Claremont McKenna College vs Rhodes College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic focuses of Claremont McKenna College (CMC) and Rhodes College?

  Claremont McKenna College emphasizes economics, government, international relations, and public affairs, with a strong focus on leadership development. Rhodes College offers a liberal arts education with strengths in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, emphasizing civic engagement and service.

• How do the campus environments and locations differ between CMC and Rhodes?

  CMC is located in Claremont, California, as part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, offering a suburban setting with access to a larger academic and social network. Rhodes College is situated in Memphis, Tennessee, providing an urban environment with a focus on community engagement within the city.

• What is the typical student body size and selectivity of each college?

  CMC has a smaller student body, typically around 1,300-1,400 undergraduates, and is highly selective. Rhodes College has a slightly larger student body, around 2,000 undergraduates, and is also highly selective, though generally less so than CMC.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare between CMC and Rhodes?

  CMC is known for its robust career services, particularly in finance, consulting, and government, with strong alumni connections and internship opportunities in these fields. Rhodes College emphasizes internships and experiential learning, with a focus on connecting students to opportunities in Memphis and beyond, particularly in non-profits, healthcare, and the arts.

• What are the key differences in the campus culture and student life at CMC and Rhodes?

  CMC's campus culture is often described as pre-professional and politically engaged, with a strong emphasis on debate and leadership. Rhodes College fosters a close-knit community with a focus on service, social justice, and intellectual exploration.

• How do the costs of attendance and financial aid packages typically compare between CMC and Rhodes?

  Both CMC and Rhodes are private institutions with similar costs of attendance. Both offer need-based and merit-based financial aid. The actual cost for each student will vary depending on their individual financial circumstances and the aid package they receive. It's best to check each college's financial aid website for the most up-to-date information and to use their net price calculators.

• What are the advantages of attending a consortium college like CMC versus a standalone college like Rhodes?

  CMC's membership in the Claremont Colleges consortium provides students with access to courses, facilities, and social events at five undergraduate colleges and two graduate institutions, expanding academic and social opportunities. Rhodes College, as a standalone institution, offers a more focused and intimate campus environment with a strong sense of community.

• How do the athletic programs and opportunities differ between CMC and Rhodes?

  CMC competes athletically as part of the Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (CMS) Athenas and Stags, offering a wide range of NCAA Division III sports. Rhodes College competes in NCAA Division III as the Lynx, also offering a variety of sports. The CMS athletic program is generally larger and more competitive due to the combined resources of the three colleges.

• What are some notable alumni or areas of distinction for each college?

  CMC boasts alumni in prominent positions in business, government, and public policy. Rhodes College has produced notable alumni in fields such as literature, law, and public service, with a strong emphasis on civic leadership.

• How do the graduation rates and post-graduate outcomes compare between CMC and Rhodes?

  Both CMC and Rhodes have high graduation rates. CMC graduates often pursue careers in finance, consulting, and government, or attend top graduate schools. Rhodes College graduates pursue a variety of paths, including graduate school, professional programs, and careers in non-profits, education, and the arts.