Harvey Mudd College

Academics

• Do AP or IB exam scores grant credit at Harvey Mudd College?

  • No, Harvey Mudd College does not grant credit for AP or IB exam scores. However, departments may offer opportunities for placement into higher-level courses based on placement examinations.

• How does the Common Core curriculum work?

  • The Common Core is a series of courses that all Harvey Mudd students must take during their first three semesters. It provides a broad foundation in STEM disciplines, academic writing, and critical inquiry, and includes courses from every academic department.

• What are the major requirements at Harvey Mudd College?

  • Students are not required to select a major until the end of their sophomore year. Majors emphasize a broad-based, interdisciplinary approach to STEM fields and other disciplines. Students can choose from various majors, including joint majors and additional options like the Off-Campus Major (OCM) and the Individual Program of Studies (IPS).

• Can students take courses at other Claremont Colleges?

  • Yes, students can enroll in classes at other colleges in the Claremont Consortium, giving them access to approximately 2,000 courses each year. Up to half of the required Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts (HSA) courses can be taken at other Claremont Colleges.

Transfer Credit

• How is transfer credit evaluated for coursework taken prior to matriculation?
  • Credit is given for coursework completed at other colleges that is reasonably equivalent to work offered at Harvey Mudd College. The amount of credit is determined by the appropriate departments in coordination with the Registrar. Only C or better work is transferable, and some departments may specify higher minimum grades.

Campus Environment

• What kind of support systems are available for students at Harvey Mudd College?
  • There are various support systems available, including office hours, Academic Excellence (AE), tutoring, the Writing Center, and more. These resources help students succeed and manage their workload effectively.

Daily Life

• Is it possible to maintain a healthy sleep schedule at Harvey Mudd College?

  • Yes, it is possible to maintain a healthy sleep schedule. While the academic environment is rigorous, effective time management and prioritizing sleep can help students balance their academic and personal life.

• Can students have a social life at Harvey Mudd College?

  • Yes, students can have a significant social life. Despite the rigorous academic environment, many students manage to balance their academic responsibilities with social activities and extracurriculars.

Future Development

• What research opportunities are available at Harvey Mudd College?
  • Every student must complete a capstone research project during their senior year, and many students begin research earlier, in their junior, sophomore, or even first year. The college offers numerous research opportunities, including the Harvey Mudd College Summer Research Program.

Application and Admission

• Does Harvey Mudd College consider demonstrated interest in the admission process?

  • No, Harvey Mudd College does not consider demonstrated interest as part of the admission process. The college assumes that applicants are interested in the college based on their application.

• Can students apply for Early Admission to Harvey Mudd College?

  • Yes, students can apply for Early Admission, which allows them to leave high school before their senior year to attend college. This is designed for students who have exhausted their high school curriculum and are prepared to move on to college.