| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Pitzer College is a private liberal arts college located in Claremont, California, USA. It is one of the five undergraduate colleges that make up the Claremont Colleges Consortium, which also includes Pomona College, Claremont McKenna College, Harvey Mudd College, and Scripps College. Founded in 1963, Pitzer is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education, focus on social justice, environmental sustainability, and its student-centered, inclusive community.
Interdisciplinary and Customizable Curriculum:
Pitzer emphasizes interdisciplinary education and allows students to design their own majors, giving them the flexibility to tailor their academic journey.
It incorporates social responsibility, environmental awareness, and intercultural understanding into its curriculum.
Membership in the Claremont Colleges Consortium:
Students at Pitzer can take classes, access facilities, and participate in events across the other Claremont Colleges, offering the resources of a large university while maintaining the personalized attention of a small college.
Focus on Sustainability and Environmentalism:
Pitzer is recognized as a leader in sustainability and has achieved milestones like becoming carbon neutral.
The campus features green buildings, solar panels, and community gardens.
Community Engagement and Social Justice:
Pitzer places a strong emphasis on social justice, encouraging students to engage with their communities and address social issues.
Many programs focus on hands-on learning through internships, activism, and research.
Location: Claremont, California (35 miles east of Los Angeles)
Founded: 1963
Type: Private Liberal Arts College
Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 1,000 students
Campus Size: 35 acres
Motto: Provida Futuri (Mindful of the Future)
Pitzer offers 40+ majors across various disciplines, and students can also design their own majors. Popular areas of study include:
Environmental Analysis
Psychology
Political Studies
Media Studies
Anthropology
Sociology
Biology
Interdisciplinary Approach: Students are encouraged to explore connections across disciplines.
Study Abroad: Over 50% of Pitzer students participate in study abroad programs, with access to over 60 programs worldwide.
Faculty-Student Ratio: 10:1, ensuring personalized attention and close mentoring.
Pitzer College is considered selective in its admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 17-20% in recent years. It is a test-optional college, meaning that SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.
High School Transcript: Strong academic performance is essential.
Personal Essay: A strong statement of purpose or essay highlighting your values and goals.
Letters of Recommendation: From teachers or counselors.
Optional: SAT/ACT scores (only if the student chooses to submit them).
Supplemental Questions: Applicants are asked to reflect on how their values align with Pitzer’s core values (social responsibility, intercultural understanding, and environmental sustainability).
Tuition (2023-2024): Approximately $61,000 per year.
Room and Board: Around $19,000 per year.
Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $80,000 per year.
Pitzer College is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students.
Offers both need-based aid and merit-based scholarships.
Around 40% of students receive financial aid.
Diverse and Inclusive Community:
Pitzer is known for its commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity.
Nearly 30% of students are from underrepresented groups, and 14% are international students.
Residential Campus:
Most students live on-campus in sustainable, eco-friendly dormitories.
The residence halls are designed to encourage collaboration and community.
Clubs and Organizations:
Pitzer offers 100+ student-run clubs and organizations focusing on a wide range of interests, including arts, politics, activism, and sports.
Social Justice and Activism:
The campus culture strongly emphasizes activism, with many students engaged in addressing issues like climate change, racial equity, and human rights.
Arts and Media:
Pitzer has robust programs in visual arts, media studies, and creative writing, with opportunities for students to showcase their work.
Access to Claremont Colleges:
Students can participate in extracurricular activities, athletics, and organizations across all five colleges.
Beautiful Campus:
Pitzer’s 35-acre campus features sustainable architecture, native landscaping, and open spaces designed for collaboration and reflection.
Proximity to Los Angeles:
Located just 35 miles from Los Angeles, students have access to the city’s vibrant arts, cultural, and professional opportunities.
Outdoor Activities:
Close to beaches, mountains, and deserts, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor adventures.
Pitzer is a leader in environmental sustainability and has been recognized as one of the greenest colleges in the U.S.:
Carbon Neutrality: Pitzer became carbon neutral in 2020.
Sustainable Campus Features: Solar panels, drought-tolerant landscaping, and LEED-certified buildings.
Curriculum Integration: Environmental sustainability is woven into academic programs and campus life.
