Amherst College vs Claremont McKenna College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic differences between Amherst College and Claremont McKenna College?

  Amherst College offers a more traditional liberal arts curriculum with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and a flexible open curriculum, allowing students to explore a wide range of subjects. Claremont McKenna College, on the other hand, is known for its focus on economics, government, and international relations, with a more structured curriculum that often emphasizes these fields. While both offer a broad education, Claremont McKenna has a more defined pre-professional focus, particularly in the social sciences.

• How does the campus environment differ between Amherst and Claremont McKenna?

  Amherst College boasts a quintessential New England college town setting, with a close-knit community and a strong residential college experience. The campus is self-contained and fosters a strong sense of community. Claremont McKenna, as part of the Claremont Consortium, offers a more integrated campus experience within a larger network of colleges. Students have access to resources and social opportunities across the five undergraduate Claremont Colleges, providing a broader social and academic environment within a suburban Southern California setting.

• What are the key differences in student life and social scene?

  Student life at Amherst centers around its residential system and a strong emphasis on campus-based activities. The social scene is largely contained within the college itself. Claremont McKenna students benefit from the resources and social events of the Claremont Consortium, offering a wider variety of social options and a more diverse student body. The Southern California location also provides access to off-campus activities and opportunities.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare?

  Both Amherst and Claremont McKenna provide robust career services. Claremont McKenna, with its focus on economics, government, and international relations, often has strong connections to industries related to these fields, particularly in finance, consulting, and government. Amherst's career services are well-rounded, supporting students across a broader range of career interests. Both colleges offer extensive alumni networks that provide internship and job opportunities.

• What is the cost of attendance, and how do financial aid packages differ?

  The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is comparable at both Amherst and Claremont McKenna. Both colleges are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of admitted students. Financial aid packages are generally similar, with both institutions offering need-based grants and scholarships. Prospective students should review the specific financial aid policies and net price calculators on each college's website to determine their individual costs.

• How does the size of the student body impact the educational experience?

  Amherst College has a smaller undergraduate student body, fostering a more intimate learning environment with smaller class sizes and greater opportunities for close interaction with faculty. Claremont McKenna, while also relatively small, benefits from the resources of the Claremont Consortium, offering a wider range of courses and academic programs. The smaller size of Amherst often leads to a stronger sense of community, while Claremont McKenna provides a broader network of students and resources.

• What are the strengths of the faculty at each institution?

  Both Amherst and Claremont McKenna boast highly accomplished faculty. Amherst's faculty are known for their dedication to undergraduate teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines. Claremont McKenna's faculty are particularly strong in economics, government, and international relations, with many having practical experience in their fields. Both colleges attract faculty who are leaders in their respective fields.

• How do the alumni networks of Amherst and Claremont McKenna compare?

  Both colleges have active and supportive alumni networks. Amherst's alumni network is known for its strong loyalty and engagement, providing mentorship and career opportunities across various fields. Claremont McKenna's alumni network is particularly strong in finance, consulting, and government, reflecting the college's focus on these areas. Both networks are valuable resources for students and graduates.

• What are the unique research opportunities available at each college?

  Amherst College offers a wide range of research opportunities across all disciplines, with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research and faculty mentorship. Claremont McKenna provides research opportunities, particularly in the social sciences, with access to research centers and institutes focused on specific areas of study. Both colleges encourage student involvement in research projects.

• Which college is better for students interested in pre-professional programs?

  Claremont McKenna College is generally considered to be a better fit for students interested in pre-professional programs, particularly in economics, government, and international relations. The curriculum, career services, and alumni network are all geared towards preparing students for careers in these fields. While Amherst also offers pre-professional advising, its focus is broader, encompassing a wider range of academic interests.