| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Claremont Graduate University (CGU) is a private, graduate-only research university in Claremont, California, USA. It is part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, which includes institutions like Pomona College, Claremont McKenna College, and Harvey Mudd College. Founded in 1925, CGU focuses exclusively on graduate education, offering master’s and doctoral programs across various disciplines.
Graduate-Only University: Unlike most universities, CGU does not have undergraduate programs, allowing for a specialized focus on advanced education and research.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Students can take courses across different schools and disciplines.
Small Class Sizes: Personalized learning with close faculty interaction.
Research-Oriented: Emphasizes applied learning, research, and professional development.
Part of the Claremont Colleges: Students can benefit from shared resources, libraries, and networking opportunities with nearby institutions.
CGU offers programs in various fields, including:
School of Arts & Humanities
Drucker School of Management (named after Peter Drucker, the famous management thinker)
School of Educational Studies
School of Social Science, Policy & Evaluation
Center for Information Systems & Technology
School of Community & Global Health
Institute of Mathematical Sciences
MBA & Management (Drucker School)
Public Health
Psychology & Behavioral Sciences
Education & Leadership
Data Science & Information Systems
Political Science & International Studies
Situated in Claremont, California, about 35 miles east of Los Angeles.
The campus offers a suburban feel with access to major research institutions and industry hubs in Southern California.
Peter Drucker (Renowned management scholar)
Jean Lipman-Blumen (Influential in leadership studies)
Csikszentmihalyi Mihaly (Psychologist known for the concept of "Flow")
Requires a bachelor’s degree for master’s programs.
Typically requires GRE/GMAT (varies by program).
TOEFL/IELTS is needed for international students.
Application deadlines and requirements vary by department.
1. Drucker School of Management
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Executive MBA
MS in Finance
MS in Marketing Analytics
MS in Supply Chain Management
MS in Human Resource Management
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
PhD in Management
Joint MBA programs (with other schools)
2. School of Arts & Humanities
MA & PhD in English
MA & PhD in History
MA & PhD in Philosophy
MA in Cultural Studies
MA in Applied Women’s & Gender Studies
MA in Religion
PhD in Religion & Theology
MS in Museum Studies
Dual-degree programs available
3. School of Social Science, Policy & Evaluation
MA & PhD in Political Science
MA & PhD in Economics
MA in Public Policy (MPP)
MA in International Studies
MA in Positive Organizational Psychology
PhD in Positive Developmental Psychology
MA in Human Resource Development
PhD in Evaluation & Applied Research
4. School of Educational Studies
MA in Education
PhD in Education
Teacher Education & Credentialing Programs
MA in Higher Education Leadership
EdD in Educational Leadership
MA & PhD in Special Education
5. Center for Information Systems & Technology (CISAT)
MS in Information Systems & Technology
MS in Data Science & Analytics
MS in Cybersecurity & Network Engineering
PhD in Information Systems & Technology
MS in Computational Analytics
6. School of Community & Global Health
Master of Public Health (MPH)
PhD in Health Promotion Sciences
MS in Health Analytics
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
7. Institute of Mathematical Sciences
MS & PhD in Mathematics
MS in Financial Engineering
MS in Computational & Data Science
8. Transdisciplinary Studies Program
Interdisciplinary programs across multiple fields
Certificate & customized courses available
Dual-Degree & Interdisciplinary Programs
CGU allows students to combine degrees from different schools, such as:
MBA + MS in Information Systems
MBA + MA in Economics
MPH + MS in Health Informatics
PhD in Education + MA in Public Policy
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MBA (Master of Business Administration) |
2 years |
$51,660 |
|
Executive MBA |
2 years |
$51,660 |
|
MS in Finance |
1-2 years |
$51,660 |
|
MS in Marketing Analytics |
1-2 years |
$51,660 |
|
MS in Supply Chain Management |
1-2 years |
$51,660 |
|
MS in Human Resource Management |
1-2 years |
$51,660 |
|
MA in English |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in History |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in Philosophy |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in Cultural Studies |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in Religion |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Museum Studies |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in Political Science |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in Public Policy (MPP) |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in International Studies |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in Positive Organizational Psychology |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in Human Resource Development |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MA in Education |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Information Systems & Technology |
1.5-2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Data Science & Analytics |
1.5-2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Cybersecurity & Network Engineering |
1.5-2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Computational Analytics |
1.5-2 years |
$39,240 |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Health Analytics |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Mathematics |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Financial Engineering |
