Claremont McKenna College Overview: Top Liberal Arts School for Leadership and Economics

Claremont McKenna College (CMC), a top-tier liberal arts institution in Claremont, California, is known for its emphasis on leadership, economics, and public affairs. As part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, CMC blends a personalized academic environment with extensive cross-campus resources.

It offers standout programs like the Robert Day School of Economics and Finance, accelerated BA/MA options, the interdisciplinary PPE tutorial, and the Silicon Valley Program. Students benefit from a vibrant intellectual community supported by numerous research institutes and strong career preparation.

With a highly selective admissions process, generous financial aid, and a dynamic campus life—including Division III athletics, innovative student support services, and the renowned Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum—CMC ranks among the nation’s best liberal arts colleges. Notable alumni include business leaders, politicians, and journalists, reflecting the college’s success in cultivating leaders across diverse fields.

Claremont McKenna College: A Deep Dive into a Leading Liberal Arts Institution

Claremont McKenna College (CMC), a highly selective liberal arts college located in Claremont, California, is renowned for its focus on leadership, economics, and public affairs. As one of the prestigious Claremont Colleges, CMC offers students the unique blend of a close-knit liberal arts environment with the expansive resources of a larger university consortium.

Academic Excellence and Distinctive Programs

CMC’s academic philosophy emphasizes a strong foundation in the liberal arts with a particular focus on preparing students for leadership roles in various sectors. The college’s curriculum encourages critical thinking, effective communication, and a global perspective.

Key Academic Strengths and Unique Programs:

• The Robert Day School of Economics and Finance: This prominent school is a cornerstone of CMC, offering undergraduate and graduate programs. It’s known for preparing students for careers in finance, consulting, technology, and non-profit organizations. Unique offerings include:
  • The Robert Day Scholars Program: A highly selective program for motivated students seeking leadership roles, offering specialized coursework and foundational skills.
  • BA/MA Program in Finance: An accelerated program allowing students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts from CMC and a Master of Arts in Finance.
  • Day 4+1 BA/MBA Program: A unique opportunity to earn a CMC Bachelor of Arts and an MBA from Claremont Graduate University (CGU) in just five years, with students beginning MBA coursework in their senior year.
• Kravis Department of Integrated Sciences: This interdisciplinary department offers cutting-edge programs in:
  • Genomics, Systems Biology, and Health
  • Brain, Learning, and Decision Sciences
  • Climate, Energy, and the Environment
• Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) Tutorial Program: An enrollment-limited, interdisciplinary major designed for students interested in a rigorous exploration of these interconnected fields.
• Accelerated Master’s Programs with Claremont Graduate University: CMC offers several accelerated BA/MA programs with CGU, including those in Economics, Political Science (Public Policy, International Studies, or Politics), and Psychology. This allows students to gain graduate-level education more quickly.
• Silicon Valley Program: This program provides students with a full-time internship, academic seminars, and networking opportunities within the high-tech industry.
• Research Institutes and Centers: CMC is home to numerous research centers that offer students opportunities for in-depth study and engagement:
  • Berger Institute for Work, Family and Children
  • Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  • Financial Economics Institute
  • Gould Center for Humanistic Studies
  • Keck Center for International and Strategic Studies
  • Kravis Leadership Institute
  • Lowe Institute of Political Economy
  • Mgrublian Center for Human Rights
  • Roberts Environmental Center
  • Rose Institute of State and Local Government
  • Salvatori Center for the Study of Individual Freedom

Rankings and Reputation

Claremont McKenna College consistently ranks among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States, known for its strong academic programs, career outcomes, and vibrant student life.

Recent Rankings (as of 2025):

• U.S. News & World Report: #8 National Liberal Arts Colleges (2025)
• Wall Street Journal/College Pulse: #5 Best Colleges in the U.S. (2025)
• Niche: #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America (2025), #7 Best Value Colleges in America (2025), #11 Best Colleges for Economics in America (2025)
• FIRE College Free Speech: #6 Free Speech (2025)
• Princeton Review: #1 Most Politically Active Students (2025), #2 Most Active Student Government (2025), #3 Friendliest Students (2025)
• IDEAS (RePEc): #3 Top US Economics Departments at Liberal Arts Colleges (2024)

Admission and Financial Aid

Admission to Claremont McKenna College is highly competitive, reflecting its strong academic reputation and outcomes.