Career Services:
Pitzer offers individualized career counseling, resume workshops, networking events, and internships.
Access to the Claremont Colleges Career Services Center provides additional resources.
Notable Alumni:
Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (Former U.S. Congresswoman).
Anne Archer (Academy Award-nominated actress).
John Landgraf (Chairman of FX Networks).
U.S. News & World Report: Ranked among the Top 35 National Liberal Arts Colleges.
The Princeton Review: Consistently recognized for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
Below is a detailed list of academic majors, minors, and special programs offered at Pitzer College:
1. Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Science (Interdisciplinary with a focus on ecology, conservation, and sustainability)
Neuroscience
Physics
Mathematics
2. Social Sciences
Anthropology
Economics
Political Studies (focus on government, political theory, and global issues)
Psychology
Sociology
Organizational Studies (Interdisciplinary program blending economics, sociology, and business principles)
3. Humanities
English and World Literature
History
Philosophy
Religious Studies
4. Arts
Art (Studio Art, Art History)
Media Studies (Film, Digital Media, and Cultural Critique)
Music
Theater (Offered in collaboration with other Claremont Colleges)
5. Interdisciplinary and Special Programs
Environmental Analysis (Integrating sciences, social sciences, and humanities for sustainability and environmental issues)
International Political Economy (Exploring the global economy and its social impacts)
Science, Technology, and Society (Examining the relationship between scientific advances, technological development, and society)
Chicana/o-Latina/o Transnational Studies
African American Studies
Asian American Studies
Gender and Feminist Studies
Global/Local Interconnections (Focus on globalization and local identities)
6. Special Individualized Major (SIM)
Pitzer offers students the ability to design their own custom major, allowing them to combine courses across disciplines or focus on specific areas of interest.
Pitzer offers minors in all major areas and additional interdisciplinary areas. Students can also pursue minors from other Claremont Colleges.
Examples include:
Critical Global Studies
Media Studies
Public Health
Sustainability and the Built Environment
Creative Writing
Pitzer offers one of the most robust study abroad programs among liberal arts colleges, with over 60+ programs worldwide, emphasizing intercultural understanding.
Students can also participate in off-campus programs such as:
Pitzer in Botswana (Focus on community-based conservation).
Pitzer in Costa Rica (Focus on sustainable development and environmental studies).
Pitzer in Italy (Focus on art, history, and culture).
Community-Based Research and Learning: Students work with local communities to address social issues.
Environmental Sustainability Programs: Pitzer’s strong focus on environmental education is reflected in courses across multiple disciplines.
Social Justice and Activism: Courses and programs focus on social equity, human rights, and community engagement.
Pitzer collaborates with other institutions to offer joint or accelerated degree programs, such as:
3-2 Engineering Program:
Students spend three years at Pitzer and two years at Columbia University or another partner school to earn both a liberal arts degree and an engineering degree.
Pre-Health and Pre-Medical Studies:
Pitzer supports students pursuing careers in healthcare through advising and access to courses at the Claremont Colleges.
Joint Science Department:
The Joint Science Department serves Pitzer, Claremont McKenna, and Scripps Colleges and offers courses in biology, chemistry, and physics.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Anthropology |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Art (Studio Art, Art History) |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Chicana/o-Latina/o Transnational Studies |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
English and World Literature |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Environmental Analysis |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Gender and Feminist Studies |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Global/Local Interconnections |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
History |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
International Political Economy |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Media Studies |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Organizational Studies |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Political Studies |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Religious Studies |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Science, Technology, and Society |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$61,706 |
|
Theater |
4 years |
$61,706 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx.) in USD |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Education |
4-7 years |
$49,000 |
|
PhD in Psychology |
4-6 years |
$49,000 |
|
PhD in Economics |
4-6 years |
$49,000 |
|
PhD in History |
4-6 years |
$49,000 |
|
PhD in Political Science |
4-6 years |
$49,000 |
|
PhD in Public Policy & Evaluation |
4-6 years |
$49,000 |
|
PhD in Religion |
4-6 years |
$49,000 |
|
PhD in Arts & Humanities |
4-6 years |
$49,000 |
Inclusive and Multicultural Community:
International students are an integral part of the college's diverse community, with students from more than 20 countries enrolled.
