and Canada being the top countries of origin.

Campus & Location

Claremont McKenna College is situated in Claremont, California, a suburban city approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. Known as the "City of Trees and PhDs," Claremont offers a tranquil and safe environment with a vibrant downtown village featuring shops, restaurants, and cultural events. The 69-acre campus boasts lush greenery and views of the San Gabriel Mountains, with outdoor spaces that take advantage of the sunny California climate. Transportation options include the Metrolink train station, less than a mile from campus, providing service to Los Angeles Union Station, and complimentary airport pickup services from major local airports for international students.

Career Outcomes

CMC demonstrates a strong track record for post-graduation success, with nearly 90% of graduates securing full-time employment or pursuing graduate studies within six months of graduation. The median starting salary for recent graduates is $80,000. The Soll Center for Student Opportunity provides extensive career services, including personalized advising, internship funding, and networking opportunities across various "interest clusters" such as Accounting & Financial Services, Consulting, and Technology & Entrepreneurship. Alumni often secure roles in top consulting firms, financial institutions, and government organizations. Many graduates also pursue advanced degrees at prestigious institutions.

Information for International Students at Claremont McKenna College

Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, United States welcomes international students, with 15% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 15% of students are international
• Visa support available
• On-campus work allowed
• Student housing available
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Claremont McKenna College

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Claremont McKenna College:

• IELTS minimum: 7.5
• TOEFL minimum: 100
• Duolingo minimum: 130
• Application fee: $70
• Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
• Application deadline: January 10

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Programs at Claremont McKenna College (24 programs)

Claremont McKenna College offers 24 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.

Bachelor Programs (23)

• Accounting (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,600/yr
  The Accounting program provides students with a strong foundation in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting, preparing them for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, or further graduate studies.
  Field: Accounting
  Career outcomes: Auditor, Tax Accountant, Financial Analyst, Management Consultant
• Biochemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,600/yr · STEM
  This program combines biology and chemistry to study the chemical processes within living organisms, preparing students for careers in research, medicine, or biotechnology.
  Field: Biochemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Biotechnologist, Medical Professional, Pharmacist
• Film Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,600/yr
  Film Studies explores the history, theory, and aesthetics of cinema, analyzing films as cultural artifacts and artistic expressions, and developing critical viewing and analytical skills.
  Field: Film Studies
  Career outcomes: Film Critic, Filmmaker, Archivist, Media Producer
• Literature (BA) — English
  This program fosters critical analysis and appreciation of literary works across various genres and periods. Students develop strong writing, analytical, and interpretive skills applicable to many professions.
  Field: Humanities
• Neuroscience (BA) — English · STEM
  This program explores the structure and function of the nervous system, from molecular to behavioral levels. Students gain knowledge essential for careers in research, medicine, and psychology.
  Field: Natural Sciences, Psychology
• American Studies (BA) — English
  A multidisciplinary major encouraging critical and creative thinking about American culture. Students explore various aspects of American society, history, and arts.
  Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
• Biology (BA) — English · STEM
  This program provides a foundational understanding of living organisms and biological processes. Students are prepared for careers in research, healthcare, or further graduate studies in life sciences.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Classical Studies (BA) — English
  This major participates in an interdisciplinary classics program with other Claremont Colleges, offering a wide range of topics including archaeology, art history, classical culture, government, history, literature, mythology, philosophy, and religious studies. Students gain a deep understanding of ancient civilizations and their lasting impact.
  Field: Humanities
• Economics (BA) — English
  This program provides a rigorous understanding of economic principles, theories, and their application to real-world issues. Graduates pursue careers in finance, consulting, public policy, and academia.
  Field: Social Sciences
• History (BA) — English
  This program explores past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical thinking and research skills. Graduates pursue diverse careers in education, archives, museums, and public policy.
  Field: Humanities
• Mathematics (BA) — English · STEM
  This program provides a strong foundation in mathematical theory, problem-solving, and quantitative reasoning. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in data science, finance, education, and advanced studies in mathematics.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Religious Studies (BA) — English
  This program explores the diverse traditions, beliefs, and practices of religions across cultures and history. Students develop critical thinking and cross-cultural understanding.
  Field: Humanities
• Spanish (BA) — English
  This program offers a comprehensive study of Spanish language, literature, and cultures from Spain and Latin America. Students develop advanced linguistic proficiency and cultural competence.
  Field: Humanities, Language
• Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,600/yr
  The Sociology program investigates human social behavior, social structures, and cultural phenomena, analyzing issues of inequality, social change, and group dynamics.
  Field: Sociology
  Career outcomes: Social Worker, Policy Analyst, Market Researcher, Community Organizer
• Chemistry (BA) — English · STEM
  This program explores the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter. Graduates are prepared for careers in chemical industries, research, or further studies in chemistry and related fields.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Psychology (BA) — English
  Psychological Science courses provide valuable background for diverse careers requiring an understanding of human and social processes. Students learn about behavior, cognition, and emotion, preparing them for roles in counseling, human resources, and research.
  Field: Social Sciences
• Science and Management (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr · STEM
  This interdisciplinary major combines a strong scientific foundation with business and management principles, preparing students for leadership roles in science-related industries.
  Field: Interdisciplinary
  Career outcomes: Biotech Manager, Pharmaceutical Project Manager, Science Policy Analyst, Entrepreneur
• Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,600/yr · STEM
  The Computer Science program provides a strong theoretical and practical foundation in computing, covering areas such as algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software engineering.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Web Developer
• Environment, Economics, and Politics (EEP) (BA) — English
  This interdisciplinary program examines environmental issues through the lenses of economics and political science. Students learn to analyze and address complex environmental challenges from multiple perspectives.
  Field: Environmental Studies, Economics, Political Science
• Physics (BA) — English · STEM
  This program explores the fundamental laws of the universe, from classical mechanics to quantum theory. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, engineering, technology, and further academic pursuits.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Government (BA) — English
  This program provides a thorough understanding of political systems, institutions, and behavior. Graduates are prepared for careers in public service, law, journalism, and political analysis.
  Field: Social Sciences, Political Science
• International Relations (BA) — English
  This program examines global politics, economics, and cultural interactions. Graduates are prepared for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, non-profits, and global business.
  Field: Social Sciences
• Philosophy (BA) — English
  This program addresses fundamental questions central to a liberal arts education, developing critical thinking, logical reasoning, and ethical analysis. Graduates are prepared for diverse fields requiring strong analytical and communication skills.
  Field: Humanities

Master Programs (1)

• Master of Arts in Finance (MFin) (MA) — 12 months · English · $70,000/yr · STEM
  The Master of Arts in Finance program provides advanced training in financial theory, quantitative methods, and financial markets, preparing students for leadership roles in the finance industry.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, Financial Analyst, Risk Manager

Scholarships & Tuition at Claremont McKenna College

✅ Claremont McKenna College offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Claremont McKenna College

• National Ranking: #7 in United States
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Claremont McKenna College

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• No disability support info
• Campus type: Suburban
• Average class size: 18

Key Highlights

• Leadership focus
• Strong social sciences
• Oxford-style PPE program
• Small classes, low ratio
• Diverse international community
• Claremont Colleges consortium

Accreditation

• WASC Senior College and University Commission

Notable Alumni

• Henry Kravis
• Robert Day
• Akshata Murty
• Heidi Cruz
• Thomas B. Hofeller

Frequently Asked Questions about Claremont McKenna College

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