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Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

1955
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
915
Total Students
905
Undergrad
$455M
Endowment
(2024)
$66K
Tuition (In-State)
$66K
Tuition (Out-State)
$32K
Avg Net Price
13%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Graduation Rate
6-year
97%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Harriet Nembhard

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Harvey Mudd College

Harvey Mudd College: Pioneering STEM education with a strong liberal arts core.

Harvey Mudd College stands out as a premier private liberal arts institution, uniquely blending rigorous science and engineering education with a deep commitment to the humanities. Renowned for fostering critical thinkers and problem-solvers, HMC prepares its students to tackle complex global challenges. It has also emerged as a powerful advocate for increasing the representation of women in STEM fields, shaping a more inclusive future for technology and innovation.

Established in 1955 with a vision to integrate technical expertise with broader humanistic understanding, Harvey Mudd began with a foundational $2 million from Harvey Seeley Mudd's estate. From its modest beginnings in 1957 with just 48 students, the college quickly grew, reflecting its distinct academic philosophy. A pioneering mandate ensured that 35% of a student's education would be dedicated to the humanities, setting it apart from traditional engineering schools and emphasizing a well-rounded intellectual development.

The college's commitment to its students extends beyond academics. Under the leadership of President Maria Klawe starting in 2006, Harvey Mudd significantly amplified its efforts to champion women in STEM. While dedicated to a demanding curriculum, the college has also shown a responsiveness to student well-being, evidenced by campus conversations and actions addressing workload and student support. Today, led by President Harriet Nembhard since 2023, Harvey Mudd continues to evolve, preparing a new generation of scientists, engineers, and humanists to make a meaningful impact on the world.

Key Highlights

  • A leading private liberal arts college focused on science, engineering, and mathematics.
  • Founded in 1955 with an initial class of 48 students and 7 faculty.
  • Mandates that 35% of a student's education is dedicated to humanities, arts, and social sciences.
  • An endowment of $0.5 billion supports its mission and resources.
  • Became a leading advocate for women in STEM higher education under President Maria Klawe (starting 2006).
  • Grew to 283 students and 43 faculty by 1966.

Timeline

1955
Harvey Mudd College founded
1957
First classes began with 48 students
1959
Jacobs Science Building constructed
1961
Thomas-Garett Hall constructed
1963
Platt Campus Center opened
1966
Campus grew to 283 students and 43 faculty
2006
Maria Klawe became president; college became a leading advocate for women in STEM
2017
Classes cancelled for two days in response to campus tensions over workload and race issues
2023
Harriet Nembhard became the sixth President of Harvey Mudd College
🏛️
71 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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