The campus environment emphasizes cultural exchange and global citizenship, aligning with Pitzer's core values.
Small Class Sizes and Individual Attention:
With a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, international students receive personalized attention, mentoring, and academic guidance.
Flexible Curriculum:
International students can design their own majors or choose interdisciplinary programs to suit their interests and career goals.
Access to the Claremont Colleges Consortium:
Students can take courses, access libraries, and participate in activities at the Claremont Colleges, providing the benefits of a large university while retaining the small liberal arts college experience.
Sustainability and Social Justice:
Pitzer’s strong focus on environmental sustainability and social justice attracts international students passionate about making a global impact.
International students at Pitzer can choose from more than 40 majors and minors. Some of the most popular programs include:
Environmental Analysis
Media Studies
International Political Economy
Psychology
Anthropology
Sociology
Economics
Gender and Feminist Studies
Additionally, students can design their own Special Individualized Major (SIM) to explore interdisciplinary fields.
1. Choose an Application Platform
Pitzer College accepts applications through the following platforms:
Common Application
Coalition Application
A $70 application fee is required for submission, though fee waivers are available for eligible students.
2. Submit Required Application Materials
The application process includes the submission of several documents:
For Domestic and International Undergraduate Students:
Completed Application Form:
Either the Common App or Coalition App.
Official High School Transcripts:
Must show all completed coursework and grades through junior year.
International students must submit transcripts in English (official translations required if necessary).
School Report Form:
A document completed by your high school counselor, submitted directly to Pitzer.
Teacher Recommendations:
Two letters of recommendation from teachers who can speak to your academic ability and character.
Personal Essay:
Pitzer requires a personal essay as part of the Common App or Coalition App.
Pitzer Supplemental Questions:
These short-answer questions are an opportunity to reflect on how your values align with Pitzer’s core values:
Social Responsibility
Environmental Sustainability
Intercultural Understanding
Optional SAT/ACT Scores:
Pitzer is test-optional, meaning you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores for admission.
If you believe your scores strengthen your application, you may submit them.
Additional Requirements for International Students:
English Language Proficiency:
If English is not your first language, submit one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 120.
Financial Documentation (if applying for financial aid):
Submit the CSS Profile to demonstrate financial need.
Pitzer is need-aware for international students, which means financial need is considered during the admission process.
Pitzer College offers several application plans. It’s important to select the one that aligns with your preferences:
Application Plan |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I (Binding) |
November 15 |
Mid-December |
|
Early Decision II (Binding) |
January 1 |
Mid-February |
|
Regular Decision |
January 1 |
Late March |
|
Transfer Admission |
April 1 (Fall Start) |
Rolling Decisions |
Early Decision is a binding agreement, meaning if you are accepted, you must enroll at Pitzer and withdraw all other applications.
Pitzer encourages students to schedule an optional interview with an admissions representative, either virtually or in person.
Interviews allow applicants to demonstrate their passion, character, and alignment with Pitzer’s mission.
After submitting your application, you can track your application status via Pitzer’s Applicant Portal, where you'll receive updates and decisions.
Test-Optional Policy
Since Pitzer is test-optional, applicants are evaluated on factors beyond test scores, such as:
Academic Rigor: The strength of your high school curriculum.
Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership roles, community engagement, and unique talents.
Personal Values: How you demonstrate social responsibility and commitment to Pitzer’s values.
Holistic Review Process
Pitzer’s admissions team uses a holistic review process, considering:
Academic performance.
Personal essays and supplemental responses.
Teacher and counselor recommendations.
Alignment with Pitzer’s mission and values.
Artistic and Creative Supplements
Students interested in arts (visual arts, theater, music, or media studies) may submit portfolios or creative work as part of their application through the SlideRoom portal.
Pitzer College offers admissions for undergraduate programs in the following application cycles:
Application Plan |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I (Binding) |
November 15 |
Mid-December |
|
Early Decision II (Binding) |
January 1 |
Mid-February |
|
Regular Decision |
January 1 |
Late March |
|
Transfer Admission |
April 1 (Fall Start) |
Rolling Decisions |
Early Decision (ED I and II):
Binding Agreement: If admitted under ED, the student must enroll at Pitzer and withdraw all other college applications.
