Pitzer College

Bold Minds, Engaged World.

📍 Claremont, United States 🇺🇸

🏆 #37 in United States

Quick Facts about Pitzer College

  • Founded: 1963
  • Type: Private Non-Profit
  • Students: 1,191
  • International: 11%
  • Campus: Suburban
  • Tuition: $64,888 – $64,888/year
  • Language: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
  • Intakes: September

About 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.

Information for International Students at Pitzer College

Pitzer College in Claremont, United States welcomes international students, with 11% of the student body coming from abroad.

  • 11% of students are international
  • No visa support offered
  • On-campus work allowed
  • Student housing available
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French

Admissions Requirements for Pitzer College

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

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 70
  • Duolingo minimum: 115
  • GPA minimum: 3.5
  • Application fee: $70
  • Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
  • Application deadline: January 5

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Programs at Pitzer College (37 programs)

Pitzer College offers 37 programs across Bachelor levels.

Bachelor Programs (37)

  • American Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary program examining the cultures, societies, and histories of the Americas. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Dance (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students engage in the study of dance as an art form, cultural practice, and academic discipline, including theory and performance. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Arts
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Art (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program offers a comprehensive study of art history, theory, and practice, including various studio disciplines. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Arts
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Biology (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    Students investigate living organisms and their vital processes, covering areas from molecular biology to ecology. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Natural Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Chemistry (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    Students explore the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Natural Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • English (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students study literature, critical theory, and creative writing, developing strong analytical and communication skills. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Asian American Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary examination of the experiences, cultures, and histories of Asian Americans. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Black Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary program focusing on the experiences, cultures, and intellectual traditions of people of African descent. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Critical Global Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This interdisciplinary program examines global processes and their impact on societies, cultures, and environments. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Social Sciences, Humanities
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • African American Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program explores the histories, cultures, and political experiences of people of African descent. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Environmental Analysis (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary program addressing environmental issues from scientific, social, economic, and political perspectives. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Environmental Studies
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • History (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students explore past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical thinking and research skills. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Anthropology (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students study human diversity across cultures and throughout history, focusing on social, cultural, archaeological, and biological anthropology. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Biochemistry (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program combines biology and chemistry to explore the chemical processes within living organisms. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Natural Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Chicanx-Latinx Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program examines the historical, cultural, political, and social experiences of Chicanx and Latinx communities. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Computer Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program covers theoretical foundations of information and computation and practical techniques for their implementation and application. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Natural Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Gender & Feminist Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary program examining gender as a social and cultural construct, and its intersections with other identities. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Latin American Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary program focusing on the cultures, histories, politics, and societies of Latin America. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Cognitive Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary study of the mind and its processes, drawing from psychology, linguistics, computer science, and philosophy. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Interdisciplinary
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Economics (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program focuses on how societies allocate scarce resources and the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • French (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program offers a comprehensive study of French language, literature, and culture. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Intercollegiate Media Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program offers an interdisciplinary approach to the study of media, including its history, theory, and production. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Music (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program offers study in music theory, history, performance, and composition. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Arts
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Political Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students analyze political systems, institutions, behaviors, and theories, both domestically and internationally. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Science, Technology, and Society (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary program examining the interactions between science, technology, and society, including their historical, cultural, and ethical dimensions. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Interdisciplinary, Social Sciences, Humanities
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Spanish (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program offers a comprehensive study of Spanish language, literature, and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Media Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students analyze media forms, content, industries, and their impact on society and culture. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Philosophy (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students engage with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Physics (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM
    This program explores the fundamental principles of the universe, from subatomic particles to cosmology. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Natural Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program investigates the scientific study of mind and behavior, covering various subfields such as cognitive, developmental, and social psychology. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students study human social behavior, patterns of social relationships, social interaction, and culture. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Mathematics (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program provides a strong foundation in mathematical theory and its applications across various fields. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Natural Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Theatre (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students explore the history, theory, and practice of theatre, including acting, directing, design, and playwriting. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Arts
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Literature (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    Students engage with diverse literary traditions, critical approaches, and creative writing practices. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Organizational Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary program examining the structure, function, and behavior of organizations in various contexts. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Urban Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    An interdisciplinary program examining urban environments, processes, and challenges from various perspectives. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)
  • Studio Art (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,334/yr · Scholarship available
    This program focuses on artistic practice in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, drawing, and new media. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as education, non-profit, government, arts, business, and further graduate studies.
    Field: Arts
    Career outcomes: education, non-profit, government, arts, business, graduate studies
    Deadline: Early Decision I (November 1), Early Action (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), Regular Decision (January 1)

Scholarships & Tuition at Pitzer College

Annual tuition for international students: $64,888 – $64,888/year

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

Rankings of Pitzer College

  • National Ranking: #37 in United States
  • Ranking tier: Research University
  • Research output: Low

Campus & Facilities at Pitzer College

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Suburban
  • Average class size: 15

Key Highlights

  • Social justice, environmental focus
  • Interdisciplinary, student-designed majors
  • Claremont Colleges consortium member
  • Diverse international student body
  • Experiential learning opportunities

Accreditation

  • WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Notable Alumni

  • Anne Archer
  • Max Brooks
  • Kevin de León
  • Mablean Ephriam
  • Eli Erlick

Frequently Asked Questions about Pitzer College

What is Pitzer College?

Pitzer College is a private non-profit university located in Claremont, United States, founded in 1963. It has approximately 1,191 students, with 11% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at Pitzer College?

Tuition fees at Pitzer College for international students range from $64,888 – $64,888/year. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Pitzer College?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 70. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 3.5. Application fee: $70. Selectivity: Very Selective (&lt;20%). Application deadline: January 5.

What language are courses taught in at Pitzer College?

Courses at Pitzer College are taught in English and Spanish and Portuguese and French. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

How many programs does Pitzer College offer?

Pitzer College offers 37 programs: 37 Bachelor's, 0 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Pitzer College ranked?

#37 in United States.

Does Pitzer College offer scholarships?

Yes, Pitzer College offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

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