2 years |
$39,240 |
|
MS in Computational & Data Science |
2 years |
$39,240 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Management |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) |
3-5 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Economics |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Political Science |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Evaluation & Applied Research |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Positive Developmental Psychology |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Education |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership |
3-5 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in English |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in History |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Philosophy |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Religion & Theology |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Cultural Studies |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Public Health (Health Promotion Sciences) |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Information Systems & Technology |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Computational & Data Science |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
|
PhD in Mathematics |
4-6 years |
$39,240 |
Graduate-Only Focus – Small class sizes and direct faculty interaction
Part of Claremont Colleges – Access to shared resources and networks
Flexible Learning – Full-time, part-time, and evening class options
STEM Programs – Some programs qualify for OPT & STEM OPT extension
Scholarships & Funding – Merit-based financial aid available
Diverse Student Body – International student community from over 50 countries
1. Academic Requirements
A recognized bachelor’s degree for master’s programs
A master’s degree (or equivalent) for PhD programs
Minimum GPA: Varies by program (typically 3.0 on a 4.0 scale)
2. English Language Proficiency (For non-native speakers)
CGU accepts the following test scores:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 95
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 125
(Exemptions may apply if you studied in an English-speaking country)
3. Standardized Tests (Varies by Program)
GRE/GMAT (Not required for all programs; check specific department requirements)
MBA Programs: GMAT/GRE may be required but can be waived based on work experience
PhD Programs: GRE may be required for some fields
4. Supporting Documents
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
Resume/CV
Official Transcripts (Translated into English if necessary)
Portfolio (For Arts & Design Programs, if applicable)
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Explore CGU’s Master’s, PhD, and dual-degree programs from various schools:
Drucker School of Management (MBA, MS, PhD in Management)
School of Arts & Humanities (MA, PhD in English, History, Philosophy)
School of Social Science, Policy & Evaluation (Political Science, Public Policy, Psychology)
School of Educational Studies (MA, PhD in Education)
Center for Information Systems & Technology (Data Science, Cybersecurity, IT)
School of Community & Global Health (Public Health, Health Analytics)
Find your program on CGU’s website to check specific admission requirements.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
CGU has general requirements, but some programs may have additional criteria.
General Admission Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree (For Master’s programs) / Master’s Degree (For PhD programs)
Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) (Varies by program)
English Proficiency (For international students)
Standardized Test Scores (Depends on the program)
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Resume/CV
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
1. Online Application Form
Submit the CGU online application through their official portal.
Pay the non-refundable application fee ($80).
2. Official Transcripts
Must be from all post-secondary institutions attended.
International students must provide translated and evaluated transcripts (if needed).
3. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 95
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 125
(May be waived if you have studied in an English-speaking country.)
4. Standardized Tests (Varies by Program)
GMAT or GRE (Required for some MBA & PhD programs; may be waived)
GRE: Some arts, humanities, and social sciences programs may require it.
MAT (Miller Analogies Test): Required for some Education programs.
5. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
A 2-3 page essay explaining academic goals, research interests, and why you want to study at CGU.
6. Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
2-3 letters from professors, employers, or mentors who can assess your academic/work potential.
7. Resume/CV
Required for MBA, PhD, and professional programs to showcase work experience and skills.
8. Portfolio (For Arts & Design Programs)
Required for Fine Arts, Museum Studies, and Design programs.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Apply online via CGU’s admission portal.
Upload all required documents before the deadline.
Pay the $80 application fee (Non-refundable).
Step 5: Track Your Application Status
After submission, check your email and CGU portal for updates.
The admissions office may request additional documents or interviews.
Step 6: Receive Admission Decision
CGU has rolling admissions, but decisions may take 4-8 weeks.
If accepted, you will receive an admission offer letter via email.
International students will receive a Form I-20 (for visa processing).
Step 7: Accept Admission & Pay Deposit
Confirm your spot by paying the enrollment deposit (varies by program).
Start preparing for housing, financial aid, and visa (if applicable).