ED applicants generally have a higher acceptance rate compared to Regular Decision applicants because it signals strong commitment to Pitzer.
Regular Decision:
For students who want to apply to multiple colleges and keep their options open.
Applicants receive decisions in late March and must confirm enrollment by May 1.
Transfer Admission:
Transfer applications are accepted for the Fall semester only.
Deadlines are April 1, with decisions announced on a rolling basis.
To apply for admission, students must meet the following academic and personal qualifications:
Academic Requirements:
High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have completed secondary school or high school with strong academic performance.
GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale is recommended. Competitive applicants often have higher GPAs.
Challenging Curriculum: Pitzer values students who have taken rigorous coursework, such as AP, IB, Honors, or equivalent advanced-level courses.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
Pitzer College is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. However, applicants may submit scores if they believe it strengthens their application.
Typical score ranges for those who submit:
SAT: 1360-1500 (Middle 50%)
ACT: 30-33 (Middle 50%)
Extracurricular Activities:
Active participation in community service, leadership roles, sports, arts, or activism is highly valued.
Pitzer looks for students who demonstrate a commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and community engagement.
Personal Essay and Supplemental Questions:
Applicants are required to submit a personal essay (via Common App or Coalition App) and responses to Pitzer-specific supplemental questions that highlight their alignment with the college’s mission and values.
Letters of Recommendation:
Two letters of recommendation are required:
One from a high school counselor.
One from a teacher who knows the applicant well.
International students must meet the same academic requirements as domestic applicants, with a few additional steps:
English Language Proficiency:
If English is not the applicant’s first language, they must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 120.
Exemptions: Students who have completed at least 2 years of study in an English-medium school may qualify for a waiver.
Financial Documentation:
International students applying for financial aid must submit the CSS Profile to demonstrate financial need.
Applicants must also provide documentation proving their ability to cover tuition and living expenses if not applying for financial aid (for I-20 processing and visa purposes).
Study Visa:
Upon acceptance, international students will receive an I-20 form to apply for an F-1 student visa.
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Rank/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Liberal Arts Colleges |
Top 35 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Most Innovative Schools |
Top 10 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Teaching |
Top 50 |
|
The Princeton Review |
Green Colleges (Sustainability) |
Top 10 |
|
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Top 150 |
|
Forbes |
Top Liberal Arts Colleges |
Top 50 |
|
Niche.com |
Best Colleges for Environmental Science |
Top 15 |
|
Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education |
U.S. College Rankings (Overall) |
Top 150 |
|
College Consensus |
Best Colleges in California |
Top 20 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year) |
Applicable To |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Pitzer Merit Scholarship |
Exceptional academic performance, leadership, and talent. |
Up to $5,000 - $10,000 |
All incoming undergraduate students |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Based on demonstrated financial need through the CSS Profile. |
(Up to full tuition) |
Domestic and international students |
|
Pell Grant (Federal) |
U.S. students with financial need as determined by the FAFSA. |
Up to $7,395 |
Undergraduate students (U.S. citizens) |
|
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) |
U.S. students with exceptional financial need (FAFSA required). |
Up to $4,000 |
Undergraduate students (U.S. citizens) |
|
Outside Scholarships |
Scholarships from external organizations, nonprofits, or private groups. |
(Up to full cost) |
All students (domestic & international) |
|
Claremont Colleges Scholarships |
Need- or merit-based scholarships from the Claremont Consortium. |
N/A |
Students enrolled in Pitzer or Claremont Colleges |
|
Pitzer Named Scholarships |
Specific scholarships endowed by donors, awarded based on academic performance or specific criteria. |
(Partial to full tuition) |
Undergraduate students |
|
Pitzer Work-Study Program |
Students with financial need (domestic and international) can work on campus to earn additional funds. |
Up to $2,500 - $3,500 per year |
Domestic and international students |
1. Close-Knit and Inclusive Community
With a small student body of approximately 1,000 undergraduates, Pitzer fosters a close-knit community where students, faculty, and staff build strong relationships.
