Harvey Mudd College

Harvey Mudd College stands as a premier private liberal arts institution, uniquely blending an intensive focus on science and engineering with a mandatory and robust humanities education. Established in 1955, the college was founded with a visionary commitment to providing students with a comprehensive understanding of both technical fields and broader societal contexts, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful education.

From its humble beginnings in 1957 with just 48 students, Harvey Mudd quickly grew, supported by the foundational $2 million from Harvey Seeley Mudd's estate. The campus expanded rapidly with key buildings like the Jacobs Science Building (1959) and the Platt Campus Center (1963), fostering a vibrant academic community. The college's enduring mandate that 35% of a student's education must be in the humanities distinguishes its approach, preparing graduates not just as experts, but as thoughtful leaders.

Under the leadership of former President Maria Klawe, starting in 2006, Harvey Mudd College emerged as a national leader in advocating for women in STEM higher education, significantly contributing to diversity in these critical fields. This commitment to inclusivity and excellence continues under its current president, Harriet Nembhard, who began her tenure in July 2023. Students at Harvey Mudd are part of a dynamic environment that values rigorous academics, innovative thinking, and a holistic educational experience, even navigating challenging times, as demonstrated by the campus discussions in 2017.