Columbia University vs Claremont McKenna College Introduction
Choosing the right college can be a challenging decision, as it involves considering factors like cost, location, academic programs, and more. This article provides an in-depth comparison between Columbia University and Claremont McKenna College to help you make an informed choice. We will discuss each school in terms of their overview, costs, admissions, academics, diversity, campus life, and outcomes.
Columbia University Overview
Columbia University, located in New York City, is an Ivy League institution known for its rigorous academic programs and diverse student body. Established in 1754, it is the oldest higher education institution in New York and the fifth oldest in the United States. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of around 6,300 students and offers over 100 majors and concentrations.
Columbia University Costs & Tuition
The estimated cost of attendance at Columbia University for the 2021-2022 academic year is $80,339, which includes tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses. Financial aid is available, and the university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students, regardless of citizenship. The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is $58,222.
Columbia University Admissions
Admission to Columbia University is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of 6.1% for the class of 2025. The middle 50% of admitted students scored between 1480 and 1560 on the SAT and between 33 and 35 on the ACT. The application deadline for Columbia University is January 1, and the Early Decision deadline is November 1.
Columbia University Degrees Offered
Columbia University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The most popular undergraduate majors include Social Sciences, Engineering, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Visual and Performing Arts, and Computer and Information Sciences. Notable graduate schools at Columbia include the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, the Mailman School of Public Health, and the Graduate School of Journalism.
Columbia University Academics
Columbia University is renowned for its Core Curriculum, which provides a solid foundation in the liberal arts and sciences for all undergraduates. Students engage in small-group discussions, seminars, and lectures that challenge them to think critically about the world. The faculty-to-student ratio is 6:1, and about 80% of classes have fewer than 20 students.
Columbia University Diversity
Columbia University is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion on its campus. In Fall 2021, 52% of undergraduate students were people of color, and 17% were international students. The university offers various resources and support programs for underrepresented groups, including the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the International Students and Scholars Office.
Columbia University Students
Columbia University students are known for their intellectual curiosity and activism. The campus has over 500 student clubs and organizations, offering opportunities for students to engage in community service, cultural exploration, and leadership development. The university also supports students’ wellbeing through its robust mental health and wellness programs.
Columbia University Campus
The Columbia University campus is located in the vibrant neighborhood of Morningside Heights, providing students with ample opportunities to explore the rich cultural and social life of New York City. The campus itself is a mix of historic and modern architecture, featuring facilities like the Butler Library, the Wallach Art Gallery, and the Lenfest Center for the Arts.
Columbia University Alumni
Columbia University has a strong alumni network, with graduates making significant contributions in various fields. Notable alumni include Barack Obama (44th U.S. President), Ruth Bader Ginsburg (U.S. Supreme Court Justice), and Warren Buffett (CEO, Berkshire Hathaway).
Columbia University Rankings
Columbia University consistently ranks among the top universities globally. In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings, it is ranked #2 in National Universities, #6 in Best Value Schools, and #12 in Best Global Universities.
Columbia University Outcomes
According to the university’s data, 94% of the Class of 2020 were employed, pursuing further education, or engaged in other activities like fellowships and military service within six months of graduation. The median starting salary for Columbia University graduates is $70,900.
Claremont McKenna College Overview
Claremont McKenna College (CMC) is a private liberal arts college in Claremont, California, known for its strong emphasis on leadership, government, and economics. Founded in 1946, CMC is a member of the Claremont Colleges consortium, which allows students to take courses and access resources at other nearby institutions. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of around 1,300 students and offers over 50 majors and minors.
Claremont McKenna College Costs & Tuition
The estimated cost of attendance at Claremont McKenna College for the 2021-2022 academic year is $77,293, which includes tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses. Financial aid is available, with the average need-based scholarship or grant award being $52,019. CMC is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students.
Claremont McKenna College Admissions
Admission to Claremont McKenna College is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 9.3% for the class of 2025. The middle 50% of admitted students scored between 1370 and 1510 on the SAT and between 31 and 34 on the ACT. The application deadline for Claremont McKenna College is January 5, and the Early Decision deadline is November 1.
Claremont McKenna College Degrees Offered
Claremont McKenna College offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines. The most popular majors include Social Sciences, Business/Managerial Economics, Mathematics and Statistics, Political Science and Government, and Psychology. Students can also choose from various interdisciplinary and off-campus programs, including study abroad opportunities.
Claremont McKenna College Academics
At Claremont McKenna College, students benefit from a rigorous and personalized education that emphasizes critical thinking, hands-on learning, and research opportunities. The faculty-to-student ratio is 8:1, and about 70% of classes have fewer than 20 students. The college’s curriculum is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various fields, including business, government, and nonprofit organizations.
Claremont McKenna College Diversity
Claremont McKenna College is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In Fall 2021, 43% of undergraduate students were people of color, and 10% were international students. The college offers various resources and support programs for underrepresented groups, including the Center for Student Opportunity and the Office of Black Student Affairs.
Claremont McKenna College Students
Students at Claremont McKenna College are known for their intellectual curiosity, leadership skills, and community engagement. The campus has over 130 student clubs and organizations, including community service groups, cultural clubs, and athletic teams. Students also have access to resources and events at the other Claremont Colleges, further enriching their college experience.
Claremont McKenna College Campus
The Claremont McKenna College campus is located in the picturesque city of Claremont, offering students a suburban setting with easy access to Los Angeles. The campus features modern facilities, such as the Kravis Center for academic programs and the Roberts Pavilion for athletics and recreation.
Claremont McKenna College Alumni
Claremont McKenna College has a strong alumni network, with graduates making significant contributions in various fields. Notable alumni include Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (Environmental Lawyer and Activist), Michael C. Horowitz (Political Scientist and Author), and Carol Choi (Entrepreneur and Philanthropist).
Claremont McKenna College Rankings
Claremont McKenna College consistently ranks among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings, it is ranked #6 in National Liberal Arts Colleges, #9 in Best Value Schools, and #35 in Best Undergraduate Teaching.
Claremont McKenna College Outcomes
According to the college’s data, 93% of the Class of 2020 were employed, pursuing further education, or engaged in other activities within six months of graduation. The median starting salary for Claremont McKenna College graduates is $63,200.
Columbia University vs Claremont McKenna College Cost Comparison
Both Columbia University and Claremont McKenna College have similar costs of attendance, with Columbia’s estimated cost at $80,339 and CMC’s at $77,293 for the 2021-2022 academic year. However, financial aid packages differ slightly, with the average need-based scholarship or grant award at Columbia being $58,222 and at CMC being $52,019.
Columbia University vs Claremont McKenna College Admissions Difficulty
Admission to both Columbia University and Claremont McKenna College is highly competitive. Columbia has a lower acceptance rate (6.1%) compared to CMC (9.3%). The middle 50% of admitted students at Columbia scored between 1480 and 1560 on the SAT and between 33 and 35 on the ACT, while those at CMC scored between 1370 and 1510 on the SAT and between 31 and 34 on the ACT.
Columbia University vs Claremont McKenna College Academic Difficulty
Both Columbia University and Claremont McKenna College offer rigorous academic programs, with a focus on critical thinking, research, and hands-on learning experiences. The faculty-to-student ratio at Columbia (6:1) is slightly better than at CMC (8:1), and both institutions have a majority of classes with fewer than 20 students.
Columbia University vs Claremont McKenna College Outcome Comparison
Both institutions have high post-graduation success rates, with 94% of Columbia graduates and 93% of CMC graduates employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. However, the median starting salary for Columbia graduates ($70,900) is higher than that of CMC graduates ($63,200).