The college values diversity and inclusivity, with nearly 20% international and multicultural students, creating a rich cultural exchange.
2. Residential Campus Experience
Pitzer is a residential college, and most students live on campus in sustainable, eco-friendly dorms. Living on campus promotes a sense of community and collaboration.
Residence halls often foster interest-based communities, such as sustainability-focused housing, where students share a passion for the environment.
Housing facilities are modern, comfortable, and designed with LEED-certification for energy efficiency.
3. Engagement Through Clubs and Organizations
Students at Pitzer can participate in 100+ student-run clubs and organizations, covering a variety of interests such as:
Social activism and advocacy.
Environmental sustainability initiatives.
Performing arts, theater, and music.
Academic and professional groups, such as pre-health societies and entrepreneurship clubs.
Clubs often collaborate across the Claremont Colleges, giving students access to an even larger network of opportunities.
4. Focus on Social Justice and Activism
Pitzer’s culture emphasizes activism, encouraging students to engage with their communities and work toward social change.
Students are actively involved in campaigns related to climate change, racial justice, gender equity, and immigration rights.
The college provides community-based learning opportunities, where students collaborate with local organizations to address real-world challenges.
5. Environmental Leadership
Pitzer is widely recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability, both in academics and campus life.
Students lead initiatives to reduce waste, promote renewable energy, and conserve natural resources.
The campus features LEED-certified buildings, solar panels, drought-tolerant landscaping, and community gardens.
6. Access to the Claremont Colleges Consortium
As part of the Claremont Colleges Consortium, Pitzer students can take courses, join clubs, attend events, and access resources at neighboring colleges:
Pomona College
Claremont McKenna College
Harvey Mudd College
Scripps College
This collaboration greatly expands the academic, social, and extracurricular opportunities available to Pitzer students.
7. Arts and Creative Expression
Pitzer encourages creative expression and supports students in exploring the arts.
The Pitzer Art Galleries host exhibitions, while students interested in studio art, photography, or design have access to workshops and spaces.
Collaborative art projects and performances often take place across the Claremont Colleges.
8. Study Abroad and Global Engagement
Over 50% of Pitzer students participate in study abroad programs, reflecting the college’s emphasis on intercultural understanding.
Pitzer offers programs in locations like Costa Rica, Italy, China, South Africa, and Botswana, focusing on themes such as environmental conservation, sustainable development, and cultural studies.
International students bring global perspectives, enriching campus life.
9. Academic and Professional Development
Pitzer offers students numerous opportunities for research, internships, and career development:
Career Services helps students secure internships and full-time positions in fields such as public policy, media, environmental science, and more.
Access to resources from the Claremont Colleges expands networking and career opportunities.
10. Events and Activities
The campus regularly hosts events such as:
Speakers and Panels: Thought leaders and experts speak on topics ranging from environmental policy to global politics.
Cultural Festivals: Students celebrate diversity through events such as International Education Week, Lunar New Year, and cultural nights.
Outdoor Adventures: Given the sunny Southern California weather, students participate in hiking, beach outings, camping trips, and other outdoor activities.
11. Health and Wellness
Pitzer prioritizes the physical and mental well-being of its students:
The Claremont Colleges Health and Counseling Services provides free or low-cost health care and mental health support.
Wellness programs include meditation workshops, yoga classes, and stress-relief activities.
12. Location Advantage: Claremont, California
Claremont is a charming college town located 35 miles east of Los Angeles. Students have access to a quiet, safe environment, with opportunities to explore:
Downtown Claremont’s cafes, shops, and art galleries.
Los Angeles' vast cultural, career, and entertainment options, which are just a short drive away.
Nearby beaches, mountains, and deserts, offering opportunities for skiing, surfing, and hiking.
13. Sports and Recreation
Pitzer College collaborates with Pomona College to field athletic teams under the name Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens, competing in the NCAA Division III.
Students can participate in varsity sports, intramural leagues, or recreational fitness activities, with access to top-tier facilities like gyms, pools, and courts.
Pitzer College has an excellent track record for graduates finding success in their chosen fields, with 92% of students employed, in graduate school, or completing service work (e.g., AmeriCorps, Peace Corps) within six months of graduation.