Admission Statistics (Class of 2028):

• Acceptance Rate: 9.6% (from 6,529 applicants)
• Middle 50% SAT Score: 1490-1520 (ERW: 720-750, Math: 750-780)
• Middle 50% ACT Composite Score: 33-34 (English: 34-35, Math: 31-33, Reading: 33-35, Science: 32-33)
• Application Deadline: January 10 (Regular Decision)
• Application Fee: $70
• Admissions Test Policy: Considered if submitted (test-optional)

Financial Aid:

• Approximately 41% of students receive need-based aid.
• The average financial aid package is around $67,675.

Student Life and Campus Facilities

CMC offers a dynamic and engaging student experience, fostering a close-knit community within the larger Claremont Colleges consortium.

Key Aspects of Student Life:

• Residential Life: The college provides a safe and comfortable living environment with resident assistants and various housing options.
• Student Engagement: Over 50 college-funded clubs and organizations cater to a wide range of interests, from student government (ASCMC) to cultural groups and activities.
• Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum: A central hub for intellectual and social life, hosting prominent speakers, discussions, and formal teas.
• Athletics: CMC competes in NCAA Division III’s Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) in a joint athletic program with Harvey Mudd College and Scripps College (CMS Athletics). Facilities include the Roberts Pavilion.
• Health and Well-Being: Comprehensive services include Student Health Services, Mental Health support (Monsour Counseling & Psychiatric Services), and Accessibility Services.
• Campus Dining: Collins Dining Hall is the main dining facility, with other options like The Hub Grill and Midnight Snack.
• Academic Support: Resources include Success Coaches, The Center for Writing and Public Discourse, and The Murty Sunak Quantitative and Computing Lab.
• The CARE Center (Civility, Access, Resources, and Expression): An innovative initiative focused on fostering difficult conversations and effective dialogue.
• International Student Services: Dedicated support for international students, including orientation and immigration assistance.
• Outdoor Spaces: The Beckett Fire Pit and various campus grounds offer spaces for relaxation and socializing.

Campus Facilities:

CMC’s campus boasts a variety of modern facilities supporting academic, residential, and recreational needs. These include:

• Academic Buildings: Davidson Lecture Hall, Bauer South Classrooms, Kravis Center Classrooms, Keck Science classrooms and labs, Robert’s North and South Classrooms.
• Residential Halls: Organized into North Quad, Mid Quad, and South Quad.
• Dining Facilities: Collins Dining Hall, The Hub Grill, Janie’s Kitchen (for student use).
• Athletic Facilities: Roberts Pavilion (a state-of-the-art recreation and athletic complex).
• Libraries: Students have access to the shared Claremont Colleges Library system, including Honnold Library.
• Other notable spaces: The Cave (Marks Music Room) for student performances, The Massoud (formerly Kravis Living Room/Kube) as a central gathering space.

Notable Alumni

Claremont McKenna College has a distinguished list of alumni who have achieved significant success in various fields, including business, politics, entertainment, and journalism. Some prominent examples include:

• Henry Kravis ’67 and George R. Roberts ’66: Co-founders of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR), a leading global investment firm.
• Julie Sweet ’89: CEO of Accenture.
• Douglas Peterson ’80: President and CEO of S&P Global.
• Michael Arrington ’92: Internet entrepreneur, founder of TechCrunch.
• Steve Bullock ’88: Former Governor of Montana.
• David Dreier ’75: Former U.S. Congressman and Chairman of the House Rules Committee.
• Tom Leppert ’77: Former CEO of Kaplan, Inc. and Mayor of Dallas, Texas.
• Michael S. Jeffries ’66: Former Chairman and CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
• Michael Larson ’80: Chief Investment Officer of Cascade Investment (for Bill Gates’ personal wealth and the Gates Foundation).
• Peter Thum ’90: Founder of Ethos Water and social entrepreneur.
• Patrick J. Conroy ’72: 60th Chaplain of the United States House of Representatives.
• David Enrich ’01: Reporter for The Wall Street Journal.
• Gregg Jarrett ’77: Anchor for Fox News Channel.
• Michael D. Shear ’90: White House Correspondent for The New York Times.

Claremont McKenna College continues to attract driven and intellectually curious students, providing them with a rigorous education and a strong foundation for impactful careers and engaged citizenship.

