Overview of the Claremont Colleges
The Claremont Colleges consortium, officially termed "The Claremont Colleges," was established in 1925 and is located in Claremont, California, United States. Comprising seven highly selective private institutions, it is modeled after the Oxford-Cambridge collegiate system. The consortium includes five undergraduate colleges (Pomona, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, Scripps, and Pitzer) and two graduate institutions (Claremont Graduate University and Keck Graduate Institute). Collectively, the student body is approximately 9,000, supported by over 700 faculty members across contiguous campuses. The Claremont Colleges are widely recognized for their teaching-focused, yet research-active environment, delivering a comprehensive liberal arts and sciences education in a close-knit academic community.
Academic distinction is a hallmark of the Claremont Colleges. Pomona College is celebrated for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum, while Harvey Mudd is renowned in engineering, mathematics, and the sciences. Claremont McKenna excels in economics, government, and leadership, Scripps is prominent in the humanities and interdisciplinary studies, and Pitzer is widely acclaimed for its emphasis on social justice and environmental studies. The Colleges collaborate on academic programs, permitting cross-registration and fostering interdisciplinary inquiry. Their collective research output is substantial, and the consortium model encourages joint degrees, shared facilities, and extensive research partnerships. The Claremont Colleges frequently rank among the top liberal arts institutions globally and boast a high number of Fulbright scholars and NSF Graduate Research Fellows.
Student life across the Claremont Colleges is vibrant and multifaceted. More than 300 clubs and organizations, diverse student-run publications, and a wide array of cultural events foster an engaging campus environment. Sports, arts, and wellness facilities are accessible to all students, and strong residential life fosters a sense of belonging. The consortium prides itself on its commitment to diversity—over 20% of undergraduates are international students, and on average, around 50% identify as students of color. Numerous offices, mentorship initiatives, and resources support student wellbeing, academic success, and intercultural engagement, ensuring an inclusive and dynamic community.
The Claremont Colleges are unified by a mission to foster intellectual rigor, ethical leadership, and global citizenship. They champion collaboration, innovation, and equity to prepare graduates for impactful contributions to society and advancing knowledge across disciplines.
