Claremont McKenna College vs Pitzer College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Claremont McKenna College (CMC) and Pitzer College?

  Claremont McKenna College (CMC) focuses on leadership in government, economics, and public affairs, emphasizing practical application and research. Pitzer College, on the other hand, is a liberal arts college with a strong emphasis on social justice, interdisciplinary studies, and student-designed majors. CMC has a more structured curriculum, while Pitzer offers greater flexibility in academic exploration.

• How do the academic focuses of CMC and Pitzer differ?

  CMC is known for its strong programs in economics, government, and finance, often attracting students interested in careers in business, law, and public policy. Pitzer excels in fields like environmental analysis, media studies, and organizational studies, appealing to students passionate about social change and critical thinking. While both offer excellent liberal arts educations, their specific areas of strength and emphasis differ significantly.

• What is the campus culture like at CMC versus Pitzer?

  CMC is often perceived as having a more pre-professional and career-oriented campus culture, with a strong emphasis on networking and leadership development. Pitzer's campus culture is generally considered more progressive, collaborative, and focused on social activism and community engagement. Students at Pitzer are often deeply involved in social and political issues.

• How do the grading systems compare between CMC and Pitzer?

  While both colleges are highly selective and academically rigorous, Pitzer offers a unique grading option called narrative evaluation. In some courses, students receive detailed written evaluations instead of traditional letter grades, fostering a more holistic assessment of their learning. CMC primarily uses a traditional letter grading system.

• What are the housing options like at CMC and Pitzer?

  Both CMC and Pitzer offer a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional dorms, suites, and apartments. However, Pitzer's housing is often seen as more integrated with its overall mission, with themed housing options that reflect the college's commitment to social justice and community building. CMC's housing is generally more focused on creating a supportive and engaging residential experience.

• How does the 5C consortium affect student life at CMC and Pitzer?

  Both CMC and Pitzer are part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, which includes five undergraduate colleges (the 5Cs) and two graduate institutions. This consortium provides students with access to a vast array of resources, including courses, libraries, clubs, and social events across all campuses. Students at both CMC and Pitzer benefit equally from the 5C system, allowing them to tailor their academic and extracurricular experiences to their individual interests.

• What are the career services like at CMC and Pitzer?

  CMC's Career Services is highly regarded for its strong connections to employers in finance, consulting, and government, offering extensive internship and job placement support. Pitzer's Career Services focuses on helping students find meaningful work aligned with their values, with resources tailored to careers in non-profits, social enterprises, and public service. Both colleges provide excellent career support, but their areas of emphasis differ.

• How do the alumni networks of CMC and Pitzer compare?

  CMC's alumni network is known for its strong presence in business, finance, and public policy, providing valuable connections for students pursuing careers in these fields. Pitzer's alumni network is diverse and engaged in a wide range of fields, with a strong representation in non-profits, education, and the arts. Both alumni networks are supportive and accessible to current students.

• What are the similarities between CMC and Pitzer?

  Both CMC and Pitzer are highly selective liberal arts colleges located in Claremont, California. They both offer small class sizes, a strong sense of community, and access to the resources of the 5C consortium. Both colleges attract academically talented and engaged students who are passionate about learning and making a difference in the world. They both emphasize critical thinking, communication skills, and leadership development.

• Which college is right for me: CMC or Pitzer?

  The best college for you depends on your individual interests, goals, and values. If you are passionate about leadership in government, economics, and public affairs, and are seeking a structured academic environment with strong career connections, CMC may be a good fit. If you are interested in social justice, interdisciplinary studies, and student-designed majors, and are seeking a more flexible and progressive academic environment, Pitzer may be a better choice. Visiting both campuses and talking to current students is highly recommended to help you make your decision.