FAQs about Claremont McKenna College

What is Claremont McKenna College known for?
Claremont McKenna College is known for its focus on leadership, economics, public affairs, and its strong liberal arts foundation. It is also part of the prestigious Claremont Colleges consortium.

Where is Claremont McKenna College located?
Claremont McKenna College is located in Claremont, California, about 35 miles east of Los Angeles.

Is Claremont McKenna College part of a consortium?
Yes, CMC is one of the seven Claremont Colleges, which allows students to cross-register for courses and access shared resources across campuses.

What is the acceptance rate at CMC?
The acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 was 9.6%, making CMC a highly selective institution.

What are the average test scores for admitted students?
The middle 50% SAT range is 1490–1520 and the ACT composite range is 33–34.

Is standardized testing required for admission?
CMC has a test-optional policy; SAT or ACT scores are considered if submitted but are not required.

What are the application deadlines?
The Regular Decision deadline is January 10. Other deadlines include Early Decision I (November 1) and Early Decision II (January 10).

How much is the application fee?
The application fee for Claremont McKenna College is $70.

What types of financial aid are available?
CMC offers need-based financial aid, with approximately 41% of students receiving aid. The average financial aid package is around $67,675.

What majors or academic programs are strongest at CMC?
CMC is particularly strong in economics, government, international relations, public policy, and leadership. The Robert Day School and PPE Tutorial are standout offerings.

Does CMC offer graduate programs?
Yes, through partnerships with Claremont Graduate University, students can pursue accelerated BA/MA and BA/MBA programs.

What is the Robert Day Scholars Program?
It is a selective leadership and finance program that offers specialized coursework and professional development opportunities.

What is the Silicon Valley Program?
The program provides students with full-time internships, seminars, and networking in the tech industry while living in Silicon Valley.

What research opportunities are available?
CMC hosts several research institutes, including the Kravis Leadership Institute and Rose Institute of State and Local Government, offering hands-on research opportunities.

What is student life like at CMC?
Student life is vibrant, with over 50 clubs, a politically active campus culture, and events at the Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum.

What athletic programs does CMC offer?
CMC competes in NCAA Division III as part of the CMS (Claremont-Mudd-Scripps) team in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC).

What are the residence options for students?
Housing is organized into North, Mid, and South Quads, offering traditional dorm-style living with various amenities and residential support.

What support services are available to students?
Students have access to mental health services, success coaches, writing and computing labs, accessibility services, and international student support.

What is the Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum?
Often called “the Ath,” it is a central gathering place for intellectual dialogue, featuring daily speaker events, discussions, and formal teas.

What dining options are available on campus?
Collins Dining Hall is the main dining facility. Other options include The Hub Grill and Janie’s Kitchen, a student cooking space.

What is the CARE Center?
The Civility, Access, Resources, and Expression Center supports dialogue across difference, promotes inclusion, and hosts workshops and events.

What library resources are available to students?
CMC students can access the shared Claremont Colleges Library system, including the Honnold Library.

Does CMC support international students?
Yes, international students receive orientation, immigration assistance, and ongoing support services.

What notable alumni have graduated from CMC?
Prominent alumni include Henry Kravis (KKR co-founder), Julie Sweet (CEO of Accenture), Michael Arrington (founder of TechCrunch), and Steve Bullock (former Montana governor).

What are the college’s national rankings?
As of 2025, CMC ranks #8 in U.S. News, #5 in WSJ/College Pulse, and #3 in Niche for liberal arts colleges.

What makes CMC’s curriculum distinctive?
CMC’s curriculum emphasizes leadership, ethics, and a global perspective through interdisciplinary and experiential learning opportunities.

What career support does CMC offer?
CMC has a robust career services center, connections through alumni networks, and professional development programs like the Robert Day Scholars and Silicon Valley Program.

Are there opportunities for study abroad?
Yes, students can choose from a variety of study abroad programs around the world, typically in their junior year.

What makes CMC’s PPE program unique?
The Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Tutorial Program is highly selective, combining rigorous interdisciplinary coursework with small-group discussions modeled after Oxford tutorials.

How large is the student body?
CMC enrolls approximately 1,400 undergraduate students.

What is the student-faculty ratio?
The student-faculty ratio is about 8:1, allowing for close mentorship and small class sizes.