Pitzer graduates work across a wide range of industries, including:
Environmental and Sustainability Fields: Environmental consulting, renewable energy, conservation, and policy.
Nonprofit and Social Justice Organizations: Many graduates pursue careers in advocacy, community organizing, and nonprofit management.
Education: Teaching roles, educational policy, and leadership positions in academia.
Business and Finance: Roles in marketing, consulting, finance, and entrepreneurship.
Media and Communication: Journalism, public relations, and creative industries such as film and design.
Healthcare: Healthcare administration, public health, and pre-medical tracks leading to graduate studies.
Technology and STEM: Data analysis, technology startups, and research positions.
Pitzer College emphasizes hands-on learning and encourages students to engage in internships, research projects, and service-based learning.
1. Internships
Over 80% of Pitzer students complete at least one internship during their undergraduate studies.
Internships are often facilitated by the Pitzer Career Services Office, as well as through connections with the Claremont Colleges Consortium.
Fields for internships include:
Environmental consulting firms.
Nonprofit organizations.
Startups and corporate offices in nearby Los Angeles.
Government agencies and research centers.
2. Career Services and Support
Career Services Office: Provides students with:
Resume and cover letter workshops.
Networking opportunities with alumni.
Personalized career counseling.
Assistance with securing internships, jobs, or graduate school admission.
Handshake Platform: Pitzer students have access to Handshake, an online job portal for internships, part-time, and full-time positions.
3. Claremont Colleges Career Center:
Pitzer students benefit from the Claremont Colleges Career Center, which connects all five colleges in the consortium (Pomona, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, Scripps, and Pitzer) to shared career resources.
Students have access to career fairs, employer recruitment events, and alumni mentoring opportunities across all colleges.
Many Pitzer students pursue graduate or professional degrees after completing their bachelor's degree. Pitzer's emphasis on research, community engagement, and interdisciplinary learning prepares students for competitive programs at top universities.
Top Graduate Schools Attended by Pitzer Alumni:
Harvard University
Stanford University
Columbia University
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Yale University
University of Chicago
London School of Economics
Fields for Graduate Studies:
Law (Juris Doctor - JD)
Medicine (MD or Public Health)
Business (MBA)
Environmental Science
Psychology and Counseling
Social Work
Arts and Humanities
Pitzer graduates work in a variety of industries and organizations, with many going on to positions that reflect the college's emphasis on social responsibility and environmental sustainability. Some top employers include:
Environmental and Nonprofit Organizations:
Sierra Club
Environmental Defense Fund
Greenpeace
Peace Corps
Teach For America
Corporate and Technology Companies:
Apple
Deloitte
Amazon
Microsoft
Media and Communications:
NPR
The Los Angeles Times
Warner Bros.
Vox Media
Public Policy and Government:
U.S. Department of State
Local and state government agencies
United Nations
The acceptance rate of Pitzer College, USA, is approximately 17-20%, making it a highly selective institution. Pitzer’s admissions process is competitive and focuses on selecting students who align with the college’s core values of social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and intercultural understanding.
Holistic Admissions Process:
Pitzer evaluates applicants based on more than just academics. The admissions process takes into account:
High school GPA and coursework rigor.
Extracurricular involvement.
Personal essays and supplemental questions (focused on values like social justice, sustainability, and community engagement).
Letters of recommendation.
Test scores (SAT/ACT) are optional but can be submitted if they strengthen the application.
Small Student Body:
Pitzer has a small enrollment of approximately 1,000 undergraduate students, and the limited number of seats adds to the selectivity of the admissions process.
Alignment with Core Values:
Pitzer prioritizes applicants who demonstrate a commitment to its mission, making traits like community involvement, activism, and leadership critical in the application process.
Acceptance Rate: 17-20%.
Middle 50% GPA: Applicants typically have a 3.8-4.0 (unweighted) high school GPA.
Middle 50% SAT/ACT Scores (Optional):
SAT: 1360-1500.
ACT: 30-33.
(Test-optional since 2003, but students can submit scores if they feel it strengthens their application.)
Pitzer College
1050 North Mills Avenue,
Claremont, California, 91711,
United States.