Intake Term |
Application Deadlines |
Programs Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August/September) |
Priority: January - March |
All Master’s & PhD programs |
|
Spring (January) |
Priority: October - November |
Limited programs |
|
Summer (May/June) |
Varies by program |
Select Master’s & Certificate programs |
|
Rolling Admissions |
Year-round |
Some programs accept applications anytime |
Deadlines vary by department, so check specific program pages on CGU’s website.
For Master’s Programs:
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution
Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program)
No specific work experience required (except for MBA/Executive programs)
For PhD Programs:
A master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
Strong research background
Minimum GPA of 3.0 – 3.5 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program)
Some PhD programs may require faculty approval for research alignment
For Executive & Professional Programs (MBA, DBA, etc.):
Bachelor’s degree
2-5 years of professional work experience (preferred)
GRE/GMAT may be waived for experienced applicants
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Based on academic excellence (GPA 3.5+), leadership, and professional experience |
Partial to full tuition coverage |
All Master's & PhD programs |
|
Presidential Fellowship |
Exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential |
Up to full tuition |
PhD students |
|
Claremont Colleges Fellowships |
Offered to students from underrepresented backgrounds |
(Partial tuition) |
Master’s & PhD programs |
|
Drucker School of Management Scholarships |
High-achieving business students with leadership potential |
(Partial tuition) |
MBA & Management programs |
|
School of Educational Studies Scholarships |
Students pursuing careers in education, teaching, or policy |
Partial tuition funding |
MA & PhD in Education |
|
Public Health & Community Health Fellowships |
Students in public health, global health, or community health |
Partial tuition coverage |
MPH, MS in Health Analytics, DrPH |
|
Research & Teaching Assistantships (TA/RA Positions) |
Students assisting faculty with research or teaching |
Stipend + Partial tuition waiver |
Master’s & PhD students |
|
Diversity Fellowship |
Underrepresented students in STEM, social sciences, and humanities |
N/A |
Master’s & PhD students |
|
International Student Scholarships |
Merit-based awards for high-achieving international students |
(Partial tuition) |
All programs |
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Libraries |
Access to The Claremont Colleges Library, with extensive research materials, study spaces, and digital resources. |
|
Student Center |
Spaces for networking, social events, and student activities. |
|
Fitness & Recreation |
Gym, swimming pool, sports fields, and fitness classes. |
|
Dining Services |
Dining halls, cafés, and restaurants in Claremont Village. |
|
Technology & Research Labs |
Computer labs, research centers, and advanced technology support. |
|
Career Services |
Job placement, internships, career counseling, and resume workshops. |
|
Healthcare Services |
Access to Claremont University Consortium Health Center for medical services. |
|
Public Transportation |
Easy access to LA Metro, buses, and Metrolink trains to Los Angeles. |
Housing Type |
Location |
Room Type |
Cost Per Month (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CGU On-Campus Apartments |
On CGU Campus |
Single Room |
$1,200 – $1,500 |
$14,400 – $18,000 |
|
Claremont Collegiate Apartments (CCA) |
Near Claremont Colleges |
Studio / 1-Bedroom |
$1,400 – $1,700 |
$16,800 – $20,400 |
|
Shared Apartments (Off-Campus) |
Claremont Area |
Shared Room |
$800 – $1,200 |
$9,600 – $14,400 |
|
Private Apartments (Off-Campus) |
Claremont, Upland, Pomona |
1-Bedroom Apartment |
$1,600 – $2,000 |
$19,200 – $24,000 |
|
Homestay (With Local Families) |
Locations |
Private Room |
$900 – $1,300 (includes meals) |
$10,800 – $15,600 |
CGU is located in Claremont, California, a safe and scenic town about 35 miles east of Los Angeles. It offers a small, tight-knit academic community with access to shared resources from The Claremont Colleges Consortium, including libraries, research centers, and student events.
Small Class Sizes – Encourages close faculty-student interaction and research collaborations.
Research Opportunities – Many programs emphasize hands-on research and real-world applications.
Career Services – Provides workshops, networking events, internships, and career counseling.
Teaching & Research Assistantships – Opportunities for students to work with faculty and gain experience.
CGU has numerous student organizations covering academic, cultural, and professional interests, including:
Graduate Student Council (GSC) – Represents student interests and organizes campus events.
International Student Association – Helps international students adjust to life at CGU.
Women in Leadership – Empowers women in business, academia, and research.
Data Science Club – Focuses on networking and learning in the field of analytics.
Drucker Business Club – Supports students in management and entrepreneurship.
Campus Gym & Recreation Center – Access to fitness facilities, yoga classes, and sports activities.
The Claremont Colleges Athletic Facilities – Shared sports fields, tennis courts, and swimming pools.
Student Health Services – Medical and mental health support through The Claremont Colleges’ Health Center.
Workshops & Conferences – Regular academic discussions, guest lectures, and industry events.
Networking Mixers – Opportunities to connect with alumni, faculty, and business leaders.
Cultural Festivals & International Nights – Showcasing diversity within the student body.
Outdoor Activities – Close proximity to hiking, beaches, and entertainment in Los Angeles.
On-Campus Dining – Cafés and dining halls shared with The Claremont Colleges.
Nearby Restaurants – A variety of food options in Claremont Village, including international cuisine.
Grocery Stores – Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and local markets within a short distance.
Public Transport – Easy access to Metrolink trains and buses for travel to Los Angeles and nearby areas.
Bike-Friendly Campus – Many students use bicycles to commute.
Parking Available – On-campus and street parking options for students with cars.
CGU students have access to Los Angeles-based industries, including tech, business, healthcare, and government sectors.
Internships & Research Roles – Many graduate programs offer hands-on work experience.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Allows international students to intern while studying.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – Work authorization after graduation for up to 12 months (STEM students get an additional 24-month extension).
Average Salary for CGU Graduates: $75,000 – $120,000 per year (varies by program & industry).
Placement Rate: Around 85-90% of graduates secure jobs within 6 months of graduation.
Top Hiring Industries:
Business & Finance
Technology & Data Science
Healthcare & Public Health
Government & Public Policy
Education & Research
Marketing & Consulting
CGU offers personalized career assistance through its Career Development Office, including:
Career Counseling & Resume Workshops – One-on-one sessions for career planning.
Internships & Work-Study Programs – Opportunities with top employers in California.
On-Campus Job Fairs & Networking Events – Connect with recruiters and alumni.
Employer Partnerships – Collaborations with global companies & startups.
Alumni Network – Strong industry connections in Los Angeles, Silicon Valley, and beyond.
CGU graduates are employed by leading companies, government agencies, and research institutions, including:
Tech & Data Science: Google, Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, Meta
Finance & Consulting: Deloitte, PwC, Goldman Sachs, EY, KPMG
Healthcare & Public Health: Kaiser Permanente, WHO, CDC, Blue Shield of California
Education & Research: Harvard University, Stanford University, RAND Corporation
Government & Public Policy: United Nations, U.S. State Department, World Bank
F-1 Visa Holders (International Students) Can Apply For:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Work authorization for internships while studying.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – 12-month post-graduation work permit.
STEM OPT Extension – Additional 24 months of work authorization for STEM graduates.
Program |
Average Salary (Annual, USD) |
|---|---|
|
MBA (Drucker School of Management) |
$90,000 – $130,000 |
|
MS in Information Systems & Technology |
$85,000 – $120,000 |
|
PhD in Management & Economics |
$100,000+ |
|
MA/PhD in Education |
$65,000 – $95,000 |
|
MPH (Public Health) |
$75,000 – $110,000 |
|
MS in Data Science & Analytics |
$90,000 – $130,000 |
Salaries vary based on experience, industry, and location.
Claremont Graduate University (CGU) has a high acceptance rate, typically around 60% to 70%, as it focuses on graduate-level education and evaluates applicants based on academic qualifications, research potential, and professional experience.
CGU’s admissions process is competitive but holistic, considering:
Academic Record: Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) preferred.
Standardized Tests: GRE/GMAT is optional or waived for many programs.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Strong personal statement is important.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs): 2-3 required from professors or employers.
Work Experience: Required for MBA, Executive, and Professional Programs.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 95+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 125+
Programs like Business, Data Science, and Public Health may have lower acceptance rates due to high demand.
Address:
Claremont Graduate University (CGU)
150 E 10th St, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
City: Claremont, California
State: California
Region: Southern California
Nearest Major City: Los Angeles (35 miles east)
Nearby Airports:
Ontario International Airport (ONT) – 10 miles (~15 min drive)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – 50 miles (~1-hour drive)
